Saltwell Park
✨ Saltwell Park, one of the top 10 Victorian parks in the UK Today, I’m taking you to explore Saltwell Park, which is located in Gateshead, Newcastle. From Newcastle city centre, you can get there by bus or taxi. This park is perfect for spring outings. There’s a cherry blossom tree at one of the park’s entrances, and there’s also a huge green space where you can sit for a picnic. Everyone is welcome to “roll around” here—it’s really relaxing, haha, but remember to stay safe. The park is famous for the castle in Figure 2, which has its own story. Blending Gothic, Elizabethan, and French styles, it looks like a secret base for a small villain in a fairy tale. Many professional photographers stop here, and it’s especially photogenic on sunny days. Its builder, William Wailes, was no ordinary Victorian rich man, but a craftsman who perfected the art of glass. He started as a tea merchant but had an artist’s soul, with a passion for stained glass—he even went to Germany to further his studies. How popular was his glass workshop? At its peak, he had over 70 employees, and his work was even selected for the 1851 Great Exhibition in London! In 1860, Wailes bought the Saltwell Estate and built his dream artistic home. Though he was forced to sell it later due to financial difficulties, his dedication to art remains here forever. Art lovers shouldn’t miss this place—it hides an artistic dream too. The castle you see now serves as both a café and an art exhibition space. In the middle, there’s a stunning two-story stained glass screen designed by artist Bridget Jones. You can walk in, but note that the castle closes at 3 pm—other areas are open 24 hours. 📍 E Park Rd, Low Fell, Gateshead NE9 5AX #ExchangingSpring #UKInternationalStudents #UK #NewcastleUniversity #Newcastle #Britain #LifeinUK #StudyAbroad #StudyinUK #InternationalStudents