Saltwell Park: Gateshead’s Victorian Green Haven
Explore Saltwell Park’s Victorian charm, scenic gardens, and family-friendly attractions in the heart of Gateshead’s green oasis.
Saltwell Park is a sprawling 55-acre Victorian park in Gateshead, renowned for its beautifully landscaped gardens, woodland trails, boating lake, and the iconic Saltwell Towers. Offering diverse attractions such as playgrounds, a maze, a miniature train, and a pet corner, it is a beloved spot for families, dog walkers, and nature lovers. The park blends historic charm with modern amenities, including cafes and accessible pathways, making it an inviting year-round destination.
A brief summary to Saltwell Park
- E Park Rd, Gateshead, Low Fell, NE9 5AX, GB
- +441914337413
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit in spring mornings for blooming flowers and fewer crowds.
- Enjoy the miniature train and maze for a fun family experience.
- Bring a picnic to relax in one of the many open green spaces.
- Dogs are welcome throughout the park, including a special off-leash area.
- Check opening hours for the cafes, as they may close earlier in the afternoon.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services connect Gateshead town centre to Saltwell Park, with journey times ranging from 15 to 25 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day but check schedules for evening service. Single fares typically cost around £2 to £3 GBP.
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Car
Driving to Saltwell Park is convenient with on-site parking available near the main entrances. Travel times from central Gateshead are approximately 10 minutes. Parking is free but can fill up during weekends and events.
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Walking
For visitors staying nearby, walking to Saltwell Park offers a pleasant 20 to 40-minute stroll through residential neighborhoods and green spaces. Terrain is mostly flat with paved paths suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Saltwell Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Saltwell Park
A Victorian Legacy in the Heart of Gateshead
Saltwell Park is a quintessential Victorian park spanning 55 acres in the Low Fell area of Gateshead. Established in the late 19th century, it showcases classic Victorian landscaping ideals with its formal gardens, woodland areas, and a large boating lake. At the center stands Saltwell Towers, a striking Gothic Revival mansion that adds historic grandeur to the park’s atmosphere. Originally private grounds, the park was gifted to the public and has since become a cherished green space blending heritage with community use.Gardens, Wildlife, and Scenic Waterways
Visitors can explore a variety of themed gardens including a rose garden and a Japanese garden, each offering vibrant seasonal displays. The boating lake is a focal point for leisure, where families feed ducks and swans or enjoy pedal boating during warmer months. A pet corner houses exotic birds and peacocks, appealing to animal lovers. The park’s woodlands and walking paths provide tranquil escapes, with picnic areas and dog-friendly zones enhancing its appeal for relaxation and recreation.Family-Friendly Attractions and Activities
Saltwell Park is designed to engage visitors of all ages. Multiple playgrounds cater to toddlers and older children, while a maze and miniature train ride add playful adventure. Open spaces invite games and picnics, making it a perfect spot for family outings. The park’s dog-friendly policies, including an off-leash enclosure, make it a popular destination for pet owners. Seasonal events and community markets further enrich the visitor experience.Facilities and Accessibility
The park includes two cafes, one housed within Saltwell Towers, offering artisan coffee and vegan treats, alongside other refreshments. Paths are a mix of paved and natural trails; while many areas are accessible, some woodland trails may be uneven. Restrooms, seating, and information boards are available, supporting a comfortable visit. The park is open daily from dawn until dusk with free entry, welcoming visitors year-round.Community and Conservation Efforts
Saltwell Park benefits from active community involvement through the Friends of Saltwell Park group, which supports conservation, events, and park improvements. The park balances its role as a recreational space with the preservation of wildlife habitats and historic features. Sustainable practices and local management help maintain its status as a protected and cherished urban green space.A Destination for All Seasons
Whether visiting in spring to see blooming flowers or enjoying crisp autumn walks, Saltwell Park offers a scenic retreat throughout the year. Its diverse environments—from manicured gardens to natural woodland—provide changing landscapes and experiences with the seasons. The park’s welcoming atmosphere and variety of attractions make it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike seeking nature, history, and family fun in Gateshead.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The High Level Bridge
2.7 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Quayside
2.8 km
Quayside is a dynamic riverside district where iconic bridges meet vibrant culture, blending industrial heritage with modern art and lively waterfront life.
Newcastle city walls
2.8 km
Medieval stone fortifications protecting a border town from Scottish invasion, now a historic monument woven into Newcastle's urban landscape.
The Guildhall
2.9 km
Discover Newcastle’s historic Guildhall, a stunning 17th-century civic landmark rich in architecture and medieval heritage.
Castle Wall Well
2.9 km
A medieval well marking Newcastle's 13th-century defensive walls and urban heritage.
Newcastle Keep
2.9 km
Climb 99 steps through four centuries of medieval power and emerge onto rooftop views that define Newcastle.
The Custom House Plaque
2.9 km
A historic marker on Newcastle’s Quayside commemorating the 1766 Custom House and the city’s maritime trade heritage.
The Black Gate
3.0 km
Medieval fortress gateway where Newcastle's story began, now fully accessible with rich exhibitions.
River God
3.0 km
An iconic statue on Newcastle’s Quayside embodying the city’s deep connection to the River Tyne and its maritime heritage.
Mermaid
3.1 km
Discover the Mermaid, a historic symbol of Newcastle’s maritime heritage, set amidst the vibrant and scenic Quayside waterfront.
New Bridge Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne
3.1 km
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of New Bridge Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, home to captivating museums and lively local attractions.
11 Waterloo St
3.1 km
Historic industrial heritage meets contemporary urban design on Newcastle's transforming Waterloo Street.
Richard Grainger Memorial Fountain
3.1 km
Historic granite fountain honoring Richard Grainger’s transformative 19th-century urban vision in Newcastle’s iconic Grainger Town.
St John the Baptist Church
3.1 km
Medieval sanctuary with eight centuries of history, treasured stained glass, and architectural gems hidden in Newcastle's city centre.
Blacksmiths Needle
3.1 km
A captivating 7.6m steel sculpture on Newcastle Quayside, blending maritime themes with the five senses and a mysterious sixth sense.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Mound
2.7 km
Discover The Mound in Newcastle upon Tyne, a tranquil garden oasis perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature amidst the city's vibrant atmosphere.
The Glasshouse International Centre for Music
2.8 km
A world-class music venue and education centre on Gateshead Quayside where music lives, grows, and inspires all ages.
Tyne Bridge
2.8 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.
John Grundy Local Heroes Plaque
2.8 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.
Long Stairs
2.8 km
Historic medieval stairway linking Newcastle’s Quayside to the city centre, rich in legends and scenic views.
Historic England North East & Yorkshire
2.9 km
Explore Newcastle’s finest Jacobean merchants’ houses, famed for Bessie Surtees’ romantic 1772 elopement and richly preserved period interiors.
Life Science Centre
2.9 km
Explore hands-on science, immersive planetarium shows, and family-friendly fun at Newcastle’s interactive Life Science Centre.
Castle Garth
2.9 km
Explore the medieval heart of Newcastle with panoramic views from the iconic Castle Keep and historic Black Gate at Castle Garth.
Newcastle Ghost Walks - Haunted City Tours
2.9 km
Explore Newcastle’s haunted streets and historic landmarks on immersive ghost tours filled with chilling tales and authentic paranormal encounters.
Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art
2.9 km
A striking riverside hub for cutting-edge contemporary art in a converted flour mill with panoramic Tyne views.
Castle Garth & The Black Gate
2.9 km
Explore Newcastle’s medieval gateway, The Black Gate, a historic fortress entrance turned vibrant urban hub steeped in centuries of history.
Bonkers About Alice
2.9 km
A vibrant Sunday market along the River Tyne showcasing local crafts, food, and culture in Newcastle’s iconic Quayside setting.
Quayside Sunday Market
2.9 km
A lively riverside market blending historic charm, artisan crafts, and vibrant street food every Sunday along Newcastle’s iconic Quayside.
Side Photographic Gallery
2.9 km
Discover powerful documentary photography in a historic, intimate gallery space beneath Newcastle’s Tyne Bridge.
Newcastle Castle
3.0 km
A Norman fortress at the heart of Newcastle, where royal power, rebellion, and city history converge above the River Tyne.
Essential places to dine
Quay 7 Restaurant & Bar
2.7 km
Classic British dining with stunning river views on Newcastle’s vibrant Quayside, perfect for relaxed meals and scenic drinks.
Gino D'Acampo Restaurant Quayside Newcastle
2.7 km
Authentic Italian dining with stunning River Tyne views in a bright, stylish riverside setting on Newcastle’s vibrant Quayside.
The Quayside - JD Wetherspoon
2.7 km
Historic riverside pub in Dove’s Warehouse serving good-value breakfasts, meals and a broad drinks list in a roomy, accessible setting on Newcastle’s Quayside.
House of Tides
2.8 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in a historic 16th-century merchant’s house on Newcastle’s scenic quayside, blending rustic charm with modern British cuisine.
Aveika
2.9 km
Innovative Japanese cuisine and vibrant nightlife converge at Aveika, Newcastle's stylish Quayside hotspot for dining and entertainment.
Uno's Trattoria
2.9 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and generous portions in a lively, welcoming setting at Uno's Trattoria in Newcastle.
The French Quarter
2.9 km
Experience authentic French cuisine and an exceptional wine selection in a chic bistro nestled within Newcastle’s historic Westgate Road arches.
SIX Rooftop at BALTIC
2.9 km
Elegant rooftop dining atop the BALTIC Centre with stunning views, seasonal British cuisine, and a stylish bar in Gateshead’s cultural heart.
Dobson and Parnell
2.9 km
Elegant fine dining in Newcastle’s historic Victorian setting, blending classic charm with modern British cuisine and attentive service.
Simla Restaurant
3.0 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors with a modern touch in Newcastle’s warm and elegant Simla Restaurant, perfect for romantic and lively dining.
Babucho
3.0 km
Stylish Italian brasserie in Newcastle offering classic dishes, a lively atmosphere, and attentive service in a chic city-center setting.
Prima Restaurant
3.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality beneath Newcastle’s historic High Level Bridge at Prima Restaurant.
The Broad Chare
3.0 km
A lively gastropub on Newcastle’s Quayside blending traditional British fare with seasonal, locally sourced excellence.
Rumba Restaurant
3.0 km
Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine and vibrant Latin nightlife in the heart of Newcastle at Rumba Casa Latina.
Kaltur Wine Bar & Restaurant
3.0 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
Quayside News
2.9 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
3.0 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
3.0 km
Discover authentic Geordie treasures in Newcastle’s smallest independent souvenir shop nestled under a historic railway arch.
Newcastle Gifts
3.0 km
Discover authentic Geordie souvenirs, local art, and NUFC treasures at this charming Neville Street gem opposite Central Station—your perfect Toon memento stop.
37 Studios
3.2 km
Stylish accessories by the Tyne: Discover unique jewelry and bags at this Quayside boutique in Newcastle's creative heart.
Living Essential
3.2 km
Grainger Street's go-to for stylish, affordable homewares that make city living cozy and practical in Newcastle's heart.
Earl and Coco
3.2 km
Quirky treasures and artisan delights await in this hidden gem of Newcastle's Grainger Town, where every find tells a story.
Retro , Vintage Clothing Newcastle.
3.2 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage finds at Retro Newcastle, your go-to boutique for retro clothing in the heart of the city.
Flip Vintage American Clothing
3.2 km
Newcastle’s premier vintage store since 1978, offering authentic American vintage clothing with quality, character, and style.
Phillips & Wilde
3.3 km
Discover exquisite gift baskets and gourmet hampers in Newcastle's iconic Grainger Market – perfect for festive cheer, corporate gifts, or personal indulgences amid vibrant market buzz.
Corner Shop
3.3 km
Independent city-centre shop offering curated everyday essentials and gifts on historic Pilgrim Street.
Garms Newcastle
3.3 km
Small, curated vintage clothing shop on Grainger Street, blending durable classics with street-ready retro finds.
Analog
3.4 km
Curated vintage and second‑hand clothing tucked into Alley 3 of Newcastle’s Grainger Market — small stall, big finds.
Soul Rebel (Newcastle)
3.4 km
Discover a unique fusion of stylish apparel and holistic wellness at Soul Rebel, Newcastle's premier destination for fashion and self-care.
Tian's Gifts
3.4 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and charming treasures at Tian's Gifts, nestled in Newcastle’s historic Grainger Market.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sutherlands
1.8 km
Modern boutique comfort meets lively social charm in the heart of Gateshead’s Windy Nook neighborhood.
The Fiddlers Three
2.6 km
A lively, family-friendly pub in Gateshead offering great food, drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere with soft play and live sports.
The Head of Steam Quayside
3.0 km
Riverside pub haven pouring world-class craft beers, vegan feasts, and games beside Newcastle's Tyne Bridge and cultural gems.
Urban Garden Newcastle
3.0 km
A relaxed container-style beer garden on Newcastle’s Quayside—festoon lights, craft taps and riverside atmosphere for groups and sunset drinks.
Colonel Porter's Emporium
3.0 km
Newcastle's 1920s explorer's paradise: botanical gardens, vintage cocktails, live music, and hidden discos in historic Milburn House.
Jalou
3.0 km
Experience Newcastle’s chic cocktail haven where Parisian glamour meets hip hop beats and creative mixology.
The Dog & Parrot
3.0 km
A vibrant Newcastle pub where live music, punk vibes, and friendly faces create an unforgettable night out.
Revolution Newcastle Upon Tyne
3.1 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and handcrafted cocktails in Newcastle’s stunning former bank with soaring ceilings and marble pillars.
ChachaBuchi
3.1 km
Rustic glamour meets vibrant nightlife in Newcastle’s chic cocktail bar with alpine-inspired cuisine and lively entertainment.
Pitcher & Piano Newcastle
3.1 km
A stylish riverside bar on Newcastle’s Quayside, blending modern design with classic pub charm and vibrant social energy.
All Seeing Eye.
3.1 km
Discover Newcastle's speakeasy secret: art deco cocktails behind a hidden door on Groat Market, blending historic intrigue with masterful mixology.
Blackie Boy
3.1 km
Historic Newcastle bar with cosy vibes, free jukebox anthems, cheap drinks deals, and late-night energy in Groat Market's lively heart.
The Mad House
3.1 km
Dive into Newcastle’s quirkiest cocktail bar where mad creativity meets bold flavors and unforgettable fun at The Mad House.
Slug & Lettuce - Central Newcastle
3.2 km
Newcastle's go-to for endless cocktails, bottomless brunches, and non-stop party vibes on Grainger Street – where every hour is happy hour.
Mother Mercy
3.2 km
Newcastle's speakeasy secret: inventive cocktails via roulette wheel in a historic Cloth Market hideaway, blending mixology mastery with intimate Mediterranean chic.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Warehouse Night Club(SR44)
2.9 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant underground gay nightclub scene at Warehouse Night Club (SR44), where eclectic music and lively parties come alive.
Digital
2.9 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
TheCUT Newcastle
3.0 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Tup Tup Palace
3.0 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.
Powerhouse
3.1 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
The Social Club
3.1 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Bohemia Newcastle
3.1 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
3.1 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
3.1 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
Flares - Newcastle
3.1 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.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
3.1 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
3.2 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
Popworld - Newcastle
3.2 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
World HQ
3.3 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.
Sinners
3.3 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly