Dating back to the 13th Century, this fishing port located close to the mouth of the Tyne, formed part of the original settlement of North Shields. This site is a popular visitor attraction and is well known for its tasty fish and chips.
This is also a great site to get up close with Eiders, as they enjoy some shore leave resting on the rocks nearby or can be seen swimming in the calmer’s waters of the river close to the quay.
In the summer Common and Sandwich Terns noisily announce their arrival, whilst Chiffchaffs and Willow Warblers can be heard singing from the nearby riverbanks. Another highlight is the chorus of “kittee-wa-aaake” which can often be heard in the spring and summer, as Kittiwakes from the coast and the Newcastle Quayside colony come to visit.
An Iceland Gull
“In the winter, the fish quay roofs are a favourite for visiting Iceland and Glaucous Gulls, whilst nearby Cormorants can been seen drying out their wings”.
Visitors are recommended to also visit the nearby Tyne Estuary and Tynemouth Haven.
County
Tyne & Wear, North Tyneside.
Map Reference
NZ 363 684
Habitats
- Coastal
- Estuary
- River
Access
There is free access, however access is restricted to certain areas of the fish quay. There is limited access for wheelchair users.
Facilities
There are toilets, shops and cafes nearby.
Parking
There is a pay and display car park, which overlooks the estuary. There is also limited free parking close to the fish quay.
Additional Information
The site is maintained by North Tyneside Council.
For more information please visit the councils website at www.northtyneside.gov.uk
There is also dedicated website at www.fish-quay.com