Royal Quays (walking for wellbeing)

A walk to Royal Quays from Jarrow Library.

An interesting ramble crossing the Tyne twice, through the pedestrian tunnel and on the Shields Ferry.

Full description of walk

Our route starts by taking us across to North Tyneside via the Pedestrian Tunnel.

The tunnel opened in 1951 and walking through it is like stepping back in time. Fortunately, the new lift is now working so the ascent out of the tunnel is easy.

On leaving the tunnel, our path will take us through East Howdon, Percy Main, Redburn Dene and Royal Quays.

On a clear day, the views across the river are superb.

We will finish by taking the ferry across to South Shields and it is only a short (roughly 7 minutes) walk up to the interchange for buses and metros.

You must bring a travel card or appropriate fare for the ferry and return journey to Jarrow. There is no toll for using the tunnel.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: About 3 hours (including metro and ferry travel)
• Distance: 4.6 miles
• Total height climbed along the route: 227 ft
• Terrain: Good footpaths (concrete or tarmac) throughout the walk
• Steps: There is 1 quite long set of steps up from the riverside shortly after Royal Quays Marina
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Toilets: There are toilets at Jarrow Focus, Royal Quays Shopping Centre and near the North Shields Ferry Landing

Public transport to Jarrow

Both the Jarrow Metro and bus stations are about an 8 minute walk from the library.

There is a bus stop outside Morrisons (close to Jarrow Focus) for bus services 10, 11 and 26.