Gateshead’s newest heritage resource and visitor attraction opens its doors to the public on 16th December 2008.

Situated adjacent to the Sage Gateshead, Gateshead Heritage @ St Mary’s provides visitors with the opportunity to learn about Gateshead’s fascinating past from inside one of its most beautiful, historically important and interesting buildings.

St Mary’s Church was originally the heartbeat of Gateshead’s religious, political and social life.

Until the early 19th century St Mary’s was the only place where residents could get married, buried or baptised. Fittingly, it will now host a variety of resources for visitors to research their family history through Church records and census information. Gateshead Heritage @ St Mary’s will also host weekly family history surgeries for any members of the public that have reached a dead-end in their research.

Having survived wars, disease, assault by cannonball, four fires, a witch-burial and even a murder, the building itself has some tales to tell. Staff and volunteer guides will be leading a programme of tours of the building in 2009.

Originally attached to Gateshead’s very first school, St Mary’s is also an appropriate place for learning. Gateshead Heritage @ St Mary’s will provide a whole host of Educational opportunities for schools, adult learners and community groups to engage with Gateshead’s past in interesting and enjoyable ways.

There will also be a full and varied calendar of events throughout the year, ranging from concerts and performances to lectures and exhibitions.

Free to enter, and open from 10.00 – 4.00 Tuesday to Sunday, Gateshead Heritage @ St Mary’s looks forward to welcoming you soon. For more information and contact details please telephone 0191 433 4696