Built on the site of former docks, and containing the pre-existing North Shields International Ferry Terminal, the area was renamed Royal Quays in 1990 and redeveloped with housing, a shopping centre, Brewers Fayre restaurant, large public parks and a water park known as Wet n Wild.

The area is centred on the Albert Edward Dock which now houses the Royal Quays Marina.

[1] The nearest Metro stations are Meadow Well and Percy Main which with local bus routes 10,11 and 317 serve the area.

In addition to the North Shields International Ferry Terminal, cruise ships regularly dock at the Port of Tyne terminal.

The centre has been used by the BBC to film scenes for children's programmes and ITV for an episode of VeraVera (TV series)in July 2022.