Discover the 20 wonderful things to do in Newcastle with this handy guide. From art galleries to museums and its bridges, it's all here.
Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
If you haven't got Newcastle on your 'to visit' list then I'm telling you that you need to change it. It is a great city in the North East of England. It takes about three hours by train from London. Newcastle has a wide range of activities that attract individuals, couples, friends and families from all walks of life. While it has a reputation for its nightlife, it has something to offer to every visitor who comes here.
In other words, this city has a lot to offer, from beautiful Georgian buildings, medieval buildings, intriguing alleyways, cathedral/churches, museums, art galleries, entertainment and a very varied cuisine. Beyond the city centre you can easily enjoy nature, and not even by going into Northumberland or Durham because a short walk from the city centre is the famous Town Moor.
Newcastle is famous also for its seven bridges across the River Tyne; probably the most famous one being the Tyne Bridge. Don't forget to stroll along the Quayside which offers you views of Newcastle and Gateshead.
In random order this is the selection of the 20 wonderful things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne.
Walking along the Victoria Tunnel
Victoria Tunnel was originally built for the transportation of coal. The 3,900m tunnel will appeal to those who are interested in the history of the coal industry in general or just in the tunnel itself. The tunnel tour includes sonic and visual effects to create an immersive experience. The experience of walking through the tunnel might seem unusual to some, but it's great fun and provides an insight to the history of the coal industry in Newcastle.
Tip | Make sure to wear a jacket and comfortable shoes.
Explore the stunning St. Nicholas Cathedral
St Nicholas Cathedral was founded more than 1000 years ago. It is relatively small compared to other cathedrals in North East England. The cathedral offers you one of the best original exteriors and interiors that you can see today. Don't miss the beautiful stained glass and some impressive statues. If looking at the building from outside, remember to notice the cathedral's lantern tower standing at almost 197 feet tall. The tower was built in 1435.
You can climb the tower only in September when it is open to the public. The cathedral tower is only open in September to the general public. The tickets sell very fast so remember to check their official website from time to time for opening details.
Tips | Check on the Vampire Rabbit, an unusual ornament sitting above a rear door of Cathedral buildings. If you get out of the cathedral back door you can see it. Of course you can have tea and cake at its café after walking around the cathedral.
Strolling around quayside
Strolling around the Quayside is one of the best things to do in the city. There is so much to do and see in the Quayside, from the seven bridges across the River Tyne to the medieval timber-frame buildings and more modern structures. Two of the best historic buildings that can be seen while you stroll around are Bessie Surtee's House, a former merchant house, the Guildhall, housing a former merchant court, and the Cooperage, again a former merchant house.
This is a great opportunity for you to cross five out of the seven bridges across the River Tyne between Newcastle and Gateshead. Millennium Bridge, Tyne Bridge, Swing Bridge, High Level Bridge and Redheugh are the four bridges that you can choose to cross; my personal favourites are the High Level Bridge and Tyne Bridge.
After strolling from one place to another place, stop off for a coffee or bite to eat at one of the cafes or restaurants.
Tip | If you're coming on the weekend, Quayside Market takes place every Sunday between 9am and 4pm on Newcastle Quayside. You also can cross to Gateshead quayside and visit Baltic or see performances at the Sage Gateshead.
Walk around Jesmond Dene
Jesmond Dene is a beautiful nature area in Newcastle. It is a peaceful and tranquil place if you want to get away from your busy life and the hustle and bustle of the city centre. It was my first time to visit the Dene even though I have been to Newcastle many times and now live here. We had a great walk along the paths and across bridges, ending at the picturesque Jesmond Dene waterfall. This is a great area for picture taking whether on the bridge or near the waterfall itself. Not far from the bridge you can go to the ruined mill.
Jesmond Dene provides historical links to the19th century industrial development. Lord Armstrong, who owned the land, transformed the Dene by planting trees and shrubs, creating the waterfall, grotto and footpaths. The Armstrongs were given the Dene as a wedding gift.
Tips | Jesmond Food Market is held here twice a month, on the first and third Saturday. If your time permits you also can explore Armstrong Park and Heaton Park, both are easy to get to from Jesmond Dene.
Climb the spiral staircase in Grey's Monument
Grey's Monument is a striking monument and one of Newcastle's most famous landmarks. It is a meeting point for people of Newcastle and also a venue for events e.g. Christmas Market. The viewing deck is open every year in September during the Heritage Open Days. This is one of the main times when the public are allowed to climb the monument. The views from the top are stunning, especially over Grey Street, towards the Quayside, Gateshead and St. James Park.
Grey's Monument column stands at 134ft. The monument was built in 1838 and designed by the local architects John and Benjamin Green. It commemorates the passing in 1832 of a law to reform the UK parliament and elections. A spiral staircase leads to the viewing platform at the top of the monument.
Tips | Climb the monument to see the city views from the top. Check the latest update on tickets on NewcastleGateshead official website.
Go to Laing Art Gallery
Discover the works of famous painters from around the world. The Laing Art Gallery was built in 1901 and houses paintings, glassware, ceramics and sculptures from local and other artists. I particularly enjoyed looking at a Lowry oil painting hanging in the gallery cafe. Make sure to explore the gallery's ground and first floors, especially the Northern Spirit Gallery. Temporary exhibitions are on show from time to time. Check their official website online for details.
Discover modern art at the Biscuit Factory
Originally the Biscuit Factory art gallery was, as the name suggests, a biscuit factory and a former Victorian warehouse. Now it houses a gallery of contemporary paintings, jewellery, sculptures, prints, glassware and ceramics. It was opened in 2002. Biscuit Factory is the largest independent art, crafts and design gallery in the UK. All of the arts and crafts are displayed across two floors. During the year, there are four exhibitions held here and approximately 240 artists participate in the exhibitions. If you are not particularly into art, you can probably have brunch or afternoon tea at their excellent cafe.
Tip | Have your lunch or afternoon tea at the Factory Kitchen which is highly recommended.
See some arts at Hatton Gallery
Hatton Gallery is Newcastle University’s art gallery. It was founded in 1925 and is based in the University’s Fine Art Building. There are permanent and temporary exhibitions held in the gallery. For the temporary exhibitions you need to check their website to find out the latest exhibition. The gallery highlight is the Merzbarn which is the only surviving Merz construction by Kurt Schwitters. It was rescued from a barn near Elterwater in 1965 and is now permanently installed in the gallery.
Cross the magnificent Tyne Bridge
Perhaps the Tyne Bridge is the most popular landmark in Newcastle Upon Tyne. The bridge is most symbolic for the city identity.
A brief history about the Tyne Bridge. The bridge was opened on 10 October 1923 and designed by Mott, Hay and Anderson, an engineering firm. The two Art Deco towers were built of Cornish granite. Originally the towers were intended to be used as warehouses but the floors inside the towers were never completed.
This is brilliant architecture. It is standing handsomely across the River Tyne and connects Newcastle and Gateshead. I have been across and under the bridge many times to enjoy it and to take some photos of the bridge. It is also a perfect place to watch sunrise, sunset and view Newcastle itself.
Shopping and eating at Grainger Market
Wandering around in this Grade I listed covered market is a must when you travel to Newcastle. Grainger Market was opened in 1835. It is one of the few markets that remain in use for its original purpose. The market is home to more than a hundred small local vendors, selling flowers, jewellery, artisan bakeries, and groceries.
Strolling at Central Arcade
Central Arcade offers you a totally different ambiance and experience when you are shopping or browsing.
This Edwardian arcade is stunning. When you enter the arcade you immediately see the amazing original floor and wall tiles. This is one of the buildings that you should visit if you are into architecture photography. It is a beautiful structure. Don't miss having lunch at one of the cafes from local to international cuisine namely Cotè Brasserie, the Naked Deli and Cafe Andaluz. While you wander around, you should enjoy the beautiful architecture and imagine how little it has changed from when it first opened.
Fancy to see dinosaur, go to Great North Museum: Hancock
Want to see a real dinosaur? Great North Museum: Hancock was built in 1884 and is located on Barras Bridge. This is where you can explore and learn the history of Newcastle and its surrounding areas. The museum houses excellent exhibitions of natural history, ethnology and world cultures. Among its permanent exhibitions are Roman, Egyptian and Greek ancient artifacts. The life size dinosaur skeleton, a fully interactive model of Hadrian's Wall and a planetarium are things that you should explore.
Visit Discovery Museum
Discovery Museum is one of the biggest museums in the North East. It displays local history, including the Turbinia ship which you can see at the entrance lobby area. As one of leading centres of science, you can find and see examples of the engineering and science made and produced in Newcastle. This is a great place to learn and have fun because it gives you opportunities for hands-on experiences.
Learn the History of Newcastle at Newcastle Castle
The castle was an important fortress when it was first built in 1172. This is where the city got its name. The castle is open Mondays to Sundays. There is only a small section of the original castle remaining. What survives is the impressive castle keep and the Blackgate gateway. The castle itself is filled with exhibitions and information about the city's history. Climb up to the top of the tower to see the best views over the city and Quayside.
Tip | From the top of the castle keep is one of the best spots to see the Tyne Bridge and view the city from above.
Learn the history at Black Gate
Newcastle's Black Gate was built between 1247 and 1250 during the reign of King Henry III. It was the last addition to the medieval Castle defences. The name ‘Black Gate’ derives from Patrick Black, a London merchant who occupied the building in the first half of the 17th century. The Gate is a picturesque spot in the heart of old Newcastle. It is one of the most popular places for photography in the city. Now the Gate is open as a museum and education space.
More reading // One Day in Newcastle Itinerary
Wander in Ouseburn Valley
The Ouseburn Valley is located to the east of Newcastle city centre. The valley once saw the beginnings of the Industrial Revolution in Tyneside. It was a centre for heavy crafts and industries. Today, the valley is transformed into one of Newcastle's cultural hotspots and is famous for social venues including an arts centre. The factory buildings and warehouses now house bars, cafes and creative spaces. Explore the Biscuit Factory on the outskirts of the area, join a workshop at Ouseburn Farm, meet up for Victoria Tunnel Tours, bring your children to Seven Stories and after all this exercise you end up strolling for a pint of beer or a cup of coffee.
Tip | Stop for a beer at the Cluny and have the best view of the Quayside.
Watching a movie at Tyneside Cinema
This is an Art Deco building and is located five minutes walk from Grey's Monument. The building was designed by Dixon Scott. The décor of the foyer and landing on the first floor of the cinema is influenced by middle and far east designs. The cinema screens independent movies and also movies from across the world. It is a great place for meeting friends and at the same time having coffee, cake or lunch at one of the cafes in the building. This is the only news cinema that still operates and is used as a cinema.
Tip | Join free guided tours of the building every Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday at 11am.
More reading // What to do in Newcastle - A 3 days Itinerary
Visit Lit and Phil Society
Newcastle’s Lit and Phil Society is the largest independent library outside of London. It was founded 1793 by Reverend William Turner. The current library is housed in an impressive Greek Revival-style building. The library allows you to borrow any of the books if you are a member or you can come to read and look at the reference books. In total, there are 160,000 books in the library. Its interiors are stunning with books beautifully arranged on the shelves. In addition to borrowing books, there are lectures, poetry recitals and musical events.
Tip | The library offers free guided tours on the first Saturday and third Wednesday of each month. Combine your visit to the Lit and Phil Society with the Mining Institute.
Walk Along one of the Best UK Street, Grey Street
Grey Street, rebuilt and developed in the 1830s, was voted the best street in the UK by BBC listeners in 2014. Both sides of the street are filled with beautiful Georgian buildings with places to eat, cafes and a range of independent shops. The street starts at Mosley Street and ends at Grey's Monument. 40% of the structures located on the street are listed buildings of historical significance.
Sir John Betjeman said: "As for the curve of Grey Street, I shall never forget seeing it to perfection, traffic-less on a misty Sunday morning. Not even Regent Street, even old Regent Street London, can compare with that descending subtle curve."
Tour Newcastle Town Wall
The town wall was built in the 13th to 14th centuries to protect the town of Newcastle during the many battles between England and Scotland. It is approximately 3 km long, at least 2 metres thick, up to 7.6 metres high and originally had six main gates. The longest continuous section runs the length of Back Stowell Street, in the Chinatown area.
The Town Wall near Chinatown is the best part of the walls that still survives until today; the best other section is near to Newcastle Central Station.
More reading // Discover Newcastle: Things to Do and See
Other Activities
Here I suggest a few other activities you can do while you are in Newcastle, especially if you have some extra days. Or maybe you can squeeze one or two of them into your existing itinerary. Some of them can be enjoyed while you are walking from one place to another.
Hop on Hoff off | This is a day tour around the city. The tour departs from Central Station or at Bewick Street for a full circle tour. A double decker bus is used and it's best when you sit on the top to see the views of the city especially when the weather is good.
River Cruise | Don't miss this river cruise along the River Tyne. The cruise goes either to the mouth of the river where it meets the North Sea or heads under the seven bridges and up river.
Heritage Open Days | Heritage Open Days only happen in September. This is the time to visit rarely open places of attraction in the city. Some places require you to book before visiting.
Places to stay
There is a wide range of hotels in the city. I recommend that you do careful research before deciding on where to stay. Here are a few of the hotels that are located in the city and that you may like to check before travelling to Newcastle upon Tyne. Maldron Hotel, The Vermont Hotel and Hampton by Hilton are some of the options that you can find in Newcastle
Places to eat
There are hundreds of places to eat in the city from very traditional English restaurants to Asian restaurants. We have had lunch or dinner at the following restaurants and can recommend them.
Infusion 2018, Red Mezze, Bar Loco, Chilli Padi, the French Quarter, Zizzi, Kimchi Planet, Olive and Bean, Les Petits Choux, The Factory Cafe, the Blake's Coffee House, Tiny Tiny, Cotè Brasserie, Snackwallah, Siam Supreme, My Delhi, the Earl of Pitt Street, Mason + Rye, are highly recommended.
Getting to Newcastle upon Tyne
There are a few options to get to Newcastle. You can reach the city by flight, by train or by cruise ship. The mode of transport depends on the last location before you go to the city.
By flight. Newcastle upon Tyne is well connected via air and land transportations. Newcastle International Airport is the main airport in North East England. Emirates Airlines fly direct to Dubai; KLM fly direct to Amsterdam; British Airways and Lufthansa are full service airlines that fly to a wide range of major cities. Jet2, Ryanair, Easyjet, Logan Air and Flybe are budget airlines that connect Newcastle to different cities in the UK and in Europe. Newcastle International Airport has flights to and from more than 80 destinations.
Tip | Take the local train, the Metro, from the airport to Newcastle city centre. It only takes about 30 minutes and the cost is much less compared to an airport taxi or Uber.
By train. Newcastle Railway Station is a main intercity station. If you're travelling by train from other European countries via Eurostar, the city is well connected by train to London, with a journey time of about 3.5 hours. The journey time north to Edinburgh is just over 1.5 hours. Newcastle is also well connected to other cities in the north by train, such as York, Leeds, Manchester and Liverpool.
By cruise. A mini cruise service from Ijmuiden port in Amsterdam to Newcastle is operated by DFDS Seaways. The cruise operates 7 times a week if you prefer to take the cruise between Newcastle and Amsterdam.
Getting around Newcastle
Getting around Newcastle is very easy, making the city and surrounding areas very accessible by public transport.
Metro | The trains run from around 5am to 11.57pm for the Monument line and from around 5.30am to 11.09pm for the Airport line. You must buy your ticket in advance of any journey. Many stations on the Metro service, especially in the city centre, have ticket controlled access and exit barriers.
Bus | Stagecoach and Arriva are the two main bus service providers in the city. Buses run from around 6am to midnight. You should check each of the bus providers online because different locations and days have different start and end times. Tickets can be purchased on boarding the bus. Some operators have online websites and tickets can be bought in advance on these. Increasingly, you can pay for your ticket by credit card even as you are boarding the bus. Always check in advance. Remember too that some discount tickets such as dayrovers might only be available for certain hours.
Hop on hop off bus service | The tour bus starts at Berwick Street, Central Station and goes to East Quayside. In total there are eighteen stops on the tour and you can join at any of the stops. In winter months, the tour only operates on Saturdays and Sundays.
Concluding remarks on Newcastle trip
Newcastle is popular for its nightlife and most people come to this city for the weekend. The city has many things to offer to those who are first time visitors to the city, from the historical monuments to modern tourist spots to explore and enjoy.
Give yourself at least three full days to wander around this North East England city. You won't regret visiting Newcastle upon Tyne as it is one of most friendly cities in the UK. If you have extra days, make sure to explore the countryside or coast just outside the main city and its suburbs. As I live here, I've found out that there are lots of things to occupy my time and of course there's a great range of cafes and restaurants to rest and recuperate after the sightseeing. I hope I can encourage those who have been before and those who haven't yet to visit this city.
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