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Shields, on the south bank of the River Tyne. The original Customs House was constructed in 1863–1864 to facilitate the import and export of goods through Shields Harbour, with an extension added in 1878 for the Marine Board offices. Following a period of decline and dereliction, the building was restored and transformed into an arts and entertainment centre. It is now a Grade II listed building and an important cultural venue for South Tyneside. The venue combines several functions under one roof, including a main theatre, studio/cinema, gallery spaces, restaurant and bar. It also has additional spaces in the adjacent Dalton Lane workshops, which are connected to the main building by a glazed bridge. For private and commercial hire, The Customs House can accommodate weddings, birthday parties, christenings, naming celebrations, wakes, mehndi ceremonies, conferences, workshops, meetings, rehearsals and other events. Its event team offers flexible spaces and equipment for everything from small meetings to larger conferences. Its combination of heritage architecture, riverside setting, theatre facilities, cinema, gallery, restaurant and flexible event rooms makes it substantially different from a conventional hotel or conference centre.
The Main Theatre is The Customs House's principal performance and large-event space. It provides approximately 441–442 fixed seats and is primarily designed for theatre, live performances, entertainment and larger presentations. It can also provide a distinctive setting for ceremonies and other large events where a seated auditorium arrangement is appropriate.
The Studio is a smaller performance and cinema space that can also be hired for private screenings and other events. Published sources give capacities ranging from 132 to 145 seats. The venue's event material specifically identifies its cinema as available for parties and private screenings, making this a versatile alternative to the main theatre.
The Daltons Suite is a larger private event space within the adjacent Dalton Lane facilities. The Customs House describes it as a space used for performances, weddings, conferences and workshops. It has a wood-effect floor, adjustable lighting and windows that can be opened.
The Community Room is located within the refurbished Dalton Lane facilities and provides a flexible space for community activities, meetings, workshops and events. Heritage information for the venue identifies the room as having a capacity of approximately 100 people. It is connected to the main Customs House building by the glazed bridge.
The Gallery is an exhibition/event space within The Customs House. It can also be used for general hire, with the venue's event material presenting it as one of the flexible spaces available for meetings, rehearsals, clubs and other activities.
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