High Bridge Works Heritage Display & Tour

Home to pioneers since 1767, 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.

In 2021 the building was re-branded 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 to innovators for centuries, and today it 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 Tuesday 15th and Wednesday 16th of September. 11am each day and limited to 12 spaces.

Timings

Tuesday 15 September:

11:00am - 11:45am

Wednesday 16 September:

11:00am - 11:45am

Location & directions

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

Directions:

We are situated on High Bridge, in-between Newcastle’s historic Grey Street and lively Bigg Market. The nearest public car park is opposite our front doors. There are four parking bays, and parking is limited to one hour. We are also close to local bus and Metro services. Our nearest Metro station is Monument Metro. High Bridge Works Reception is step-free. There are lifts to all floors. Please note that alongside the Heritage Open Days event we are running, the main art gallery is in change-over and there is not an exhibition on during this year's Heritage Open Days. There is a small exhibition in the Reception area.

Contact on day:

Peter

Telephone number:

+441912613820

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking preferred

Booking conditions:

To book your place, please e-mail [email protected] stating how many in your party, and your preferred date of Tuesday 15th or Wednesday 16th. Alternatively, telephone 0191 261 3830 to book your place.

Booking telephone number:

+441912613830

Booking email:

[email protected]

Booking opens:

01 Aug 2026 12:00 AM

Booking closes:

15 Sep 2026 12:00 AM

Additional information

Max number of people:

12

Estimated duration:

0 hour(s) 45 minute(s)

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