Things to do in Gateshead

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Sage Gateshead which includes interior views and theater scenes
Sage Gateshead showing a river or creek, modern architecture and a city
Gateshead Millennium Bridge showing a bridge, modern architecture and a city
Sage Gateshead featuring theater scenes and interior views
Sage Gateshead showing modern architecture and theater scenes

Gateshead Attractions

They say the best things come in small packages, and this enchanting city is no exception to the rule. From outstanding tourist attractions to exciting excursions, there are loads of things to do in Gateshead.

Explore the sights of Gateshead with some unique tours & day trips, or get through our list of {41 fun activities in Gateshead fun activities in Gateshead}. We have free cancellation and no added fees, so you can rest easy and put your energy into planning your dream vacation.

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Gateshead must see attractions

1. The Glasshouse

Gaze up at the sparkling rolling rooftop of Sage Gateshead that has made it one of the most recognizable parts of the town’s skyline. Overlooking the River Tyne, the site hosts musical concerts and has welcomed famous acts from across many genres. Attend a performance to hear the excellent acoustics in this extraordinary building.
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Sage Gateshead showing interior views and theater scenes

2. Angel of the North

The Angel of the North is an enormous modern sculpture that has become one of the most powerful and recognizable symbols in England. The steel statue of an angel with its wide set of wings stands atop a grassy hill, welcoming visitors to the northern region of the country. Get a photo of the iconic sculpture dwarfing your family with its massive size.
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Angel of the North featuring outdoor art and a monument

3. Gateshead Millennium Bridge

The Gateshead Millennium Bridge is a fascinating tilting structure of innovative design over the River Tyne. Built for pedestrians and cyclists, the bridge connects the northern Quayside to the southern arts quarter of Gateshead. Stand in the center of the divide to enjoy views of the Gateshead skyline.
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Gateshead Millennium Bridge featuring views, a river or creek and modern architecture

4. Tyne Bridge

The green steel arch of Tyne Bridge has become an icon of the Newcastle skyline. Dating back to the first quarter of the 20th century, the tall structure is a symbol of this city’s industrial past and technological present. Drive across the bridge to see the sights of Newcastle and Gateshead.
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10 min walk from city centre

5. BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art

In an old flour mill next to the River Tyne stands the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, a facility that showcases modern works across many exhibitions. Events and activities cater to art lovers and families in this gallery, which is said to be the biggest of its kind in the world. Make your way through the large institution to understand the new trends and innovative ideas of the modern art scene.
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BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art which includes modern architecture

6. High Level Bridge

Visit the High Level Bridge, a 19th-century passage on the River Tyne made up of a pair of levels raised by thick pillars. As its name suggests, the platforms of the bridge stand remarkably high above the water. Stroll along the pedestrian lanes to the center of the structure and marvel at the vistas of the River Tyne and the city center’s iconic skyline.
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Newcastle-upon-Tyne featuring heritage architecture and interior views

What to do in Gateshead

Free Things to Do in Gateshead

Vacationing in Gateshead on a budget? The following can be experienced for nada.

Angel of the North - Spend time here and gain an insight into the artistic and cultural side of the region.

Gateshead Millennium Bridge - This well-known local landmark is an interesting backdrop for some selfies.

High Level Bridge - If you're planning to explore the region's history through its landmarks, mark this one down on your travel schedule.

Saltwell Park - Arrange a picnic date and enjoy a relaxing stroll around the trees and shrubs.

Things to Do in Gateshead with Kids

Gateshead boasts loads of close by fun things to do for you and the kids. Our family friendly experiences will keep the crew entertained for days.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Gateshead? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Gateshead

St. James\' Park

St. James' Park

Attend an intense soccer game at one of the United Kingdom’s largest and oldest stadiums. See it perched on a hill in the city center.

St. James' Park
Quayside featuring a bridge, a river or creek and modern architecture

Quayside

Cross a futuristic tilting bridge, peruse artistic centers and relax with a drink in this modern part of the city.

Quayside
Sage Gateshead which includes modern architecture and a city

The Glasshouse

This riverside concert hall of futuristic design is among Europe’s leading venues. Enjoy its spectacular acoustics, divine auditoriums and international acts.

The Glasshouse
Newcastle-upon-Tyne Theatre Royal showing theater scenes and interior views

Newcastle-upon-Tyne Theatre Royal

Enjoy artisanal ice cream between acts at a show in the stylish setting of one of England’s most glamorous and acclaimed theaters.

Newcastle-upon-Tyne Theatre Royal
Northumbria University

Northumbria University

The gleaming silver campus in central Newcastle is one of the U.K.’s newest universities. Its students have voted the city the country’s best for students.

Northumbria University
Angel of the North featuring outdoor art and a monument

Angel of the North

Look up at one of England’s most iconic sculptures welcoming you to the northern part of the country with a warm embrace.

Angel of the North
Castle Keep showing a city and heritage architecture

Castle Keep

Visit the tower from which the city takes its name to hear wicked tales of frightening ghouls and life in the dungeon.

Castle Keep
Gateshead Millennium Bridge showing a city, a sunset and a river or creek

Gateshead Millennium Bridge

Marvel at the impressive architectural feat of the tilting of this curved bridge and its tall arch allowing boats to pass.

Gateshead Millennium Bridge
Chinatown featuring street scenes as well as a large group of people

Chinatown

A collection of Asian restaurants and supermarkets create an interesting cultural district in Newcastle’s historic Grainger Town area.

Chinatown

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Gateshead

Photo by Paul Clay

Washington

Newcastle-upon-Tyne featuring a bridge, a river or creek and modern architecture

Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Photo by Neil Ellwood

Stanley

Photo by Ian Hall

Chester-le-Street

Photo "Blaydon on Tyne" by Chris Bell (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Chris Bell (CC BY-SA)

Blaydon on Tyne

Photo "Kibblesworth" by Chris Heaton (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Chris Heaton (CC BY-SA)

Kibblesworth

Angel of the North showing skyline and a monument as well as a large group of people

Lamesley

Photo "Hebburn" by Mike Ellison (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Mike Ellison (CC BY-SA)

Hebburn

Frequently asked questions

Is Gateshead worth visiting?
From retail therapy to outdoor adventures and history, there are loads of fun things to do in Gateshead. Remember to discover the area's blend of awesome sights, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Gateshead?
Start your adventures with a visit to Castle Keep and Chinatown. Then, tour different parts of Gateshead for local dining and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Gateshead?
The top tourist attraction in Gateshead is Newcastle-upon-Tyne Theatre Royal, so be sure to add it to your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Gateshead?
You can easily visit top sights like Newcastle-upon-Tyne Theatre Royal, Castle Keep and Chinatown with a three-day stay in Gateshead. On average, most travelers book two days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so stay a bit longer and check out Newcastle-upon-Tyne.
Is Gateshead a walkable city?
Some top attractions in Gateshead, such as Newcastle-upon-Tyne Theatre Royal and Castle Keep, are within walking distance. You can also discover several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Just 2 miles from the city center of Gateshead is Newcastle City Center and Jesmond is 3 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Gateshead with kids?
If you're searching for activities and sights for all of your group, check out these terrific ideas for what to do in Gateshead with kids.

What to do in Gateshead for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or outdoor adventurer, there's no shortage of things to do in Gateshead for adults including Utilita Arena Newcastle and Bigg Market.
Are there free things to do in Gateshead?
In Gateshead, Newcastle-upon-Tyne St. Nicholas' Cathedral is a top spot for anyone planning to see the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, check out the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's a great way to explore the best free things to do in Gateshead.

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