Whickham

What does Whickham offer?

Discover the charming village of Whickham, nestled in the picturesque borough of Gateshead, UK. Steeped in history and surrounded by idyllic landscapes, Whickham offers a delightful retreat for those seeking the perfect blend of rural tranquillity and urban convenience. With its quaint shops, cosy pubs, and the beautiful Chase Park, this vibrant community provides the perfect setting for a leisurely day out or a peaceful weekend escape. Whickham's rich heritage can be traced back to its 12th-century church, St. Mary the Virgin, which still stands proudly at the heart of the village. The surrounding area boasts a wide array of attractions, including the famous Angel of the North and the stunning Gibside estate, complete with its grand Palladian chapel and sprawling gardens. Just a stone's throw away from bustling Newcastle upon Tyne and the magnificent Northumberland countryside, Whickham truly offers the best of both worlds.

Top attractions in Whickham

1. Chase Park: A picturesque green space offering a perfect setting for leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor activities. The park features a children's playground, well-maintained gardens, and hosts various community events throughout the year.

2. St Mary's Heritage Centre: Located in the former St Mary's Church, this historic gem showcases exhibitions celebrating the area's rich history, as well as hosting cultural events, workshops, and talks. A must-visit for history enthusiasts and heritage lovers.

3. Whickham Golf Club: A beautiful 18-hole golf course set amidst stunning scenery, offering a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. The club also boasts a welcoming clubhouse with a bar, catering facilities, and function rooms for events.

4. Path Head Water Mill: A fully restored working water mill, providing visitors with a fascinating insight into the milling process and the history of the site. The mill is surrounded by a tranquil woodland area, ideal for walks and wildlife spotting.

5. Whickham Library: A well-stocked public library offering a wide variety of books, resources, and activities for all ages. The library hosts regular events such as reading groups, children's activities, and author visits, making it a valuable community hub.

Best areas to live in Whickham

1. Front Street: Known for its charming character and traditional architecture, Front Street is the heart of Whickham village. With numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants, this location offers a fantastic blend of convenience and community spirit.

2. Oakfield Road: Boasting spacious houses and leafy surroundings, Oakfield Road is ideal for families seeking a quiet and green environment. This residential area is close to excellent schools, parks, and local amenities.

3. Elm Street: A highly sought-after location, Elm Street features a mix of modern and period properties. With easy access to public transport and major roads, it is perfect for commuters and families alike.

4. Fellside Road: Offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside, Fellside Road is a popular choice for those who appreciate natural beauty. This area is known for its large detached properties and close proximity to Whickham Golf Club.

5. The Grange: A prestigious development of exclusive homes, The Grange is an ideal location for those looking for luxury living. Set within landscaped gardens, these properties offer privacy and elegance in a tranquil setting.

6. Rectory Lane: Steeped in history, Rectory Lane is a picturesque area with a mix of period and modern properties. Its close proximity to St. Mary's Church and Whickham School makes it a popular choice for families.

7. Parkdale: A peaceful and attractive residential area, Parkdale is known for its well-maintained homes and gardens. With excellent schools nearby and easy access to local amenities, it is perfect for families.

8. Coronation Road: Featuring a variety of housing styles, Coronation Road is a popular choice for first-time buyers and young professionals. The area is well-connected to public transport and local amenities, making it a convenient option for residents.

9. Woodlands Park Drive: Nestled within a quiet, leafy neighbourhood, Woodlands Park Drive is an ideal location for those seeking a peaceful retreat. With a range of detached properties and bungalows, this area is perfect for those looking for a spacious home.

10. Birchwood Avenue: A popular choice for families and professionals, Birchwood Avenue is a well-established residential area with a mix of property styles. Its close proximity to schools, shops, and transport links makes it a highly desirable location in Whickham.

Best things about living in Whickham

1. Stunning Scenery and Nature: Whickham offers a picturesque environment with its lush green spaces, such as Chase Park and Watergate Forest Park, providing residents a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, engage in recreational activities, and appreciate the beauty of nature.

2. Rich History and Heritage: With its origins dating back to the Roman era, Whickham boasts numerous historical landmarks and sites, including the St. Mary's Church, Gibside Estate, and Birkheads Secret Gardens, allowing residents to immerse themselves in the area's fascinating past.

3. Excellent Transport Links: Situated just a few miles from Gateshead town centre and Newcastle upon Tyne, Whickham provides easy access to major roads and public transportation, including buses and the nearby Metro system, making it convenient for commuting and exploring the surrounding areas.

4. Vibrant Community and Events: The friendly and active community in Whickham organises various events and activities throughout the year, such as the Whickham Fair, charity events, and sports tournaments, fostering a strong sense of belonging and camaraderie among residents.

5. High-Quality Education and Schools: Whickham is home to several well-regarded schools, including Whickham School and Sports College and St. Mary's Roman Catholic Primary School, offering families excellent educational opportunities and a supportive learning environment for children.

Drawbacks to living in Whickham

1. Limited Public Transportation: The public transport options in Whickham are limited compared to larger cities in the UK, making it more difficult to travel to nearby towns or cities without a personal vehicle. This can be particularly inconvenient for those who rely on public transport for work or leisure activities.

2. Limited Employment Opportunities: As a small town, Whickham does not offer the same range and diversity of job opportunities as larger cities. Residents may need to commute to nearby cities such as Newcastle or Sunderland to access a wider variety of employment options, which can lead to increased travel time and expenses.

3. Lack of Cultural Attractions: Whickham has a limited number of cultural attractions and entertainment venues to offer its residents. Those seeking a vibrant arts scene, diverse dining options, and an array of museums, galleries, and theatres may find Whickham's offerings limited in comparison to larger urban areas.

4. Fewer Education Options: Whickham has a limited number of schools and educational institutions compared to larger cities. This may mean fewer choices for families with children or those seeking higher education, necessitating travel to nearby cities for a wider range of educational options.

5. Potential for Urban Sprawl: As Whickham is situated in close proximity to larger cities like Newcastle, there may be increasing pressure for development and expansion, which could lead to urban sprawl and the loss of local green spaces. This may impact the overall quality of life and community feel that residents currently enjoy.

Make better property decisions with Chimnie

Data technology & local insight to give you an edge

Chimnie

Chimnie helps you make better property decisions.

© 2024 Little Chimney Ltd. All rights reserved.