South Shields Museum & Art Gallery
At the very heart of its community, South Shields Museum celebrates the rich heritage of South Tyneside and the people who shaped it. The building that South Shields Museum currently occupies has had a long and interesting past.
The building that South Shields Museum currently occupies was constructed in 1860 as a home for the South Shields Literary, Mechanical and Scientific Institution. In 1873 the building became the town’s first free Public Library and Reading rooms and it opened as a museum in 1876.
Visitors can find out more about the lasting legacy the area has made far afield, such as our extensive mining and ship building past, the Jarrow March, Dame Catherine Cookson and much more.
The museum has three main displays: Tales of South Tyneside explores the local and social history of the area during the twentieth century together with the lifetime achievement of the successful local author Catherine Cookson; Treasures allows visitors the opportunity to get closer to items of the collection not seen on display for a number of years and Changing Faces charts the history of South Tyneside from the Bronze Age to the twentieth century through the Museum's archaeological, natural and historical collections.
There are regular events throughout the year, with a rolling programme of temporary exhibits on offer too.
The museum's shop has a great choice of souvenirs and gifts, while if you fancy a treat then take a seat in the Victorian pantry and enjoy a cup of tea and a home-made cake, scone or sandwich.
Opening times
Monday to Friday: 10am to 5pm
Saturday: 11.30am to 4pm
Closed Sundays
Admission charges
Free admission.
Facilities
Car and coach parking nearby
Cafe
Toilets
Gift shop
Access
Wheelchair access throughout
Accessible toilets
Lifts
Guide dogs allowed
Induction loop
Tactile exhibits
Contact details
Ocean Road
South Shields
NE33 2JA
Tel: 0191 211 5599
Email: info@southshieldsmuseum.org.uk
Visit the official South Shields Museum website here: South Shields Museum & Art Gallery
For more information and to see what events are on, check out this page by the local council: South Shields Museum and Art Gallery - South Tyneside Council
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