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Join us as we celebrate the region's iconic landmark on its 98th birthday!
The Tyne Bridge is an icon locally, nationally, and across the world, as a symbol of the region’s strength, pride, and industrial heritage.
The aim of the Tyne Bridge Day is to host a series of events which celebrate the cultural importance of this landmark, along with the part it has played in people’s lives for 100 years.
This day is even more special here at The Sunshine Fund, as we share the same birthday and our charity's origin dates all the way back to the opening of the famous bridge.
A tale as old as the Tyne...
In August 1925 - the Newcastle and Gateshead Joint Bridges Committee began construction of the Tyne Bridge, a bridge that would stand as a monument to engineering, as well as a representing a promise to local people of connection, opportunity, and regional progress.
On 10th October 1928 - the new Tyne Bridge was opened by King George V and Queen Mary, welcoming 20,000 school children and members of the public to the ceremony. The King and Queen recognised the challenges faced by local children and donated £15 to fund a seaside trip.
This simple act of generosity was the beginning of The Chronicle Sunshine Fund, which is why today, we are proud to introduce the first ever Tyne Bridge Day – an opportunity to celebrate the bridge as not only a local landmark, but as a symbol of regional pride, unity and community spirit.
Building Bridges - Morning Networking ⛅
Tuesday 6th October - 09:00 - 11:00 am | The Hilton Executive Lounge, Gateshead
Are you ready to build bridges and make new connections?
Join us in the Hilton Newcastle Executive Lounge for a morning of networking with panoramic views of the Tyne Bridge. This year’s Tyne Bridge celebration event brings together businesses from across the region to connect, collaborate, and celebrate one of our region’s most iconic landmarks.
Guests will hear a short, engaging overview of the Tyne Bridge’s history and its place in Newcastle’s civic story, along with an introduction to The Sunshine Fund - founded in 1928 when King George V opened the bridge and asked the Newcastle Chronicle to support local children. We’ll also share a little teaser of our ‘100 Years of Sunshine’ celebration planned for 2028.
Alongside heritage and skyline views, the event offers a relaxed, modern networking environment: open conversation, meaningful introductions, and space to build new relationships across sectors.
Whether you’re looking to expand your network, strengthen civic ties, or simply enjoy a morning overlooking the Tyne, this event is designed to bring the business community together while celebrating the word famous landmark.
There will also be the opportunity at the end of the event to enjoy a tour of the hotel and some of the rooms overlooking the Tyne Bridge.
Refreshments will be provided courtesy of Hilton Newcastle.
Talk of the Tyne - Walking Tour 🌞
Saturday 10th October - 10:00 - 11:30am | Newcastle Quayside
Is your Tyne Bridge knowledge a bit rusty?
Join us on the 98th anniversary of the Tyne Bridge opening for a relaxed, informative walking tour celebrating one of the North East’s most iconic landmarks. Hear stories of the bridge’s history, the people who built it, and the moments that have shaped the last 100 years.
This riveting quayside walk explores both Newcastle and Gateshead Quaysides and features some hidden viewpoints and lesser known spots that help tell the bridge’s story.
All proceeds support The Sunshine Fund, which began in 1928 when King George V visited Newcastle to open the Tyne Bridge and asked the Newcastle Chronicle to help local children. His donation funded a seaside trip for underprivileged children - the start of a charity that now supports children with disabilities across the region.
🎫 £10 per person – under 16s free (must be accompanied by an adult)
📌 Start: Newcastle City Marina, Quayside, NE1 1LF
🏁 Finish: Lombard Street, NE1 3AE
🚶🏻♂️ Distance: approx. 1.5 miles (with frequent stops)
👟 Terrain: Footpaths with some stepped areas - please wear suitable footwear.
💨 Limited capacity - early booking recommended
