The town developed mainly as a sea port and shipping has always been the town's forte. Infact, during the construction of Hadrian's wall the port acted as an important supply base.

It boasts of one of Britain's most famous marine colleges, The South Tyneside college, founded in 1837 by Dr. Thomas Winterbottom. Today other than mainstream marine courses, the college offers other degree and diploma courses as well. Students from all over the world (mainly connected with the shipping industry) come to study at this marine college.

Several visitors come to this town as over the years it has developed into a fine seaside resort. The town is also the birthplace of Catherine Cookson, one of Britains most widely read novelists. The town also acts as the finishing point for the yearly great north run.