Best attractions and places to see around Hazlerigg, a village north of Newcastle upon Tyne, offer a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. The area features significant natural landscapes, including the Havannah Nature Reserve, a forest area recognized as a Site of Local Conservation Interest. Traces of its industrial past, such as the former Hazlerigg Colliery site, and archaeological findings like Iron Age remains, provide historical context. This region provides opportunities to explore both natural environments and historical points…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
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A super nice view of the iconic series of bridges that spans the River Tyne, namely Gateshead Millennium Bridge, Tyne Bridge, Swing Bridge, High Level Bridge, Queen Elizabeth II Metro Bridge, King Edward VII Bridge, and Redheugh Bridge.
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The Gateshead Millennium Bridge is an innovative tilting bridge for pedestrians and cyclists that has been connecting the Quaysides of Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne over the River Tyne since 2001. Designed by WilkinsonEyre and Gifford, it is the first bridge in the world to fully tilt to allow shipping passage, earning it the nickname "Blinking Eye Bridge." The bridge rotates to a 40° angle in just 4.5 minutes, allowing vessels up to 25 meters high to pass. At 126 meters long and weighing 850 tons, it is an engineering feat that forms part of the area's urban redevelopment and is an internationally acclaimed icon of modern British bridge building.
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The bridges on Newcastle Quayside form an iconic ensemble spanning the River Tyne, where history and modern architecture intersect. The Tyne Bridge, with its distinctive arch dating from 1928, is a symbol of the city and reminiscent of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Nearby is the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, a feat of engineering that tilts to allow ships to pass and is known as the "Winking Bridge." Along with other bridges like the High Level Bridge and the Swing Bridge, they tell the story of Newcastle's industrial past and urban renewal.
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The Willington Dene Viaduct is a historic railway viaduct in Wallsend. It was built between 1837 and 1839. Originally, it consisted of seven wooden arches, constructed using the Wiebeking system of laminated timber—an innovative technique at the time. In 1869, these were replaced by wrought iron arches, retaining the original design. The viaduct is 319 metres long and 25 metres high, and spans the valley of the Wallsend Burn with seven segmental arches. It has been a Grade II listed building since 1986 and is still used by the Tyne and Wear Metro.
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...definitely worth a look if you're there!
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The High Level Bridge in Newcastle upon Tyne was completed in 1849 and is a remarkable feat of engineering, designed by Robert Stephenson. It has a distinctive steel arch design and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding landmarks, including the Tyne Bridge and the Gateshead Millennium Bridge
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The most significant natural attraction in the immediate vicinity of Hazlerigg is the Havannah Nature Reserve. This forest area, once an industrial site, is now a Site of Local Conservation Interest, featuring woodlands, meadows, marshland, and ponds. It's particularly known for being a breeding ground for red squirrels. You can find more information about the reserve on Wikipedia.
Hazlerigg has a rich history. You can explore the former Hazlerigg Colliery Site, now part of the Havannah Nature Reserve, with traces like the 'pit terraces on Strawberry Terrace' and the old wagonway alignment on Coach Lane. Archaeological excavations have also revealed Iron Age roundhouse remains and Roman pottery fragments, indicating a long historical presence. For a more prominent historical landmark, the Newcastle Castle, which gave the city its name, is a short distance away.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Havannah Nature Reserve offers a great outdoor space for exploration. Many of the iconic bridges, such as the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, Tyne Bridge, and High Level Bridge, are popular viewpoints and are considered family-friendly for walks and sightseeing. Newcastle Castle also welcomes families, offering an engaging historical experience.
Hazlerigg is a great base for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for running, cycling, and gravel biking. For instance, there are several running loops around Hazlerigg, including an easy 'View of Newcastle Hill – Weetslade Country Park loop'. Cyclists can enjoy routes like the 'Weetslade Country Park loop' or 'Pink Lane Bakery Gosforth loop'. Gravel biking options include the 'Waggonway Tracks – Killingworth Wagonway loop'. You can explore more options on the running trails guide, gravel biking guide, and cycling guide for the area.
Yes, the Havannah Nature Reserve offers various walking paths through its diverse landscape of woodlands and meadows. Additionally, the area around Hazlerigg provides several walking and running routes. For example, you can find easy to moderate running loops that are also suitable for walking, such as the 'North Gosforth Chapel loop' or the 'View of Newcastle Hill – Weetslade Country Park loop'. These routes allow you to explore the local scenery and historical traces.
The Gateshead Millennium Bridge is designed to be accessible for pedestrians and cyclists, including those using wheelchairs. While the Havannah Nature Reserve has paths, their accessibility can vary depending on weather conditions and specific sections. It's always advisable to check local conditions for natural trails.
The best time to visit Hazlerigg's outdoor attractions, such as the Havannah Nature Reserve and the various walking and cycling routes, is typically during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is generally milder and drier, making outdoor exploration more enjoyable. Spring brings blooming flora, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Winter can be cold and wet, but the nature reserve still offers a peaceful experience.
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The iconic bridges, such as the Gateshead Millennium Bridge and Tyne Bridge, are highly praised for their architectural marvel and the spectacular views they offer, especially at sunset. The historical context, from former colliery sites to ancient archaeological finds, also adds a unique layer to the experience. The komoot community has shared over 550 photos and given more than 700 upvotes to the attractions in the area.
Yes, the area is renowned for its impressive bridges. The Tyne Bridge, opened in 1928, is an iconic symbol of Newcastle. The High Level Bridge, completed in 1849 and designed by Robert Stephenson, is a remarkable feat of engineering. Further afield, the Willington Dene Viaduct, built between 1837 and 1839, is a historic railway viaduct still in use today.
For attractions within Hazlerigg itself, such as the Havannah Nature Reserve, local parking options may be available near access points. For attractions in nearby Newcastle upon Tyne, such as the bridges or Newcastle Castle, various public car parks are available throughout the city centre. It's recommended to check specific parking information for each destination prior to your visit.
Hazlerigg village itself has local amenities including a fish and chip shop and a social club. For a wider selection of cafes, pubs, and restaurants, you'll find numerous options in nearby Newcastle upon Tyne, particularly around the Quayside area which offers views of the iconic bridges. Many of these establishments are easily accessible from Hazlerigg.


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