Gateshead Millennium Bridge: The Winking Eye of the Tyne
A graceful tilting bridge spanning the Tyne, linking culture and city with iconic elegance and stunning river views.
The Gateshead Millennium Bridge is a unique tilting pedestrian and cyclist bridge spanning the River Tyne, linking Gateshead’s arts quarter with Newcastle’s Quayside. Opened in 2001, its elegant curved design and dramatic tilting mechanism have made it an iconic landmark known as the 'Winking Eye.' Rising 50 meters above the river, it offers stunning views and a captivating spectacle as it tilts to allow boats to pass beneath, illuminated beautifully at night.
A brief summary to Gateshead Millennium Bridge
- S Shore Rd, Gateshead, NE8 3BA, GB
- +441914338100
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Check the daily tilt schedule online or locally to witness the bridge’s unique tilting in action.
- Visit at night to see the bridge beautifully illuminated with blue lighting reflecting on the water.
- Bring a camera for panoramic views of the Newcastle and Gateshead skylines from the bridge.
- Explore nearby attractions like the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art to enrich your visit.
- The bridge is wheelchair accessible, making it convenient for visitors of all abilities.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Frequent bus services run between Newcastle city center and Gateshead Quays, with stops within 500 meters of the bridge. Travel time ranges from 15 to 25 minutes, with fares typically between £2 and £4. Buses are wheelchair accessible and operate daily.
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Train and Walk
Arrive at Newcastle Central Station, then enjoy a 20 to 30-minute flat walk east along the Quayside to the bridge. The walk is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, offering scenic riverside views. Train fares vary depending on origin.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services provide direct access to the bridge area from anywhere in Newcastle or Gateshead, with typical journey times of 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. Costs generally range from £7 to £15.
Gateshead Millennium Bridge location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Gateshead Millennium Bridge
An Engineering Marvel Connecting Two Cities
The Gateshead Millennium Bridge stands as a remarkable feat of modern engineering and design, gracefully spanning the River Tyne to connect the cultural heart of Gateshead with the vibrant Quayside of Newcastle. Completed and opened to the public in 2001, this bridge was designed by Wilkinson Eyre Architects and engineered by Gifford, quickly becoming a symbol of innovation and elegance. Its unique feature is the tilting mechanism that allows the entire bridge to pivot, resembling a blinking eye, hence its affectionate nickname. This motion, taking about five minutes, enables small vessels to pass beneath the bridge, blending functionality with visual drama.Distinctive Design and Visual Impact
The bridge’s design consists of two steel arches: a curved deck serving as the pedestrian and cycle path, and a supporting arch that rises 50 meters above the river when upright. The arches pivot around a common springing point, creating a sweeping arch when tilted. This elegant movement is not only a technical achievement but also a captivating spectacle for visitors and locals alike. At night, the bridge is illuminated with a soft blue glow that reflects on the water, enhancing its presence as a stunning landmark in the NewcastleGateshead skyline.Cultural Significance and Visitor Experience
Beyond its architectural brilliance, the Gateshead Millennium Bridge has become a cultural icon featured on postcards and stamps, embodying the spirit of the region. It serves as a vital pedestrian and cycle route, encouraging sustainable transport and active lifestyles. Visitors often gather to watch the bridge tilt, a special event that occurs once or twice daily depending on river traffic. The bridge is wheelchair accessible and offers panoramic views of the surrounding urban landscape, including nearby attractions such as the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art.Environmental and Practical Features
The bridge incorporates thoughtful design elements such as a self-cleaning mechanism that channels litter into side traps, helping maintain its pristine appearance. It operates as a public right of way 24 hours a day, year-round, with no charge for crossing. The structure’s innovative tilting mechanism is both efficient and visually poetic, evoking the image of a closed eye slowly opening, symbolizing a gateway between two dynamic cityscapes.Integration with the Surrounding Urban Landscape
Situated on the River Tyne, the bridge complements a series of historic and modern bridges that define the area’s skyline. It links the bustling Newcastle Quayside with Gateshead’s cultural quarter, fostering connectivity and urban regeneration. The bridge’s presence encourages exploration of the riverside, with nearby parks, galleries, and eateries enhancing the visitor experience. Its iconic shape and motion have made it a favorite subject for photographers and a must-see attraction in the North East of England.Legacy and Recognition
Since its inauguration, the Gateshead Millennium Bridge has garnered numerous awards, including the Royal Fine Art Commission Trust Building of the Year Award and the IABSE Outstanding Structure Award. It has become a beloved landmark not only for its engineering prowess but also for its contribution to the cultural and social fabric of the region. The bridge continues to inspire visitors with its blend of art, technology, and urban connectivity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
River God
0.1 km
An iconic statue on Newcastle’s Quayside embodying the city’s deep connection to the River Tyne and its maritime heritage.
Mermaid
0.2 km
Discover the Mermaid, a historic symbol of Newcastle’s maritime heritage, set amidst the vibrant and scenic Quayside waterfront.
Blacksmiths Needle
0.2 km
A captivating 7.6m steel sculpture on Newcastle Quayside, blending maritime themes with the five senses and a mysterious sixth sense.
The Custom House Plaque
0.4 km
A historic marker on Newcastle’s Quayside commemorating the 1766 Custom House and the city’s maritime trade heritage.
Quayside
0.5 km
Quayside is a dynamic riverside district where iconic bridges meet vibrant culture, blending industrial heritage with modern art and lively waterfront life.
The Guildhall
0.5 km
Discover Newcastle’s historic Guildhall, a stunning 17th-century civic landmark rich in architecture and medieval heritage.
Little Buildings
0.6 km
An intimate live music venue in Newcastle’s Ouseburn Valley, perfect for discovering new bands and enjoying craft beers in a laid-back, buzzing atmosphere.
William Coulson Monument
0.6 km
A historic bronze tribute to William Coulson, Newcastle’s pioneering humanitarian and animal welfare advocate, with unique drinking troughs for animals.
Castle Wall Well
0.7 km
A medieval well marking Newcastle's 13th-century defensive walls and urban heritage.
The High Level Bridge
0.7 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Newcastle Keep
0.7 km
Climb 99 steps through four centuries of medieval power and emerge onto rooftop views that define Newcastle.
The Black Gate
0.7 km
Medieval fortress gateway where Newcastle's story began, now fully accessible with rich exhibitions.
Grey St
0.9 km
Newcastle's finest street—a sweeping curve of neoclassical elegance and cultural heritage.
Newcastle city walls
1.0 km
Medieval stone fortifications protecting a border town from Scottish invasion, now a historic monument woven into Newcastle's urban landscape.
Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)
1.0 km
Explore Newcastle upon Tyne with Iles Tours, where expert guides unveil the city's rich history and culture through unforgettable experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art
0.1 km
A striking riverside hub for cutting-edge contemporary art in a converted flour mill with panoramic Tyne views.
The Glasshouse International Centre for Music
0.3 km
A world-class music venue and education centre on Gateshead Quayside where music lives, grows, and inspires all ages.
Quayside Sunday Market
0.3 km
A lively riverside market blending historic charm, artisan crafts, and vibrant street food every Sunday along Newcastle’s iconic Quayside.
Bonkers About Alice
0.3 km
A vibrant Sunday market along the River Tyne showcasing local crafts, food, and culture in Newcastle’s iconic Quayside setting.
Trinity House
0.4 km
Discover Newcastle’s maritime heritage and medieval charm at Trinity House, a historic gem on the quayside with centuries of seafaring stories.
Tyne Bridge
0.5 km
Discover the iconic Tyne Bridge, a stunning feat of engineering and a symbol of Newcastle's rich heritage, offering breathtaking views and historical significance.
All Saints Church
0.5 km
Discover Newcastle's All Saints Church, a unique Georgian landmark with England’s only elliptical nave and a vibrant Presbyterian heritage.
John Grundy Local Heroes Plaque
0.6 km
Celebrate Newcastle’s rich heritage with the John Grundy Local Heroes Plaque along Hadrian’s Wall Path, honoring a beloved TV historian and cultural advocate.
Side Photographic Gallery
0.6 km
Discover powerful documentary photography in a historic, intimate gallery space beneath Newcastle’s Tyne Bridge.
Historic England North East & Yorkshire
0.6 km
Explore Newcastle’s finest Jacobean merchants’ houses, famed for Bessie Surtees’ romantic 1772 elopement and richly preserved period interiors.
Victoria Tunnel Tours
0.6 km
Walk through wartime darkness in Newcastle's hidden underground—a Victorian coal tunnel transformed into WWII shelter.
Seven Stories
0.7 km
Discover the magic of children's books at Seven Stories, Newcastle’s vibrant national centre for storytelling, exhibitions, and family fun.
Castle Garth & The Black Gate
0.7 km
Explore Newcastle’s medieval gateway, The Black Gate, a historic fortress entrance turned vibrant urban hub steeped in centuries of history.
Newcastle Ghost Walks - Haunted City Tours
0.7 km
Explore Newcastle’s haunted streets and historic landmarks on immersive ghost tours filled with chilling tales and authentic paranormal encounters.
Castle Garth
0.7 km
Explore the medieval heart of Newcastle with panoramic views from the iconic Castle Keep and historic Black Gate at Castle Garth.
Essential places to dine
SIX Rooftop at BALTIC
0.1 km
Elegant rooftop dining atop the BALTIC Centre with stunning views, seasonal British cuisine, and a stylish bar in Gateshead’s cultural heart.
Victors Newcastle
0.1 km
Experience modern Asian-inspired cuisine and vibrant cocktails under the wisteria on Newcastle’s iconic Quayside waterfront.
Gusto Italian
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist on Newcastle’s scenic Quayside at Gusto Italian.
Malmaison Bar & Grill Newcastle
0.1 km
Stylish modern British dining and boutique hotel luxury on Newcastle’s scenic Quayside with riverside views and exclusive private rooms.
Tomahawk Steakhouse - Newcastle
0.2 km
Premium steakhouse on Newcastle’s Quayside offering expertly cooked tomahawk steaks and a vibrant riverside dining experience.
The Broad Chare
0.3 km
A lively gastropub on Newcastle’s Quayside blending traditional British fare with seasonal, locally sourced excellence.
21
0.4 km
Elegant British dining with seasonal flair and French influences in Newcastle’s stylish Trinity Gardens setting.
Dobson and Parnell
0.5 km
Elegant fine dining in Newcastle’s historic Victorian setting, blending classic charm with modern British cuisine and attentive service.
Aveika
0.5 km
Innovative Japanese cuisine and vibrant nightlife converge at Aveika, Newcastle's stylish Quayside hotspot for dining and entertainment.
Uno's Trattoria
0.6 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and generous portions in a lively, welcoming setting at Uno's Trattoria in Newcastle.
Babucho
0.6 km
Stylish Italian brasserie in Newcastle offering classic dishes, a lively atmosphere, and attentive service in a chic city-center setting.
Zucchini Pasta Bar
0.6 km
Newcastle’s only fresh pasta bar, serving hand-rolled egg pasta daily in a relaxed city-centre setting with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
Simla Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors with a modern touch in Newcastle’s warm and elegant Simla Restaurant, perfect for romantic and lively dining.
Prima Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality beneath Newcastle’s historic High Level Bridge at Prima Restaurant.
Kaltur Wine Bar & Restaurant
0.7 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and wine bar offering cozy, intimate dining with an open kitchen in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
37 Studios
0.2 km
Stylish accessories by the Tyne: Discover unique jewelry and bags at this Quayside boutique in Newcastle's creative heart.
Quayside News
0.6 km
Discover Quayside News, your charming convenience store in Newcastle, perfect for grabbing snacks, drinks, and local treats while exploring the Quayside.
UpSide Down Presents
0.7 km
A vibrant, independent gift shop under Newcastle’s railway arch, packed with Geordie souvenirs, original cards, and quirky presents for every occasion.
Souvenirs upon Tyne
0.7 km
Discover authentic Geordie treasures in Newcastle’s smallest independent souvenir shop nestled under a historic railway arch.
Bibelot Nook
0.7 km
Discover timeless vintage furniture and unique homewares at Bibelot Nook, Newcastle’s hub for sustainable style and local artistry.
Corner Shop
0.8 km
Independent city-centre shop offering curated everyday essentials and gifts on historic Pilgrim Street.
Retro , Vintage Clothing Newcastle.
0.9 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage finds at Retro Newcastle, your go-to boutique for retro clothing in the heart of the city.
Earl and Coco
0.9 km
Quirky treasures and artisan delights await in this hidden gem of Newcastle's Grainger Town, where every find tells a story.
Jay's Boutique & Gifts
1.0 km
Discover bespoke tailoring and unique gifts combined in a charming boutique at Newcastle’s Upper Princess Square.
Cath Kidston
1.0 km
Floral fantasies and vintage vibes on Newcastle's Grainger Street—where British charm meets everyday elegance in bags, clothes, and home treasures.
Waceland
1.0 km
Discover unique vintage and streetwear treasures in Newcastle’s iconic Central Arcade, where style meets sustainability and family values.
Urban Outfitters
1.0 km
Discover stylish fashion and eclectic homewares at Urban Outfitters Newcastle, a vibrant hub of creativity and contemporary lifestyle on Grainger Street.
Soul Rebel (Newcastle)
1.0 km
Discover a unique fusion of stylish apparel and holistic wellness at Soul Rebel, Newcastle's premier destination for fashion and self-care.
Garms Newcastle
1.0 km
Small, curated vintage clothing shop on Grainger Street, blending durable classics with street-ready retro finds.
The Yesterday Society Vintage Boutique
1.0 km
Discover vintage treasures and retro style at The Yesterday Society, a charming boutique nestled in Newcastle’s historic Grainger Market.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pitcher & Piano Newcastle
0.1 km
A stylish riverside bar on Newcastle’s Quayside, blending modern design with classic pub charm and vibrant social energy.
Urban Garden Newcastle
0.2 km
A relaxed container-style beer garden on Newcastle’s Quayside—festoon lights, craft taps and riverside atmosphere for groups and sunset drinks.
The Head of Steam Quayside
0.3 km
Riverside pub haven pouring world-class craft beers, vegan feasts, and games beside Newcastle's Tyne Bridge and cultural gems.
Colonel Porter's Emporium
0.7 km
Newcastle's 1920s explorer's paradise: botanical gardens, vintage cocktails, live music, and hidden discos in historic Milburn House.
Billy Bootleggers
0.7 km
Step into Billy Bootleggers for authentic Americana vibes, live rockabilly tunes, and legendary bourbon brews in Newcastle’s lively Ouseburn district.
The Tyne Bar
0.7 km
A vibrant hub for craft beer, live music, and community spirit nestled in Newcastle’s creative Ouseburn Valley.
Alvinos Bar
0.8 km
A lively Italian-owned bar in Newcastle with creative cocktails, craft brews, live DJs, and a welcoming multi-floor setting on Pilgrim Street.
Free Trade Inn
0.8 km
A historic riverside pub in Newcastle offering craft beers, stunning Tyne views, and a warm, lively atmosphere all day long.
The Market Lane
0.8 km
Affectionately the 'Monkey Bar,' this Pilgrim Street pub pours quality pints and fosters lively vibes with sports screens, live music, and classic British charm in Newcastle's heart.
Lady Greys
0.8 km
Cozy, classic Newcastle pub with excellent real ales, friendly staff, and a lively late-night atmosphere on Shakespeare Street.
All Bar One Newcastle
0.9 km
Stylish Grey Street bar serving coffee by day and cocktails by night, with tapas and wines in Newcastle's buzzing heart.
Blackie Boy
0.9 km
Historic Newcastle bar with cosy vibes, free jukebox anthems, cheap drinks deals, and late-night energy in Groat Market's lively heart.
All Seeing Eye.
0.9 km
Discover Newcastle's speakeasy secret: art deco cocktails behind a hidden door on Groat Market, blending historic intrigue with masterful mixology.
Mother Mercy
0.9 km
Newcastle's speakeasy secret: inventive cocktails via roulette wheel in a historic Cloth Market hideaway, blending mixology mastery with intimate Mediterranean chic.
ChachaBuchi
0.9 km
Rustic glamour meets vibrant nightlife in Newcastle’s chic cocktail bar with alpine-inspired cuisine and lively entertainment.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
World HQ
0.7 km
A multi‑level warehouse club and arts hub in Curtis Mayfield House with a heavy sound, creative studios above and a grassroots nightlife spirit.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
0.8 km
Four floors of late‑night music and cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s city‑centre party district, favoured by students and night owls.
Greys Club
0.8 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
Flares - Newcastle
0.8 km
Newcastle's ultimate retro disco den: neon grooves, cheesy anthems, and non-stop dancing from 70s to 00s in the heart of the nightlife scene.
Tup Tup Palace
0.8 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
TheCUT Newcastle
0.8 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
0.9 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
0.9 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
Bohemia Newcastle
0.9 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
The Social Club
0.9 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Popworld - Newcastle
1.0 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
Sinners
1.2 km
Dive into sinfully themed nights at this affordable Newcastle nightclub, where red lights, bold art, and cheap drinks fuel the city's unbeatable party spirit.
Cosmic Ballroom
1.4 km
Newcastle's longest-running underground club: two floors of electronic beats, guest DJs, and non-stop dancing till dawn in an intimate Stowell Street hideaway.
Digital
1.4 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
1.5 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Romantic
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
- Sunrise Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Nature Escape
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
