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Summer river trips on the River Tyne start tomorrow, running from 4th May until 7th September 2012.
There are many different trips to choose from and are a unique way to view some of the historic sights along the banks of the River Tyne and to see the modern new developments taking shape along the river.
The three hour river trips sail between South Shields and Newcastle upon Tyne, as far as Newcastle and Gateshead Quaysides where you will get to see and sail under Gateshead’s iconic Gateshead Millennium Bridge.
Entertainment is provided on many of the river trips with something to suit all the family from live river commentaries, sing-a-longs to fish & chip trips – all of which are regular features of their scheduled summer programme of events.
A variety of children’s entertainment also runs throughout the school summer holidays.
Our bed and breakfast accommodation in South Shields is a few minutes walk from the Shields Ferry terminal where the River Tyne river trips depart and return to.
Shields Ferry River Trips 2012 are…
Sundays – Animal Encounters (2 hours)
Small ones, fat ones, long, thin, scaly ones… bring the children along to experience the delights of our cute and cuddly (or even scary!) animals as they sail along the River Tyne.
They’ll get the opportunity to hold rabbits and mice, a majestic owl and, if they’re really brave… even a snake and a
tarantula!
Whether it’s their first animal encounter or if you want to help them overcome any fears… what better way to
do it than combining it with a relaxing river trip.
Ferry departs 1pm returns 3pm.
Have your photo taken with the animals as a special reminder of the day!
Fridays and Sundays – Children’s Entertainer (2 hours)
Bring the children along to enjoy an afternoon on our fun-filled party boat!
Music, games, face painting and balloon-making are sure to occupy their time, all while you sit back and enjoy a relaxing trip on the ferry… or you can always join in the fun yourself!
A river trip is also a great and educational way to point out the historical places of interest around the river
banks of our local area which your children may not otherwise get to see!
Ferry departs 1pm returns 3pm.
Sunday Afternoon River Trips (3 hours)
Enjoy a unique experience on-board the Shields Ferry which lets you take in the sights and delights of the riverbanks along the River Tyne.
Sailing to the mouth of the River Tyne and then on to Newcastle upon Tyne and back again you’ll see many historic monuments along the way and listen to a fascinating live commentary, brought to you by
one of our guides.
Places of interest include The Customs House, North Shields Fish Quay, the memorial to Admiral Lord Collingwood and the old River Tyne Shipyards.
You’ll also see the amazing transformations which have taken place on Newcastle upon Tyne and Gateshead Quaysides and get to sail under the Gateshead Millennium Bridge!
Ferry departs 1pm returns 4pm.
A fun and leisurely way to spend a Sunday afternoon!
Fridays – Tyne Tours (1 hours)
For a local insight into life around the river banks of North Tyneside and South Tyneside join this delightful cruise.
As you sail to the mouth of the River Tyne, past North Shields Fish Quay and Tynemouth Priory & Castle you’ll listen to an informative taped commentary about the history of the river in the surrounding area.
Places of interest along the way include The Customs House, International Passenger Terminal, Royal Quays and Jarrow Slake.
Many other sites from the River Tyne’s industrial past and present can also be seen.
Ferry departs 1:30pm, returns 3pm.
A great way to relax at the end of the week!
Fridays and Sundays – Fish & Chip Trips (2 hours)
Indulge in some finger-licking style fish and chips whilst watching the River Tyne sail by!
After setting off you’ll head towards the mouth of the River Tyne where you’ll listen to an informative taped commentary about our local river history.
Your fish and chips* will be delivered directly to you and as you sail along your meal can be enjoyed by simply being eaten straight from the box – leaving you to roam the boat at your leisure.
Be sure not to miss out on any views of the river!
Ferry departs 1pm returns 3pm.
Combine some great local food with a fun afternoon cruise!
*Note: fish and chips (adults & concessionary) cod bites (children).
Limited seating available.
If you are looking for hotel accommodation near the Shields Ferry at Mill Dam in South Shields our bed and breakfast best price and room availability is here Book Online.
Room information including photographs can be found on the Accommodation page of our website.
For more ideas of places to visit while staying with us visit Places to Visit.
Wednesday 3rd June 2026, 22:21 BST
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