Discover South Tyneside's Historical Treasures
A chance for people to see some of South Tyneside's architectural and cultural gems is on offer this September with the return of Heritage Open Days.
The free national event offers access to properties that are usually closed to the public or normally charge admission.
This year the initiative is running from Friday 8 September until Sunday 17 September.
Councillor Audrey Huntley, Deputy Leader with responsibility for Culture, Leisure and the Visitor Economy, said: "Heritage Open Days provide us with the perfect opportunity to showcase our Borough's history and unique treasures.
"I would encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity and find out more about the fascinating history we have on our doorstep."
The Mayor of South Tyneside, Councillor John McCabe, will be giving tours of South Shields Town Hall on Thursday, 14 September from 1pm - 2pm and 3pm - 4pm. People will have the chance to see the internal splendour of this Grade Two Listed building, including its marble corridors and oak-panelled chambers.
On Tuesday, 12 September the Mayor will be giving a tour of Jarrow Hall, - remembered as the place from where the Jarrow marchers set off for London - at 2pm.
To reserve a place on either of the Town Hall tours, call the Civic Office on (0191) 424 7331 or email civic.office@southtyneside.gov.uk
A Victorian day out is on offer on Saturday 16 September between 1pm and 4pm in North and South Marine Parks. People can take part in an interactive guided walk, join a popular knitting circle of the times, enjoy a game of pétanque in the community garden and browse previously unseen photographs and documents from the vast archive of Friends of the North and South Marine Parks. Street games such as hopscotch and hoop-la will also be on offer. No booking is required.
The South Shields Volunteer Life Brigade Watch House is opening its doors to the public on the weekends (Saturday, 9 and Sunday 10 September and Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 September) between 10am and 4pm. The Grade Two listed building is home to a unique collection of figureheads, name boards and other artefacts as well as displays of rescue equipment, including the breeches buoy. No booking required.
St Nicholas' Church in Boldon will be open on Saturday, 9 September between 10am and 4pm. The Grade One Listed building mainly dates from the 13th century but has significant visible Saxon stonework. No booking required.
St Peter's Church in Harton will also be open on Saturday, 9 September between 10am - 12noon and 2pm - 4pm. Jean Stokes will give an illustrated talk on The Stained Glass Story at 10.30am and again at 2.30pm. Refreshments will be available. No booking required.
A chance to find out more about how mariners from long ago contributed to the heritage of South Shields is on offer with a walk around Westoe cemetery. The walks, with a guide, will take place on Friday 8 September and on Wednesday 13 September at 10.30am and again at 5pm on both days.
For full listings, specific opening times or booking information for events in South Tyneside, visit www.southtyneside.gov.uk/hod
The events are part of national Heritage Open Days - England's largest festival or architecture, history and culture. For events further afield, visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk