Shields Ferry, South Shields

Ferry in South Shields

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Christine Johnstone

Shields Ferry in South Shields, England, is a passenger ferry across the River Tyne linking South Shields and North Shields. It is a working transport service rather than a staged attraction, and the crossing takes only a few minutes.

Visitors come for the river view as much as the journey itself: open water, busy traffic on the Tyne, and a quick shift in perspective as the two banks come into view. It is a good fit for cyclists, families, and anyone who wants a straightforward local crossing with a bit of movement and scenery along the way.

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

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.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (596)

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..."

See More See Less

date4567

8 months ago

"I've just used the Shields ferry for the first time and really enjoyed my little trip. It's well used and such a quick way to cross the river. Ipurchased a go north east tyne and wear rover ticket and this gave me access to all the buses I needed and the ferry over. Really good value. The trip only takes around 7 minutes and they run every 30 minutes. My only one gripe is that there are no toilets onboard and once over the river we couldn't find any public toilets anywhere on the walk along to the fish quay. There was a sign post for public toilets but none we could find. There was lots of interesting looking bars and restaurants , accessed by turning right once you walked out of the ferry terminal. It's about a 10 minute walk to the main area of bars and restaurants. We passed a very steep looking hill with a sign for the town centre but we decided not to venture up there, having walked miles around south shields before our ferry trip started. We didn't go over until afternoon and if we go again we'll make a point of going early so we can have a leisurely stroll and explore more...."

See More See Less

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..."

See More See Less

Sightsee06464110524

8 months ago

"Cycling from Durham to Tynemouth. This was the first time that I’ve used the ferry service. It was really well organised, with plenty of bike racks.The operators were friendly. All in all it was a very pleasant experience..."

See More See Less

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!"

AudsMc83

a year ago

"I absolutely love the Shields ferry, there is just something so special and nostalgic about it. I travelled to North Shields to meet a friend fordinner and it is such a great way to journey across the Tyne. It’s takes less than 10 minutes and is a lot more fun than sitting in a car through the tunnel. The staff are all really friendly and it’s cheap as chips at less than £4.00 for a return. Class little Tyneside gem 💎..."

See More See Less

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.”

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.

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

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

Read our full story here

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!