Brasilia of the North

In 1960, T Dan Smith became the Leader of Newcastle City Council. The 1961 and 1963 plans would demolish many of the city’s areas of old terraced housing and replace them with blocks of flats. These developments would be connected and supported by an expanded road system, giving priority to traffic movement and separating pedestrians onto walkways. At the same time, the plans sought to conserve historic areas such as Grainger Town. The plans proposed a range of inner-city motorways to bypass the core of the city centre. It also recommended an American-Style retail mall, the Civic Centre, and an Education Quarter comprising Newcastle University and Newcastle Polytechnic (now Northumbria University). Many of these plans were agreed and put in place.

Timings & Tours

Sunday 21 September:

14.30

Location & directions

Civic Centre, Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne & Wear, NE99 1PX

Directions:

Meet at Newcastle Civic Centre, Ceremonial Way

Contact on day:

Newcastle Association of City Guides

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking required

Booking conditions:

To attend our walks you need to be reasonably fit, prepared to be responsible for your own safety, and to supervise any children in your care. Appropriate clothing and footwear is recommended. A bottle of water, an umbrella and an extra layer wouldn't go amiss. Newcastle is an historic city with uneven pavements and narrow passages add to its unique character. There are also often steps to navigate.

Booking contact name:

Newcastle City Guides

Booking website:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/brasilia-of-the-north-free-tour-for-heritage-open-days-tickets-1376399681499?aff=oddtdtcreator

Booking opens:

01 Aug 2025 01:00 AM

Booking closes:

20 Sep 2025 12:00 AM

Accessibility details

Our walks take approximately 90 minutes, are you comfortable walking and standing for that length of time? If there’s any activity you are unable to do or if you have a concern, please contact us at [email protected] before booking. If you have any pre-medical conditions or injuries that may affect you walking or feel unwell during a walk, please let your Guide know.

Additional information

Max no of people per tour:

70

Est. tour duration:

1 hour(s) 30 minute(s)

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