Watergate Forest Park in Gateshead: Wat-er Gem
Watergate Forest Park in Gateshead just got even better! Watergate Café, a Community Interest Company (CIC), is now open in the football clubhouse near the top car park.
When I first heard about the café’s location, I expected it to be functional and practical. But photos and comments on social media soon piqued my interest. It looked innovative, quirky, warm, and interesting — we were eager to visit!
Outdoor Seating
Outside, bright and cheerful tables and chairs let visitors enjoy their treats in the fresh air, while watching children play or train on the fields.
Inside the Café
Inside, the space is fresh, bright, and full of character — really comfortable and welcoming. The furniture is eclectic and charming. Our table was a refurbished cable bobbin, and the children were intrigued by an old church pew by the counter. Many pieces were made or restored by GWK Woodshed, a social enterprise supporting long-term unemployed individuals, young people, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds by transforming timber into practical works of art.
The artwork on the walls reflects the café’s dog-friendly culture, dynamic style, and support of local business, with pieces by Whickham-based artist Leanne Warren and her LeapUp venture. Paintings can be purchased in-store or a custom pet portrait commissioned.
Food and Drinks
Lunch mainly consists of baked potatoes (£3.50) or toasties (£2.50), served with a tasty, healthy selection of salad on rustic tin plates. Hot drinks are served in similar hearty tin mugs. Cakes (£2), scones (£1.50), cupcakes (£1.50), and treats for humans and dogs are also available.
Being dog-friendly, pets on leads are welcome, and several well-behaved dogs were enjoying the café during our visit.
Community Focus
The café is a true community venture. Visitors can browse or purchase books for a small donation, and there’s a wide selection of activities for children, including storybooks, play kitchen, colouring supplies, craft materials, and more — all available for free.
The small shop area offers locally made products, such as:
Gateshead-inspired Powder Butterfly homeware
Treats for pets from Roar Pet Supplies
Canine fashions by The Eco Dog Design Company
Homemade pickles, chutneys, and jams from The Pickle Palace
Gifts by Emily Faulkner
Explore the Park
After lunch, we enjoyed the forest park. The paths are mostly flat, wide, and paved — ideal for buggies, bikes, and scooters. Children especially love “Scramble Mountain,” a small rock area perfect for exploring.
Nearby, the GWK Woodshed is well worth a visit for those interested in local crafts and community projects.
Opening Hours
Currently, the café is open from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm. Hours may change as the business establishes itself.
Final Thoughts
With the opening of Watergate Café CIC, our regular Sunday afternoon excursions just got even better. It’s a welcoming, community-focused space offering food, drink, and activities for all ages.
Check out other local initiatives like Thought Foundation, bringing the arts to Birtley, and the Gateway Studio Project, encouraging young people to dance, stay healthy, and be creative.
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