South Shields

South Shields is home to the Arbeia Roman Fort. This is one of the few Roman sites where you can actually watch excavations in progress throughout the summer months. There is a fine reconstruction (full size) of the fort’s West Gate, and on some of the special event days you can sample Roman food or watch re-enactments of training. Other local treats include the 1871 Souter Lighthouse, (the first ever electrically powered lighthouse) and the South Shields Museum and Art Gallery. The town also boasts more than its fair share of curry houses – perfect for when you’ve had your fill of historical visits. For a more unusual dining experience venture a half mile up the coast to The Marsden Grotto. This restaurant/bar is built into the cliff itself and offers unbroken views of the dramatic North Sea below.