Enjoy the Monumental view from top of city landmark

IT’S an outstanding spectacle and a truly unique experience to get a bird’s eye view of Newcastle City Centre.

Following a hiatus last year due to the Covid pandemic, Newcastle City Tours are starting up again this spring with availability to climb up Grey’s Monument.

Tours will run every month from April until October, with tickets made available online a month ahead of each date.

Groups of up to eight people can climb the 164 steps to the peak of the landmark and witness the breathtaking views overlooking Newcastle city centre.

The monument itself immortalises Charles Grey, the 2nd Earl Grey, who was the first British Prime Minister to hail from the region in the 1830s.

His government famously reformed the House of Commons and abolished slavery. In addition to this, Earl Grey’s name lends itself to the famous tea.

Bill Nicholson, one of the many knowledgeable Newcastle City guides, took us to the top of the iconic landmark and shared some interesting facts about its history.

“In 1941, lightning struck the monument and his head actually came off and fell to the ground,” Bill said. “And where the Eldon Garden pub is now, used to be a carpet shop.”

“The manager of the carpet shop came out, put all the bits of the head in the window and said, ‘Even Earl Grey comes down to see our prices’. It’s quite a nice little story to tell people.”

The first public opening is planned for April 2, although the lighting inside the Monument is undergoing repairs before it can reopen. Tickets for this date are due to go on sale as soon as repairs are scheduled.

If you want to make the climb up Grey’s Monument, it is advised you book as soon as tickets are available. They are often in high demand and sell out quickly.

Tours typically take around 30 minutes, with tickets costing £5 per person.

If you have a fear of confined spaces or a fear of heights, it is advised that you do not attempt the climb.

For up to date information and to book tours, go to https:// newcastlegateshead.com/events/ greys-monument-tours