Explore The Best Of Newcastle Upon Tyne With Our Travel Guide
Newcastle Upon Tyne is a vibrant and exciting city situated in the Northeast of England. The city is known for its rich history, fascinating culture, and lively atmosphere. Whether you’re visiting Newcastle Upon Tyne for the first time or you’re a seasoned traveler, our comprehensive travel guide has got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your trip.
Top Attractions and Hidden Gems
Newcastle Upon Tyne offers a range of top attractions and hidden gems for visitors to explore. Some of the must-visit sites include the iconic Angel of the North, the Newcastle Castle Keep, the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, and the Discovery Museum. For hidden gems, head to Grainger Market, a bustling indoor market that’s been in operation since the 1800s. Another must-visit spot is the Victoria Tunnel, an underground tunnel that was used during World War II.
Food Scene
Newcastle Upon Tyne has a thriving food scene with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from. Some of the top spots include The Broad Chare, a gastropub serving classic British dishes, and The Botanist, a restaurant and bar with a beautiful rooftop garden. For a budget-friendly option, head to The Quayside Market, which offers a range of street food options.
Outdoor Adventures
For those who love outdoor adventures, Newcastle Upon Tyne has plenty to offer. Take a walk along the Quayside, a picturesque riverside area with stunning views. You can also hike up to the top of the Angel of the North for panoramic views of the city. For something more adventurous, try your hand at rock climbing at Climb Newcastle or take a guided bike tour with Saddle Skedaddle.
Historical Landmarks
Newcastle Upon Tyne is home to many historical landmarks that are worth exploring. The Newcastle Castle Keep is a must-visit site, as it offers a fascinating insight into the city’s medieval history. You can also visit the Grainger Town area, which features stunning Georgian architecture, or take a trip to Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just outside the city.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy in Newcastle Upon Tyne. The Discovery Museum is a great spot for children, as it features interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. You can also take a trip to the Life Science Centre, which offers a range of educational exhibits and planetarium shows. For outdoor fun, head to the Jesmond Dene Park, a beautiful green space with a petting zoo and playgrounds.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, Newcastle Upon Tyne has plenty to offer. Take a tour of the Ouseburn Valley, a former industrial area that’s now a hub for creative industries. You can also visit the BALTIC 39, an artist studio complex that hosts exhibitions and events. For a unique experience, take a ghost tour of the city with Haunted City Tours.
Natural Wonders
Newcastle Upon Tyne is surrounded by natural wonders that are worth exploring. Take a trip to the Northumberland National Park, which features stunning landscapes and wildlife. You can also visit the Farne Islands, a group of islands off the coast of Northumberland that are home to colonies of seabirds and seals.
Vibrant Nightlife
Newcastle Upon Tyne is known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Some of the top spots include the O2 Academy, a popular music venue, and the Digital, a nightclub that hosts a range of events. For a more low-key night out, head to the Tyne Bar, a cozy pub with live music and a great beer garden.
Local Markets
Newcastle Upon Tyne has a range of local markets that are worth exploring. The Grainger Market is a popular spot for foodies, while the Quayside Market offers a range of artisanal products. The Jesmond Food Market is another must-visit spot, featuring a range of local and international foods.
Beaches and Mountains
Newcastle Upon Tyne is located close to both the beach and the mountains, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. You can take a trip to Tynemouth Beach, a popular spot for swimming and surfing, or head to the Northumberland coastline for stunning views. For mountain adventures, head to the North Pennines, an area of outstanding natural beauty with plenty of hiking trails.
Cultural Immersion
Newcastle Upon Tyne has a rich cultural heritage that’s worth exploring. You can visit the Seven Stories Museum, which celebrates the history of children’s literature, or take a trip to the Theatre Royal, a historic venue that hosts a range of shows and performances. For a taste of local culture, head to the Newcastle Quayside, which features a range of art galleries and exhibition spaces.
Art and Music Scene
Newcastle Upon Tyne has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of venues and galleries to explore. The BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art is a must-visit spot, featuring a range of exhibitions and installations. You can also catch a show at the Sage Gateshead, a world-class music venue that hosts a range of performances.
Walking Tours
Newcastle Upon Tyne is a great city to explore on foot, with plenty of walking tours on offer. You can take a guided tour of the city’s historic sites with Newcastle Tour Company, or explore the city’s street art scene with Street Art Tours Newcastle. For something more unusual, try a ghost tour with Haunted City Tours.
Architectural Marvels
Newcastle Upon Tyne is home to many architectural marvels that are worth exploring. The Sage Gateshead is a stunning contemporary building with a unique design, while the Tyne Bridge is an iconic landmark that’s been featured in many films and TV shows. For a taste of local history, head to the Grainger Town area, which features stunning Georgian architecture.
Historical Sites and Biking Routes
Newcastle Upon Tyne is a great city for history buffs and cyclists alike. You can visit the Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just outside the city, or take a trip to the Beamish Museum, an open-air museum that showcases life in the North East in the 19th and 20th centuries. For cycling enthusiasts, the Tyne and Wear Metrocycle Route offers a scenic ride along the River Tyne.
Wellness Retreats and Adventure Sports
Newcastle Upon Tyne offers a range of wellness retreats and adventure sports for visitors to enjoy. You can take a yoga class at The Yoga Station, a studio located in the heart of the city, or book a spa day at the Malmaison Newcastle. For adventure sports, head to the North Pennines for hiking and mountain biking, or try your hand at kayaking and paddleboarding on the River Tyne.
With so much to see and do in Newcastle Upon Tyne, it’s easy to see why the city is such a popular destination for travelers. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or outdoor adventures, our travel guide has got you covered. Start planning your trip today!