The Seeds of Change
Opposite Greggs, Quayside - by the river, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne & Wear, NE1 3DE
In the early 18th century the main layout of Newcastle had not changed significantly since the medieval period. It was a compact town within the medieval town walls. The only bridge across the river was still the medieval bridge lined with houses and shops. By the beginning of the 18th century Newcastle was the fourth largest town in England. The coal trade provided Newcastle with regular contact with London, despite the distance, and during the 18th century, Newcastle became increasingly culturally sophisticated. The town was a provincial centre not just for business but also for social and cultural activities for a wide hinterland. Various changes started to be made to the layout of the town which were the beginnings of its modernisation. These involved improved transport links as well as modern buildings in the fashionable classical style of the time. These were built as homes for the prosperous, fashionable shops for the increased range of consumer goods available, and civic and cultural facilities including a theatre. This was all evidence of the growing prosperity and sophistication of Newcastle’s inhabitants. This tour will explore some of these changes, using a 1788 map of Newcastle to guide us along our route. You will also hear about some of the cultural developments which took place in the 18th century and occasionally we will look forward to changes which were made in the early part of the 19th century.
Timings & Tours
- Wednesday 17 September:
- 14.30
Location & directions
Opposite Greggs, Quayside - by the river, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne & Wear, NE1 3DE
- Directions:
- Tour begins opposite Greggs, by the riverside on Newcastle Quayside, Finish at Charlotte Square
- 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/the-seeds-of-change-new-walk-free-tour-for-heritage-open-days-wa-tickets-1376396672499?aff=oddtdtcreator
- Booking opens:
- 01 Aug 2025 12:00 AM
- Booking closes:
- 16 Sep 2025 07:00 PM
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. The walk includes two steep slopes and some steps but there is an alternative route without steps.
Additional information
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. The British weather is notoriously changeable! There are also often steps to navigate.
- Max no of people per tour:
- 70
- Est. tour duration:
- 1 hour(s) 30 minute(s)
