In an old flour mill next to the River Tyne stands the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, a facility that showcases modern works across many exhibitions. Events and activities cater to art lovers and families in this gallery, which is said to be the biggest of its kind in the world. Make your way through the large institution to understand the new trends and innovative ideas of the modern art scene.
Introduce the kids to the Explorer Guides, who will take them to the fun activities around the museum. The site hosts many regular events for children, such as Family Quest, which provides interesting information about contemporary art.
In the spirit of modernity, the museum has no permanent exhibits. Appreciate the complex contemporary visual displays ranging from huge international blockbusters to subtle pieces by local artists. Reflect on the absurdity of some of the works. Previous oddities have varied from optical illusions to a 76-foot-long (23-metre) truck filled with tiny objects.
Capture photos of the majestic building from across the water. Note how it retains the iconic lettering that spells Baltic Flour Mills. Reach the viewing platforms in the gallery for panoramas of the river and Newcastle-upon-Tyne to the north.
Dine at the Six rooftop restaurant, which serves lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. The BALTIC Kitchen is open in the day and serves excellent breakfasts and snacks. Peruse the various items in the gallery shop for quirky gift ideas.
Learn about the history of the intriguing building, which was completed in 1950. It closed as a mill in 1982 and was converted into an art gallery in 2002.
Visit the centre for free on any day between morning and late afternoon. Pay to park in the site’s parking spaces.
The BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art overlooks the Gateshead Millennium Bridge in the centre of the town. It is on the south bank of the River Tyne and near other attractions including Sage Gateshead, St. Ann’s Church and Live Theatre.
