Gateshead: The Complete Guide

Newcastle And Gateshead Quayside With Bridges
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Wilka Hudson

Gateshead is a vibrant town located on the southern bank of the River Tyne, directly opposite Newcastle upon Tyne in the North East of England. Its riverside setting offers stunning views and easy access to some of the region’s most iconic landmarks, including the striking Millennium Bridge and the Sage Gateshead, a renowned centre for music and performing arts. Visitors can enjoy a lively cultural scene combined with scenic walks along the Quayside.

The town centre and nearby Quayside area provide a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Gateshead Market is a bustling spot where locals and tourists alike browse fresh produce, crafts, and unique goods. For those interested in art and exhibitions, the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art stands out as a major attraction, hosting cutting-edge exhibitions in a dramatic converted flour mill overlooking the river.

Beyond the urban attractions, Gateshead is surrounded by green spaces such as Saltwell Park, which offers beautifully landscaped gardens, playgrounds, and walking paths. This balance of vibrant city life and natural beauty makes Gateshead a great destination for visitors looking to experience culture, leisure, and relaxation all in one place.

History of Gateshead

Early History of Gateshead

Gateshead’s origins can be traced back to the Anglo-Saxon period when it began as a small agricultural settlement. The name “Gateshead” is believed to derive from Old English, meaning “goat’s headland,” reflecting the rural character of the area in its early days. Throughout the medieval period, Gateshead remained a modest village, largely overshadowed by the nearby town of Newcastle, which developed as a major commercial and military centre.

Industrial Growth in Gateshead

The Industrial Revolution brought significant change to Gateshead, transforming it from a quiet rural settlement into a bustling industrial town. The town became a hub for coal mining, glassmaking, and engineering industries. The development of the railways and the construction of bridges over the River Tyne improved connectivity and spurred economic growth. This period saw a rapid increase in population and urban expansion as workers moved in to support the booming industries.

Modern Development of Gateshead

In the 20th and 21st centuries, Gateshead has undergone extensive regeneration and redevelopment. Traditional industries declined, but the town reinvented itself with a focus on culture, the arts, and service sectors. Iconic projects such as the construction of the Sage Gateshead music centre and the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art have helped establish Gateshead as a vibrant cultural destination. Ongoing urban renewal initiatives continue to shape its modern identity, blending historic heritage with contemporary development.

Visiting Gateshead for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Gateshead on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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3 Best places to See in Gateshead

This complete guide to Gateshead not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Gateshead and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Sage Gateshead

Sage Gateshead
Sage Gateshead is a concert venue and an international home for music and musical discovery, located in Gateshead on the south bank of the River Tyne, England. The venue which opened in 2004 is built of curved glass and stainless steel. It has two main stages of acoustic excellence, a 26-room music education centre, a music information resource centre, four…
Location: Sage Gateshead Sage St Mary's Square Gateshead NE8 2JR United Kingdom | Distance: 1.7km
Visiting Sage Gateshead

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Gateshead . Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

BALTIC – Centre for Contemporary Art

The River Tyne Baltic Flour Mills
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Jimmy McIntyre
The Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art is a center for contemporary art located on the south bank of the River Tyne, England. It opened in 2002 in a converted flour mill, a landmark industrial building, and hosts changing programme of exhibitions and events, with no permanent exhibition. BALTIC is now a huge mustard-coloured art gallery rivalling London's Tate Modern. The…
Location: Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, South Shore Road, Gateshead, UK | Hours: 10am-6pm Wed-Mon, 10.30am-6pm Tue | Website | Distance: 1.9km
Visiting BALTIC – Centre for Contemporary Art

Newcastle upon Tyne

Tyne Bridge
CC BY-SA 2.0 / herdiephoto
Newcastle upon Tyne, often shortened to simply Newcastle, is the most populous city and metropolitan borough in North East England. It forms the core of the Tyneside conurbation, the eighth most populous urban area in the United Kingdom. It is situated on the northern bank of the River Tyne. The city developed around the Roman settlement Pons Aelius around a…
Visiting Newcastle upon Tyne
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Best Day Trips from Gateshead

A day trip from Gateshead offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Gateshead provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary.

Washington Old Hall

Eagles At Washington Old Hall
Public Domain / ProhibitOnions
Washington Old Hall is a manor house located in Washington Village, Tyne and Wear, England, United Kingdom. It was the ancestral home of George Washington, the first President of the United States. Washington Old Hall is now operated by the National Trust. Visitors can explore the inside of the manor’s old Hall with its wood-panelled walls, carved-oak furniture and stone-flagged…
Location: The Avenue, Washington, England, NE38 7LE, United Kingdom | Hours: 10:00 - 17:00 | Website | Distance: 7.8km
Visiting Washington Old Hall

Beamish

Beamish Museum Street Scene
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Mjobling
Beamish Museum is an open-air museum located at Beamish, England. The museum's, which is spread over 120 hectares, intends to preserve an example of everyday life in urban and rural North East England at the height of industrialization in the early 20th century.You can travel from the Georgian period of the 1820s to the pre-World War One years of the…
Location: Beamish, the Living Museum of the North Regional Resource Centre Beamish DH9 0RG United Kingdom | Hours: 10am-5pm Easter-Oct, 10am-4pm Nov-Easter, closed Mon & Fri Jan–mid-Feb, last admission 3pm | Price: Adult/Child £19/11 | Website | Distance: 8.6km
Visiting Beamish

Gibside

Gibside
Gibside is an estate in the Derwent Valley with a 18th-century designed landscapes located in North East England. Gibside was created by one of the richest men in Georgian England, George Bowes. It is now a National Trust property and this 243-hectare (600-acre) estate once a pleasure ground for the Georgian elite, can now be enjoyed by everyone. Gibside also…
| Price: Adult £12.00, Child £6.00, Family £30.00 | Website | Distance: 8.9km
Visiting Gibside

South Shields

South Shields
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Stuart Locke
South Shields is a coastal town and a seaside resort at the mouth of the River Tyne, downstream from Newcastle upon Tyne in North East England. Visiting South Shields offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant local culture. Nestled on the northeastern coast of England, this charming seaside town is renowned for its stunning beaches, including…
Visiting South Shields
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Sunderland

Panoramic View Of Hendon Beach
CC BY-SA 3.0 / somaliayaswan
Sunderland is a port city in Tyne and Wear, England. It is situated 12 miles north-east of Durham and 10 miles south-east of Newcastle upon Tyne, at the mouth of the River Wear. Visiting Sunderland provides a captivating mix of urban excitement and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a diverse experience. Located on the northeast…
Visiting Sunderland
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Durham

Durham
Visiting Durham in the North East of England offers a striking blend of charm, tradition, and scenic beauty. The compact city centre is wrapped in a loop of the River Wear, which lends itself to peaceful riverside walks and spectacular views of the cathedral and castle perched high above. With its cobbled lanes and independent shops, Durham is a great…
Visiting Durham
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Hexham

Hexham is a market town and civil parish in the south west of Northumberland, England, on the south bank of the River Tyne which forms by the confluence of two rivers: the North Tyne and the South Tyne. A visit to Hexham is like stepping back in time, with its cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and the magnificent Hexham Abbey, which…
Visiting Hexham
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Brampton, Carlisle

Brampton Market Place
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Rose and Trev Clough / Brampton, Market Place
Brampton is a small market town, civil parish and electoral ward within the City of Carlisle district of Cumbria, England, about 9 miles (14 km) east of Carlisle and 2 miles (3.2 km) south of Hadrian's Wall. Historically part of Cumberland, it is situated off the A69 road which bypasses it. Brampton railway station, on the Newcastle and Carlisle Railway,…
Visiting Brampton, Carlisle

Carlisle

Carlisle Castle
Visiting Carlisle, nestled in the far north of Cumbria near the Scottish border, offers a unique experience that blends urban charm with striking natural surroundings. The city acts as a gateway to both the Lake District and Hadrian’s Wall Country, making it an excellent base for exploring northern England’s landscapes and heritage sites. Whether you're here for a weekend or…
Visiting Carlisle

Bowness-on-Solway

Pavilion At The Start And End Of The Hadrians Wall Path At Bowness Cumberland
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Ian S / The start of the Hadrian's Wall Walk
Bowness-on-Solway is a small village of fewer than 100 houses in Cumbria in northwest England. It is situated to the west of Carlisle on the southern side of the Solway Firth estuary separating England and Scotland and has spectacular views across the Solway estuary to Dumfries & Galloway. The village is part of the Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural…
Visiting Bowness-on-Solway

York

York Shambles
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Peter K Burian
Nestled in the heart of North Yorkshire, York is a city that effortlessly blends old-world charm with modern vibrancy. Whether you're strolling through its winding streets, lined with quirky independent shops and cozy cafés, or soaking in the atmosphere of its bustling markets, the city offers a rich and immersive experience. Its compact nature makes it a delight to explore…
Visiting York
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Lancaster

Lancaster Castle
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Ian Taylor
Lancaster, situated in the North West England region, offers a charming mix of urban energy and rural serenity. Its position on the River Lune gives it a scenic appeal, with riverside walks and open spaces like Williamson Park providing peaceful escapes. The city centre blends independent shops, cafes, and heritage architecture, making it a compact and walkable place to explore…
Visiting Lancaster

Where to Stay in Gateshead

In the heart of Gateshead, near the iconic Sage Gateshead and the Millennium Bridge, visitors will find several quality hotels that offer both convenience and modern comfort. This area is perfect for those wanting to be close to cultural attractions and the vibrant Quayside. The Hilton Newcastle Gateshead is a popular choice here, providing stylish rooms, excellent amenities, and stunning views over the River Tyne.

Moving slightly south, the Gateshead town centre area offers a range of budget-friendly and mid-range accommodations suitable for both business travellers and tourists. Staying here means easy access to shopping centres, local restaurants, and good transport links. Jurys Inn Newcastle provides a reliable option with comfortable rooms and a convenient location just a short walk from the city centre.

For a quieter stay away from the busier Quayside, the Saltwell area is an excellent choice. Known for its large park and residential neighbourhood, this area offers a more peaceful atmosphere while still being within easy reach of Gateshead’s main attractions. In this area, Ramada Encore Newcastle-Gateshead offers a modern and relaxed environment, ideal for travellers who prefer a tranquil setting.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Gateshead. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Gateshead Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Gateshead

Spring in Gateshead

Spring is a refreshing time to visit Gateshead as the weather starts to warm and parks such as Saltwell Park burst into bloom. This season offers pleasant conditions for walking along the Quayside or exploring outdoor attractions. Spring festivals and local events often bring a lively atmosphere, making it a good season for cultural and recreational activities.

Summer in Gateshead (Best)

Summer is the best time to visit Gateshead thanks to longer daylight hours and generally warmer weather. This season is ideal for enjoying the riverside areas, outdoor markets, and festivals like the Gateshead International Festival of Theatre, which features street performances and open-air shows. Summer also offers opportunities to attend concerts at the Sage Gateshead or explore nearby countryside.

Autumn in Gateshead

Autumn in Gateshead brings cooler temperatures and colourful foliage, creating a picturesque backdrop for visits to local parks and walking trails. The season tends to be quieter than summer, allowing visitors to explore cultural venues like the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art at a more relaxed pace. Autumn events may include harvest celebrations and art exhibitions.

Winter in Gateshead

Winter can be a peaceful time to visit Gateshead, especially during the festive season when the town centre and Quayside are decorated with Christmas lights and markets. Although colder and often damp, winter visitors can enjoy indoor attractions such as theatres, galleries, and cosy cafés. Seasonal performances and holiday events add to the charm during this time of year.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 6°C
  • February 8°C
  • March 10°C
  • April 12°C
  • May 14°C
  • June 17°C
  • July 19°C
  • August 19°C
  • September 17°C
  • October 13°C
  • November 9°C
  • December 8°C

How to get to Gateshead

Getting to Gateshead by air

Nearest airports

The nearest major airport to Gateshead is Newcastle International Airport, located about 7 miles north of the town centre. It offers domestic and international flights, making it the most convenient option for air travellers visiting Gateshead.

Airport transfer options

From Newcastle International Airport, visitors can reach Gateshead easily by taxi or bus. The airport shuttle services and local buses connect the airport to Gateshead town centre and the Quayside area within 30 minutes.

Getting to Gateshead by train

Direct train services

Gateshead does not have a mainline train station in its town centre, but nearby Newcastle Central Station is just across the river, within walking distance of many Gateshead attractions. Newcastle Central Station is served by frequent trains from London, Edinburgh, Manchester, and other major cities.

Train operators

  • LNER (London North Eastern Railway)
  • CrossCountry
  • TransPennine Express
  • Northern Rail

You can find schedules and book tickets via their official websites or through national rail services.

Getting to Gateshead by Car

Gateshead is accessible via the A1 and A184 roads, linking it to the surrounding region and major motorways. Driving offers flexibility to explore both Gateshead’s urban areas and the nearby countryside. Ample parking is available near major attractions like the Baltic Centre and Sage Gateshead.

Travelling around Gateshead

Public transport in Gateshead includes frequent bus services that connect residential areas, the town centre, and the Quayside. Taxis and rideshare services are also widely available. Many visitors enjoy walking along the riverside pathways to explore cultural sites and green spaces.

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