Enchanted Parks – Saltwell’s Secret Keeper

December 11, 2013 by Rachel Kershaw in Art and Culture 2

Wow…. I’ve just got home from Saltwell Park but I feel like I’ve returned from a fairy tale! I was at Gateshead’s famous Victorian Park for a very special event called ‘Enchanted Parks’. But what exactly is Enchanted Parks? Well I can only describe it is a magical, inspirational, fantastical winter walk!

There were mythical creatures called ‘Familiars’ guiding the way through singing trees, a clockwork forest, fields of fireflies and even a mechanical aviary!

Enchanted Parks is part of NewcastleGateshead’s Winter Festival and has been on the calendar of events since 2006, it has grown with each year  and around 20,000 people are expected to visit between 11 – 15 December 2013.

If you are one of them, I’ll try not and reveal too many of the surprises that Saltwell Park has in store for you but I will let you know that this year, the after dark adventure is also a search for a new generation of ‘Secret Keepers’! You see, the current Keeper of Saltwell’s Secret is due to retire and it is time for him to pass on the keys to people who he can trust to ensure the People’s Park remains an enchanted place. Will he choose you? 

I’m afraid my photos don’t do the event justice as it really is very dark, so if you’re lucky enough to have been please leave your comments below and help me spread the word about Enchanted Parks. If you haven’t booked yet then click here to check availability.

By Rachel Kershaw