Tyne and Wear
About Tyne and Wear
Welcome to Tyne and Wear!
The county is largely urbanised, with a population of 1.14 million in 2021. After Newcastle, the largest settlements are the city of Sunderland, Gateshead, and South Shields. Nearly all of the county's settlements belong to the Tyneside or Wearside conurbations, the latter of which extends into County Durham. For local government purposes Tyne and Wear comprises five metropolitan boroughs: Gateshead, Newcastle upon Tyne, Sunderland, North Tyneside and South Tyneside. The borough councils collaborate through the North East Combined Authority, which also includes Durham County Council and Northumberland County Council. The county was created in 1974 from south-east Northumberland and north-east County Durham.
The most notable geographic features of the county are the River Tyne and River Wear, after which it is named and along which its major settlements developed. The county is also notable for its coastline to the North Sea in the east, which is characterised by tall limestone cliffs and wide beaches.
Our local community is full of vibrant groups and activities designed to connect people, reduce loneliness, and promote wellbeing.
What's On in Tyne and Wear
- Walk & Talk: Social walks to get active and meet new people.
- Mug Life: Coffee meet-ups and social chats in local cafes.
- The Parent Hive: Supportive sessions for parents to connect and share.
- Neuronauts: Creative workshops and activities for curious minds.
- The Lan Clan: Gaming and social events for all ages.
- Talent Trade Co.: Skills sharing and learning opportunities.
- Create & Connect: Arts, crafts, and social sessions to foster community.