River Tyne - Shields Ferry
between North & South Shields
linking NCN 1 and North Sea Cycle Routes
across the River Tyne

A ferry service has crossed the River Tyne between North and South Shields since 1377 and is now the only ferry crossing on the tidal stretch of the river. The existing North Shields landing stage was renewed in May 2004 with a longer modern link span, new pontoon and an enclosed wating area. The South Shields landing was renewed in 2000, and there are plans for an additional landing stage at the Royal Quays.

The ferries operate on a half hourly service:-
From North Shields 00 & 30 mins past the hour - From South Shields 15 & 45 mins past the hour

Normally only one ferry is in operation but at periods of high demand both can be used on a shuttle service.

Fare £1.00 single or £1.90 return - Bikes go FREE.

The "Shieldsman" was built in 1975 by Hancock Shipbuilders of Pembroke Dock

The "Pride of the Tyne' was built in 1992 by Swan Hunters Shipyard to a similar design with minor modifications and was the last vessel built by them before the yard closed.
This ferry can carry 350 passengers or 250 on river cruises and cost £1.5 million to build.

Both vessel are double ended and can operate either way but generally turn round on sailing.

The service carries close to a million passengers each year.

© Doug-on-the-Tyne - 2004