Blaydon is a town in the Metropolitan Borough of Gateshead, situated on the south bank of the River Tyne west of Newcastle upon Tyne. The area grew substantially during the Industrial Revolution through coal mining, ironworking and engineering, becoming an important part of the industrial landscape of Tyneside. Its position beside the River Tyne also made transport and river trade important to the town's development. Today Blaydon is a residential and commercial centre closely connected with Newcastle and the wider Tyneside conurbation.
Blaydon: Historical sights and information
Facts about Blaydon
- Latitude:
- 54.965346
- Longitude:
- -1.713947
- GPS Coordinates:
- 54°58' N, 01°43' W
The historical and tourist importance of the town
Blaydon's industrial past can still be seen in the surviving transport infrastructure and historic landscape along the Tyne. Nearby Derwent Walk Country Park follows the route of a former railway and provides attractive walking and cycling through woodland and the Derwent Valley. The town is close to the Metrocentre, one of the region's largest shopping and leisure destinations, while Newcastle and Gateshead provide museums, galleries and major cultural attractions. The Angel of the North and the historic Quayside are also within easy reach.
Food and when to visit
Blaydon has cafés, restaurants, traditional pubs and everyday shops, while the Metrocentre and Newcastle offer much wider choices for shopping and dining. Traditional Northumbrian food and modern British cuisine are readily available throughout the surrounding area. Spring through early autumn is particularly pleasant for exploring the riverside paths and nearby country parks, although the urban attractions are available year-round. Blaydon is a convenient stop on routes through the Tyne Valley and wider Tyneside.
Locations & Tours
Discover famous landmarks, historical sites and tourist attractions in Blaydon.