South Gare and Paddy's Hole
A rugged coastal gem where industrial might meets the raw beauty of the Tees estuary, offering unique landscapes for exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, great light for photos
South Gare and Paddy's Hole
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, great light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rugged coastal gem where industrial might meets the raw beauty of the Tees estuary, offering unique landscapes for exploration.
"Fantastic beach surrounded by old industrial and fishing yards, brilliant for dog walking and photography."
🚶♀️ Perfect for Dog Walks
This beach is a dog walker's paradise! Just remember to bring your own bags as bins are scarce.
📸 Photographers' Dream
The unique industrial backdrop and coastal scenery offer incredible photo opportunities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The South Gare Breakwater
Tees Estuary Mouth
A dramatic concrete structure offering panoramic views of the North Sea and industrial Teesport.
Paddy's Hole Beach Huts
Adjacent to South Gare
Charming, historic huts once used by Irish navvies, now a picturesque feature of the coastline.
Industrial Landscape Views
Surrounding area
A striking contrast of natural beauty against a backdrop of active industrial yards and harbour.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Industrial Charm
Parking and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Perfect for Dog Walks
This beach is a dog walker's paradise! Just remember to bring your own bags as bins are scarce.
📸 Photographers' Dream
The unique industrial backdrop and coastal scenery offer incredible photo opportunities.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Be aware of double yellow lines; parking can be limited. Plan your arrival time accordingly.
🎣 Fishing Community Hub
See the historic fishermen's huts and observe the local fishing community at work.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Perfect for Dog Walks
This beach is a dog walker's paradise! Just remember to bring your own bags as bins are scarce.
📸 Photographers' Dream
The unique industrial backdrop and coastal scenery offer incredible photo opportunities.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Be aware of double yellow lines; parking can be limited. Plan your arrival time accordingly.
🎣 Fishing Community Hub
See the historic fishermen's huts and observe the local fishing community at work.
✨ Embrace the Raw Beauty
It's not a manicured beach; appreciate the rugged charm and industrial aesthetic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise South Gare and Paddy's Hole for its unique, peaceful atmosphere and striking industrial-coastal scenery, making it ideal for dog walking and photography. However, some note the lack of amenities and occasional litter, suggesting a need for more bins.
"My pattner had just bought a print of this place at an art gallery in Staithes. We decided to visit its location on the South Gate at the Tees estuary mouth. Historically interesting the harbour and boats contrast beautifully with the industrial Grot beyond and all around. The huts the Irish navies who built the game are still used to this day."
Ian Summerscales
"What a place fantastic beach surrounded by an old industrial and fishing yards. Brilliant for dog walking but please put some bins in for dog walkers because not everyone like us take it home to dump."
Paddy on a bike
"Just love the peacefulness around here the beach over the dunes is often deserted fabulous for dog walking,photography,painting, or just chilling out I came to walk and photograph and have done for many years. However the local council have put down double yellow lines to restrict parking. There’s a fishing community and also fishermen’s huts often seen on some of Vera’s programs"
Tony Nichols
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
South Gare and Paddy's Hole are located at the mouth of the River Tees. Driving is the most common way to access the area, with parking available nearby, though it can be limited. Public transport options are less direct, often requiring a bus to Middlesbrough town centre and then a taxi or a longer walk.
While Middlesbrough is served by public transport, reaching South Gare directly can be challenging. You'll likely need to combine bus or train travel to Middlesbrough with a taxi or a significant walk to the coast.
Middlesbrough is well-connected by train, with regular services from major cities. Driving is also a good option, with access via the A19 and A66.
Yes, there are coastal paths and routes that can lead you to South Gare, offering scenic views along the way. These are best explored with a good map or navigation app.
Cycling is possible, with dedicated cycle paths in some areas leading towards the coast. Be prepared for varied terrain and potential wind exposure.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, South Gare and Paddy's Hole are public access areas and do not require any tickets for entry. You can explore the beach and breakwater freely.
As an open coastal area, South Gare and Paddy's Hole do not have set opening or closing hours. You can visit at any time, though daylight hours are recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee for Paddy's Hole beach or the surrounding areas of South Gare. Access is free for all visitors.
While generally open, be mindful of industrial activity in the Teesport area. Always stay within designated public access zones and respect any safety signage.
Visiting at night is possible but not recommended due to limited lighting and potential safety concerns related to the industrial environment and coastal conditions.
📸 📸 Photography
The breakwater offers dramatic sea views, the beach huts provide charming foregrounds, and the industrial backdrop creates unique compositions. Look for reflections in tidal pools and the interplay of light on the water and structures.
Landscape, industrial, and wildlife photography are popular. The contrast between nature and industry, along with potential bird sightings, offers diverse subjects.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light, with golden hour providing dramatic skies and soft illumination. Overcast days can also create moody, atmospheric shots.
For personal photography, no permit is generally required. If you plan a professional photoshoot or commercial filming, it's advisable to check with local authorities or port operators.
Keep an eye out for seabirds, seals, the distinctive beach huts, the imposing breakwater, and the vast industrial complex of Teesport.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy long walks on the beach, photography, birdwatching, and simply soaking in the unique atmosphere. It's a great spot for quiet contemplation and appreciating the coastal and industrial scenery.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic, often deserted beach perfect for dogs to run freely. Just be sure to clean up after your pet.
Facilities are very limited. There are no cafes or public toilets directly at South Gare or Paddy's Hole. Visitors should come prepared with their own refreshments and essentials.
The terrain includes sandy beach, dunes, and the concrete breakwater. The beach can be uneven, and the breakwater is a solid structure.
While children can enjoy the beach, adult supervision is essential due to the open sea, industrial surroundings, and potentially uneven terrain.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, families should be aware that facilities are minimal – there are no playgrounds, cafes, or readily available toilets. It's essential to pack all necessities, including snacks, drinks, and anything needed for comfort. Adult supervision is crucial due to the open sea and industrial surroundings. The beach itself is sandy, but can be a bit rough, so sturdy footwear is recommended for everyone.
📸 Photographers and Artists
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for capturing the atmosphere, with golden hour casting a warm glow over the scene. The area is also known for its birdlife, offering opportunities for wildlife photography. Many artists find inspiration in the raw, untamed beauty and the stories embedded in the landscape.
🚶♀️ Dog Owners
While the freedom is a major plus, dog owners are strongly advised to bring their own waste bags. As noted by visitors, bins are scarce, and it's important to keep the area clean for everyone to enjoy. The sandy terrain is generally easy for dogs to navigate, making it a comfortable outing for them.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Charm of Industrial Coastlines
The Paddy's Hole beach huts add a layer of historical intrigue. These humble structures, once shelters for Irish navvies who built the original sea defences, now stand as colourful, characterful elements against the industrial backdrop. They evoke a sense of resilience and history, reminding visitors of the human stories woven into this coastal landscape. It's a place that rewards those who appreciate its unconventional beauty and the stories it tells.
Many visitors highlight the peacefulness of the area, especially outside peak times. It's a sanctuary for dog walkers, artists, and anyone seeking solitude and a connection with a less-polished side of the British coastline. The lack of commercialisation is often cited as a positive, allowing for a more authentic and contemplative experience.
Navigating Parking and Access
It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day, especially on weekends or during warmer months, to increase your chances of securing parking. Some visitors suggest parking a little further away and enjoying a brief walk to the beach, which can also be a pleasant experience. Always be mindful of local parking regulations to avoid any fines.
Beyond parking, the general access to the beach and breakwater is straightforward, though the terrain can be uneven. The coastal paths offer scenic approaches, and for those who enjoy a walk, cycling is also an option. The key is to be prepared for a more rugged experience, which is part of the area's unique appeal.
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