Things To Do
in Whickham
Whickham is a historic village just west of Gateshead, embodying a peaceful rural feel with easy access to the buzz of Newcastle. Its charming village green, St Marys Church, and friendly pubs give it a quintessential North East atmosphere. Surrounded by rolling countryside, it serves as a convenient base for exploring the Tyne and Wear region.
Visitors can enjoy a mix of green space, local history, and quick trips into nearby cities and cultural spots.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey by exploring the quaint village center of Whickham, where you can visit local shops and cafes. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at a cozy café, sampling regional delicacies. Take a leisurely stroll through the scenic streets to soak in the village's charm.
Visit the beautiful Whickham Park, perfect for a picnic or leisurely walk among the lush greenery. Engage with locals at a nearby pub for a lunch featuring traditional British fare. As the afternoon winds down, consider checking out the historical sites, such as the 18th-century St. Mary's Church, which boasts stunning architecture.
After a fulfilling day, especially if you’ve indulged in local dishes, choose a welcoming restaurant for dinner. Whickham offers a vibrant dining scene with options ranging from casual bistros to more upscale establishments. End your evening with a serene walk around the illuminated park, enjoying the tranquility of the night.
Begin your day with a short journey to Gateshead, where you can have breakfast at a riverside café overlooking the Tyne. Afterward, visit the iconic Sage Gateshead, a concert hall and music venue known for its unique architecture. This cultural hub often has exhibitions you can immerse yourself in before heading out for more adventures.
Take a stroll to the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, where you can appreciate diverse and innovative artworks. As you walk along the vibrant quayside, stop for lunch at one of the trendy eateries that serve everything from international cuisines to classic comfort food. Enjoy the dynamic atmosphere created by the mix of art, music, and local culture.
Return to Whickham for a cozy dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying fresh, seasonal dishes. If you’re up for it, consider exploring local pubs where you might catch live music or trivia night. End your evening by enjoying a quiet cup of tea or a glass of wine in the picturesque surroundings of Whickham.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍺Beer in a bar | $4-7 |
| 🚗Taxi start (1 mile) | $3-6 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $10-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact village feel with quick access to Newcastle and Gateshead
- Beautiful countryside walks and close to major historic sites
- Limited nightlife within Whickham itself
- Some services and shops may have shorter hours than larger cities
Places to Visit in Whickham
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden hour shots of the church spire with the village green provide classic North East village photography.
Iconic river views of the Tyne, the Millennium Bridge, and Newcastle architecture especially stunning at sunset.
Winding tree-lined avenues, open fields, and rustic estate architecture with sweeping countryside backdrops.
Waterways and forested paths offering serene nature photography and wildlife opportunities.
Food in Whickham
Whickham Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A dense, doughy bread often served with fillings or toasted as a sandwich. Find it at local bakeries and cafés in Whickham and nearby Gateshead.
Must-Try!
A traditional North East duo of pease pudding spread on bread or served with ham; a classic seaside and pub staple.
A spiced gingerbread cake, popular in the autumn and winter months at markets and cafés.
A hearty dish of potatoes, onions and cheese baked together; a comforting option at local pubs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic indoor market offering fresh produce, bakery goods, and ready-to-eat bites, a short ride from Whickham.
Seasonal stalls with street food, crafts, and drinks along the River Tyne, ideal for a lunch break after city exploring.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Common courtesy includes queuing patiently and greeting people with a friendly hello or please and thank you. Keep voices reasonable in public spaces.
Locals are typically warm and sociable; a relaxed conversation and a smile go a long way when meeting people in pubs or cafés.
Be punctual for appointments and respect personal space, especially in crowded areas and public transport.
Safety
Tipping in Whickham
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory in the UK. If service charge is not included, a 10-15% tip in restaurants is common for good service.
Card payments (including contactless and mobile wallets) are widely accepted. Cash is still usable, but cards are often preferred for convenience.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greens; keep a light jacket for cooler mornings; moderate rain is possible, so a compact umbrella helps.
Longer days and many outdoor cafés and walks; occasional rain but generally pleasant temperatures; stay hydrated when exploring outdoor spots.
Cooler temperatures with autumnal colors in Gibside and countryside trails; bring layers and sturdy walking shoes for damp paths.
Shorter days and potential frosts; pack warm layers, waterproofs, and plan indoor alternatives for evening activities.
Whickham at Night
Hiking in Whickham
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
National Trust property with extensive woodland trails and expansive views; excellent for longer hikes and photography.
Riverside and woodland trails connecting Whickham to surrounding towns, suitable for easy to moderate hikes.
Rural lanes and green spaces offering shorter, scenic walks close to the village.
Airports
How to reach Whickham by plane.
Main regional airport serving the area; around 8-22 miles from Whickham depending on route, with domestic and international flights and good road connections.
Alternative international airport within reasonable driving distance for longer trips, with regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Suburban families live in Whickham and nearby villages, enjoying good local schools, parks, and community events.
Proximity to Newcastle University and other institutions plus local work opportunities draw students and professionals.
Quiet residential areas and accessible countryside appeal to retirees seeking a slower pace with nearby cultural options.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Strong regional passion for the sport, with Newcastle United as the flagship club and a variety of local amateur teams.
Local clubs participate in rugby union and rugby league in the wider North East region.
Several golf courses and driving ranges in the Gateshead and Newcastle area cater to visitors and locals alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Whickham.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafés offer vegetarian mains and sides; look for veggie pies, roasted vegetables, and plant-based meals. Ask staff about sauces containing animal products and request dairy-free options if needed.
Many places can accommodate gluten-free requests; inform staff and check for cross-contamination in kitchens. Opt for salads, grilled proteins, and gluten-free bread or buns when available.