Angel of the North
The Angel of the North is an iconic iron sculpture completed in 1998 which is not only a symbol for the Tyne and Wear region, but one of the most recognisable landmarks in England.
Overlooking the A1 at Gateshead, at least 90,000 motorists a day often pass by the sculpture. Rail passengers travelling on the East Coast mainline from London to Edinburgh can also see the angel as they approach Newcastle.
The 208-tonne “Angel” takes the form of a human figure based on artist Antony Gormley's own body. At 20 metres high, the Angel is higher than a five-storey building. Its wings are 54 metres wide - almost the same as a jumbo jet.
Angel of the North Facts:
- Structure - It is made of weather resistant steel, containing copper, which forms a patina on the surface that mellows with age
- Foundation - Below the structure are massive concrete piles 22 metres deep anchoring it to the solid rock beneath
- Maintenance - The body is hollow to allow for internal inspections with an access door high up on a shoulder blade
- Regid - It is built to last for more than 100 years and withstand winds of more than 100 miles per hour
- Visits - It attracts more than 150,000 visitors a year
Plan your visit to the Angel of the North
The site is accessible by car and there is allocated parking for 15 vehicles. Situated just off the A1 motorway and A167, the site can reached easily from central Gateshead and the rest of the region. There is a special Angel bus service (number 21 and 22) operated to the site from Eldon Square Bus Station in Newcastle and Gatehead Interchange.
- Angel of the North Accommodation - view and book a wide choice of accommodation convenient for the Angel of the North.
- Angel of the North Website - more information and access details
