Introducing the Tyne Derwent Way, Gateshead's revitalised riverside attraction

Today, Thursday 11 April, marks the launch of the Tyne Derwent Way, a 9-mile outdoor 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  National Trust estate, Gibside.

The route is being revitalised following the Government awarding Gateshead Riverside Partnership £1.5m of UK SPF funding to improve the route including pathways, signage and artworks along the Tyne Derwent Way. This vital investment means the trail's nature, culture and heritage can be enjoyed by all.

The Government's support is also enabling a huge mix of activities and volunteering opportunities to be created along the route. This exciting programme kicks off with a series of events for the whole family to enjoy along the route on 11 April to celebrate its launch. Visitors can then expect arts activities, nature walks and heritage tours from the summer and beyond.

The launch of the Tyne Derwent Way also includes the reopening of the historic Dunston Staiths to the public for the first time since before the pandemic. The Staiths will open to the general public from 10am-2pm on the first Saturday of the month from May to September, as well as for special events such as the Late Shows and Gateshead International Festival of Theatre.

St Mary's Heritage Centre will also be reopening under the new stewardship of the Tyne & Wear Building Preservation Trust. It will be a space for community groups to book and run events from.

Other flagship landmarks and visitor attractions to be enjoyed along the trail include the Land of Oak and Iron Heritage Centre, Thornley Woodland Centre, Nine Arches Viaduct and National Trust estate, Gibside, the end point of The Tyne Derwent Way.

Alice Wiseman, Director of Public Health for Gateshead and Newcastle, said: "The launch of the Tyne Derwent Way is fantastic news for Gateshead. As well as providing an opportunity to celebrate our heritage, nature and culture, it offers improved access to green spaces for all local residents, which is key to boosting mental and physical wellbeing."

This work to revitalise the Tyne Derwent Way is being carried out by Gateshead Riverside Partnership - a collaboration between Gateshead Council, the National Trust, Newcastle University, Northumbria University and Tyne and Wear Building Preservation Trust.