South Shields Marine Park
Updated: Aug 4
Visit Marine Park
Often described as the crown jewel of South Shields' seafront, South Marine Park has been a favourite with local families for over a century. Centred around a boating lake with its own miniature steam railway, it's a classic slice of seaside parkland, restored with Heritage Lottery funding and set right across the road from the beach.
The lowdown:
Where: South Marine Park, South Shields, on the seafront opposite Ocean Beach Pleasure Park
When: The park is open year-round, generally from dawn until dusk. Individual attractions within the park, such as the boating lake and steam railway, tend to run seasonally and in better weather, so it's worth checking ahead if a specific ride is the main draw.
Cost: Free to enter the park itself. The boating lake (rowing boats and pedalos) and the miniature steam train are paid extras, with the steam train historically around £1.50 per ride.
Parking: Pay and display parking is available along the seafront nearby, alongside further parking within a short walk in South Shields town centre.
A boating lake home to a huge number of swans, ducks and geese, a miniature steam railway that circles the lake, two children's play areas including water play features and adventure climbing frames, a restored Victorian bandstand, an art trail, and a café for refreshments. It sits within easy walking distance of the beach, North Marine Park, and South Shields' wider seafront amusements.
