Tyne and Wear is a metropolitan county in north east England, one of the coldest areas, thanks to sitting by the North Sea (the coldest in the world) and being on the same latitude as Scandinavia).
It’s warmed by England’s Gulf Stream, which is why it doesn’t get guaranteed snow each year, like Stockholm!
A few years back, you could even sail to Sweden from the nearby coast. But due to lack of passengers (and strict environmental regulations in Scandinavia), it’s no longer possible. There is a freight boat, but it costs around £800 a trip!
The area consists of two cities (inland Newcastle and Sunderland on the coast). Plus the town of Gateshead, and the towns of North Shields and South Shields, on opposite sides of the River Tyne.
Known for the beloved ‘Geordie’ accent, it’s very nice to hear, but sometimes difficult to understand for people who don’t live nearby! And despite the modern skyline, this area has a strong history of old castles and Roman sites, some of which still stand.
The River Tyne
Everywhere in this area is linked by the River Tyne, which starts high in the hills, and flows through Newcastle and into the countryside.
Years ago, boats used the river to carry goods, but today it’s mostly a place to enjoy riverside walks. Many birds, fish and wildlife also call this river their home.
The River Wear
The other main river in this area begins in the hills of County Durham, flowing east to the North Sea. It passes through Sunderland and also the city of Durham (the castle sits right on the water).
The City of Newcastle
Newcastle is a lively city, sitting alongside the River Tyne. Originally a Roman fort (2000 years ago), the old castle gave the city its name, and it later became a prosperous place, due to coal mining and ship building.
The Town of Gateshead
Gateshead is just next to Newcastle, south of the River Tyne. Both places are looked after by the infamous ‘Angel of the North’, which most people say looks like a Nazi propaganda statue (and is known locally as ‘the Gateshead flasher!’
On a serious note, critics have said that placing a gigantic monument near busy roads, is not not good for safety.
Gateshead is a busy town, although there are plenty of green spaces nearby. Many people travel between here and Newcastle on a regular basis, as they are linked by several bridges.
Sunderland in north east England has a rich ship-building history and used to employ thousands of people. Sitting on the North Sea.
This port city has its own patron saint: Benedict Biscop founded a local monastery, with the ruins now a Grade 1 listed building and World Heritage Site.
In recent years, Tesco bought an area of ‘brownland’ in the city centre, and said it would only sell to Sunderland Arc (who wished to build homes, offices and a court) if it could have alternative space (who runs our cities – councils or supermarkets?)
The Sunderland Empire Theatre is where Carry On actor Sid James died of a heart attack in 1976. Les Dawson refused to play there again, after saying he saw Sid’s ghost in his dressing room?
The Quieter Seaside Resort of Seaburn
Most people live south of the river, which extends to the quiet seaside resort of Seaburn (where painter LS Lowry spent his holidays).
He holds the record for rejecting honours (five times, including a knighthood). Devoted to his mum, he apparently explained ‘There seemed little point, once Mother was dead’.
North Shields and South Shields
These two towns face each other on the River Tyne. Which way they face is evident from their names!
Although close, you have to cross the river to reach either one (by metro, ferry or car). It’s a daily part of life for residents. North Shields is a bit more lively, while South Shields is known for its sandy beach.
The Tyne Bridge
A celebrated feat of engineering, this bridge that links Newcastle and Gateshead was opened to great fanfare in 1928 (it took three years to build, and one man even died during construction, when he fell into the river).
The arch shape looks similar to Sydney Harbour Bridge, but this bridge was built first, so not influenced by it. Made from strong steel, the real fans of this bridge are around 700 kittiewakes, who regularly use the bridge for nesting.
Artisan Vegan Cheese from Tyneside
Tyne Chease (based just outside Newcastle) makes truly wonderful vegan cheeses. Most are based around organic cashew nuts.
Keep these away from young children and pets, due to salt, spices and nuts. Read up on food safety for people & pets).
These don’t melt (they are more for cheeseboards, with fruit and wine). All have a tangy taste: apple-smoked, pink peppercorn, pickled onion, Ethiopian spice and cream cheeses in glass jars (smoked, truffle, creamy garlic & chives)
This creamy Nacho dip is ideal for dipping and drizzling. It’s made with a hint of lemon, smoked paprika and jalapeños.
Handmade Vegan Shoes from Tyneside
Freerangers (also sold on Etsy) offers handmade footwear designed to last years. Each pair is signed by the maker, and you can send soles back for repair.
In a huge array of colours, there are loafers, sandals and boots – and also bags, satchels and even vegan sporrans!
