Located in the heart of South Shields’ historic Mill Dam area, The Customs House is a leading cultural venue and arts centre housed in a beautifully restored Grade II listed heritage building dating back to 1863–64.
With a 442-seat theatre, 130 seat studio theatre/cinema, an art gallery, rehearsal spaces, café-bar and event facilities, The Customs House offers a diverse programme of live theatre, pantomime, music, comedy, film screenings, visual art, creative learning workshops and community engagement projects for all ages.
Our vision is to be a welcoming, inclusive and innovative arts destination, rooted in South Tyneside heritage and committed to making culture accessible to everyone. We value creativity, community, learning, and local pride, and aim to provide outstanding visitor experiences that bring people together through the arts.
Whether you’re looking for entertainment, inspiration, or a unique place to eat, meet, learn, or explore, The Customs House is your home for arts, culture, and creative experiences in South Tyneside.