Newcastle-upon-Tyne Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
Sage Gateshead showing a river or creek, a city and modern architecture

The many bridges crossing the River Tyne are a symbol of this city’s ability to connect history and modern culture, art and science, industry and creativity.

Everywhere you look in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, there’s something to admire, and its seven bridges are just the start. This must-visit destination, called simply Newcastle, lures visitors with its Georgian and Victorian influences, bustling markets, iconic landmarks and modern comforts that belie its medieval roots. The city’s multicultural appeal shines through in its cuisine, festivals and traditions.

Things to do in Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Start your Newcastle visit at the Tyne Bridge, which connects Newcastle to Gateshead. Spanning the River Tyne, the 1928 bridge may not be as old as much of the city, but its beautiful engineering and connection to destinations outside the city centre make it an enduring landmark. It’s juxtaposed with the contemporary marvel that is the Millennium Bridge, a sleek, modern pedestrian and cyclist bridge.

Get your shopping fix at Northumberland Street, a bustling thoroughfare of independent shops and luxury boutiques. At the adjacent Grainger Town and Eldon Square, you’ll have even more options in the areas’ stylish department stores. If you’re seeking one-of-a-kind items, visit the Victorian-style Grainger Market, where you’ll find everything from fresh produce and seafood to vintage clothing to handmade crafts. Continue your market experience at the Quayside Sunday Market on the riverfront, selling antiques, crafts, local produce and more.

Newcastle’s history and culture

Standing proudly over the River Tyne, Newcastle Castle dates back to the 12th century. Explore the fortress to learn of Newcastle’s storied past and enjoy panoramic city views. From here, make your way to the peaceful retreat that is St. Nicholas Cathedral, known for its stunning Gothic architecture.

Dip into the art and craftsmanship heritage of Newcastle at The Biscuit Factory, one of the largest independent contemporary art galleries in the United Kingdom. It’s a must for art enthusiasts, with its robust collection of works by local and international artists. The city is home to a thriving creative community, producing glassware, pottery, printed items and more.

Dining and nightlife in Newcastle

Fill up on traditional Geordie meals like stottie cakes, savoury sandwiches with creative local ingredients and hearty Sunday roasts wash it down with a famous Newcastle Brown Ale. The local pub culture is deeply woven into the cultural fabric of the city, so be sure to spend a few hours mingling with locals and visitors in one of these sociable venues.

Find all manner of restaurants in the Quayside and Jesmond neighbourhoods and on Grey Street. From quick, casual bites to Michelin-starred restaurants, authentic Italian and Indian street food, these areas of the city are a foodie’s paradise.

When night falls, the city comes alive in the Quayside and Jesmond areas, with their lively bars, clubs and entertainment venues frequented by the city’s 42,000-strong student population. You’ll find live music, comedy shows and theatre performances in transformed factories and warehouses. Check out the Theatre Royal Newcastle and the Tyne Theatre & Opera House for even more cultural options.

Getting around Newcastle-upon-Tyne Travel Guide

Fly into Newcastle International Airport, located approximately 7.7 miles (12.3 kilometres) from Newcastle City Centre. Walking and public transportation are the best way to get around. Hop on the bus, take a taxi, or ride a shared bike or e-scooter to easily visit Newcastle’s many attractions.

Where to stay in Newcastle-upon-Tyne

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Newcastle City Center

Northumberland Street and Grey's Monument are top sights in Newcastle City Center, and you should be sure to explore the fantastic nightlife. Hop aboard the metro at Monument Station or Haymarket Station to see more sights in the area.

Newcastle City Center
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Tynemouth

4.5/5(49 area reviews)

Tynemouth is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Tynemouth Castle and Longsands Beach.

Tynemouth
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Jesmond

4.5/5(116 area reviews)

You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Jesmond. Spend some time visiting top spots like Jesmond Dene Park, and catch the metro at West Jesmond Station or Jesmond Station to see more of the area.

Jesmond
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Gosforth

4.5/5(7 area reviews)

Gosforth is a destination travellers like for its restaurants, and you might hop aboard the metro at South Gosforth Station or Ilford Road Station to explore sights like Jesmond Dene Park.

Gosforth
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Sunderland City Centre

3.5/5(2 area reviews)

Well liked for its restaurants and museums, Sunderland City Centre is worth a visit. Check out the variety of things to see and do like Sunderland Empire and Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art, and jump on the metro at Park Lane Station to get around the city.

Sunderland City Centre
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Seaburn

4/5(31 area reviews)

Seaside views and restaurants are notable features of Seaburn. You might consider stopping by Whitburn Sands while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

Seaburn
Royal Station Hotel
Royal Station Hotel
3 out of 5
Neville Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England
The price is £60 per night from 7 Apr to 8 Apr
£60
per night
7 Apr - 8 Apr
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast and room service. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,187 reviews)
"excellent location, with a good breakfast.Staff were polite and attentive.Hotel room was a little tired looking."

Reviewed on 13 Mar 2024

Royal Station Hotel
The Vermont Hotel & Vermont Aparthotel
The Vermont Hotel & Vermont Aparthotel
4 out of 5
Castle Garth, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England
The price is £72 per night from 24 Mar to 25 Mar
£72
per night
24 Mar - 25 Mar
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the breakfast and ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,002 reviews)
Excellent place
"This is the 3rd time we have stayed here and it is still excellent. We would always book here when visiting Newcastle"

Reviewed on 16 Mar 2024

The Vermont Hotel & Vermont Aparthotel
County Hotel & County Aparthotel Newcastle
County Hotel & County Aparthotel Newcastle
4 out of 5
Neville Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England
The price is £62 per night from 14 Apr to 15 Apr
£62
per night
14 Apr - 15 Apr
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,003 reviews)
"A very impressive building, the entrance was very oppulent and grand, but not in an off-putting way. the check in was easy and the staff were very pleasant, helpful and hospitable - we were dealt with by Katrianna ( I think that is how you spell her name) but her clolleague was really good as well. ..."

Reviewed on 11 Mar 2024

County Hotel & County Aparthotel Newcastle
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Roomzzz Newcastle
Roomzzz Newcastle
4 out of 5
FRIAR HOUSE, CLAVERING PLACE, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England
Stay at this 4-star aparthotel in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the helpful staff and ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (364 reviews)
Decent Stay
"Decent stay. Booked room with view, got top floor room with view over to river and bridge so no complaints there. Slightly different room configuration to photos on the website. Comfortable stay, good facilities. You get a small complementary breakfast (croissant + coffee). The area is fine, sort ..."

Reviewed on 24 Jan 2024

Roomzzz Newcastle
Eslington Villa
Eslington Villa
3 out of 5
8 Station Road, Low Fell, Gateshead, England
Stay at this 3-star apartment in Gateshead. Enjoy free parking, breakfast and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Saltwell Park and Angel of the North ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (209 reviews)
"Arrived a few hours early, and the lady on the front desk was really friendly and got us checked into our room. The room was spacious and very comfortable. The staff at breakfast were very nice and the food was very nice also very fresh. She even made my son a bacon sandwich because he couldn’t be ..."

Reviewed on 4 Mar 2024

Eslington Villa
Dream Apartments Quayside
Dream Apartments Quayside
4 out of 5
69 City Road, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England
Stay at this 4-star apartment in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Enjoy free WiFi, on-site parking and concierge services. Popular attractions Quayside and Baltic Flour ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (128 reviews)
Tired hotel
"Clean but tired hotel. Helpful staff, good location"

Reviewed on 10 Mar 2024

Dream Apartments Quayside
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Things to do

Reviews of Newcastle-upon-Tyne

4.4
Top destination
5 - Excellent
518
" "5 - Excellent 51.08481262327416%
4 - Good
402
" "4 - Good 39.64497041420118%
3 - Okay
77
" "3 - Okay 7.593688362919132%
2 - Disappointing
15
" "2 - Disappointing 1.4792899408284024%
1 - Terrible
2
" "1 - Terrible 0.19723865877712032%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
16 Mar 2020

Newcastle has everything

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
16 Mar 2020

Shopping is great and easy to get around. Lots of good eating places and cocktail bats. A great place for a night out.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
10 Mar 2020

Very friendly and great places to eat.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
2 Mar 2020

Great bars, restaurants. Excellent shopping and friendly people.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
25 Feb 2020

We visit 2-3 times a year to see our son and family always new places to see and visit, endless places to eat!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
20 Feb 2020

Take a walk down the water, or get a bus. Easy. ,

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