About This Pub
You know, when I think about Life of Riley in South Shields, it's got this warm, welcoming energy that draws you in for a proper night out. The cocktails are an absolute highlight – they're well-made and hit the spot, especially if you're up for something a bit special. Throw in the occasional live band, and you've got yourself a lively spot that really gets the weekend going. The location's spot on too, right in the thick of things where you can easily nip out for a quick snack or carry on the fun elsewhere. But, and I have to be straight with you, there are a few things that niggle. I've come across stories of drink spiking attempts from way back, which is enough to make anyone think twice, and then there's that unfortunate run-in with the door staff that left some feeling less than secure. It's a shame because overall, it's a decent place for a laugh, but you'd want to keep your wits about you and maybe stick with mates. All in all, if you're after a moderate-priced pint in a central spot, it's worth a go, just go in with your eyes open for a balanced experience.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The cocktails are spot on – really tasty and make for a great evening treat.
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It's got a lively vibe with live bands popping up now and then, perfect for a fun night out.
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Security seems to be on the ball, which is always a plus when you're out for a pint or two.
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Smack in the heart of South Shields, making it easy to grab a quick bite or hop to nearby spots.
Cons
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There have been some unsettling reports of drink spiking in the past, which puts a bit of a damper on things.
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An incident with the door staff left a few folks feeling uneasy and not quite safe.
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It's only open a few days a week, so you might have to plan your visit around that.
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Drinks can feel a tad pricey, like shelling out £10.95 for a couple of cocktails on a Saturday night.
Contact Information
Moorgate House, 5 Mile End Rd, South Shields NE33 1TA
+441914266656
Pub
Closed today
Opening Hours
Monday (Today) | Closed |
Tuesday | Closed |
Wednesday | Closed |
Thursday | 20:30 - 03:00 |
Friday | 20:30 - 03:00 |
Saturday | 20:30 - 03:00 |
Sunday | 20:30 - 03:00 |
Recent Reviews
£10.95 for two Cocktails on a Saturday evening.
Very very nice.
Life of Riley is a lovely pub in the heart of South Shields city centre. Sometimes hosts a life band. They serve different types of cocktails, and other drinks. The location is good for you to buy quick bite foods around.
AA
Abel Adeleke (CaptBlaq)
I went to Life of Riley on Sunday/Monday morning 4th/5th August 2024. We used to call it Spiker Riley as in the past we have had attempts to spike our drinks. The other night we were there till 02:30 and the security in there were absolutely fantastic. One guy inside spotting any trouble and two guys on the door responding. The guys were professional polite and strong when required.My wife and myself felt totally safe as there is the usual mix of Bumpers on Hairy Mikers night. Excellent work guys.
It's one of the most popular clubs in South Shields, it's totally packed on Fridays & Saturdays till 2 when it's time to close & then the crowd shifts to other clubs nearby. Definitely recommend this club for weekends
I arrived at this bar late on saturday night and witnessed a cowardly attack from behind outside the toilets by a member of the door staff on a drunken young man who did'nt know what had happened .as a regular party of 6 who comes to this bar we will not be returning as we dont feel safe after witnessing this incident .i hope the manager has reported this to the police and has seen the cctv as it's his duty as manager to report all attacks and assaults that happened in his premises by both staff and customers .
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