Attractions and Places To See around Ovingham - Top 20

Ovingham and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit George Stephenson's Birthplace in Wylam, a Grade II* listed cottage offering insights into the railway pioneer's early life. Other notable historical sites include St Mary the Virgin Church with its Anglo-Saxon tower, the 11th-century Goose Fair Cross, and the ruins of Whittle Mill. Nearby, you can also find Prudhoe Castle and Cherryburn, the birthplace of engraver Thomas Bewick.

Yes, the area features several interesting bridges. The most popular is Hagg Bank Bridge, originally a railway bridge from 1876, now a scenic walkway and cycle path over the River Tyne. The Ovingham Bridge, consisting of parallel pedestrian and vehicle bridges, also spans the River Tyne. Additionally, there's a historic Packhorse Bridge over Whittle Burn, known for its narrow width.

Ovingham is situated directly on the River Tyne, offering scenic riverside settings. The Tyne Valley provides access to stunning countryside, quiet roads, and various cycle routes, bridleways, and footpaths. You can also explore Whittle Burn, historically known for its clear waters. The broader Northumberland landscape, including unspoiled beaches, the Cheviot Hills, and Kielder Forest, is also accessible from Ovingham.

The area around Ovingham is excellent for outdoor activities, especially hiking and cycling. You can find numerous routes along the River Tyne and through the Tyne Valley. For hiking, consider routes like the 'View of Prudhoe Castle – Prudhoe Spetchells loop' or the 'Hagg Bank Bridge – Prudhoe Spetchells loop'. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as 'Hagg Bank Bridge – George Stephenson's Birthplace loop'. More details on these activities can be found in the hiking and road cycling guides for Ovingham.

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Hagg Bank Bridge is a great spot for a family walk or cycle. George Stephenson's Birthplace offers an educational experience about Georgian mining life. Chopwell Wood is also highly recommended for families, with easy walks and bike rides. The Blaydon Races Sculpture is another family-friendly viewpoint with historical context.

For easy walks, you can explore trails like the 'View of Prudhoe Castle – Prudhoe Spetchells loop' (4.4 km) or the 'Goose Fair Cross loop from Prudhoe' (4.1 km). These routes offer gentle terrain suitable for a relaxed stroll. You can find more easy options in the easy hikes guide for Ovingham.

The Stone Cross and Church in Matfen refers to a war memorial in the form of an impressive Celtic cross, erected in memory of local soldiers. It's a peaceful, reflective spot located in the heart of Matfen village, near Holy Trinity Church. The village itself is charming, with a village green and attractive stone dwellings.

Yes, Chopwell Wood, located on the fringe of Gateshead, offers mountain bike trails. It features short red and blue graded trails, as well as extensive natural trails. It's a popular spot for mountain bikers, though it's important to note that trails are shared with walkers.

The Blaydon Races Sculpture is a man-made monument located on Keelmans Way. It commemorates the historic Blaydon Races, an event with roots dating back to 1811, which became a significant part of Tyneside's unofficial holiday week. The sculpture provides a viewpoint and a connection to the region's cultural heritage.

The River Tyne, which flows through Ovingham, is known for its cleanliness and diverse wildlife. You might spot salmon, otters, and goosanders along its banks. The surrounding Tyne Valley and broader Northumberland landscape also offer opportunities for wildlife observation in various natural habitats.

Yes, George Stephenson's Birthplace is noted as being wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors to explore this historic house museum.

Beyond the main attractions, you can discover the ruins of Whittle Mill in the heart of Whittle Dene, or the historic Packhorse Bridge over Whittle Burn. The Old Vicarage, dating from the 15th century, also holds historical significance as a former cell for Augustinian canons and later the residence of Frank Atkinson, instrumental in establishing Beamish Museum.