This morning, Week2Week had the pleasure of joining a Quayside Tour with Newcastle City Guides. The sun was shining, and it was a great start to the morning with a 45-minute walk along Newcastle’s stunning Quayside. The guide was very informative and even as a local, it was fascinating to hear so many historical gems about the Quayside. Here is a summary of where we stopped along the tour. If you are staying in Newcastle or Gateshead, we would highly recommend you book your place online by visiting www.newcastlecityguides.org.uk. Tickets are available for as little as £10 per person.
Quayside Highlights Tour
Stop 1: Swirle Pavilion
We started at the Swirle Pavilion, close to The Picture and Piano bar. This unique art installation, located along the Quayside, features a spiral design and represents the merging of the city’s rivers, the Tyne and the Swirle. It’s a great spot to take in the artistic side of the Quayside while enjoying views of the river.
Stop 2: BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art
On the Gateshead side, next to the Glass House is the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art. Housed in a converted flour mill, BALTIC is one of the UK’s leading contemporary art galleries. Entrance is free, and it offers fantastic views from its viewing platforms. It even has a fabulous restaurant Six located on the top floor where you can enjoy a drink or dine and enjoy the stunning views.
Stop 3: Gateshead Millennium Bridge
We continued our walk to the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, a pedestrian and cyclist tilt bridge. It’s known for its unique tilting mechanism and is often referred to as the “Winking Eye Bridge.” You can cross the bridge for a full experience and return to the Quayside afterward.
Stop 4: The Glasshouse International Centre for Music
Across the river, you see the striking design of the Glasshouse. This concert hall and music education centre is known for its unique, curvilinear design. You can cross the Gateshead Millennium Bridge to visit or simply admire it from the Newcastle side.
Stop 5: Quayside Seaside
During the summer months, this popup beach with deck chairs and sand is a quirky and fun place to relax, with views of the Tyne and a Quayside Garden bar / café for refreshments. Perfect for relaxing family fun in the holidays.
Head East Along the Quayside
Walk east along the Quayside promenade. You’ll notice the blend of old and new architecture, with modern bars and restaurants housed in historic buildings. This area comes alive, especially in the evenings, with vibrant nightlife and dining options.
Stop 6: St. Nicholas’ Cathedral
A short walk further along the Quayside is St. Nicholas’ Cathedral. This beautiful 14th Century church is the seat of the Bishop of Newcastle and features stunning stained glass and intricate woodwork.
Stop 7: Tyne Bridge
The Tyne Bridge is an iconic symbol of Newcastle. This steel arch bridge, completed in 1928, offers great views of the Quayside and the River Tyne. Take a moment to admire the bridge and the surrounding area.
Stop 8: The Swing Bridge
This distinctive red and white bridge is a remarkable feat of Victorian engineering, connecting Newcastle upon Tyne with Gateshead across the River Tyne. Built in 1876 by the industrialist William Armstrong, this hydraulic-powered bridge can rotate 180 degrees to allow ships to pass through, a crucial feature during its heyday when the river was a busy industrial waterway. The Swing Bridge is not only an engineering marvel but also a symbol of Newcastle’s rich industrial heritage.
Top tips:
If you’re ready for a meal or a drink, the Quayside is lined with excellent restaurants, café’s and bars. Some popular spots include Hooch, The Broad Chare, The Tyne Bar, The Cycle Hub and not forgetting the popular local Greggs where you can get your favourite pastie. Many of these offer views of the river and bridges.
