
Old Low Light Heritage Centre
Discover North Shields' rich fishing heritage, celebrating the vital role of women in the industry, with stunning Tyne views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Spectacular sunrises & fewer crowds

Old Low Light Heritage Centre
Best Time
Spectacular sunrises & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover North Shields' rich fishing heritage, celebrating the vital role of women in the industry, with stunning Tyne views.
"A really nice little gem of a place, great for catching up on local history and enjoying a coffee."

🌅 Catch the Sunrise
Head to the balcony early for incredible sunrise views over the Tyne. A must-see!
💰 Donation Welcome
The center is a charity; a £4 donation is requested to support their work.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunrise Over the Tyne
Exterior viewing balcony
Witness stunning sunrises painting the sky and river with vibrant colors. A truly magical start to the day.

The Scotch Herring Girls Exhibition
First floor exhibition space
Discover the fascinating stories of the women who fueled the fishing industry. A poignant and informative display.

River Tyne Fishing Heritage
Main exhibition area
Explore the 800-year history of fishing on the River Tyne and the lives of the trawlermen.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunrise
Head to the balcony early for incredible sunrise views over the Tyne. A must-see!
💰 Donation Welcome
The center is a charity; a £4 donation is requested to support their work.
☕ Cafe Break
Enjoy coffee and light lunches at the popular on-site cafe.
🚶♀️ Explore Women's Stories
Don't miss the moving exhibitions on the vital roles women played in the fishing industry.
Looking for Recommendations for Things to do in The Toon.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunrise
Head to the balcony early for incredible sunrise views over the Tyne. A must-see!
💰 Donation Welcome
The center is a charity; a £4 donation is requested to support their work.
☕ Cafe Break
Enjoy coffee and light lunches at the popular on-site cafe.
🚶♀️ Explore Women's Stories
Don't miss the moving exhibitions on the vital roles women played in the fishing industry.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Old Low Light Heritage Centre for its insightful focus on the fishing industry and the significant role of women, particularly the 'Scotch Herring Girls'. The on-site cafe is a popular spot for refreshments, and the viewing balcony offers lovely coastal views. While not a large museum, it's considered a valuable and informative local gem.
"A good place to visit great for the history of the fishing industry and the river Tyne"
Ian Cardno
"Great to catch up on local history and cafe"
Brian Myers
"First visit to this place for a coffee and light lunch with friends. Very popular, service was excellent, as was the coffee and snacks. A really nice little gem of a place. Outside seating available when the weather permits."
John Turnbull
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Low Light Heritage Centre is located in North Shields. It's accessible by public transport, with local buses serving the area. Parking may be available nearby, but it's advisable to check local parking regulations. For those arriving from further afield, Newcastle Central Station is a major hub, with onward connections to North Shields.
While specific parking details can vary, there are typically car parks in North Shields. It's recommended to check local signage or use a parking app for the most up-to-date information on availability and charges.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk along the coast from Tynemouth to North Shields. The distance is manageable for most, offering scenic views along the way. You can also find public transport options if you prefer not to walk the entire distance.
From Newcastle city centre, you can take a Metro train to North Shields station, which is a short distance from the Heritage Centre. Alternatively, local bus services also connect Newcastle to North Shields.
Consider using the Metro for a convenient and often cost-effective journey to North Shields. Once in North Shields, the Heritage Centre is usually within walking distance of the station or easily reachable by a short taxi ride.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Old Low Light Heritage Centre operates as a charity and requests a donation of £4.00 per person to cover their costs. This is considered a fair price for the historical insights provided.
Generally, booking in advance is not required for the Old Low Light Heritage Centre. However, for group visits or specific events, it's always a good idea to contact them directly to confirm.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or social media pages for the most current opening times before your visit.
No, there is no admission fee to enter the cafe area. You can visit the cafe for refreshments without paying the donation for the exhibition.
As the center relies on donations, specific discount schemes might not be widely advertised. However, the £4.00 donation is already very reasonable for the experience offered.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The center features exhibitions on the 800-year history of North Shields fishing, with a particular focus on the 'Scotch Herring Girls' and other women's roles in the industry. There's also a cafe and a viewing balcony.
The main exhibition is on the first floor, and there is a balcony on the second floor. While there's a lot of written material, it's worth checking directly with the center regarding specific accessibility features like lifts or ramps.
Photography policies can vary. It's generally advisable to be respectful and check for any signage regarding photography, especially for commercial use. Personal photos for memories are usually permitted.
A visit can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the historical exhibits and if you plan to enjoy refreshments at the cafe. Reading all the information thoroughly will take longer.
Exhibitions often focus on the maritime history of North Shields, the fishing industry, and the lives of the people involved, with a recurring theme celebrating the contributions of women.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a popular cafe located downstairs at the Old Low Light Heritage Centre, offering coffee and light lunches.
The cafe typically serves coffee, snacks, and light lunches, making it a pleasant spot for a break during your visit.
Yes, you can visit the cafe without paying the donation for the exhibition. It's a great option for a casual coffee or bite to eat.
While specific menus can change, cafes often offer a selection of options. It's best to inquire directly with the cafe staff about their current vegetarian and vegan offerings.
The cafe is generally welcoming to all visitors, including families. It provides a relaxed atmosphere for a meal or refreshment.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewing balcony offers fantastic panoramic views of the River Tyne and the surrounding coastline, especially during sunrise. The historical exhibits themselves also provide unique photographic subjects.
Drone usage is typically restricted in many public areas and heritage sites due to privacy and safety regulations. It's essential to check local bylaws and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone.
While personal photography for memories is usually allowed, it's always wise to look for signage or ask staff about any specific restrictions, particularly concerning flash photography or commercial use of images.
Early mornings for sunrise offer dramatic lighting and fewer people. Midday can provide good natural light for the exhibits, but the balcony views are often best during the golden hours.
The coastal views from the balcony are highly Instagrammable. The historic architecture of the building itself and the surrounding North Shields waterfront also offer great photo backdrops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers
📸 Photographers & View Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of North Shields Fishing History
One of the most compelling aspects highlighted is the crucial role of women in the fishing industry. Beyond the men who worked the boats, women were integral to the entire process, from gutting and curing fish to managing households and supporting the local economy. The 'Scotch Herring Girls' exhibition is particularly poignant, detailing the arduous journeys these women made and their significant contribution to the herring boom. This focus provides a more complete and nuanced understanding of the industry's past, celebrating often-overlooked contributions.
Beyond the historical exhibits, the center offers practical amenities and unique vantage points. The on-site cafe provides a welcoming space to relax and reflect on what you've learned, often serving coffee and light lunches. Furthermore, the viewing balcony on the second floor offers a fantastic perspective of the River Tyne and the surrounding coastline, making it an ideal spot for photography, especially during sunrise. The center's charitable status means your visit directly supports the preservation of this vital local heritage.
Experiencing the Coastal Charm of Tynemouth
Many visitors combine a trip to the Old Low Light with a visit to Tynemouth's beaches, such as Tynemouth Long Sands. This allows for a full day experiencing the diverse attractions of the region. You can start your day with a breathtaking sunrise over the sea in Tynemouth, then head to North Shields to delve into local history, and perhaps finish with a coffee at the Heritage Centre's cafe or explore more of the North Shields waterfront. This blend of natural scenery and historical insight offers a well-rounded experience of the area.
For those interested in the local culture and nostalgia, Tynemouth and its surrounding areas have also been featured in content highlighting the region's past. This suggests a rich tapestry of experiences available, from historical exploration to enjoying the contemporary coastal lifestyle. The accessibility between these locations via public transport or a scenic walk makes it easy to enjoy both the historical insights of the Old Low Light and the natural beauty of Tynemouth.






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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit