72 hours in Newcastle: Discover England's Angel of the North

Newcastle upon Tyne, also referred to as Newcastle, is the gem of the North East of England which perches on the River Tyne. Its strong sense of identity is partly shaped by its industrial heritage, iconic landmarks like the Tyne Bridge and rowdy football stadium St. James’ Park and, of course, the charming Geordie accent. Its blend of tradition and modernity makes for a dynamic city, which also radiates a playful and youthful energy thanks to its large student population.

These days, Newcastle is a city that is often associated with great nightlife (hands up if you’ve ever seen Geordie Shore), and whilst this is true, buzzing bars and clubs are not the only thing this city has to offer. A thriving cultural and arts scene exists alongside an ever-expanding plethora of renowned independent eateries and gorgeous Georgian and Victorian architecture, meaning that by day you can be a cultural connoisseur and by night you can let loose and get down with the locals.

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Know Before You Go

Money

Newcastle’s official currency is the Pound (GBP). Whilst the UK can generally be a little expensive for visitors from other countries, the north of the UK is significantly cheaper than the south, especially compared to the capital, London. Most places will accept card and contactless payment, but it’s a good idea to keep some cash handy just in case.

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Public Transportation

Newcastle is extremely well connected, both within the city and externally. Newcastle International Airport offers direct flights to many European destinations, as well as a few in the Americas and North Africa, and once you have landed arriving in the city centre is easy as the metro runs to and from the airport from between 5 and 6am until midnight. In terms of getting around once you are in the city, the metro is the most efficient way to travel but there are some buses too. The metro even stops at Newcastle train station, which is conveniently located in the centre and provides a direct link to Durham in around 10 minutes as well as to Leeds, York and Edinburgh in under 1h30.

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Weather

The warm and friendly people of Newcastle more than make up for the often chilly climate. The northeastern city experiences four distinct seasons, and whilst during winter temperatures can drop to 1℃, during summer temperatures can reach a pleasant 20℃. Whatever the season, though, it’s best to pack an umbrella, just in case. You are in the UK, after all!

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Day 1: City Centre & The Quayside

To get a true sense of the city, we recommend that you explore the city centre on your first day. It is completely walkable yet packed with attractions and is also a beautiful place to meander through thanks to its stunning architecture. We would especially recommend a stroll down Grey Street, which, thanks to the gorgeous limestone buildings that curve elegantly away from Grey’s Monument, has a Bath-esque feel to it. From here you can swing by the Quayside to catch a glimpse of Newcastle’s seven bridges and enjoy a drink by the water.

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Newcastle Castle

Originally built in 1080AD under the reign of William the Conqueror, this Norman fortress conceals a wealth of history and is conveniently located in the city centre, overlooking the river. If you’re into British history, this one is for you! The castle’s initial purpose was to defend the northern English border against Scottish invasion, and it played a crucial role during the Scottish Wars of Independence before eventually falling into disrepair. At one point in the 19th century, it was even used as a police station and courthouse!

Explore the crumbly stone fortress and enter ancient passageways and chambers to find yourself transported back in time to medieval Newcastle. After all, it’s pretty cool to see the place which gave the city its name!

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Grey’s Monument

It’s pretty hard to miss! One of the most iconic monuments in Newcastle, Grey’s Monument stands proud in the centre of town, just off Grey Street and Northumberland Street (the main shopping area). The monument was built to commemorate Earl Grey, a local politician who was British Prime Minister from 1830-1834 and who passed the Reform Act of 1832, which widened voting eligibility. Fun fact – Earl Grey tea is also named after him! Grey’s monument really feels like the heart of the city. You will see people sitting on the steps relaxing or waiting to meet friends. If you fancy seeing the magnificent views stretching out over the city, you can book a monument tour and climb the 164 steps to the top of the tower between April and September.

Laing Art Gallery

First up from Newcastle’s huge variety of Art galleries and museums is a goodie. Enter Laing Art Gallery and you will encounter oil paintings, watercolours, Newcastle silverware, glassware and ceramics too. The Gallery houses pieces from the 18th century up to today, with its collection being internationally recognised. If art is your thing, you can spend a good few hours here soaking up the diverse exhibitions on offer. Oh, and it’s free!

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Life Centre

A great one for families. The Life Science Centre has been a hub for pioneering scientific research and education for over 20 years and is definitely worth a visit if you’re with curious-minded little ones. Let them run free through the ever-changing exhibitions, hands-on activities and events whilst they learn about topics such as space, the human body and undertake experiments. To get a real out of this world experience, visit the centre’s planetarium which never fails to amaze small and big kids alike!

Life isn’t just a science centre, though. It encases a whole village of attractions, including bars, nightclubs, and a space for concerts, screenings of major events and an ice rink in the winter, making it an important cultural centre in the city.

Lit and Phil Society

A bookworm’s dream, the Literary and Philosophical Society was founded in 1793 with the purpose of being a space for its members to enjoy discussion, experiments and lectures, an ethos that persists today. Its purpose-built library opened in 1825 and is now home to a collection of more than 170,000 books, making it the UK’s largest independent library outside of London.

Not only has this place got substance, she’s got style too! The building itself is a beautiful neoclassical construction with columns and a grand entrance leading to a spiral staircase which takes you to the main reading room. Some well-known names previously welcomed by the Lit & Phil include Oscar Wilde, E.M. Forster and Gertrude Bell. It’s open to all, so go and take a peek at the stunning architecture or dive into the swathes of knowledge and stories tucked away on those shelves.

Great North Museum: Hancock

This Natural History museum is located next door to Newcastle University’s main campus and boasts a ton of interesting exhibitions and galleries based on natural history, archaeology, geology and ethnography. If you are interested in local history, pay a visit to the Hadrian’s Wall Gallery as it is a great place to learn about why, when and how the wall was built. In case you didn’t know, Hadrian’s wall marked the northern boundary of the Roman Empire, making Newcastle a site of great historical interest. Whilst the museum itself is very impressive, even more so is their array of Roman artefacts including weapons, coins and wall markers which give us an idea of what Roman civilisation was like.

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Grainger Market

A real hidden gem of the city. This quirky little market is an absolute must see when you are exploring the city centre. Although it would be easy to completely miss the entrance doors, once you are inside prepare for a tantalising offer of local eateries, vintage clothes stores and grocery stalls set out in neat rows. Whether you are feeling like Indian street food, mac & cheese with customisable toppings or Greek souvlaki, rest assured that there will be something to tickle your tastebuds. A favourite haunt of many hungry students is Dumpling & Bun, where you can watch the chefs make your pork and cabbage dumplings and char siu buns right in front of you. This over 180 year old market has been a beloved part of local life since its opening and is showing no signs of slowing down. To learn more about the history of this iconic place, why not book a spot on the walking tour to Grainger Market and the Quayside here?

Chinatown

Located on the western side of the city, Newcastle’s Chinatown is an ideal destination to head over and check out while you’re in the centre. The area came to life in the 60s, when Chinese immigrants began to settle in the city. This hub of Chinese culture and cuisine is filled with shops, and is packed with great Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Thai and other Asian spots to grab some food. Why not pop over to Bubble Cha for a bubble tea to refuel yourself? If you are in the area, definitely take a look at the awesome Chinese Arch, too! It was constructed in 2005 near St. James’ park and marks the entrance to Chinatown.

St. James’ Park

If football is your thing, you will certainly already know what St. James’ Park is. Newcastle is a city that is fiercely proud of its footballing heritage and the stadium is just as much of a symbol of Newcastle as the Tyne Bridge and Grey’s Monument. A statue honouring Sir Bobby Robson, a much-loved local former manager of Newcastle F.C., stands proudly outside the grounds. If a game is on it’s the perfect opportunity to soak up the electric atmosphere, but if not you can book a stadium tour here. On game day expect to see the bars and pubs overflowing with the “Toon Army” wearing the legendary black and white striped shirts and to hear chants erupting from all corners of the city. It’s quite an experience!

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BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art

Housed in a converted flour mill, BALTIC sits on the south side of the Quayside and showcases an ever-changing calendar of exhibitions and activities. Make your way through 4 floors of exciting collections of contemporary visual art, created by both international and local artists, before heading up to the viewing deck which provides access to unbeaten views over the river and the cityscape. Once you’re all art-ed out, refuel with a coffee in the onsite café or, if you’re feeling a bit fancier, enjoy a meal overlooking the river at the Six BALTIC restaurant. The gift shop is worth a visit, too! Entrance to the gallery is completely free, making it a must-see whilst you’re exploring the city.

Bridges

What would the Quayside be without its seven bridges that connect the city centre to Gateshead, the town which neighbours the city on its south side? Of course, Tyne Bridge is the most iconic of all. Fun fact - it was designed by the same architects as the Sydney Harbour Bridge, so if you’re wondering why that arch looks familiar, you’re not going crazy! Next, the High Level Bridge, which is the oldest bridge on the river, was completed in 1849 and functions as a road and railway bridge. Just beside this, you have the red Swing Bridge, which is accessible to pedestrians and, as the name suggests, swings open horizontally to allow ships to pass through. Then you have the cool, young member of the family: the Millenium Bridge. It is a pedestrian and cyclist bridge built to commemorate the turn of the millennium and its sleek, curved structure tilts to let ships through. She’s got one more trick left up her sleeve too: at night it lights up in rainbow colours. How fun!

Where to Stay

Budget: Motel One Newcastle

Modern rooms within a 2 minute walk of the historic city centre.

Mid-range: INNSiDE by Meliá Newcastle

Well equipped rooms on the Quayside with a terrace, restaurant, fitness centre and bar.

Luxury: Malmaison Newcastle

Boutique-style rooms decorated in a dramatic style just metres from the Millenium bridge.

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Day 2: Ouseburn Valley & Jesmond

Ouseburn is Newcastle’s up-and-coming quirky neighbourhood, which you will find a short walk from the Quayside nestled in former industrial buildings and under bridges. The area is known for its art scene, so don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for some cool street art as you wander through its great selection of independent pubs, cafés and galleries. Once you’ve had your fill, we suggest that you head to Jesmond, a lovely leafy suburb and student area to grab some lunch and stop by the impressive Jesmond Dene park which follows the Ouseburn river.

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Northern Rye Bakery

Just one of the amazing places to eat in Ouseburn, Northern Rye is a small batch bakery which produces unbelievable viennoiserie, sandwiches, sourdough bread and coffee (and has vegan and veggie options too!). Very popular with the locals, expect to see a long queue on a Sunday morning stretching down the Ouseburn river. Quick tip, though: if you go just before closing time you can snatch some sweet treats on a 2 for 1 deal. Thank us later. There are too many smashing independent eateries worth visiting in Ouseburn, but some of our faves include Ernest Cafe Bar, Kiln and Gingerino’s.

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Victoria Tunnel

Another testament to Newcastle’s great industrial past is the Victoria Tunnel, the entrance to which lies in Ouseburn. Built in the 19th century and named after Queen Victoria, the waggonway stretches from Town Moor to the Tyne river and was used to transport coal from the Spital Tongues Colliery to the Quayside for export. If you want to dig up some history, why not book a tunnel tour to discover more about Newcastle’s proud industrial past?

In 1939 the tunnel was converted into an air raid shelter to protect local citizens during WWII. Listen to the stories of those who lived through this period and hear the air raid siren to get a real sense of what life was like less than 100 years ago. Rumour has it there have also been ghost sightings in this tunnel, so keep an eye out!

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Ouseburn Farm Charity

As you’re walking through Ouseburn, you will more than likely stumble across the Ouseburn Farm, a charity which has had an enormous positive impact on the local community. Through interactions with animals in a natural setting, a plethora of workshops and events and education programs, the charity is a real cornerstone of the community and aims to promote community involvement and education about sustainability. Visit the goats or make a pit stop in Cafe Beam for some delicious, homegrown food.

The Biscuit Factory Art Gallery

At the top end of Ouseburn you will find the Biscuit Factory Art Gallery. Housed in a former (you guessed it) Victorian biscuit manufacturing building, this bright and characterful independent art gallery showcases and sells original paintings, handmade prints, glass, ceramics, textiles, photography, furniture, design led homewares and jewellery. Upstairs you will find a bright exhibition space whilst downstairs a number of artists’ studios have recently been developed, making room for 25 creative work spaces. So, the only biscuits you’ll find here are in the gorgeously decorated café, which serves great brunch options, nibbles and afternoon tea.

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West Jesmond & Osborne Road

Running right through the heart of the vibrant suburb of Jesmond, Osborne Road is a buzzy road with a lively social scene which is lined with popular student bars, restaurants and hotels. Head down the adjacent Acorn Road in West Jesmond to find cute boutique shops and cafés. The area has a large population of students and young professionals given its proximity to the city’s two universities and city centre, but it is also a lovely area to explore and visit to soak up the chilled vibes.

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Town Moor & Exhibition Park

When someone says Newcastle, you may not immediately think of vast green spaces but in fact the city has a vast array of lush parks, moors and countryside, which contribute to the quality of life and friendly aspect of the city. Located just beside the Newcastle University campus, Exhibition Park is a tranquil space with a small lake at its centre. It is also home to Wylam Brewery, which operates as an events venue and sells a variety of craft beers, so you can grab a cold one and take in the scenery. Just behind Exhibition park lies Town Moor. Famous for its cows, the moor is a vast space which is popular with runners and furry friends alike. Go and wave hello to them - they’re friendly, we promise!

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Jesmond Food Market

A real treat for foodies. Tucked away in the heart of Jesmond Dene, every first and third Saturday of the month from 10am until 3pm local food businesses gather on the beautiful Armstrong Bridge to create a relaxed market filled with an irresistible offering of sweet and savoury bites. The selection of stalls changes weekly, but some familiar favourites include the Geordie Banger Co., Pink Lane Bakery, North Shore Coffee and The Little Bao Bar - be sure to check these out! Be the main character and grab a croissant and a coffee before going on a walk through the park. So wholesome.

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Jesmond Dene

Nestled away a stone’s throw from Osborne Road, Jesmond Dene offers a breath of fresh air in the often hectic rhythm of city life. Once in the quiet company of the trees, you wouldn’t think that you were just minutes away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Amble through the never ending maze of meandering paths or follow the river up to the picturesque waterfall at the top of the park and have a picnic. Originally the private estate of Lord Armstrong, the industrialist and philanthropist transformed the space into a stunning park where everyone could benefit from the calmness of nature. The park is also home to a petting zoo, where you can see animals like peacocks, rabbits and goats!

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Where to Stay

Budget: Osborne Hotel

Simply decorated rooms with an Italian restaurant situated a 5 minute walk away from Jesmond Dene.

Mid-range: 91 Aparthotel Jesmond Road

Well-equipped studios on the South side of Jesmond.

Luxury: Jesmond Dene House

Luxury rooms in a grand house in a park setting, with an award-winning restaurant and stylish lounge area.

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Day 3: Tynemouth & Whitley Bay

Spend your third day in these charming neighbouring coastal towns. Whilst we can’t promise tropical weather, we can promise stunning award-winning beaches, historical landmarks and a true laid-back English seaside atmosphere. If you don’t have use of a car, a 20/25 minute journey on the metro is all it takes to be on the coast, so it really couldn’t be easier!

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Tynemouth Market

We weren’t lying when we said Newcastle has lots of charming markets! Tynemouth market is housed in a historic Grade II listed Victorian railway station, which also happens to be the metro station, so you don’t have to look far to find it. Here you really will find a bit of everything - think arts, crafts, bric-a-brac, antiques, collectibles and food sold by local artisans and vendors. This combined with the elegant backdrop of the station makes for a truly atmospheric shopping experience. The market takes place every Saturday and Sunday from 9am until 3:30pm, perfect for a quick browse before heading to the beach.

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Tynemouth Priory & Castle

Be prepared for rich heritage and dramatic panoramic views over the North Sea when you visit Tynemouth Priory. With its over 2000 year history, this site really has seen it all. With ticket access you will be able to explore the ruins of the Priory and the remains of its cloisters and church, which are the centrepiece of the site. You will also be transported through the site’s rich history, from its beginnings as an Iron Age settlement to its use as an Anglo Saxon monastery, as a royal residence and as a military stronghold. Once one of the largest fortified areas in England, the priory and castle still stand proud on the rocky headland and provide a fascinating insight into the area’s past.

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Riley’s Fish Shack

If you’re in the mood for some local fare, a trip to the renowned Riley’s Fish Shack is an absolute must whilst you’re on the coast. Sat right on the shores of King Edward’s Bay, in two converted shipping containers, expect honest and rustic yet delicious fare. All of their fish is sourced sustainably from local day boats, meaning that the menu is generally seasonal, and with the restaurant located right on the beach, you couldn’t get much fresher fish! Sit al fresco and enjoy chargrilled lobster, surf & turf, monkfish and other offerings whilst you take in the sea air. Unsurprisingly, the eatery is not a very well kept secret and so it’s worth booking in advance to secure a spot.

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Longsands Beach, Whitley Bay Beach & King Edward’s Bay

Stretches of golden sand characterise Longsands Beach, which is the perfect place for a beach walk, to have a picnic or to play beach games. Longsands is also a surfing hotspot and the beach is home to a surf school, so if you’re a thrillseeker this is the perfect place to hop on a board and ride some waves. Neighbouring Longsands is King Edward’s Bay, a more secluded cove which is ideal for sunbathing and swimming. Finally, slightly further north is Whitley Bay Beach, which offers another stretch of stunning sandy coastline and is in close proximity to the centre of Whitley Bay and all local amenities. You can easily walk from King Edward’s Bay up to Whitley Bay Beach and tie in all three beaches in about an hour if you want to burn off your fish and chips!

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Rising Sun Country Park

Offering a peaceful and tranquil escape from the city, Rising Sun Country Park consists of 400 acres of natural beauty, including woodlands, meadows, ponds and wetlands. This lush green space offers many walking and cycling trails, a children’s farm, visitor centre and picnic and barbecue areas and can be found to the north east of the city. The perfect opportunity to fill your lungs with some fresh air and enjoy the great outdoors.

Where to Stay

Budget: The Chedburgh

Rooms in a 3-star B&B in Whitley Bay with private and shared bathrooms.

Mid-range: The Metropolitan Guest House

Contemporary accommodation a 5 minute walk away from Whitley Bay centre.

Luxury: York House Hotel

A Gold-Award winning family-run guesthouse located in the centre of Whitley Bay.