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On the south shore of the River Tyne, towards the centre of County Durham, lies the northeastern English city of Gateshead. On the northern side of the river is Newcastle and the two communities are joined by seven different bridges. Archaeologists believe the area has been inhabited since Roman times with evidence of an ancient fort by the Swing Bridge. Earliest documentation of the city's existence was in 623 AD. William the Conqueror defeated the Scots on the shores of Gateshead. However, during the medieval period, the region was ruled by the Bishop of Durham.
Coal mining supported the community since 1344. In 1747, a blacksmith by the name of William Hawks developed an iron working business, which would one day be one of the largest iron works in the North. The industry produced many products including anchors and chains. Gateshead's population increased with the Industrial Revolution and many new industries were born.
Robert Newell, and partners, developed the concept of wire rope, which led to the development of undersea telegraph cables. Newell also invented the brake drum. Sir Joseph Swan, another local inventor, performed numerous experiments, which eventually led him to the electric light bulb. His home was the first in the world to contain electric lighting.
Activities and Attractions
On a hill overlooking the city is the Angel of the North sculpture. Constructed using tonnes of steel, the angel stands 20 meters (65 feet) tall. The wings, seemingly outstretched in embrace of the community, measure 54 meters (177 feet) across. Along the waterfront lies numerous attractions and sources of entertainment.
The Sage Gateshead is a visually stunning example of modern architecture inside and out. The facility hosts musical venues and houses a musical education programme. Nearby lies the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, which houses numerous exhibits including paintings, photography and sculpture.
For a relaxing stroll back through time, tour the gardens at Saltwell Park and Towers. The fairytale mansion was designed and built by stain glass designer William Wailles in the mid 19th century. The facility now houses a cafe and visitor centre. The estate includes 22 hectares (55 acres) of flowered and wooded gardens along with a maze, the octopus tree and a boating lake.
Cross the River Tyne into Newcastle, and located in the city centre find the Castle Keep. Built in the 12th century by the son of William the Conqueror, the castle is a well-preserved Norman fortress, once the location of an ancient Roman fort.
Lodgings and Dining
Local budget friendly hotel/restaurant combinations readily welcome individuals or larger groups, whether staying for business or pleasure. Some facilities accommodate families and pets along with hosting group meals and celebrations. Luxury hotels on the coast provide amazing views of the River Tyne. These expansive facilities offer a vast list of amenities. Some conveniences are geared for the business traveller, while others are designed for families having small children.
In the midst of the city lies a charming French restaurant called Cafe Rouge. The facility serves traditional British and French cuisine served in an environment representing France. Though serving lunch and dinner meals consisting of mainly Portuguese cuisine, Nando's decor largely reflects native culture.
Accommodation in Gateshead
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