The 22 best things to do in Newcastle that you need to know, whatever your budget
The 22 best things to do in Newcastle that you need to know, whatever your budget
When it comes to exploring a new city, it can be difficult to navigate the vast amount of venues and activities on offer. Even if you’re a returning visitor to a beautiful serviced apartment in Newcastle, it’s always refreshing to discover new places to see and explore - making your trip that little bit more exciting. To help you get started for your next Newcastle adventure, we’ve put together a list of 22 places and things to see and do in the city.
The Beamish Living Museum of the North
Located in Beamish is an open-air museum perfect for experiencing an authentic ‘step into the past’. You’ll be able to discover what life was like during the 1900s by walking around the faithfully recreated streets of the Victorian era. With the ability to book online and available on-site parking, this museum promises a sensational day trip out for all the family.
Gateshead Millennium Bridge
The Gateshead Millennium Bridge is an architectural masterpiece that spans the River Tyne. Costing over £22 million to build, this Newcastle monument is worth a visit just to see the bridge performing its impressive tilt!
Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art
As one of the most distinctive buildings in Newcastle, you’re sure not to miss the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art. With the famous text – ‘Baltic Flour Mills’ - written across its front, you’ll know you’re in the right area when you see it! The Baltic is an experience that engages you as soon as you walk through the door. With many floors to explore, you’ll be awe-inspired by the art inside.
Angel of the North
With easy access from the A1 and a convenient car park, the Angel of the North is one of the most famous and easy-to-visit landmarks in Newcastle. A steel sculpture that stands at 20 metres tall with a wingspan of 54 metres, it’s no wonder you can see the angel from miles around.
Live Theatre
Formally known as Live Theatre Company, Live Theatre is a new writing theatre and company based in Newcastle. Located on Newcastle’s Quayside, this theatre really is a hidden gem. With an abundance of outstanding shows and fabulous live musical performances, you’re sure to find something spectacular to see at this impressive theatre.
The Biscuit Factory
Disclaimer: If you got excited at the prospect of learning about history while eating biscuits, I’m afraid this is quite the opposite! Although located inside an old biscuit factory, The Biscuit Factory is in fact a design gallery full of art and craft displays. However, don’t be too disheartened as there is a delicious café to indulge in. Furthermore, the café does indeed serve biscuits!
Tyneside Cinema
For a cinema experience unlike anything else, Tyneside Cinema is the place to go. With a café that serves a delicious brunch menu and even better full English breakfast, you can enjoy food with a movie in style.
St James’ park
To all the football lovers out there, St. James’ Park is for you. Incredible tours of the stadium are available - for 90 minutes you’ll be shown around the stadium and you will learn about its fascinating past. You can even take a rooftop tour and look out across the stadium grounds.
Great North Museum: Hancock
Established in 1884 and formerly known as Hancock Museum, in 2006 the museum merged with Newcastle University’s Hatton Gallery to become what it’s known as today. With many galleries ranging from natural history to ancient history, there is plenty to learn about at this establishment.
Newcastle Castle
Built on the site of the fortress that gave the city its name is Newcastle Castle. Explore the castle’s grounds including the infamous castle dungeons. As many believe that the castle is the highlight of the city, the castle alone is worth a trip to Newcastle.
Newcastle tours
With a wide range of tours available to choose from, any tour you take around Newcastle is a great way to explore the city. From walking history tours to the ultimate cheese and wine tour, there are endless amounts to see and discover throughout the city.
Victoria Tunnel
The Victoria Tunnel offers a guided tour of a preserved WW2 air-raid shelter and a 19th-century old coal wagonway. With the attraction being so busy, pre-booking is key to ensure you get in. Perfect for a family day out, you’ll discover all the history that awaits you inside.
Grainger Market
With over 100 shops to explore, Grainger Market is a traditional-style market built in 1835 and is a grade 1 listed building. Not only are there some superb shops to get lost in, but there are also plenty of delicious eateries to try out too. With something for everyone, this is an easy venue to get all the family involved in.
Grey Street
If you love to see some local architecturally impressive buildings then Grey Street in Newcastle is the place to start. Nearly every building on the road is beautiful and, together, the buildings appear to fit in an elaborate puzzle. With the Theatre Royal at its centre, Grey street is a must-see during your stay in Newcastle.
Life Science Centre
Whether as part of a day trip to Newcastle or a family trip away, the Life Science Centre is a great place to let the children enjoy science and learn new things. With exhibitions that are frequently updated, no matter how often you go you’ll be able to see something different each time.
Newcastle Cathedral
If you want to truly understand the history behind the city, then the Cathedral is an unmissable opportunity. With grand architecture inside and out, the cathedral is ideal for budding photographers to practice their skills. Furthermore, the Cathedral is completely free, meaning you can take your family for the day and not have to spend a penny.
Whitley Bay
For a day at the beach and boutique coffee shop in (sometimes!) glorious weather, Whitley Bay is a top choice. Plenty of activities for the family to get involved with like canoeing and rafting abound, meaning the day will fly by. With stunning restaurants lining its streets and a beautiful waterfront, you are sure to treasure your visit.
Barbour Factory Store
If you love a good bargain and a lot of shopping, get excited about the Barbour Store. Filled to the brim with Barbour branded items, from the latest styles to heavily discounted designs from previous collections. No matter what the season, it’s never too early to buy discounted clothes.
Tynemouth
From surfing on the beach to shopping in Tynemouth Markets, Tynemouth has it all. Not only is it full of activities but there are delightful places to eat too. With some of the best fish and chips around, Riley’s fish shack is perfect for good grub to accompany fun on the beach.
Intu Eldon Square
It’s always useful to know where a great shopping location is, just in case you need to shop on-the-go! The Intu Eldon Square is located right next to Princess Square. Nearby is a host of eateries and restaurants, so once you’ve fully shopped till you’ve dropped you’re never too far away from a delightful restaurant to refuel.
Theatre Royal
A trip to Newcastle should always include a visit to the Theatre Royal, even if it’s just to appreciate the exquisite architecture. With fantastic shows on offer, like Peter Pan and Les Miserables, there is something for everyone. You can even complete the evening with a dinner after the show.
Jesmond Dene Park
With plenty of parks to explore in Newcastle, one of our favourites has to be Jesmond Dene Park. Fabulous for walking the dog and long strolls with loved ones, you will find yourself being enchanted by the majestic waterfall in this beautiful park.
With so many things to choose from, we hope this helps narrow down where to start! Newcastle is a city rich with history and culture and the number of activities it has on offer is proof of just how fantastic the city is for a vacation. All you need now is to find some great accommodation to stay in! Check out our blog on the best serviced accommodation in Newcastle to find some of our top choices.