Gibside is now in the care of the National Trust, and a beloved green space in the Gateshead countryside. Its rich history is intertwined with the Bowes family, including Mary Eleanor Bowes, one of the 18th century’s most sought-after heiresses.
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Metrocentre
Europe’s first American-style shopping mall, built on the former Dunston Power Station site. It was the vision of Sir John Hall and opened in 1986, and was once home to the iconic Metroland.
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Crowley's Iron Works
Once home to Crowley’s Ironworks and Derwenthaugh Coke Works, Derwenthaugh Country Park has been reclaimed for nature. Today, as you pass Derwenthaugh Fish Pass and the Land of Oak and Iron, you can still spot traces of key industrial sites reclaimed for nature in the 1980s.
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Gateshead Garden Festival
From May to October 1990, Gateshead Garden Festival welcomed over 3 million visitors to Gateshead for public art, events and celebrations on post-industrial land.
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St Mary's Heritage Centre
Formerly St Mary’s Church, this building has survived multiple fires and seen Gateshead change since it was built in the 13th century. When the gates are open, check out the graveyard - the oldest headstone dates back to 1651. Inside you can discover the impact of the Great Fire of Gateshead and the redesign of the building by the local architect John Dobson.
The Tyne Derwent Way is a 9 mile trail connecting the centre of Gateshead with the Derwent Valley. The picturesque route begins at St Mary's Heritage Centre before running along the Tyne, past Gateshead Riverside Park, Dunston Staiths, through the Derwent Valley, and Land of Oak and Iron and finishing at the National Trust estate, Gibside.
Together we will hear stories on the area from those that know it best. We have interviewed local people, historians, volunteers and those working in the area, and they’ve shared with us their fascinating insights and memories.
Happy listening.
UK