Riverside walkies from South Shields ferry landing

Posted: 18 Aug 2022

South Shields ferry landing to Littlehaven (River Drive)
(approx 25-35 minute walk)

South Shields ferry landing, set in a tranquil setting overlooking the River Tyne, offers you the perfect starting point for a leisurely riverside walk with your dog.  

Board the ferry at North Shields (dogs go free) and take the short 7 minute journey across to South Shields.  On your approach to the landing look ahead and you’ll see a path that runs parallel to the river, it leads directly from the Customs House past Harton Quays Park.   When you leave the ferry, walk along the bridge, turn left and join onto this pathway. 

Dog walkers on the ferry bridge

As you begin your walk, look immediately to your right where you’ll see the old Alum Ale House. Historically this Grade-II listed building dates back to the 19th century but its impressive outdoor modernisation in 2022 - which boasts a brand new decking area and beer garden - has given it a new fresh look.  

Alum Ale House sign     Alum Ale House - outdoor seating area      Outdoor decking area, Alum Ale House     

This is a popular local bar, host to regular live folk music (Irish Sundays) and cheese and wine afternoons. The outdoor area is dog-friendly which makes it a great pit stop on your return back to the ferry!

With your four-legged friend by your side walk the flat path which continues to hug the Tyne, sweeping past blue and white high-rise riverside apartments, as it winds with gentle twists and turns at Coble Landing and Broad Landing. 

On the approach to Captain’s Wharf (part of the former Tyne Dock Engineering shipyard, also known as Market Dock), you’ll see a majestic bronze statue looking out over the river, the ‘Spirit of South Shields’ (by Irene Brown) who harbours a ship safely tucked under one arm, as she raises a welcome greeting with the other.

     
Spirit of South Shields (by Irene Brown) bronze statue     Ferry sailing back from North Shields       Dog walkers looking across the river - waving to ferry passengers

You’ll feel a real sense of calm and relaxation as you continue your walk.  A gentle river breeze, the echo of seagulls overhead, the graceful arrival of visiting ships and the Shields Ferry passing by as it makes its way back and forth across the river.

Leaving the ‘Spirit’, follow the railed pathway and head towards the main road.  You’re now within a quiet residential area (Long Row), if you cross over the road at this point you’ll see another art sculpture by Irene Brown, the ‘Fleet’ depicting brightly polished silver ships floating above the water.  

On a sunny day this impressive display of art sparkles on a glistening bed of water and is a real delight to see.

Fleet (by Irene Brown) polished ships floating on water     Polish ship (part of the 'Fleet' by Irene Brown)

From here, access to the path you were previously on is now restricted but you and your doggy friend can still continue to stretch your legs along South Quays. This takes you through to a red brick high-rise apartment block on the left and as you reach the end of the road you’ll see a No Entry sign (for cars), just continue along this back road.

Where access is possible to some of the yards, slip through and take a look over the river.  You’ll see small fishing boats moored and North Shields ferry landing and the Fish Quay across the way.

Small fishing boat outside Marine training centre at South Shields

Cast your eyes back and forth over the river, take in those views.  The beauty and peacefulness of the river today is in complete contrast to its busy industrial past when ships can be remembered dominating the Tyne.

Continuing along this route (Wapping Street) you’ll find The Sea Cadets, North East Marine Maritime Trust, South Shields Boat Angling Club and Offshore Safety Training for South Shields Marine School.

At the end of this block the road forks and is joined by a main road.  Be aware the pathway ends short here and the road ahead can be quite busy.  For safety, cross over onto the other (right) side taking care as you go, especially with your dog in tow as it’s only a narrow footpath.

Within minutes you’ll see a clear sign for ‘Harbour View’ on the opposite side of the road, a small residential estate which overlooks the river. Cross over, walk past the entrance and take the next left which is a cut through to a small sandy cove, its right next to the Littlehaven Hotel.

Littlehaven hotel and beach             

Take the few steps down on to the beach. This lovely quiet little sanctuary is the perfect place for your dog to dip its paws and a great vantage point for you to witness the comings and goings of the many shipping vessels entering and leaving the River Tyne.

Couple with dog walking on sandy path next to Littlehaven hotel    The Groyne, Piers, Priory and boat at the mouth of the Tyne

Looking towards the hotel you’ll see a winding foothpath, slightly sandy and stoney underfoot which leads all the way to The Groyne (officially known as the ‘Herd Groyne Lighthouse’, built between 1861-1867).  Follow the path around and stop off for some light refreshment or a spot of lunch here.

Be sure to sit at one of the picnic tables outside the hotel though – it’s a spectacular viewing point with panoramic views of the River Tyne, The Groyne and Tynemouth Priory set against the skyline. It’s also a great place for your dog to meet many fellow four-legged friends. What a little gem of a spot!

View through railings of The Groyne     The Groyne     Couple with dog at The Groyne

This genteel walk, non-stop, will take about 25-35 minutes depending on your pace, but it’s likely to take longer as you’ll make many stops along the way to take in the views.  All in all, this simple walk will leave you feeling exhilarated and wanting to come back to enjoy it all again.

Fisherman with dog, Sam    White apartments overlooking the river at Littlehaven     Fisherman's dog, Sam    

Friendly fishermen, families, young couples and dogs all enjoying the same perfect riverside experience.

If you’re feeling up to a longer walk, continue on to Sandhaven Beach (another 15-20 minutes).  Alternatively turn around and go back the way you came to make your return journey on the ferry over to North Shields.  

The Shields Ferry timetable is here. 

If you're just travelling on the ferry, save money on single fares by buying a Ferry Day Ticket - which is even cheaper if you buy it using a Pop Pay As You Go card.  Kids go free on the Shields Ferry with a fare-paying adult.

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