The Best Walks in and around North Shields

North Shields is made for walking. The town rises from a working riverside up to a monument-topped bank, and from there the coast path runs east to one of the finest headlands in the North East. Whether you want a gentle riverside stroll or a proper half-day circular, here are the walks worth lacing up for.

Along the Fish Quay

The simplest and best introduction is a wander along the Fish Quay itself. Starting from the free Low Lights car park, the quayside path takes you past landing stages, working boats and the pair of white navigation lights, the High and Low Lights, that have guided ships into the Tyne for centuries.

It is flat, open and full of interest, with Clifford's Fort, the Old Low Light Heritage Centre and Ray Lonsdale's poignant Fiddler's Green sculpture, a memorial to fishermen lost at sea, all along the way. Time it for a fish supper or a pint at The Low Lights Tavern and you have a perfect short outing.

Best for: Best for a gentle stroll — flat, scenic and rich in maritime history.

Up to Collingwood's Monument

For a bit more effort and a big reward, climb from the Quay towards Collingwood's Monument. The great statue of Admiral Lord Collingwood, Nelson's second-in-command and a Tyneside man, stands high on the bank looking out over the mouth of the river.

The view from beneath it, across the Tyne to South Shields and out to the open sea, is one of the best on the estuary. It is a short but rewarding climb, and a natural high point between the Quay and the coast.

Best for: Best for the view — a short climb to the finest outlook over the river mouth.

The coast path to Tynemouth Priory

From the monument the promenade continues east above the sea, following the cliffs to the dramatic ruins of Tynemouth Priory and Castle on their headland. It is an exhilarating stretch, with King Edward's Bay tucked below and the Black Middens rocks offshore.

This is the heart of the classic Fish Quay–to–Tynemouth walk, a route the Ramblers run as an easy circular of around five and a half miles, taking in the seafront, the priory and the return through the town.

Best for: Best for a proper walk — cliffs, a ruined priory and a sweeping coastline.

Northumberland Park

To complete a circular back to the Quay, return through Northumberland Park, a classic Victorian park opened in 1885 in the valley between Tynemouth and North Shields. With mature trees, a bandstand and quiet paths, it is a green, sheltered contrast to the open coast.

It makes a peaceful final leg, bringing you back towards Tynemouth Road and down to the Fish Quay where the walk began.

Best for: Best for a peaceful finish — a leafy Victorian park to round off a circular.

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