Near Newcastle Upon Tyne Is A Charming Coastal Town With Fresh Seafood, Cliffs, And An Award-Winning Beach

If you've set your heart on travelling to the county of Tyne and Ware in northern England, then you've probably already figured out that there is more to explore in the U.K. beyond popular cities like London or Manchester. South Shields is one such gem in the region, tucked just a half hour's journey east of Newcastle upon Tyne and facing the North Sea. The town has ancient origins, dating back to when the Arbeia Roman Fort guarded the entrance to the River Tyne.

Aside from its historical significance, South Shields has an abundance of natural beauty. For starters, South Shields is home to geologically ancient cliffs overlooking Marsden Bay, a secluded cove with caves and rock pools. Further up the coast, you'll find Sandhaven Beach, a proud multi-time recipient of the Seaside Award by Keep Britain Tidy. The safe, well-maintained beach is perfect for a day of strolling along the promenade, sunning, and swimming.

If you're feeling hungry after exploring the coast, then you're in luck. South Shields is home to restaurants that use fresh, daily catches to prepare mouthwatering seafood dishes. In true English fashion, there is also a generations-old fish-and-chips eatery that spans a century.

South Shields reveals its charms before you even reach the shoreline. Stroll along the high street to find everything from bakeries to shoe stores to secondhand shops. For a bit of history, visit the Bede's Museum at Jarrow Hall (a short distance away from South Shields) where you can learn about the medieval scholar and view authentic Anglo-Saxon-era artifacts. For a look at an older part of the town's history, check out the Arbeia Roman Fort, where you can book a candlelit tour at twilight.

The quietest time on South Shields' shoreline is during spring and autumn. Marsden Bay offers a tranquil seaside escape, with gorgeous cliffs that rival the beauty of the dramatic coastal landscapes in Cornwall. Stand on the edge of the cliff to gaze at Marsden Rock, a magnesium limestone rock rising nearly 100 feet from the sand. One hundred and thirty steps take you down to the beach, where you can take a closer look at the rock's archways. Sea life hides in rock pools, while majestic birds such as kittiwakes, fulmars, skuas, and great cormorants soar above.

Sandhaven Beach is about a 10-minute drive up the coast from Marsden Bay. Described as "one of the cleanest beaches I've ever been to" by a visitor on Google, the wide swath of golden sand beckons dog walkers, windsurfers, and strollers alike. Eateries line the beach's promenade, including, Minchella & Co., which serves ice cream to visitors. If you're looking for an even livelier excursion, check out Ocean Pleasure Beach at the northern end of the beach. The funfair offers all manner of family-friendly attractions, including arcades and thrill rides.

You don't have to go far to sample the seafood in South Shields. Coleman's Seafood Temple is right off the promenade at Sandhaven Beach and boasts a Travelers' Choice Award on Tripadvisor. The establishment has been frying up fish and chips since 1926, and previous patrons seem to agree that you can't go wrong with the tasty dish. The menu also features prime cod, line-caught haddock, and local oysters. Afterward, you can wash it down with a nice selection of lager, beer, or cider.

The Grotto Cave Seafood Restaurant is another solid choice for seafood. Tucked beneath the Marsden Beach cliffs, the site once served as a place for smugglers to hide their ill-gotten treasure. The restaurant offers fresh seafood platters, seafood sandwiches, and a variety of sides.

Newcastle International Airport is the closest airport to South Shields, offering connections across Europe and the United States. The Tyne and Wear Metro travels from the airport to center of Newcastle, where you can transfer to South Shields. If you're planning on taking the train from, say, London, the LNER takes you directly from there to Newcastle. However, be aware that Britain has bizarre ticket train rules that you should watch out for. To experience more coastal adventures in the region, visit Whitley Bay, a charming coastal town with fresh seafood and an unusual lighthouse, or Blyth for its sandy beaches and maritime history.