If you’re curious about what happens behind the curtain, the Glasshouse Tour offers an unforgettable peek into the world of live music and architectural brilliance.
What to Expect:
- Guided exploration through concert halls, rehearsal rooms, and backstage areas.
- Insights into architectural design, sophisticated acoustics, and insider stories from twenty years of performances.
- Historic revelations—from medieval monasteries and witch trials to the Great Fire of Gateshead.
Logistics:
- Duration: Around 90 minutes.
- Prices: £15 standard, £10 for members (log in to book).
- Start Time: Tours typically begin at 10:00 am, with the meeting point at the Box Office.
- Perks: Enjoy a 10% discount at the café and gift shop on the day of your visit.
- Private Group Tours: Available for groups of 10 or more at £15 per person, with optional food and drink packages.
Highlights: What Makes the Tour Special
Architectural & Acoustic Mastery
The Glasshouse, designed by Foster + Partners, envelopes three acoustically isolated structures within a glass-and-steel shell. This means no sound bleed between spaces, even when simultaneous events are happening inside. The main hall (Sage One) holds up to 1,640 seats and boasts adjustable panels and curtains to tailor the acoustics to different musical styles. Sage Two features a unique ten-sided layout—rare among performance venues.
Rich Musical Legacy
Home to the renowned Royal Northern Sinfonia, often hailed by The Guardian as “no better chamber orchestra in Britain,” the venue also welcomes global artists across genres—from classical and folk to indie, rock, and jazz. The building brings music to life for over two million people each year through live performances, community outreach, and digital programming.
Cultural & Historical Context
Tours weave in tales from centuries past—their riverside site has witnessed medieval monastic life, witch trials, and major fires long before the Glasshouse became a hub of creativity.
Convenient & Inclusive Access
- Getting There: A roughly 10-minute walk from Gateshead Metro or about 20 minutes from Newcastle Central Station .
- Accessibility: Fully step-free access, Changing Places toilets, assistance for D/deaf or disabled visitors, relaxed performances, ear defenders, pre-visit familiarization, and early seating options are all available.
Full Venue Experience
The building is open to the public daily. Beyond tours and gigs, visitors can enjoy cafés, a brasserie, shops, and sweeping views across the Tyne.
Why It’s a Must-Do
Whether you’re passionate about architecture, music, local history, or just love a good story—this tour delivers on all fronts. You’ll:
- Gain a rare backstage glimpse into one of the UK’s most architecturally and acoustically sophisticated venues.
- Walk through the spaces where orchestras rehearse, artists get ready, and soundscapes converge in perfect harmony.
- Discover the layers of history beneath a modern landmark that serves as both cultural beacon and community hub.
