Tyne Derwent Way: connecting our urban communities to our beautiful countryside
A total of £1.5 million in UK Government funding is being invested in the route through Gateshead Riverside Partnership.
Improvements to pathways, signage and artwork are being made to highlight key nature, culture and heritage areas, with members of the community getting involved in shaping the project's future.
About the Tyne Derwent Way
Launched in April 2024, the Tyne Derwent Way is a trail to showcase Gateshead's nature, heritage and culture. It's a nine-mile route for walking, cycling, running and exploring, linking the many attractions along the rivers Tyne and Derwent: St Mary's Heritage Centre, Gateshead Riverside Park, Dunston Staiths, the Metro Centre, the Land of Oak and Iron Heritage Centre, Nine Arches Viaduct, Thornley Woodland Centre and Gibside.
It's more than just a riverside route, though - it's a celebration of where we live - our heritage, our culture, our people, our communities and our nature, with a varied programme of events and activities for people of all ages.
Gateshead Council joined with local partners including the Tyne & Wear Building Preservation Trust, Northumbria University, Newcastle University and the National Trust to become Gateshead Riverside Partnership to develop the Tyne Derwent Way.
The partnership is working together with local communities to bring our heritage to life and create a green getaway we can all be proud of - and we can all be part of.
The project, funded by the UK Government, offers a programme of events and activities and is restoring, refurbishing and developing places for people to enjoy.
The impact of the project
- refurbishment of the sculptures in Gateshead Riverside Park
- forest school for families and young children to get to learn about and enjoy nature
- working to improve the safety and feel of Gateshead Riverside Park
- access onto Dunston Staiths and exploring ways for people to use and enjoy
- improved cycle paths from Dunston to the Metro Centre
- increased number of activities and events in the area to connect people.
- opportunities to meet people and get involved in your local area through specialist interest groups and volunteering
Supporting Gateshead's residents to thrive
Spending time outside and in nature is important for our health and wellbeing. The Tyne Derwent Way team is working to bring people together and improve habitats where a wealth of wildlife can thrive, whilst improving access for people to get out and about in nature.
The trail is open and everybody's welcome to enjoy it, experience it, love it and get involved in shaping it.
Clare Richardson, project manager for the Tyne Derwent Way said: "The Tyne Derwent Way project is all about celebrating the heritage, the nature and the culture alongside Gateshead's rivers.
"Gateshead communities really need access to beautiful green spaces and this project provides that and invites people from all over to come and enjoy Gateshead's beautiful riversides."
Find out more about The Tyne Derwent Way