Gateshead is a town situated in the North East of England. It is located across the River Tyne from Newcastle Upon Tyne, and is part of the metropolitan borough of Gateshead. Although it is often overshadowed by its bigger, louder neighbour, Gateshead has a lot to offer visitors, from its industrial history to its world-famous art installations.
Here are some things you may not know about Gateshead:
The Angel of the North
The Angel of the North is a vast, 20-metre-high sculpture of an angel with outstretched wings. It was designed by Antony Gormley and erected in 1998 on a hillside overlooking the A1 and A167 roads, just south of Gateshead. The sculpture has become an iconic symbol of Gateshead, and is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the whole of England. It is certainly worth a visit, particularly on a clear day when the views from the hillside are spectacular.
The Gateshead Millennium Bridge
The Gateshead Millennium Bridge is another iconic landmark in the region, and it is an engineering marvel. It is a pedestrian and cycle bridge that spans the River Tyne, linking Gateshead to Newcastle. It was opened in 2001 as part of the regeneration of the area, and has since won numerous awards, including the prestigious Stirling Prize for architecture. The bridge is a great spot for taking photos of the Tyne and the Quayside, or for enjoying a walking or cycling tour of the area.
The history of industry in Gateshead
Gateshead has a rich industrial history, and it was once a hub for shipbuilding, coal-mining, and heavy engineering. It was at the forefront of the Industrial Revolution, with the famous engineer George Stephenson pioneering new steam-powered technologies in the area. Although many of these industries have now declined, their legacy lives on, with many interesting industrial heritage sites dotted around the town. The Discovery Museum offers an interesting insight into the history of the area, with exhibitions on local industries and inventions, as well as interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages.
Gateshead’s cultural scene
Gateshead has a thriving cultural scene, with many museums, galleries, and performance spaces. The Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art is a must-visit for anyone interested in modern art. Housed in a converted flour mill on the banks of the Tyne, the Baltic offers a dynamic programme of exhibitions and events, showcasing artists from around the world.
The Sage Gateshead is another impressive cultural venue in the town, with a stunning steel and glass design and acoustics that are ranked among the best in the world. It is a music and performance venue that hosts a wide range of events, from classical concerts to rock gigs. The Sage also offers music education programmes and workshops, making it a hub for musical talent and creativity.
Gateshead is home to one of the UK’s largest shopping centres
The Metrocentre is one of the UK’s largest shopping centres, and it is located in Gateshead. With over 370 shops, a cinema, and a variety of restaurants and cafes, the Metrocentre is a shopping destination in its own right. It is easy to spend a whole day there, exploring the shops and enjoying the entertainment on offer.
Gateshead is a great base for exploring the North East
Gateshead’s location makes it a great base for exploring the wider North East region of England. Newcastle Upon Tyne is just across the river, with all the attractions and amenities of a big city. The Northumberland countryside is just a short drive away, with castles, beaches, and stunning coastline to explore. And the historic city of Durham is just a short train ride from Gateshead, with its famous cathedral and university.
Overall, Gateshead is a town that has a lot to offer visitors, from its stunning landmarks and cultural venues to its proud industrial heritage and great shopping facilities. Whether you are interested in history, art, music, or shopping, Gateshead is definitely worth a visit.