Interesting Facts

Middlesbrough experienced skyrocketing growth during the 1800s. A tiny village on the River Tees in 1800, the population grew to 100,000 in only 100 years thanks to the Industrial Revolution.
The Transporter Bridge near the center of town is the only operating bridge of its kind in England. Built in 1911, this bridge was once considered a feat of engineering, with a center panel that takes people and cars across the River Tees but moves out of the way when ships pass.
Middlesbrough was built during the Industrial Age, and this is evident in coalfields and factories that surround the city. Coal, steel and iron were the major businesses in the 19th and 20th centuries, but now the economy has shifted to the thriving chemical industry. This transition allowed the city to stay prosperous when others in the area experienced decline.
Billing itself as "The Gateway to Captain Cook Country," Middlesbrough is proud of its status as the birthplace of explorer Captain James Cook. An interactive museum takes visitors on a journey through his life, and the park outside features plants he discovered during his travels in the 18th century.
Middlesbrough is known for its bridges. The Newport Bridge, built in 1934, holds the distinction of being the first vertical lift bridge in England. The central portion rises, allowing ships to pass beneath. The entire structure lights up each night, making this landmark a great place for an evening stroll along the River Tees.
The Bottle of Notes is a city landmark, and is the UK's first piece of work from internationally acclaimed artists Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. The 36-foot bottle is crafted of steel swirled into script copied from Captain James Cook's journals.
A Day in the Town is a popular event held once a month, from May through September, in Victoria Gardens. Local groups, schools, and clubs try to outdo each other by putting on elaborate shows featuring music, drama, and art.
The Cleveland Shopping Centre is the largest mall in town. In addition to its variety of shops, boutiques and eateries, inside you'll find a replica of hometown hero Captain James Cook's ship, the Endeavor, hanging from the ceiling. You'll feel like an explorer as you follow Cook's adventures, mapped on the marble floor of the mall.
Everyone in town looks forward to the Middlesbrough Ice Festival, when an entire Christmas fairground is created in the center of town. Crafts, food and music are featured, but area kids (of all ages) particularly love the temporary ice rink created in Victoria Gardens.
BT Cellnet Riverside Stadium is a popular visitor attraction and a frequent gathering place for the citizens of Middlesbrough. This city loves its football, and they cheer the hometown heroes, The Boros, with spirited abandon. Game day is always an event that brings palpable excitement to town.