Delve into Stockton's history through a series of free heritage activities across Local History Month

The history of Stockton Town Centre is being brought back to life during May through a series of events to celebrate Local History Month.

Memories, stories and the changing face of the town will be celebrated in a series of events organised by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council's Townscape Heritage Project team.

The activities celebrating Stockton's rich history have been organised at both town centre venues and online to allow both residents and visitors to find out more about their community's past.

A series of guided walking tours of Stockton's High Street will take place on Thursday 12 May and Sunday 15 May. Those who are interested in taking part can discover the history of the town's buildings and hear about the people who lived and worked in the area.

There'll also be an informative online talk about the history of 148 High Street on Tuesday 10 May. This listed building is currently part of Stockton's retail scene but was once home to some of Stockton's prominent historical figures.

A new digital map of Stockton's Townscape has also been launched where the history of all of all buildings in the conservation area can be explored. It also shows historic maps and how the area has changed over time.

All activities during Local History Month will also include information about the work of the Townscape Heritage Project at the northern end of Stockton High Street and the future plans for Tennant Square.

The project is a five-year scheme that is joint-funded by the Council and the National Lottery Heritage Fund to improve the historic environment at the northern end of the High Street and to complement the ongoing regeneration work in the town centre.

Councillor Nigel Cooke, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Housing at Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, said: "This is a great project and a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the history of one of our towns.

"Who knows what you will find out about your local area? You may discover a relative you did not know about did something that changed Stockton for the better.

"The beauty is in not knowing what you will discover, there will be many local community secrets and facts to be proud of.

"With a range of free tours and activities taking place, it's the perfect way to uncover previous experiences about living and working in Stockton. Our town centres are undergoing huge transformational change and it's programmes like this that make sure that our treasured history is not forgotten."

What activities are taking place?

An online history of 148 High Street - Tuesday 10 May at 10am

Booking is essential. Reserve your place on the Eventbrite website.

A walking tour of Stockton High Street - Thursday 12 May 9.30am until 11.30am

A walking tour of Stockton High Street - Sunday 15 May 10am until 12noon

Spaces are extremely limited and booking is essential.

How do I find out more?

Visit Stockton Northern Gateway Townscape Heritage Project to get involved in Local History Month and to view the Townscape Map. 

Booking for the walking tours is essential. To book a place, email Eleanor.Blyth@stockton.gov.uk or call 01642 524442.

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