Twilight at Ballast Hills: Stories along the Gravestone Path
between Albion Row and Ford Street, next to the former Ouseburn School building, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne & Wear, NE6 1LL
Join us for a special twilight visit to Ballast Hills Burial Ground, a hidden historic burial space in the Ouseburn Valley, Newcastle upon Tyne.
Used as a burial ground from the 1640s to 1853, Ballast Hills became the resting place of more than 40,000 people. This evening event offers an atmospheric way to experience the site at dusk, combining storytelling, reflection, memory, and informal conversation.
Project guides will be stationed along the pathway to share stories and information about the burial ground, its changing landscape, and some of the people connected with it. Visitors can move through the site at their own pace, stopping to talk with guides, ask questions, and reflect on the histories held within this important local place.
This is a chance to see Ballast Hills in a different light: as a place shaped by everyday lives, belief, loss, community, care, and continuing curiosity.
This event can be enjoyed on its own, but also forms part of a wider BHBG Heritage Open Days programme taking place throughout Saturday 19 September. Other events include Everyday Histories at Ballast Hills, 10:30–14:00; the Brinkburn Brewery Tours, 11:00–11:45, 12:00–12:45, and 13:00–13:45 (must pre-book); Explore Ballast Hills, 14:30–16:00; and Beneath This Ground, 16:00–17:00. Please check the Heritage Open Days schedule for full details and booking information.
Timings
- Saturday 19 September:
- 18:30-19:30
Location & directions
between Albion Row and Ford Street, next to the former Ouseburn School building, 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. Please wear suitable footwear and dress for the weather, as the ground can be uneven. The event will take place outdoors and light levels will be low by the end of the session.
