Find the perfect stay near Angel of the North

The Angel of the North is a massive contemporary sculpture that stands as a symbol of pride for the entire region. Standing 65 feet 7 inches tall with a wingspan of 177 feet, this steel giant is a sight that feels both grand and surprisingly friendly as it overlooks the passing traffic. It is a brilliant spot to stretch your legs and appreciate one of the most recognisable pieces of public art in the country. You will find that standing right at its feet gives a real sense of its incredible scale and the craftsmanship that went into building it.

Standing tall over the landscape in Gateshead, this massive steel structure has become a symbol of the North East of England. You can see it from miles away, making it a useful landmark to look out for whether you are driving or taking the train.

Exploring the art and architecture

The Angel of the North is one of the most talked-about pieces of public art in the UK. Designed by Antony Gormley, it stands 65 feet 7 inches high and has a wingspan of 177 feet, which is actually wider than a Boeing 747's wings. It is made from 200 tonnes of weathering steel, giving it a distinct rusty colour that helps it blend into the natural surroundings.

When you stand at the base, you can see how the wings are angled slightly forward by 3.5 degrees. This was done to give the figure a sense of embrace. The sculpture is anchored by a foundation that goes 66 feet underground, ensuring it stays upright even in very high winds.

Planning your visit and logistics

The site is an open public space, so you can walk right up to the feet of the sculpture at any time. There is no entry fee to visit the grounds. A small car park is located just a 2-minute walk from the base, and there are paved paths that make the area easy to navigate for everyone.

If you want to beat the crowds, arriving early in the morning is a good idea. The site is a popular spot for photography, especially during the "golden hour" just before sunset. You should check the official landmark site for up-to-date information regarding any seasonal maintenance or specific access updates.

History and the local landscape

Completed in 1998, the sculpture was built on the site of a former colliery, serving as a tribute to the coal miners who worked beneath the earth for centuries. It was intended to mark the transition from the industrial age to the information age.

While it faced some local opposition before it was built, it has since won numerous awards, including several for its structural engineering and design. It now serves as a welcoming figure for the hundreds of thousands of people who pass by it every day on the A1 road.

Finding your way around the Angel of the North is easy, as there are plenty of options for places to stay nearby. Reaching this massive sculpture is straightforward, ensuring you can spend more time enjoying the view and less time worrying about the post-trip commute.

Where to stay near the sculpture

Low Fell is a great choice if you want to be within a 2-mile radius of the site. This area offers a mix of traditional guesthouses and family-friendly hotels that put you close to local shops and green spaces. If you prefer a more central base, staying near the Gateshead Quays is a smart move. It is roughly 4 miles away and provides modern apartments and stylish hotels perfect for couples or solo travellers. Staying here means you are well-connected to the wider region while still being a short trip from the landmark.

Getting to the site

You can catch a frequent bus from Gateshead Interchange, which takes about 20 minutes to reach the stop near the sculpture. If you are arriving by train at Newcastle Central Station, a taxi ride will get you there in around 15 minutes. For those driving, there is a dedicated car park located just a 200-foot walk from the base of the statue.

Standing tall in Gateshead, the Angel of the North is a must-see, and Opodo makes finding nearby hotels simple. Our platform compares different stays to ensure you find the one that best suits your travel plans. Start your Gateshead trip today by finding your ideal stay.