Walks and wildlife sites

Love Exploring App

We are delighted that the Love Exploring App is now available in South Tyneside. 

The app, which is free to download, allows you to follow guided trails around the area and discover more about our rich history, public art and places to visit.

There is also a games section which takes you into the world of augmented reality - you may even meet some dinosaurs on your travels!

Find out more at Love Exploring App.

Walking for wellbeing

As part of the Know Your Neighbourhood Fund, we have set up a programme of fantastic walks from each of the council libraries.

These walks are open to everybody, they are free to attend and you don't need to sign up.

Just turn up on the day and join us for some fresh air, good company and a pleasant ramble.

All the walks have been carefully planned to make the most of our beautiful green spaces.

What you should know before taking part 

The routes vary in length from around 45 minutes up to 2 hours. We will go at a relaxed pace and there will be walks to suit all abilities.

You should take the time to read the walk information.

You will find details including:

  • the expected time to walk the route
  • difficulty level
  • accessibility
  • toilet facilities
  • public transport options

If you have a medical condition you feel we should be aware of, please inform the walk leader.

Under 18s and vulnerable adults must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Dogs are not allowed unless they are a guide dog.

What to bring

We advise that you wear comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear. 

You should also bring water to stay hydrated. 

Upcoming Walks

The walks will be running weekly throughout the year at the following times and locations:

  • Jarrow Focus Library - Monday's at 10am
  • Hebburn Central Library - Mondays at 1pm
  • The Word, South Shields - Tuesday's at 1pm
  • Cleadon Park Library - Wednesday's at 10am

All walks will start and finish at the library (unless stated otherwise). 

Please click on a date to read more information about each walk:

Upcoming walks

You may also see the routes plotted in detail on the Love Exploring App. 

Contact us

For more information about a particular walk or about the programme in general, please contact The Word on 0191 427 1818.

South Tyneside Family Discovery Trails

South Tyneside Council has created walks and trails for families to take part in. There are many walks within South Tyneside, these include walks along the beaches, coastlines, parks and hills.

For full details about the walks including activities to complete along the way, visit: 

South Tyneside Family Discovery Trails

Walks and wildlife sites leaflets

There are many leaflets available providing more information about the sites of wildlife interest and walks within South Tyneside.

Choose from the list below to open a printable PDF document for each walk.

Sites of wildlife interest

Self guided walks

Self guided heath walks 

Long distance routes and national trails

For more seasoned walkers, horse riders and cyclists, there are a number of local and national long distance routes which can be found in the North East.

For information on these routes, visit:

New for 2020-21 is the Northern Saints Trails, a series of 6 walking trails across the North East which are based on ancient pilgrimage routes. The Way of Learning route links Jarrow to Sunderland and then Durham.