The seaside town of South Shields in the North of England was once ranked as the second worst beach destination in the country.
According to The Telegraph’s ‘seaside gentrification index’, which assesses various beach resorts out of 100 based on factors such as housing, high streets, renovation, and conservation, South Shields scored a mere 11/100.
The rankings also took into account how different destinations had “adapted or not over the past three decades”, with South Shields coming in just above Rhyl in north Wales.
However, not everyone shares this negative view of the town.
READ MORE: Charming UK seaside town with golden sands and late-night ice cream parlour
In 2022, Sandhaven Beach in South Shields was named one of the UK’s top 50 beaches, and it’s easy to see why. With its picturesque golden sands, clear blue waters, and dramatic backdrop of Trow Rocks and the Leas to the south, it’s a stunning spot.
The historic architecture of Tynemouth to the north adds to the beach’s cinematic charm. Sandhaven Beach, which has previously won a Blue Flag award for its cleanliness and excellent facilities, has been receiving glowing reviews on TripAdvisor, reports the Mirror.
One visitor from Birmingham raved: “It’s a nice clean beach, kids facilities with there’s an amusements park, boat rides opposites the amusements, and Ocean Road for all your food. Can’t fault it the slightest, not even the three-hour drive up north, its well worth it.”
A recent visitor was completely taken aback after discovering a hidden gem on the coast, sharing their delight online: “I had never heard of this beach until talking to locals in a nearby pub. What a pleasant surprise! I believe this is probably the cleanest and most beautiful beach area in the UK. Miles of clean, sandy ‘proper’ beach. Everything was so well maintained, yet not too busy.”
South Shields isn’t just a place with scenic beaches; it also boasts celebrity connections, being the hometown of Little Mix members Perrie Edwards and Jade Thirlwall.
The town has garnered recognition for its dining scene as well, with The Telegraph highlighting some commendable eateries: “That’s not to say South Shields is without options of its own: the likes of Bravi, Italianish, Mambo, and cosy Davinci’s ensure the town is strong on Italian and Mediterranean comfort dining. The Grotto is a quality hotel.”