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The Catherine Cookson Trail
The trail visits places associated with the author's
life. The tour will pass the site of Cookson's birthplace,
former home and places of worship. This trail also
visits many of the locations used in the filming
of the highly-acclaimed television adaptations of
the Cookson novels. These include Fifteen Streets,
The Gambling Man, The Dwelling Place, The Tide of
Life and The Girl.
Bede, Books and Romans
This tour is an extension to the ever popular Catherine
Cookson Trail and include visits to Bedes World
and Arbeia Roman Fort and Museum. Bede's World
provides a fascinating insight into the life and
times of the Venerable Bede who lived and worked
in Jarrow 1300 years ago. The museum has a unique
blend of history, visual and hands on displays,
Christian heritage and the chance to explore a
reconstructed Anglo-Saxon Farm, complete with rare
breeds and animals. Arbeia Roman Fort presents
an opportunity to step back to Roman times. (Admission
charges apply at Bede's World)
Roman Heritage
Enjoy a tour of Arbeia Roman Fort, with it's life
size replica of the West Gate and remains of the gateway,
fort wall and defences. Experience the newly reconstructed
Barrack Block and Commanders House. Link up with the Segedunum Roman Museum
just through the Tyne Tunnel in Wallsend, or travel
further afield and visit the many other sites along
Hadrian's Wall (Admission charges apply at Segedunum).
Maritime Trail
South Tyneside has a long and
proud maritime tradition, the spirit of which is embodied
in the Borough's motto ‘Always Ready'.
The trail includes a visit to Souter Lighthouse which
was the first in the Uk specifically constructed for
electric illumination by carbon arc lamps and was switched
on in 1871. Today the National Trust property is open
for you to climb the stairs of the tower and visit
the keeper's cottage.
The tour takes in the magnificent coastline, the two
mile grassy sweep of the Leas, designated a Site of
Special Scientific Interest and Marsden Bay and Rock,
renowned for its seabird colonies. An optional extra
is a visit to Tavistock at the Grotto which aside from
having a fascinating history the ideal lunch or refreshment
stop.
Other points of interest along the way include the
Mill Dam area, the Merchant Navy Memorial and South
Shields Museum and Art Gallery.
Art
Trail
Enjoy a visual feast and discover South Tyneside's
vibrant and contemporary art. The highly acclaimed
Art on the Riverside programme had done much to enhance
the area's reputation within the visual arts
world and several remarkable prices are included in
the tour.
The thought provoking Conversation Piece created by
celebrated Spanish sculpture Juan Munoz and featuring
22 bronze figures is located in the stunning harbour
setting of Littlehaven. Landing Light by Martinn Richman
is a beacon of coloured lights towering above South
Shields Ferry Landing. The eye catching art form is
a reminder of the importance of the River Tyne and
celebrates the river's role in linking local
communities together. The majestic and evocative Spirit
of South Shields at Market Dock reflects the town's
rich seafaring past and is bold and confident figurehead
of the future.
The tour also includes a visit to The Customs House,
the centre of artistic life in the Borough. The gallery
shows work from international and local artists and
theatre tours can be arranged by appointment.
The final stop is South Shields Museum and Gallery,
which as well as featuring touring exhibitions has
a number of permanent displays.
Tailor Made Tours
With so many fantastic heritage and cultural
attractions on offer, tailor made tours can be organised
that will appeal to all interests.
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With breathtaking scenery, friendly accommodation and a backdrop of cultural and heritage attractions, South Tyneside is great for groups.
