Eclipse on the Tyne FAQ

Everything you need to know before joining us for Eclipse on the Tyne. With thousands of visitors joining us for this sold-out event, we've gathered answers to our most frequently asked questions, including ticket information, solar eclipse glasses, arrival times, accessibility and what to expect on the day, to help you prepare for an unforgettable evening on Gateshead Quayside.

We’re looking forward to welcoming you to Eclipse on the Tyne for what promises to be a truly memorable evening celebrating one of nature’s most spectacular events.

With thousands of visitors joining us on Gateshead Quayside, we know you may have questions about what to expect, where to go and how to make the most of your experience. We’ve put together the answers to some of the most common queries below to help you plan your visit with confidence.

If you’re joining us for the eclipse, don’t forget to bring your ticket, collect your solar eclipse glasses and get ready to share this rare astronomical moment with fellow eclipse enthusiasts from across the North East and beyond.

Event

• Main event: 6pm–8pm
• Optional ticketed talk: 5pm
• Main event admission: Free
• Location: The Glasshouse and Baltic Square

Frequently asked questions

Why do I need a ticket for a free event?

Although Eclipse on the Tyne is completely free to attend, tickets help us safely manage the maximum capacity of Baltic Square, ensure everyone receives a free pair of certified eclipse glasses, and allow us to plan staffing and facilities for the event. This helps us provide the best possible experience for everyone attending.

What happens if it's cloudy?

The event will still go ahead. Alongside live commentary from Kielder Observatory astronomers, we'll be broadcasting the total solar eclipse live from Spain on the big screen, so there will still be plenty to enjoy.

What time should I arrive?

We recommend arriving in good time before the event starts at 6pm to allow time to collect your eclipse glasses and find your place in the viewing area. If you are attending Eeeclipse! The Talk, plan to arrive 15 minutes before the 5pm start.

Do I need to arrive at 6pm?

No. The main event begins at 6pm (with the talk at 5pm), but you don't need to arrive exactly then. The eclipse reaches its maximum at approximately 7.07pm, and you're welcome to arrive at any time before then. Ticket holders are free to come and go throughout the event.

Will there be queues?

As this is a large public event, there may be short waits to access some areas of The Glasshouse and Baltic Square while capacities are managed safely. We appreciate your patience and understanding as our team works to ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience.

Can I leave the viewing area and return?

Yes. If you have a valid event ticket, you may leave the viewing area and return during the event. Please keep your ticket with you or have your wristband ready to show the team, as it will be required for re-entry.

If I bring my own glasses, can I still attend the event?

While you're welcome to visit the Quayside on the day, access to the Eclipse on the Tyne viewing area in Baltic Square is by ticket only. The event has a maximum capacity of 2,500 people, so we cannot admit anyone without a valid ticket, even if they bring their own certified solar eclipse glasses.

Can I be added to a waiting list?

Due to demand, we are not operating a waiting list for this event. If any tickets become available through cancellations, we'll release them in a small additional ticket drop. We'll announce this in advance via email to those subscribed to our newsletter and on our social media channels, giving everyone a fair opportunity to secure any remaining tickets.

I have a ticket for Eeeclipse! The Talk. Does this also give me access to the eclipse viewing event?

Yes. If you have booked a ticket for Eeeclipse! The Talk, your ticket will also allow you entry to the main Eclipse on the Tyne viewing event afterwards. You do not need to book a separate ticket for the eclipse viewing. Please keep your ticket with you when moving from the talk into the main event area.

I couldn't get tickets because the website wasn't working. What happened?

The response to Eclipse on the Tyne far exceeded our expectations, with an exceptionally high number of people trying to book tickets at the same time. This unprecedented level of demand meant some visitors experienced delays while accessing the booking system, and all available tickets were allocated very quickly.

We're incredibly grateful for the enthusiasm shown for the event. Should any tickets become available through cancellations, we'll announce a further ticket release in advance via email to those subscribed to our newsletter and on our social media channels.

I haven't received my tickets yet. What should I do?

Due to the incredible response to Eclipse on the Tyne, our website experienced the highest volume of traffic it has ever received. As a result, there was a backlog of ticket confirmations and some tickets took up to 48 hours to arrive.

Our team is currently working through an unprecedented number of ticket enquiries and confirmation emails. We're doing everything we can to process these as quickly as possible and appreciate your patience while we work through the backlog.

For any queries relating to your ticket, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

I use a Hotmail, Outlook or Live email address. Why haven't I received my tickets?

We're aware of an issue affecting some @hotmail.com, @outlook.com, @live.com and other Microsoft email addresses, which may prevent tickets from being delivered.

If you've waited more than 48 hours and still haven't received your tickets, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., including the name used for the booking and the email address you used when registering. We'll be happy to help.

I need more tickets. Can I add to my booking?

Unfortunately, we're unable to add additional tickets to existing bookings.

If further tickets become available through cancellations, we'll release them in a small additional ticket drop. We'll announce this in advance on our website and social media channels, giving everyone a fair opportunity to book.

Can I share my eclipse glasses with someone else?

Your free eclipse glasses are provided as part of your ticket and are yours to keep. If someone in your group doesn't have a ticket, you may choose to share your glasses with them, but please remember that access to the designated event areas is managed separately and we can't guarantee entry for anyone without a valid ticket.

How do I collect my free eclipse glasses?

Every Eclipse on the Tyne ticket includes one free pair of certified solar eclipse glasses. Simply bring your event ticket to the collection kiosk at The Glasshouse on the day of the event, where you'll be able to collect your glasses before heading to Baltic Square. Your eclipse glasses are required to observe the eclipse safely and to access the designated viewing area. A total of 2,500 pairs of glasses are available, with one pair allocated to each ticket holder.

Is the event accessible?

Yes. Baltic Square and The Glasshouse are accessible venues. If you have specific accessibility requirements, please contact us in advance and we'll do our best to assist.

Can I bring children?

Absolutely. The event is designed to be family-friendly. Every person attending the viewing area will require a ticket, regardless of age.

Can I bring a pushchair?

Yes, although we recommend being mindful that the viewing area may become very busy.

Can I bring my dog?

Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome in the public outdoor areas of the Quayside. However, please be aware that Baltic Square is expected to be very busy, so you may wish to consider whether your dog will be comfortable in a crowded environment. Assistance dogs are, of course, welcome.

Can I photograph the eclipse?

Yes, but never look at or photograph the Sun through a camera, telescope or binoculars without the correct solar filter fitted to the front of the equipment. Doing so can damage your eyesight and your equipment.

Are there any talks taking place before the eclipse?

Yes. Before the main event begins, we're hosting a special ticketed talk at The Glasshouse to enhance your eclipse experience.

Eeeclipse! The Talk
5pm (approximately 45 minutes)

Discover the incredible science behind our nearest star, from its explosive activity and sunspots to how solar eclipses occur. It's perfect for anyone wanting to understand what they'll be witnessing later that evening.

Tickets for the talk are available now. They are not included with your free Eclipse on the Tyne ticket and must be booked separately.

Where can I watch the livestream?

The live broadcast of the total solar eclipse from Spain, provided by TimeandDate.com, will be shown on the large LED screen inside The Glasshouse and on the outdoor screen in Baltic Square. Our astronomers will provide live commentary throughout the event.

Will there be things to do before the eclipse?

Yes. From 6pm there will be a range of family-friendly activities inside The Glasshouse, alongside the live broadcast, astronomy commentary and music before the eclipse reaches its maximum.

Will there be food and drink available?

Yes. The Glasshouse and surrounding Quayside businesses will have food and drink available to purchase.

Are there toilets?

Yes. Toilet facilities will be available within The Glasshouse.

Can I bring a chair?

Yes. You're welcome to bring a folding chair, although we ask that you are considerate of other visitors and follow any instructions from event staff.

Can I travel by public transport?

Yes. We encourage visitors to use public transport where possible, as the Quayside is expected to be very busy on the day.

The Glasshouse is within walking distance of Gateshead Interchange and Newcastle Central Station, with frequent Metro, rail and bus connections serving the area.

Thanks to the Children Travel Free scheme, children aged 15 and under can travel free on local bus services across the North East, making it an even easier and more affordable option for families attending the event.

Please allow plenty of time for your journey, as roads and public transport are expected to be busier than usual.

Where should I park?

Use Gateshead Quays or Newcastle city centre car parks where possible. We recommend allowing extra time for travel, as the area is expected to be very busy.

I booked too many tickets or can no longer attend. What should I do?

If you no longer need some or all of your tickets, please let us know by completing our cancellation form. This allows us to redistribute eclipse glasses and, where possible, release any available tickets to others hoping to attend.

Cancel your tickets.

What if the event is cancelled?

The event will go ahead in all weather conditions. While we all hope for clear skies, there is plenty to enjoy even if cloud prevents us from seeing the eclipse directly, including live astronomy commentary, activities and the wider Eclipse on the Tyne experience.

In the very unlikely event that the event does need to be cancelled, we will contact all ticket holders directly with further information. If the cancellation affects Eeeclipse! The Talk, ticket holders will receive a full refund.

Can I donate to support Kielder Observatory?

Yes, thank you. Eclipse on the Tyne is a free event, but if you'd like to support our work, you can donate online, purchase raffle tickets or donate on the day.

Every donation helps us continue delivering inspiring astronomy experiences, support our education programmes in schools, engage with community groups across the UK, and run hundreds of events each year at Kielder Observatory and Twice Brewed Observatory.

What's the Eclipse Raffle?

Our Eclipse Raffle gives you the chance to win a SeeStar S30 Pro Total Eclipse Edition, generously donated by First Light Optics, along with a growing selection of other fantastic prizes. Raffle tickets cost just £1, with every ticket helping to support Kielder Observatory's charitable work and outreach programmes.

The raffle closes at 8pm on 31 August 2026, with the winner announced shortly afterwards.

Enter the Eclipse Raffle.

When is the next solar eclipse like this in the UK?

The 12 August 2026 eclipse will be the best visible from the UK for decades. The next eclipse of a similar magnitude visible from the UK won't occur until 2090, making this a truly special opportunity.