Onsite Exploration of Ballast Hills Burial Ground (BHBG)
Albion Row, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne & Wear, NE6 1LL
Ballast Hills Burial Ground (BHBG), in the Ouseburn Valley within the Byker Ward, is one of Newcastle’s oldest surviving nonconformist (dissenters’) burial spaces. Known for its affordable burial fees, it became the final resting place for many of the city’s working poor, including people of different faiths. In 1929, the gravestones were removed and re-laid to form the circular path seen today, while the bodies remain undisturbed, along with most of their stories. From about 1640 to 1853, an estimated 40,000 people were buried here, many from working-class, migrant, and dissenting communities. Together, their lives offer a vivid insight into the social history of the region.
Discover BHBG in three engaging ways: follow an explorer’s guide at your own pace to uncover hidden features and solve site challenges; chat with onsite guides for lively stories and recent research finds; and take part in hands-on activities that bring this historic burial ground to life.
Whether you prefer quiet reflection, personal discovery, or active participation, this event offers meaningful ways to connect with an overlooked part of Newcastle’s heritage. It works as a stand-alone experience, but also complements the earlier indoor BHBG activities: Paths Through the Past: Discovering Ballast Hills Burial Ground at 51 Lime Street (13:00 to 15:30), and Beneath This Ground, a moving performance of poetry and fiddle music inspired by the lives of those buried here (17:30 to 18:30).
Timings & Tours
- Saturday 13 September:
- 16:00–17:00
Location & directions
Albion Row, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne & Wear, NE6 1LL
- Directions:
- Currently, three designated entrance points exist to BHBG: 1) on Albion Row, 2) at the junction of Cross Street and Ford Street, and 3) on Quality Row, all of which provide level access.
- Contact on day:
- Myra Giesen
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
All under-18s must be accompanied by an adult. Attendees are advised to wear suitable footwear and avoid uneven pathways where possible. As the event takes place outdoors, please bring appropriate clothing. The event may be paused or cancelled in unsafe weather conditions.
