New homes in Shiney Row

Welcome to Shiney Row

Shiney Row is a thriving village in the North East of England, close to the Tyne and Wear town of Houghton-le-Spring. Originally a mining settlement, today Shiney Row has a vibrant community with plenty to see and do both in the village and the surrounding areas, including lazy traditional pubs, country parks and horse riding centres.

The history of the area

Shiney Row is part of Houghton-le-Spring, a town which was first mentioned during Norman times in the 12th century. The town’s first coal mine opened in 1823, which saw the local area thrive. Shiney Row began life as a small number of houses near one of the pits, and is rumoured to have got its name from a Royal visit, when one of the family was overheard saying ‘what a shiney row of houses’.

By the end of the 19th century residents were still mainly coal miners, but the hamlet had its own post office and school. Sir George Elliot, whose factory made the first Transatlantic telegraph cable, was born in Shiney Row. Today the collieries are closed, but Shiney Row continues to thrive as a friendly community and rural commuter village.

Businesses and industry

Shiney Row has a small number of employers, including two doctor’s surgeries, hairdressers, restaurants and local schools. Neighbouring Houghton-le-Spring has more businesses including National Vehicle Solutions and North East Electrical, while Sunderland nearby is home to big companies including DB Arriva, Nissan Motor Manufacturing, ScS Group, Hays Travel and Sunderland Football Club at the Stadium of Light. Other employers based in the city include Nike UK, Berghaus and Paragon Group.

Things to do in the area

From walking routes to shopping centres, there’s plenty to see and do in Shiney Row and the surrounding towns and cities. Herrington Country Park is one of the most popular local attractions, with cycling trails, children’s play areas and outdoor sculptures. The park also hosts outdoor concerts and events throughout the year. If you enjoy horse riding, Penshaw Equestrian Centre is nearby, while Chester le Street has its own golf course.

For families, Down at the Farm is a fun hands-on experience for children of all ages, while WWT Washington Wetland Centre is a great place to enjoy the fresh air. There are also a number of soft play centres within driving distance, including Castledown Fun Factory and Cubbies Adventure Play. The Great North Museum and the Life Science Centre in Newcastle are also worth a visit, while Seaburn and Roker Beaches to the north of Sunderland are always popular with families, especially during the warmer summer months.

Slightly further afield in Sunderland you can pay a visit to Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens, go swimming in Sunderland Aquatic Centre, or take a tour around the Stadium of Light. Durham is just 20 minutes away by car, where you’ll find Durham Cathedral, Durham University Botanic Garden and Crook Hall and Gardens. Newcastle is also close, and is home to attractions including Seven Stories Children’s Museum, the Discovery Museum, Victoria Tunnel and the Quayside.

Travel and commuting

Shiney Row is located on the A183 which goes all the way to Sunderland, with the drive taking around 15 - 20 minutes. The A1(M) is just a short drive west, providing a quick route north and south. Although Shiney Row doesn’t have a train station, neighbouring Chester-le-Street has regular rail services to Newcastle and Durham. There are also buses to local towns and cities.

When it’s holiday time, Shiney Row is a 40 minute drive away from Newcastle Airport and 45 minutes from Durham Tees Valley Airport, with both airports offering routes to Europe and the rest of the world. 

• North East • Newcastle • Durham

New Homes Offers & Schemes in Shiney Row

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