Looking for whats on Gateshead this autumn and winter? From spectacular circus entertainment and live music to contemporary art, famous landmarks and family-friendly attractions, there are plenty of Gateshead events and days out to enjoy between October and the New Year.
Located on the south bank of the River Tyne, directly across from Newcastle upon Tyne, Gateshead offers a fantastic mix of culture, entertainment and outdoor spaces. Whether you’re planning a family day out during Halloween half term, meeting friends for a concert or exploring the area as a visitor to the North East, there’s something for a wide range of interests.
One of the highlights this October is Gandeys K-Pop Dragon Circus Spooktacular, a Gandey World Class Production, arriving at the Metro Centre for an exciting run of performances during the school holidays. Gandey World Class Productions specializes in touring circus events across the UK.
Alongside the show, you’ll find music at The Glasshouse, exhibitions at BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art and plenty of places to explore along the Tyne.
Here’s your guide to what’s happening in Gateshead this autumn and winter, with ideas to help you plan your next visit.
Whats on Gateshead? Gandeys K-Pop Dragon Circus Spooktacular at the Metro Centre
If you’re searching for what’s on in Gateshead for families, make sure Gandeys K-Pop Dragon Circus Spooktacular is on your list.
Gandeys Circus brings its exciting Big Top production to the Metro Centre Coach Park from Saturday 24 October to Sunday 1 November 2026, making it a great option for families looking for entertainment during Halloween half term and to experience the full story behind Gandeys K-Pop Dragon Circus 2026.
This high-energy show combines circus skills, comedy, music and a magical dragon adventure.
Along the way, audiences can enjoy breathtaking circus acts from East and West, including motorbike riders performing inside the spectacular Globe of Death, a traditional Chinese Lion Dance and impressive big banner balancing. K-pop and Western pop music bring an energetic soundtrack to the action, creating an exciting fusion of contemporary music and international circus artistry.
The production is completely animal-free, featuring human performers only. With comedy, daring stunts and plenty of surprises, it offers something for children, teenagers and adults to enjoy together.
Gandeys K-Pop Dragon Circus Spooktacular: Event Details
- Location: Metro Centre Coach Park, Gateshead, NE11 9SY
- Dates: Saturday 24 October – Sunday 1 November 2026
- Weekend performances: 12 noon, 2:30pm and 5:30pm, except Sunday 1 November, when there is no 5:30pm show
- Half-term performances: 2:30pm and 5:30pm from Monday 26 to Friday 30 October, plus a 12 noon performance on Friday 30 October
- Ticket prices: Side £9.99, Circle £14.99, Grandstand £17.99, Ringside £25 and Premium Ringside £35
- Booking fee: £1.95 per ticket
- Family tickets: From £64 for two adults and two under-16s, or one adult and three under-16s, in the Grandstand
- Opening offer: All seats £9.99 for the 12 noon performance on Saturday 24 October, with a £4 supplement for Ringside
- Box office: Opens on site Wednesday 21 October, or call 07878 228403 or use the Gandeys Circus contact details for further enquiries
- Running time: Approximately two hours, including an interval
Children under two can attend free when sitting on a parent’s lap. Inside the Big Top, you’ll also find refreshments, including hot food, drinks, candy floss and popcorn.
If you’re planning a visit during half term, it’s worth checking availability and looking to sort tickets early, as popular performances can sell out and you may find the Gandeys Circus FAQ about tickets and timings helpful when planning.
Ready to book? This is your sign – Visit the Gandeys Gateshead show page for show information and booking details.
Live Music and Concerts at The Glasshouse
For music lovers searching for events in Gateshead, The Glasshouse International Centre for Music is one of the area’s standout venues.
Previously known as Sage Gateshead, the striking riverside building opened in 2004 and was renamed The Glasshouse in 2023. Designed by Foster and Partners, it has become an important destination for live music and cultural events in the North East.
Its programme covers a wide range of genres, including classical music, folk, jazz, rock, contemporary performances and family concerts. The venue is also home to Royal Northern Sinfonia, the region’s chamber orchestra.
With such a varied selection of events, there are opportunities to discover new artists, enjoy an evening of live music or plan a special night out with friends.
If you’re searching for a particular concert, check the venue’s official listings for dates, ticket information and performance times. The Glasshouse is also conveniently located on Gateshead Quays, making it easy to combine a concert with a riverside walk or a meal nearby.
Courtney Barnett will perform at The Glasshouse on October 14, 2026 and Alison Moyet will perform at The Glasshouse on October 15, 2026.
Art, Culture and Landmarks on Gateshead Quays
Gateshead has plenty to offer visitors interested in art, architecture and local culture.
BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art
Housed in a converted flour mill on the banks of the Tyne, BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art is a major destination for contemporary art. Since opening in 2002, it has welcomed visitors to explore changing exhibitions, creative projects and work by artists from around the world.
The Baltic Centre features drop-in family workshops and a popular Sensory Room.
General entry is free, although some special events may require booking. The building’s viewing areas also provide impressive views across the river and towards Newcastle upon Tyne. Visitors appreciate family-friendly amenities at Baltic Centre including picnic areas and baby change facilities.
Whether you’re interested in discovering new artists or simply want somewhere inspiring to explore, BALTIC is well worth including in your Gateshead plans.
Another option is Shipley Art Gallery which features craft displays and hands-on family activities.
Gateshead Millennium Bridge
A short walk from BALTIC is the famous Gateshead Millennium Bridge, linking Gateshead Quays with Newcastle’s Quayside.
The bridge opened in 2001 and is known for its distinctive tilting design, which allows boats to pass underneath. When it moves, its shape has earned it the nickname the “Blinking Eye”.
It’s a popular spot for photographs, particularly when the bridge and surrounding waterfront are illuminated in the evening. You can also use it to continue your visit across the river and explore Newcastle upon Tyne’s restaurants, bars and historic streets.
The Angel of the North and Saltwell Park
If you’d like to explore beyond the riverside, two of Gateshead’s best-known attractions offer a different kind of day out.
The Angel of the North
Designed by Antony Gormley, the Angel of the North is one of the North East’s most recognisable landmarks. The enormous steel sculpture stands 20 metres tall, with wings spanning 54 metres.
Completed in 1998, it overlooks the surrounding landscape near the A1 and A167. Visitors can stop to admire the sculpture, take photographs and appreciate its scale against the sky.
There is a small car park nearby, making it a straightforward stop for visitors exploring Gateshead by car, while those heading to the circus may want to review the Gandeys Circus terms and booking conditions in advance.
Saltwell Park
For a more relaxed outing, Saltwell Park is a beautiful Victorian green space known locally as the People’s Park. Covering around 55 acres, it features landscaped gardens, woodland areas, a boating lake and a maze.
It’s a lovely place for a family walk, a picnic or a peaceful break from shopping and sightseeing. The park also has a café in Saltwell Towers, making it easy to stop for refreshments during your visit.
Halloween and Christmas Events in Gateshead
Autumn brings plenty of seasonal entertainment to the area, especially for families planning activities during the October school holidays.
At the Metro Centre, The Wizarding World of Metrocentre is scheduled to run from 26 October to 1 November, with walkabout characters and wand-making activities on 30 and 31 October.
You could combine these Halloween activities with a performance of Gandeys K-Pop Dragon Circus Spooktacular for a full day of family entertainment. Remember to check the latest event information and show availability before travelling.
As November approaches, attention turns towards Christmas shopping and festive events. The Metro Centre is scheduled to host a Christmas Crafters Showcase from 23 November to 23 December, featuring handmade gifts from independent makers.
For seasonal concerts, keep an eye on The Glasshouse’s programme as its winter events are announced. From classical performances to contemporary music, there’s plenty of scope to plan a festive evening out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s on in Gateshead for children during October half term?
Families can enjoy Gandeys K-Pop Dragon Circus Spooktacular at the Metro Centre from 24 October to 1 November, alongside the shopping centre’s scheduled Halloween activities. BALTIC offers free general entry, while Saltwell Park is ideal for outdoor exploring.
Is Gandeys Circus coming to Gateshead?
Yes. Gandeys K-Pop Dragon Circus Spooktacular will be at the Metro Centre Coach Park from Saturday 24 October to Sunday 1 November 2026.
Visit the Gandeys tour dates page for more information and explore recent Gandeys Circus reviews and testimonials if you’d like to see what other families thought of the show.
What is there to do in Gateshead in winter?
Winter visitors can explore BALTIC, enjoy concerts at The Glasshouse, walk along Gateshead Quays or visit local parks and landmarks. Seasonal shopping events and live entertainment also make the area a great option for a winter day out.
Is Gateshead close to Newcastle upon Tyne?
Yes. Gateshead sits directly across the River Tyne from Newcastle upon Tyne, with the Millennium Bridge providing a pedestrian connection between Gateshead Quays and Newcastle’s Quayside.
Plan Your Gateshead Day Out
From live music and contemporary art to iconic landmarks and family entertainment, there’s plenty to discover when exploring what’s on in Gateshead this autumn and winter.
Whether you’re looking for a concert, planning a Halloween half-term activity or simply want to explore the North East, Gateshead offers a great mix of culture, entertainment and places to unwind.
For a memorable family experience this October, make Gandeys K-Pop Dragon Circus Spooktacular at the Metro Centre part of your plans.
Saturday 24 October – Sunday 1 November 2026
Metro Centre Coach Park, Gateshead, NE11 9SY
Bring the family, choose your preferred performance and get ready for a spectacular fusion of circus, music, comedy and dragon-inspired adventure beneath the Big Top.
Check the show details and book your tickets to enjoy Gandeys K-Pop Dragon Circus Spooktacular this Halloween half term.
