Gateshead Millenium Bridge

Newcastle upon Tyne is a city that has long been known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. One of the city’s most notable landmarks is shared with its neighbour across the river, the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, which has become a must-visit attraction for tourists from around the world.

History of the Gateshead Millennium Bridge

The Gateshead Millennium Bridge, also known as the ‘Blinking Eye’ due to its unique design, is a pedestrian and cyclist bridge that spans the River Tyne, connecting the cities of Newcastle upon Tyne and Gateshead in northeast England. The bridge was designed by the architectural firm WilkinsonEyre and engineering firm Gifford, and was completed in 2001 at a cost of £22 million.

The Gateshead Millennium Bridge was the first tilting bridge in the world and is still the only one of its kind in the UK. The bridge’s unique design allows it to tilt back on its axis, creating a graceful arc that allows boats to pass underneath. The bridge is also equipped with an LED lighting system that illuminates the bridge at night, making it a striking feature of the Newcastle skyline.

Significance of the Gateshead Millennium Bridge

The Gateshead Millennium Bridge is not just a beautiful architectural landmark, it is also a symbol of the regeneration of Newcastle upon Tyne and Gateshead. The bridge was built as part of a larger development project in the area, which included the Sage Gateshead music center and the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art. The project aimed to transform the derelict industrial area into a cultural hub that would attract visitors and stimulate economic growth.

The Gateshead Millennium Bridge has been a huge success in achieving this goal, with the bridge alone attracting over two million visitors each year. The bridge has become an iconic symbol of Newcastle upon Tyne and is one of the most photographed landmarks in the city. The bridge has also won numerous awards for its design, including the prestigious Stirling Prize in 2002.

Tips for Visiting the Gateshead Millennium Bridge

If you’re planning a visit to Newcastle upon Tyne, the Gateshead Millennium Bridge should definitely be on your itinerary. Here are some tips for making the most of your visit to this iconic landmark:

1. Take a walk across the bridge – The Gateshead Millennium Bridge is a pedestrian and cyclist bridge, so you can take a leisurely stroll across it and enjoy the stunning views of the River Tyne and the city skyline. The bridge is free to cross and is open 24 hours a day.
2. Watch the bridge tilt – If you’re lucky, you may be able to see the bridge tilt back on its axis to allow boats to pass underneath. The bridge tilts at scheduled times throughout the day, you can check the bridge’s website for the latest information on tilt times.
3. Visit the nearby attractions – The Gateshead Millennium Bridge is located in an area that is rich in cultural attractions. The Sage Gateshead music center and the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art are both within walking distance of the bridge and are definitely worth a visit.
4. Take a river cruise – If you want to see the Gateshead Millennium Bridge from a different perspective, why not take a river cruise? There are several companies that offer sightseeing cruises along the River Tyne, which will give you a unique view of the bridge and the surrounding area.
5. Visit at night – The Gateshead Millennium Bridge is particularly beautiful at night when it is illuminated by its LED lighting system. The bridge changes colour throughout the night, creating a stunning display that is not to be missed.