The Seeing Stone

A contemporary sculpture inviting reflection amid Newcastle's verdant parkland.

4.2

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The Seeing Stone is a striking contemporary art installation nestled within Exhibition Park in Newcastle upon Tyne. This captivating sculpture blends artistic vision with natural surroundings, inviting visitors to pause and reflect in a tranquil park setting. The stone stands as a testament to Newcastle's thriving cultural scene, offering a unique fusion of modern art and green space that appeals to art enthusiasts, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful escape from the urban bustle.

A brief summary to The Seeing Stone

Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle upon Tyne, GB
Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

Visit during early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting conditions and fewer crowds, which enhances both the viewing experience and photography opportunities.
Combine your visit with a leisurely walk through Exhibition Park to fully appreciate the natural surroundings and discover other features within the grounds.
Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stone's changing appearance as light conditions shift throughout your visit.
Check for any guided tours or cultural events hosted in the park that may provide deeper context about the sculpture and Newcastle's public art initiatives.

Getting There

Metro

From Newcastle city centre, take the Tyne and Wear Metro towards South Shields and exit at Haymarket Station. From the station, walk south towards Northumberland Road, then continue east until you reach Barras Bridge. Exhibition Park entrance is nearby, approximately 8–10 minutes on foot from the station.
Bus

Multiple bus services serve the area around Exhibition Park. Routes 1, 39, and others heading towards Newcastle city centre stop at or near Haymarket. From the bus stop, walk east on Northumberland Road and turn left onto Barras Bridge to reach the park entrance, approximately 10 minutes walking.
Walking

From Newcastle city centre, walk north along Northumberland Road for approximately 15–20 minutes. Turn left onto Barras Bridge and continue into Exhibition Park. The walk is straightforward and passes through residential areas with clear street signage.
Parking

Street parking is available on roads surrounding Exhibition Park, including Barras Bridge and nearby residential streets. No dedicated car park serves the park directly, so arrive early during peak times to secure street parking within walking distance of the entrance.

The Seeing Stone location weather suitability

Any Weather

Discover more about The Seeing Stone

A Modern Sculpture in Historic Surroundings

The Seeing Stone is a contemporary art installation located within Exhibition Park, one of Newcastle upon Tyne's most cherished green spaces. This striking sculpture represents the city's commitment to integrating public art into its landscape, creating spaces where visitors can engage with creative expression while surrounded by natural beauty. The work exemplifies how modern artistic practice can enhance and transform urban environments, inviting contemplation and dialogue between the viewer and the artwork.

The Park Setting and Natural Context

Exhibition Park provides an ideal backdrop for The Seeing Stone, offering mature trees, open lawns, and winding pathways that frame the sculpture within a carefully curated natural environment. The park's established landscape creates a serene atmosphere that complements the artwork's contemplative nature. Walking through the park to discover the stone becomes part of the experience itself, as visitors navigate the grounds and encounter the sculpture as a focal point within the broader parkland composition.

Artistic Significance and Cultural Heritage

The Seeing Stone contributes to Newcastle's reputation as a city rich in public art and cultural expression. The sculpture invites multiple interpretations, encouraging visitors to develop their own relationship with the work. Its placement in a public park ensures accessibility to all, democratizing art experience and fostering a sense of community ownership. The installation reflects contemporary artistic practices that prioritize viewer engagement and environmental integration rather than traditional gallery settings.

Photography and Visual Appeal

The sculpture's distinctive form and its positioning within the park landscape make it particularly compelling for photographers and visual artists. The interplay of light and shadow across the stone's surface changes throughout the day and across seasons, offering varied perspectives and photographic opportunities. Early morning and late afternoon light create particularly dramatic effects, enhancing the stone's visual presence and making it a popular subject for those documenting Newcastle's artistic landscape.

A Space for Reflection and Contemplation

Beyond its aesthetic qualities, The Seeing Stone functions as a space for personal reflection. Visitors often find themselves drawn to pause and consider the artwork's meaning, their own perspectives, and their relationship to the surrounding environment. This contemplative quality distinguishes the installation from purely decorative public art, positioning it as a meaningful cultural landmark that enriches the visitor experience and contributes to Newcastle's identity as a thoughtful, culturally engaged city.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

W.D.Stephens Memorial

0.1 km

Historic memorial fountain honoring Newcastle’s civic leader W.D. Stephens, symbolizing philanthropy and maritime heritage in Jesmond.

Claremont Tower

0.5 km

Modernist landmark housing humanities scholarship at Newcastle's academic heart.

Old Library Building

0.5 km

A historic university building at the heart of Newcastle’s campus, now home to the School of Modern Languages and academic events.

Lord Armstrong Memorial

0.6 km

A striking bronze tribute at Barras Bridge honoring Lord Armstrong’s pioneering engineering and lasting legacy in Newcastle’s industrial history.

King's Gate

0.7 km

Newcastle University's contemporary student services hub with striking glazed architecture on Barras Bridge.

The Response - Renwick War Memorial

0.7 km

A powerful and historic war memorial honoring the Northumberland Fusiliers’ spirit and sacrifice in World War I, set in serene Newcastle gardens.

1914 Monument

0.7 km

A stirring World War I memorial in Newcastle honoring local Fusiliers with evocative bronze sculpture and historic military symbolism.

The Tower Cafe Ltd

0.8 km

Charming café in Newcastle’s Leazes Park, famed for vegan pizzas and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere amid scenic greenery.

Newcastle and District War Memorial

1.2 km

A Portland stone tribute to courage, unveiled in 1923 and crowned by a bronze Saint George.

Jess moore memorial wall 23/6/17 - 7/11/19

1.2 km

Explore the Jess Moore Memorial Wall in Newcastle upon Tyne, a heartfelt tribute to love and community resilience that reflects the spirit of the local culture.

Jess moore memorial wall 23/6/17 - 7/11/19

Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)

1.2 km

Explore Newcastle upon Tyne with Iles Tours, where expert guides unveil the city's rich history and culture through unforgettable experiences.

Saint Mary's Well

1.3 km

Discover Saint Mary's Well, a serene historic pilgrimage site in Jesmond, Newcastle, famed for its healing waters and medieval sacred legacy.

Grey St

1.4 km

Newcastle's finest street—a sweeping curve of neoclassical elegance and cultural heritage.

Morden Tower

1.4 km

A medieval drum tower turned iconic poetry venue, Morden Tower blends Newcastle’s rich history with vibrant cultural legacy.

Blackfriars Medieval Friary

1.5 km

Medieval Dominican friary where kings once stayed, now a living centre of craft, culture, and cuisine.

Unmissable attractions to see

Exhibition Park

0.1 km

A historic green oasis in Newcastle city centre blending Victorian charm, active recreation, and vibrant cultural events.

Freemen's Clock

0.2 km

Historic clock tower in Exhibition Park commemorating Queen Elizabeth II's coronation and Newcastle’s Freemen legacy.

Great North Museum: Hancock

0.5 km

Discover natural wonders, ancient civilizations, and local heritage at Newcastle’s free Great North Museum: Hancock.

Hatton Gallery

0.6 km

Discover Newcastle’s vibrant modern art scene at Hatton Gallery, where historic charm meets contemporary creativity on a university campus.

Farrell Centre

0.6 km

Explore Newcastle’s architectural heritage and urban future at the vibrant, free-to-visit Farrell Centre.

Civic Centre Gardens

0.7 km

A peaceful urban oasis blending nature, art, and heritage in the heart of Newcastle’s Civic Centre.

Campus Cat

0.9 km

Historic Grade II listed church in Newcastle with rich non-conformist roots and stunning Victorian architecture.

Book stack

1.0 km

A striking Gothic Revival landmark blending Newcastle’s religious heritage with modern academic life on Northumberland Road.

Leazes Park

1.0 km

Newcastle’s oldest Victorian park, a tranquil green retreat with a scenic lake and rich heritage in the city centre.

Town Moor

1.0 km

Newcastle's 1,000-acre medieval commons—larger than Hyde Park, home to Europe's biggest fair.

The Lonsdale

1.0 km

A two‑level West Jesmond pub serving classic pub food, wide beers and lively sport‑watching with pool and darts upstairs.

Eldon Square

1.1 km

Newcastle’s bustling city-centre shopping and dining hub with over 140 stores and 30+ eateries, welcoming all with style and inclusivity.

Fenwick Newcastle

1.1 km

Newcastle’s iconic five-floor department store blending historic charm, luxury shopping, and a renowned food hall in the city centre.

Laing Art Gallery

1.2 km

Discover Newcastle’s artistic heritage through historic and contemporary masterpieces at the Laing Art Gallery, a vibrant cultural hub in the city centre.

TK Maxx

1.2 km

Discover unbeatable deals on designer fashion and homeware at TK Maxx, Monument Mall’s vibrant department store in Newcastle.

Essential places to dine

Dosa Kitchen

0.6 km

Experience authentic South Indian cuisine with vibrant dosas and flavorful curries in Jesmond’s welcoming Dosa Kitchen.

Branches Restaurant

0.6 km

Elegant British dining in Jesmond with seasonal menus, handcrafted cocktails, and a unique blossom tree ambience.

Florence Jesmond

0.7 km

Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you at Florence Jesmond, the heart of Jesmond’s vibrant dining scene.

As You Like It

0.7 km

Eclectic dining and creative cocktails in Jesmond’s stylish hotspot, perfect for family meals and lively late nights.

Fratello's

0.8 km

Authentic Italian dining with warm hospitality and stonebaked pizzas in the heart of Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne.

Fat Hippo Jesmond

0.9 km

Original Fat Hippo in Jesmond serves bold, messy burgers and dirty fries in a lively, inclusive atmosphere with vegan and gluten-free options.

Jam Jar

1.0 km

Savor Anglo-American comfort food in a sleek, industrial-chic setting with craft drinks and lively vibes in Jesmond’s heart.

Red Mezze

1.1 km

A lively Turkish mezze restaurant in Newcastle, perfect for sharing bold flavours, grilled dishes, and a relaxed meal with friends or family.

Sohe Restaurant

1.1 km

Sophisticated pan-Asian dining in Jesmond, Newcastle – where bold flavours meet modern style and attentive service.

Fuego

1.1 km

Experience authentic Mediterranean tapas, Napoli-style pizzas, and vibrant cocktails in the heart of Newcastle at Fuego by Fenwick.

El Coto

1.1 km

Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm rustic charm in the heart of Newcastle at El Coto.

The Botanist Newcastle

1.2 km

Discover The Botanist Newcastle: a lush botanical bar and restaurant blending inventive cocktails, seasonal food, and live music in a secret garden setting.

George's Fish Shack, Newcastle

1.2 km

Authentic British fish and chips in the heart of Newcastle’s lively Eldon Square shopping district.

Chaophraya

1.2 km

Elegant Thai dining with rooftop views over Grey’s Monument, perfect for special occasions and vibrant city experiences.

Lovage Jesmond

1.3 km

Michelin-listed modern Mediterranean restaurant in Jesmond, blending seasonal British and European ingredients with warm, unpretentious dining.

Shop unique fashion accessories at Watchtraderuk Limited in Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, where style meets local charm.

The Geordie Witch

1.1 km

Discover unique local gifts and mystical treasures at The Geordie Witch, a charming and welcoming shop in Newcastle’s Eldon Square.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Collingwood Arms under new management

0.4 km

A traditional Jesmond pub with long bar, local prints, lively evenings and a straightforward menu that suits regulars and visitors alike.

The Collingwood Arms under new management

Holy Hobo

0.7 km

Jesmond's bold bar for monster burgers, craft pours, bottomless brunches, and beats till 2am—where quirky comfort meets non-stop nightlife energy.

Bar Blanc

0.8 km

Jesmond's go-to bar for cheap pints, pub grub, sports screens, and happy hours in a lively Osborne Road setting.

Mean-Eyed Cat

0.9 km

A vibrant micropub in Newcastle offering an evolving selection of craft beers, ciders, and lively community events in a quirky, intimate setting.

Soho Jesmond

0.9 km

Jesmond's sprawling modern bar hub: live sports, cheap student drinks, quizzes, buskers, and outdoor sheisha vibes draw lively crowds to this Osborne Road powerhouse.

Phoenix Bar Jesmond

1.0 km

Refurbished Jesmond gem with grilled British fare, creative cocktails, sports screens, pool tables, and a heated outdoor forecourt—perfect for casual hangs or lively nights.

Spy

1.0 km

Catch the action at Spy Bar Jesmond—big screens, juicy burgers, premium pints, and unbeatable sports vibes on lively Osborne Road.

The Exchange

1.0 km

Discover The Exchange, Newcastle’s speakeasy-style cocktail bar with a cozy alcove, lively atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks in the city center.

Cosy Dove

1.1 km

A friendly, village-style pub in Newcastle offering freshly prepared food, real ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere seven days a week.

Bar Loco

1.1 km

A vibrant split-level bar in Newcastle with live music, quirky vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere for casual drinks and social nights.

97 & Social

1.1 km

Lively Jesmond gastro bar with innovative cocktails, comfort food, and fireside charm on buzzing Osborne Road – perfect for brunches, dates, or casual nights out.

The Punch Bowl

1.1 km

Jesmond's wood-paneled gem: quirky wines, world tapas, epic roasts, and a lively vibe in a classic pub setting.

The Wobbly Duck

1.2 km

A cozy, quirky micropub in Newcastle’s Old Eldon Square, famed for its eclectic ales and welcoming atmosphere.

Bealim House

1.3 km

Newcastle’s unique gin distillery, bar, and eatery blending industrial heritage with vibrant social dining and exceptional gin experiences.

The Alchemist Newcastle

1.3 km

Experience Newcastle’s premier cocktail laboratory with dramatic drinks, creative dining, and a captivating gothic atmosphere in Eldon Square.

Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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The Seeing Stone

A brief summary to The Seeing Stone

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Metro

Bus

Walking

Parking

The Seeing Stone location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of The Seeing Stone

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about The Seeing Stone

A Modern Sculpture in Historic Surroundings

The Park Setting and Natural Context

Artistic Significance and Cultural Heritage

Photography and Visual Appeal

A Space for Reflection and Contemplation

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

W.D.Stephens Memorial

Claremont Tower

Old Library Building

Lord Armstrong Memorial

King's Gate

The Response - Renwick War Memorial

1914 Monument

The Tower Cafe Ltd

Newcastle and District War Memorial

Jess moore memorial wall 23/6/17 - 7/11/19

Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)

Saint Mary's Well

Grey St

Morden Tower

Blackfriars Medieval Friary

Unmissable attractions to see

Exhibition Park

Freemen's Clock

Great North Museum: Hancock

Hatton Gallery

Farrell Centre

Civic Centre Gardens

Campus Cat

Book stack

Leazes Park

Town Moor

The Lonsdale

Eldon Square

Fenwick Newcastle

Laing Art Gallery

TK Maxx

Essential places to dine

Dosa Kitchen

Branches Restaurant

Florence Jesmond

As You Like It

Fratello's

Fat Hippo Jesmond

Jam Jar

Red Mezze

Sohe Restaurant

Fuego

El Coto

The Botanist Newcastle

George's Fish Shack, Newcastle

Chaophraya

Lovage Jesmond

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Blush

JBC Signatures Gift Shop

The One World Shop

Time Antiques

Elula

The Vintage Scene Newcastle

Gourmet Gifts

Fern Avenue Antiques Centre

Antiquites Francaises

Eldon Garden Shopping Centre.

Zen Wardrobe