Family Activities in North Shields

For a compact town, North Shields packs an enormous amount in for families. You have a working fishing harbour, a river to cross by ferry, a lovely Victorian park and a steam railway, with beaches a short hop away. Best of all, plenty of it is free. Here is our guide to family activities in North Shields.

The Fish Quay

The working Fish Quay is the heart of North Shields and a brilliant free morning out. Children love watching the fishing boats come and go, spotting the old High and Low Lights, and finishing with fish and chips by the water. The Old Low Light Heritage Centre at Clifford's Fort tells nine hundred years of local history, with a café and a viewing platform over the river, and entry is free.

Cross the Tyne on the ferry

The Shields Ferry is a proper little adventure in its own right. The short crossing from the New Quay landing over to South Shields gives grand views up and down the river, and up to three under-11s travel free with an adult. It is cheap, quick and always a hit with younger children.

Northumberland Park and Stephenson Steam Railway

Between North Shields and Tynemouth, Northumberland Park is a restored Victorian park with a playground, a BMX track, a lake and a tea room, ideal for burning off energy. For something different, Stephenson Steam Railway on Middle Engine Lane has a free museum of historic locomotives and runs heritage train rides on Sundays and during the school holidays.

Rainy-day and soft play

When the North East weather closes in, Kiki's Kabin on Albion Road is a large soft play centre and café in a converted church, great for younger children and a reliable wet-weather backup. It is also a popular spot for birthday parties.

Just along the coast

North Shields sits right next to some of the North East's best beaches. A short trip east brings you to Tynemouth Longsands, King Edward's Bay and Cullercoats Bay, along with the dramatic ruins of Tynemouth Priory and Castle. They make an easy addition to any family day out.

More for families

For more ideas, see our guides to birthday party venues in North Shields and summer holiday activities in North Shields.

Have a family favourite in North Shields we should include? Get in touch.