Land of Oak & Iron

29/08/2026

It's your last chance to grab a place on our Blacksmithing Workshops!

We've released the last time slot for you to learn heritage blacksmithing techniques, gaining confidence in the forge and coming out with your very own viking brooch.

Limited availability, slots go quick. Find out more on our website: https://landofoakandiron.org.uk/event-directory/blacksmithing-workshop-2-30pm-session/

28/08/2026

The Big Bike Revival is TOMORROW!

Thinking about cycling but not sure where to start? The Tyne Derwent Way is partnering with Bike Doctor Dave and the Big Bike Revival to help break down barriers to cycling and get more people moving.

Pop to the Heritage Centre between 10am - 1pm to find out more about getting yourself cycling, including details on Couch to 20k Cycling Programme taking place this autumn. You'll also be able to trial some e-bikes!

See you then 👋

27/08/2026

Only 6 tickets left already!

Is it too early to say 'Christmas'?

The answer miiiiiight be yes, but we still wanted you all to be able to nab a spot on our always popular Metal Embossing Workshop - this time making some fun decorations for the Christmas tree!

This two hour workshop is £36, price includes tuition, all materials and a lovely cuppa from the café. Spend a cozy crafty day with us!

Very limited places - so book soon or you might miss out!

Book here: https://landofoakandiron.org.uk/event-directory/christmas-embossing-workshop-2026/

26/08/2026

Dr Bike is rolling into the Heritage Centre tomorrow!

Part of an amazing initiative to get people back on their bikes and enjoy cycling.

Dr Bike offers free maintenance and safety checks to make sure cyclists in the Derwent Valley can keep pedalling.

They'll be here from 11am - 3pm for anyone who wants to use their free service or have a chat!

25/08/2026

Congratulations to Kaffeehaus Coffee Roasters on another award.
We’re proud to have this lovely family team as our coffee supplier in the cafe.
Did you know you can also buy from our shop to take home and brew yourself.

We're excited to share that we recently received another award for Best Independent Coffee Roaster 🙌 A big Thank You to everyone who keeps on supporting us. Every purchase, every review, every like, save and share helps spread the word and allows us to keep on doing what we love best - roasting delicious coffee and building meaningful relationships all the way from bean to cup - we wouldn't be here without you! 🫶

25/08/2026

The RSPB will be back at the Heritage Centre this Thursday!

As one of the largest wildlife charities in the UK, the RSPB work tirelessly to restore habitats and the populations of the birds and other wildlife that rely on them.

You can find them in our Courtyard, where you can discover fun facts about local wildlife and ask them all about the work they do, sign up to a membership or make a donation!

25/08/2026

Coming up on the next two Saturdays...

If you have a question or just want to know more about cycling, and maybe have a go on an e-bike, come to one of our drop-ins with Bike Doctor Dave.

Land of Oak & Iron Heritage Centre
Saturday 29 August
10am–1pm

Dunston Staiths, near the Staiths Café
Saturday 5 September
10am–1pm

While you're down by the Staiths, why not join us for our Dunston Staiths open day, 10am to 2pm?

Gateshead Council Tyne and Wear Building Preservation Trust Newcastle University North East National Trust The Staiths Cafe Land of Oak & Iron

24/08/2026

The Green Doctors are here today to help you create a more energy efficient home through their free advice service.

Groundwork NE & Cumbria’s team of friendly Green Doctors are energy efficiency experts, offering free, impartial advice to help you take control of your bills and save energy in the home.

Some of the reasons people ask for help are:
💚 Respiratory problems e.g. asthma or a persistent cough
💚 Struggling to pay energy bills
💚 Finding it hard to manage fuel debt
💚 Worrying about keeping warm or choosing between eating and heating
💚 Feeling that the home is cold, damp or draughty
💚 Wanting to reduce their carbon footprint

23/08/2026

This month we've already picked our Dog of the Month... our winner of Best in Show from Bark in the Park, Gemma!

We got an impartial judge from Bryson's Animal Rescue to pick which dog would get the prize, and like everyone else, she was charmed by Gemma and her big teddy bear personality.

We hope to see Gemma again soon - our staff (maybe including the one writing this...) would be more than happy to give her more scratches!

22/08/2026

Who loves chocolate?!
Fancy learning how to make it yourself under expert guidance of a chocolatier? Then grab your ticket quickly - last few spaces left.

Davenports Chocolates are running an adults workshop and one for the little ones too, so everyone can have a good time making delicious treats.

Book onto our adults workshop: https://landofoakandiron.org.uk/event-directory/chocolate-workshop/

Book onto our children's workshop: https://landofoakandiron.org.uk/event-directory/childrens-chocolate-making-workshop/