South Shields is home to some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in the North East. Whether you’re after a peaceful clifftop stroll, a sandy beach adventure, or a rugged nature walk, there’s something for every kind of explorer.

At Love Short Stays, we’re lucky to have these beautiful landscapes right on our doorstep — and we love sharing them with our guests.

Here’s our guide to the best coastal walks and views in South Shields.

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🌊 Marsden Bay: Dramatic Cliffs and Coastal Charm

Start your coastal adventure at Marsden Bay, a truly iconic spot known for its towering cliffs and the legendary Marsden Rock.

At low tide, you can stroll along the beach, explore the caves, and admire the unique rock formations. Keep an eye out for seabirds — Marsden Bay is an important nesting site for kittiwakes, fulmars, and cormorants.

Feeling peckish? Stop off at the famous Marsden Grotto, one of the UK’s only cliffside pubs, for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink with unbeatable sea views.

Top Tip:

Visit at sunset for incredible golden-hour photography opportunities!

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🏖 The Leas: Miles of Open Clifftop Beauty

From Marsden Bay, you can join the stunning stretch known as The Leas — a two-mile coastal grassland owned by the National Trust.

Perfect for walkers, cyclists, and kite flyers, The Leas offers panoramic views of the sea and endless open skies.

The flat, wide paths make it a great option for families and leisurely walkers, and during the summer, you’ll often spot events like kite festivals and fun runs happening here.

It’s the kind of place where you can really feel the fresh sea breeze and let your mind wander.

Top Tip:

Pack a picnic and find a quiet spot along the clifftop to enjoy the view.

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🏛 Souter Lighthouse and Whitburn Coastal Park: History Meets Nature

Continue your walk south along the coast and you’ll reach Souter Lighthouse, one of South Shields’ most famous landmarks. Built in 1871, Souter was the world’s first lighthouse designed and built to be powered by electricity.

Today, you can visit the lighthouse, climb to the top for breathtaking coastal views, and explore the visitor centre.

The surrounding Whitburn Coastal Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with bird hides, nature trails, and rich grasslands waiting to be explored.

Top Tip:

Souter Lighthouse is a fantastic family day out — children will love discovering how the lighthouse used to work!

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🚶‍♀️ Plan Your Coastal Walk with Love Short Stays

One of the best parts of staying with Love Short Stays is having all of this natural beauty just minutes from your front door.

Our luxury apartments in South Shields offer the perfect base for days spent exploring the coast, followed by cozy evenings relaxing in comfort.

Whether you’re taking a slow sunset stroll, hiking the full clifftop route, or simply enjoying a morning coffee with a sea view, South Shields’ coastline is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Ready to experience it for yourself?

Book your stay with Love Short Stays today and step straight into adventure. 🌊✨