Shields Ferry, South Shields

Ferry in South Shields

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Christine Johnstone

The Shields Ferry is one of those small, practical experiences that ends up becoming a highlight, because it's not staged for tourists-it's part of daily life on the Tyne. The crossing links South Shields and North Shields in around seven minutes, giving you a front-row view of working river traffic and the changing skyline as the water narrows and widens around you.

It's also one of the things to do in South Shields that fits almost any plan: you can ride it simply to get somewhere, or treat it as a short “river moment” between stops on a walking tour of South Shields. Departures are regular and easy to remember-South Shields typically leaves at 15 and 45 minutes past the hour-so you can slot it into your day without building your schedule around it.

History and Significance of the Shields Ferry
Things to See and Do in the Shields Ferry
How to Get to the Shields Ferry
Practical Tips on Visiting the Shields Ferry
Where to Stay Close to the Shields Ferry
Is the Shields Ferry Worth Visiting?
For Different Travelers
FAQs for Visiting Shields Ferry
Nearby Attractions to the Shields Ferry

History and Significance of the Shields Ferry

Ferries have crossed this stretch of the River Tyne since the 14th century, long before modern bridges, tunnels, and rail links reshaped the region’s transport map. What’s striking is that the service isn’t a heritage reenactment-it’s the surviving continuation of a very old idea: that the river is a barrier you solve with a simple, reliable crossing.

For much of its history it was known as the Market Place Ferry, reflecting how closely it was tied to trade and everyday movement between the two banks. When the Passenger Transport Executive took over in 1972, the ferry became part of the wider Tyne and Wear public transport network, and today it remains the only passenger ferry service still operating on the Tyne.

The ferry’s significance now is as much about convenience as it is about tradition. Where there’s no direct bridge crossing at this point, it’s a straightforward alternative to longer detours, and it keeps the two communities connected in the most direct way possible.

Things to See and Do in the Shields Ferry

Take the crossing with no agenda other than enjoying the river. The trip is short, but you get a clear sense of the Tyne as a working waterway, with the breeze, the gulls, and the shifting perspective of shipyards, quaysides, and modern riverfront buildings.

If you like small, satisfying routines, do a there-and-back. Start from South Shields, cross to North Shields for a quick wander around the Fish Quay area, then return-simple, efficient, and unexpectedly memorable, especially when the light is changing over the water.

Use the ferry as a “connector” in a bigger day. It’s particularly handy if you’re combining South Shields’ seafront and heritage sights with North Shields and Tynemouth, because it turns what could be a transport chore into a quick scenic interlude.

How to Get to the Shields Ferry

The nearest airport is Newcastle International Airport (NCL). For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to South Shields on Booking.com.

For mainline rail, travel to Newcastle Central Station and connect onward using local services, then continue to either ferry landing on foot or by Metro. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

In South Shields, the ferry landing is close to The Word on the riverside, and it's a straightforward walk from the town centre and local transport stops. In North Shields, the landing is near the town centre as well, with easy onward connections by bus and Metro depending on where you're headed next.

If you're driving, use town-centre parking around the riverside/The Word area in South Shields or central North Shields, then walk the final minutes to the landing.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Shields Ferry

Entrance fee: Adult single £2.60 (or £1.60 with Pop Pay As You Go); Ferry Day Ticket £2.80.
Opening hours: Monday – Wednesday: 06:45–19:45.
Thursday – Saturday: 06:45–22:40.
Sunday: 10:15–17:45.
Official website: https://www.nexus.org.uk/ferry
Best time to visit: Late afternoon is ideal for softer river light, while weekday mornings feel the most “local” and commuter-real.
How long to spend: The crossing itself is only minutes, but allow 30-60 minutes if you want to explore the opposite bank before returning.
Accessibility: The ferry is designed for everyday passengers, but it’s still worth allowing extra time if you’re travelling with a wheelchair, pushchair, or mobility aid.
Facilities: Both landings are close to cafés, shops, and public transport connections, so it’s easy to build a comfortable break around the ride.

Where to Stay Close to the Shields Ferry

For a culture-heavy itinerary, base yourself centrally in South Shields near Ocean Road and the riverside so you can walk to museums, the seafront, and the ferry; if your trip is focused on transport links and wider day trips, Newcastle city centre can be the most efficient base with fast connections in all directions.
Staying close to the river makes early starts and spontaneous crossings effortless, and Little Haven Hotel is a strong option if you want a coastal feel within easy reach of the landing. For a central base that keeps you close to town amenities and an easy walk or short hop to the ferry, Premier Inn South Shields Port Of Tyne is practical and reliable. If you want to be near the seafront as well as well placed for the ferry and town centre, The Sea Hotel works well for a balanced stay.

Is the Shields Ferry Worth Visiting?

Yes, especially if you enjoy small, authentic local experiences that are still genuinely useful. It’s quick, inexpensive, and gives you a perspective on the Tyne that you simply don’t get from a train platform or a road crossing.

It's also worth it as a planning tool. The ferry can simplify your day by turning two separate areas-South Shields and the North Shields/Tynemouth side-into one easy-to-combine itinerary.

For Different Travelers

Families with Kids

For families, the ferry is a low-effort win: it feels like a mini-adventure, but it’s short enough that attention spans don’t get tested. A simple plan is to cross, grab a snack on the other side, then come straight back, treating it as an experience rather than a transport leg.

If you’re travelling with a pushchair, give yourself a little buffer around boarding times so it stays relaxed. Pairing the ride with a riverside stroll keeps the energy positive without needing a full day commitment.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, the appeal is the simplicity: a short ride, river air, and an easy excuse to explore a different side of the Tyne without over-planning. It’s especially good at the end of the day when the light softens and the river feels calmer.

Turn it into a gentle date-style loop by crossing for a drink or a quick bite on the opposite bank, then returning for an evening walk. It’s understated, but that’s exactly why it works.

Budget Travelers

Budget travellers will appreciate that the ferry is a cheap way to add variety to a day without paying for a formal attraction. It also helps you build a fuller itinerary across both banks while keeping transport costs and travel time down.

If you’re watching spending, use the ferry to reach free riverside walks, viewpoints, and neighbourhood wandering on the opposite side. The experience is the river itself, not a ticketed “show.”

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (446)

Shields Ferry Landing (South Shields) on Ferry St provides a quick, scenic crossing between South and North Shields with reliable, punctual sailings and room for seating inside and out; reviewers note easy access for prams and wheelchairs, spaces for bicycles, and that tickets can be bought on boarding or paid with a purple pop card or day ticket, making it a convenient option for a short outing, photo opportunities, or a family trip.

Chris

a year ago

"Jumped on the ferry across to “the other side” No problems as usual ferry is always bang on time and as smooth a ride as possible. Plenty room insideand out. Always groups of cyclists but as I say room for everyone. No problem for prams or wheelchairs access..."

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Mohammed Shakir Mousa

8 months ago

"Nice ride and you can take beautiful pictures. The metro is close to both sides so if you came to south shield beach make shore to use the ferry andgo back to the city center from north shield metro and vice versa..."

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Irene Nakedi

a year ago

"I love taking a ferry from one shield(south to north) to another. It's so quick and convenient. The scenery is spectacular!"

FAQs for Visiting Shields Ferry

Getting There

The South Shields terminal is on the riverside near The Word, while the North Shields terminal is close to the town centre on the opposite bank. Both are easy to reach on foot once you’re in the central areas.

Head toward the riverside and follow signs for The Word and the waterfront. Once you’re near the river promenade, the landing is straightforward to spot.

Use local buses or a short walk from the main town-centre stops, then follow the riverside route toward The Word. It’s usually quickest to walk the final stretch rather than rely on another connection.

Parking is generally easier in nearby town-centre car parks than right at the landing. Driving can be worthwhile for flexibility, but most visitors find public transport plus walking simpler.

Tickets & Entry

No, you simply pay as you board. It’s designed to work as a turn-up-and-go service rather than a pre-booked attraction.

If you plan to cross more than once, a day ticket is often the easiest option. It keeps things simple and avoids buying separate singles each time.

In practice, it’s best to assume card payment will be the smoothest option. If you prefer a travel card approach, Pop Pay As You Go can also be used.

Visiting Experience

The crossing takes only a few minutes, but it gives you a proper sense of the Tyne as a working river. You’ll usually get a breezy, open-air feel even when you’re travelling purely for convenience.

Yes, because a there-and-back ride is a quick way to experience the river without committing to a longer excursion. It’s an easy “micro-activity” that adds texture to a day in South Shields.

Cross to North Shields for a short walk around the Fish Quay area, then return and continue toward South Shields’ riverside and seafront. It’s a compact route that feels varied without needing complex planning.

Photography

Yes, particularly for candid river scenes and changing perspectives of the quaysides. The best shots usually come from the open views during the middle of the crossing.

Late afternoon often gives the most flattering light on the water and buildings. Overcast days can also work well because reflections and contrast feel softer and more atmospheric.

Accessibility & Facilities

It’s built for everyday passengers, so it’s generally manageable, but it’s worth allowing extra time for boarding and positioning. If you want the smoothest experience, avoid the busiest commuter moments.

Yes, both sides have cafés and services within a short walk. It’s easy to plan a coffee stop around the crossing without going out of your way.

Safety & Timing

It runs regularly enough that you can plan loosely rather than minute-by-minute. Checking the timetable before you head down to the landing keeps things stress-free, especially on Sundays.

Like any river service, conditions can affect operations, particularly in strong winds. If the weather looks rough, it’s sensible to check service updates before you travel.

Nearby Attractions to the Shields Ferry

The Word, South Shields: A modern cultural venue by the river with exhibitions, events, and a strong local-history focus.
Arbeia Roman Fort and Museum: A well-presented Roman site that adds deep historical context to South Shields.
North Shields Fish Quay: A lively riverside stretch with seafood spots and working-harbour atmosphere.
Tynemouth Priory and Castle: A dramatic headland ruin with sea views and a classic North East coastal feel.
South Shields Pier: A bracing walk-out point at the river mouth that's perfect for watching the Tyne meet the North Sea.

The Shields Ferry appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting South Shields!

Moira & Andy

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