New Exhibition Celebrates the Stories of South Shields

A new exhibition celebrating the people, places and food heritage of South Shields is set to open at South Shields Museum & Art Gallery for a limited run from 23rd to 25th April 2026.

The exhibition Stories From Shields brings together the voices of local businesses and residents through a series of short films, storytelling, a specially designed postcard collection, and the launch of a brand-new food and drink heritage trail.

The exhibition, which will take over the Victorian Street inside the museum, lets visitors explore what makes South Shields unique - from much-loved local dishes to the personal stories and community spirit that shape the town today. Visitors will also have the chance to share their food memories and stories.

The project has been created by Local Heroes, a North East-based storytelling platform, and funded as part of the legacy of England’s first Destination Development Partnership (DDP) Pilot, Destination North East England, a government- funded initiative for the North East of England, which was designed to boost the regional visitor economy and support sustainable growth.

“This project is all about putting local voices front and centre,” says Chris Jewitt of Local Heroes. “Every story, film and design has been shaped by the people of South Shields, and we’re excited to share that with the public through the exhibition.”

Ian Thomas, Chief Operating Officer, NewcastleGateshead Initiative, which led the Destination Development Partnership said, “The region's villages, towns and cities are bursting with stories, all rooted in a strong sense of pride and fondness for the culture and heritage of the area. We are delighted to have funded this incredible project in South Shields which is helping to share these stories, encouraging residents and visitors to connect more deeply with the town and get a true taste of Shields.”

After the exhibition, visitors will be able to explore the Stories From Shields for themselves with the food and heritage trail going live which interweaves stories from residents and local businesses with a self-led trail route to follow, offering a new way to explore South Shields beyond the exhibition.

The Stories From Shields exhibition is free to attend, with no booking required.

Destination North East England was a UK Government funded pilot led by NewcastleGateshead Initiative on behalf of the region, working with delivery partners Visit Northumberland and Visit County Durham and in partnership with all seven local authorities to unlock the growth potential of the tourism industry. The soon to launch regional body Experience North East England will build on the pilot to help achieve the region’s ambitions of doubling the value of the visitor economy.