Lake tree walk in 150th year of Saltwell Park

Saltwell Park, a Grade II listed Victorian park designed by Edward Kemp in 1876, features a striking landscape of formal flowerbeds, mature trees, and a central boating lake, centered on the Gothic Saltwell Towers mansion. The 55-acre design balances formal and naturalistic elements, with a terraced “Broadwalk” offering panoramic views over the northern section.

Saltwell Park opened to the public in the summer of 1876. It was created on land once owned by renowned stained-glass manufacturer William Wailes who built Saltwell Towers between 1856 and 1862. Wailes sold the estate to Gateshead Borough Council in 1875 for £35,000. The aim was to create a recreational area for the town’s growing population. The park featured ornamental gardens and woodlands, a boating lake, bandstand and refreshment rooms. Despite being an industrial town, Gateshead wanted to be seen to value public health and green space.

Over the decades Saltwell Park acquired the name “The People’s Park”. It remains one of England’s finest examples of a Victorian public park. It was restored between 1999 and 2005 with National Lottery funding and reopened by Queen Elizabeth in 2005.

The Lake Walk starts at the entrance opposite the Little Theatre where there is a view to where Ravensworth Castle was located, a deliberate view designed by Edward Kemp. The walk will take in 16 trees of interest.

Timings

Saturday 19 September:

1100-1230

Location & directions

Saltwell Park, Saltwell View, Gateshead, Tyne & Wear, NE9 5AX

Directions:

Car parking available at NE9 6DT accessed at junction of Joicey Road and East Park Road. Accessible ten minute walk through park to starting point of walk at the main gate.

Contact on day:

Diane Ward

Telephone number:

+447801733399

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking required

Booking conditions:

Please pre-book via email or online.

Booking contact name:

Diane Ward

Booking email:

[email protected]

Booking website:

https://Www.friendsofsaltwellpark.co.uk

Booking opens:

01 Aug 2026 12:00 AM

Booking closes:

18 Sep 2026 12:00 AM

Additional information

Max number of people:

12

Estimated duration:

1 hour(s) 30 minute(s)

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