Nestled on the banks of the River Tyne, Gateshead is a historic town that lies opposite the bustling city of Newcastle. It’s renowned for its architectural landmarks, including the Sage Gateshead performance space, Baltic Centre and striking Gateshead Millennium Bridge.
Things to do in Gateshead
One of the town’s most prominent buildings is the Sage Gateshead, which is famed for its curved glass and stainless-steel construction. It features three state-of-the-art performance spaces where the Royal Northern Sinfonia orchestra has regular performances, together with big-name international artists.
Situated within a 1930s flour mill, the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art is a cutting-edge gallery space that showcases revolving exhibitions. Wander through its minimalist interior and admire works by both local and international contemporary artists.
The Baltic Centre lies adjacent to the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, which connects Gateshead's arts quarter with the Quayside of Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Walk or cycle across this award-winning tilt bridge nicknamed the “Winking Eye Bridge”, due to its distinctive design.
Gateshead is also famed for the “Angel of the North” sculpture whose 54-metre-wide wings soar above an old coal mine on Birtley Hill. It was designed by Antony Gormley to reflect the region’s transition from the industrial to information age, as well as create a sense of embracing the viewer.
Getting around Gateshead
Gateshead is a 15-minute drive from Newcastle International Airport and connected to Newcastle-upon-Tyne along the metro system. Buses travel throughout the town, which is also easily explored on foot.