Grey’s Monument in Newcastle’s Centre

Grey’s Monument is a monument in central Newcastle dedicated to the a former Prime Minister, 2nd Earl Grey, Charles Grey who served from November 1830 to July 1834. The famous Earl Grey tea was also named after him!

The monument was erected in 1838 only four short years after the prime minister’s time in parliament ended. These days the monument is grade 1 listed but it was originally erected to celebrate a new reform act. If the monument seems familiar then you would be right. Nelson’s Column in London’s Trafalgar Square was created by the same designer, Edward Hodges Bailey.

Grey’s Monument is open to the public. If you want a private tour some companies also provide private tours but they can cost a pretty penny! If you do decide to climb all 164 steps inside the column and you make it to the top. Maybe after taking a few breaks on the way up as the staircase is spiral! You will have fantastic panoramic views 40 meters above the ground to see of Newcastle as far as your eyes can see on the viewing platform.

Some Fun Facts about Grey’s Monument in Newcastle

• During World War II the head of the statue was believed to have been vandalized. But later it was discovered that it was actually knocked off by a bolt of lightning. This happened in 1941 and the monument was not fixed until 1948! That’s 7 years!
• Grey’s Monument is actually the focal point of the city centre in Newcastle.
• Grey’s Monument was used as a mini-roundabout in the past.
• Grey’s Monument is dedicated to Chalres Grey who was born in Alnwick in 1764.
• Town Moor and North Shields were other potential sites for Grey’s Monument before Newcastle city centre was picked.
• Grey’s Monument was opened in 1838 and Earl actually declined his invitation to be at the opening ceremony.