South Shields Museum and Art Gallery, stained glass window
Museum

South Shields Museum and Art Gallery

South Shields
Free to all

For the last 150 years, South Shields Museum & Art Gallery has been at the heart of the community, bringing world-class exhibitions and events to the region.

Spread over two floors, the museum offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of South Tyneside on the ground floor, whilst the gallery on the upper floor holds regular exhibitions. Located in the heart of South Shields, this museum is ideal for history buffs, art enthusiasts, and families alike.

South Tyneside history

Discover the region's natural, social, industrial and maritime history, from the Bronze Age to the twentieth century, through interactive displays and exhibits. Highlights include William Jobling's gibbet, a tile map from South Shields Railway Station, and the Ships Watch bell from the Royal Navy K class destroyer HMS Kelly. You might also find personal memorabilia once belonging to popular author, Catherine Cookson who was born in the region.

Admire local art

Discover paintings, sculptures, and other artworks by local and regional artists, providing a glimpse into the artistic scene of the area. You will also find 19th and 20th-century British art, featuring works with maritime and topographical themes. The gallery also runs temporary exhibitions displaying works of national significance.

Creature Corner

The museum houses a variety of fascinating live specimens, including snakes, spiders, and lizards. Discover intriguing facts about their diets, natural habitats, and unique behaviours.

Visitor information

Address

South Shields Museum and Art Gallery

Ocean Road, South Shields, Tyne And Wear, NE33 2JA
01912 115599

Free to all

Opening times

Mon-Fri 10am-5pm
Sat 11am-4pm

Closed Sundays

Visitor information

IndividualTiana Clarke Please note this is an example card and not a reflection of the final product

The more you see, the more we do.

The National Art Pass lets you enjoy free entry to hundreds of museums, galleries and historic places across the UK, while raising money to support them.