Dating back to 1838, Grey’s Monument is a tall column with a statue of Earl Grey. The adjoining metro station, shopping center and entire area are named after this important leader. Climb the stairs inside the column to reach the viewing platform with panoramic views of the city center and the River Tyne.
Explore the space in the pedestrianized square surrounding the column. Various upscale boutiques line the plaza. Gaze up at the monument and take photos of your family beside it to illustrate its size. The monument was initially the center of a busy vehicle roundabout.
Sit on the monument’s wide base and watch people passing by for a glimpse into daily life in Newcastle. Listen to street performers in this charming area. Religious speakers and political activists also use this central square to broadcast their views. For excellent views during the summer, book a tour climbing the 164 steps spiraling up its interior.
Artist Edward Hodges Baily, who sculpted the statue at the top of the column, is also known for crafting the structure of Nelson’s Column in London. Learn about how a bolt of lightning knocked the statue’s head off in 1941. A new head was crafted to replace it.
As the sun goes down, capture photos of the changing colors of the sky as a backdrop for the column. Check the box office site online for dates when the stairs and viewing platform are open. Adults pay a small fee and kids over 5 years old pay half price. No toddlers are admitted. Since only eight people are permitted to enter at once, you may have to wait in line during popular times.
Read the plaques on each side of the base describing the political career of Charles Grey, 2nd Earl Grey. He played a major role in the 1832 Reform Act that changed the electoral system.
Encounter Grey’s Monument in the commercial area in the center of Newcastle. Ride the metro system to get to Monument Station, just beside the column. Nearby landmarks include Eldon Square, Theatre Royal and Laing Art Gallery.
