North Shields: Fish Quay, Railway Heritage and Town Trail

Explore North Shields through a range of themes: the history of Fish Quay, remembrance of fishermen, the railway heritage of the Stephenson brothers, and a trail through the town’s past and natural surroundings. This gives you a choice of cultural history, technology and a walking route when planning your trip. Each place offers a different perspective: exhibitions present local history, memorials provide their own points of focus, and the railway museum turns the spotlight on railways.

Fish Quay: History and Remembrance

At Fish Quay, The Old Lowlight presents the history of North Shields Fish Quay through exhibitions and explanatory displays. Exhibition content may change; if you are planning a specific visit, it is worth checking the venue’s latest information. The programme also includes events, talks, courses and workshops. This programme may change too, so if you have a particular date in mind, check the latest event information.

Fiddler’s Green at Fish Quay is a memorial to fishermen from North Shields who lost their lives at sea. The Stan Laurel statue in Dockwray Square commemorates his time in North Tyneside; Laurel lived in North Shields as a child. The two memorials represent different connections: remembrance of fishermen and a biographical link to Stan Laurel.

Railway History at Stephenson Railway Museum

Stephenson Railway Museum celebrates the achievements of George and Robert Stephenson and displays George Stephenson’s locomotive “Billy”. Interactive exhibitions explore how trains work and the influence of coal and electricity on the development of railway technology. This brings together a specific exhibit and broader technical themes: “Billy” provides a single point of connection, while the exhibitions explain how trains work and how railway technology developed.

Town Trail: A Walking Loop

The North Shields Town Trail is a 2.5-mile circular route connecting several places of interest. Its themes are the town’s past, nature within the town and the history of Fish Quay. The trail is designed to be walked; an alternative route avoids the steps at Fish Quay. If you would rather explore these themes on a circular route than through separate exhibition venues, the trail offers its own way to find your bearings.

The trail therefore has a different focus from Stephenson Railway Museum: it connects the town’s past, nature and Fish Quay history, while the museum focuses on railway technology and the Stephenson brothers. The two attractions appeal to different interests and give you specific themes to guide your plans. For the route, the alternative that goes around the steps is a practical difference to consider when choosing your way.

Eating at Fish Quay

At Fish Quay, you can eat fresh fish and chips outdoors while looking out over the River Tyne. This culinary highlight adds a waterside break to the historical themes. Individual businesses and menus may change; if you have a particular place in mind, it is best to check what is currently on offer beforehand.

Getting There on the Tyne & Wear Heritage Way

On the Tyne & Wear Heritage Way, the route into North Shields goes from the Metro to the ferry via a short walk. This gives you a clear sequence for your journey: Metro, walk and ferry. Check the ferry timetable before you travel.

Discover more destinations: Washington, New Herrington, Holystone, Whickham, East Boldon, Seaton Burn, Hebburn

Back to the main travel overview: Tyne And Wear.