Safety and accessibility on the Shields Ferry
Making travel on the Shields Ferry as safe, easy and inclusive as possible.
Shields Ferry operator Nexus have received the Autism Friendly Award from the National Autistic Society for our working in supporting people with autism when they travel on the ferry.
The Bridge Card is a way of letting transport staff know that you may need additional support when you use public transport. If you have difficulty using public transport because of age, disability, illness, or you simply lack confidence, you can carry a Bridge Card. When you show the card to transport staff they will recognise that you may need extra help during your journey. You don’t have to register for the scheme. You just have to carry a card and show it to transport staff if you need help.
The ferry landings float on the River Tyne, which means that the slope of the access bridge varies with the tide. If the tide is extremely low, and the bridges are steeper than normal (this is more likely at South Shields), ferry staff can help wheelchair users.
South Shields ferry landing
The ferry landing is about a 5 minute walk from South Shields bus/Metro interchange on Keppel Street.
At the entrance to the ferry landing there is a short bridge which leads to the pontoon. There is an enclosed waiting area with seating.
North Shields ferry landing
The ferry landing is about a 10 minute walk from North Shields town centre/transport hub. The walk is quite steep.
The landing at North Shields features a fully enclosed glazed waiting area with seating. The bridge leading to the landing is relatively long which means that the gradient makes access easier for wheelchair users.
Find out more about getting to and from the ferry landings here
If you have any concerns about accessibility and the Shields Ferry – please contact Nexus’ Accessibility Officer at access@nexus.org.uk.
Staff are on board the ferry at all times so there’s always a reassuring presence around. There’s CCTV coverage on board too. Both North and South Shields ferry landings are also covered by CCTV cameras.
Shields Ferry operator Nexus is proud to be part of the Leisurewatch scheme. This provides training and support for its staff to help them recognise concerning behaviour and act to stop it, making our public spaces safer for all of us.
Ferry accessibility
The Shields Ferry has two ferries – the Pride of the Tyne and Spirit of the Tyne. The ferries are accessible for all passengers including wheelchair and mobility scooter users, and people with prams and pushchairs. You board the ferry by a two metre wide ramp – for reasons of passenger safety please remember to exercise caution as you approach the ramp as it is opening and closing. The ferry team can be of assistance, if you need any help.
