High Bridge Works Heritage Display & Tour

High Bridge Works is located on the site of the original 18th century engineering works. The original works was demolished at the turn of the 20th Century, and architects Cackett & Burns designed the Ward’s Building which stands on the site today. From the late 19th Century to the 1960s the building was the premises of Ward's Printers. The printers published annual directories featuring the names and addresses of thousands of local businesses and establishments. These publications have become ideal historic records for future generations.

In 2021 the building was rebranded to honour the heritage of Watson’s High Bridge Works, which in the late 1800s employed 350 workers and specialised in manufacturing high pressure steam pumps and ships’ pumping machinery.

The site has been a home for engineering and innovation for centuries. And today is home to Newcastle Contemporary Art gallery and studios for artists and creative businesses including painters, film makers, designers, and architects, amongst others.

Pop in to read more about the history of the building in our display on the ground floor. Or to find out more, join one of our free public tours to hear more about the heritage of the site, and how it has changed over the years.

The building and history tour is on Wednesday 11th and Thursday 12th of September. Limited to 12 spaces.

Timings & Tours

Wednesday 11 September:

1100-1145

Thursday 12 September:

1100-1145

Location & directions

39 High Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne & Wear, NE1 1EW

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking required

Booking conditions:

The display of heritage open days material will be on show in the ground floor corridor for the duration of the HOD festival. Booking is required for tours only. To book, please email [email protected] to secure your place.

Booking contact name:

Peter

Booking telephone number:

+441912613830

Booking email:

[email protected]

Booking opens:

08 Aug 2024 12:00 AM

Booking closes:

11 Sep 2024 12:00 AM

Additional information

Max no of people per tour:

12

Est. tour duration:

0 hour(s) 45 minute(s)

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