Best 20 things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
Welcome to Newcastle upon Tyne, a charming city known for its lively spirit and famous Geordie accent. Whether you're a fan of stunning architecture, exquisite cuisine, or just looking for a good old pint, this place has got you covered. From gallivanting along the breathtaking Quayside to challenging your friends to a "Greggs vs. Greggs" taste test, this article has curated the crème de la crème of the best 20 activities to keep you entertained in the "Toon" – the only challenge will be fitting them all in before closing time!
Save destination1. The Quayside
Welcome to the Quayside, Newcastle's lively waterfront district! Prepare yourself for a delightful mix of stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and the occasional sighting of a seagull attempting to steal a fish and chips right out of someone's hand. As you stroll along the River Tyne, be sure to marvel at the iconic Gateshead Millennium Bridge, known to locals as the "Blinking Eye Bridge" as it gracefully opens up like it's had one too many pints at the nearby pubs. And remember, don't be startled if you catch a glimpse of the famous "Geordie Fisherman," a mythical creature rumored to be able to catch a salmon while simultaneously heckling the seagulls.
2. The Sage Gateshead
Sage, St Mary's Square, Gateshead NE8 2JR, UK
Welcome to The Sage Gateshead, the eccentric architectural wonder that seems to have landed in Newcastle upon Tyne straight from outer space! This curvaceous music venue is so unique that if you were to stumble upon it during a walk along the river, you might mistake it for a gigantic metallic shell left behind by a friendly extraterrestrial being. With its shimmering silver exterior and otherworldly design, The Sage Gateshead is not only a sight for sore eyes but also a hub for musical delights that will have you happily tapping your feet and forgetting what day of the week it is. So, come on down and experience the symphonic serenades that have left even the pigeons cooing with delight!
Learn more3. Grey Street
Grey St, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1, UK
Welcome to Grey Street, the gem of Newcastle upon Tyne! As you stroll along this magnificent street, you can't help but feel a tinge of envy towards the buildings standing tall and proud, as if saying, "Look at me, I make architecture sexy!" With its elegant curves and vibrant atmosphere, Grey Street is the perfect spot to witness the occasional clash of poshness and rowdiness—a thrilling spectacle reminiscent of teacups swirling in a stormy sea. So, prepare to be swept off your feet, and remember to exhale some extra charm as you explore this marvelous slice of Geordie heaven.
Learn more4. Tynemouth Castle and Priory
Pier Rd, Tynemouth, North Shields NE30 4BZ, UK
Welcome to Tynemouth Castle and Priory, where history intertwines with stunning coastal vistas, creating a marriage made in medieval heaven. Like a matchmaker presenting the ideal pairing, this twosome offers both the rich tapestry of crumbling ruins, and the allure of panoramic views that make you say, "God save the scenery!" With a dose of history fit for a Netflix series, and a location that even the knights of yore would've approved, this spot is a must-visit for those who want a castle experience alongside a picturesque seaside stroll.
Learn more5. St Mary's Cathedral
Clayton St W, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 5HH, UK
Welcome to St Mary's Cathedral in Newcastle upon Tyne, a magnificent sight that will leave you speechless - unless you're a talkative parrot, in which case, chirp away! Bursting with Gothic grandeur, this impressive architectural gem proudly stands tall and screams, "I'm here, and I'm fabulous!" Prepare to be swept off your feet by its towering spires, as if they were swooning each time a gust of wind blows through the city. Inside, you'll find a heavenly haven where stained glass windows wink at you like mischievous saints, and pews beckon you to sit and pray or potentially take a much-needed nap (we won't judge!).
Learn more6. Newcastle Castle
The Black Gate, Castle Garth, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1RQ, UK
Welcome to Newcastle Castle, a jolly old fortress that's been perched on the Tyne riverside since ye olde medieval times. Brace yourself for a solid dose of history, as this castle has seen everything from medieval knights with questionable hairdos to overenthusiastic tourists trying to reenact their epic battles with selfie sticks. Don't forget to stop by the castle keep, which offers a grand view of the city – and if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the legendary Geordie dragon, who's probably sipping ale in a nearby pub to escape the notorious British weather.
Learn more7. BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art
S Shore Rd, Gateshead NE8 3BA, UK
Welcome to the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, a cultural gem nestled in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne! Prepare to have your mind tickled and your understanding of art flipped upside down. With its quirky architecture resembling a Tetris game gone wild, BALTIC isn't your average museum. Inside, you'll encounter mind-boggling exhibitions that will make you ponder the meaning of life while simultaneously wondering if you left your sanity at the entrance. So, grab your sense of humor and get ready for an artistic adventure like no other!
Learn more8. The Biscuit Factory
16 Stoddart St, Shieldfield, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 1AN, UK
Welcome to The Biscuit Factory, also known as a biscuit lover's hidden paradise nestled in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne. Prepare to embark on a whimsical journey through this quirky art gallery that defies all expectations. With a museum-like setting that showcases unique and thought-provoking artwork, it is the perfect place to go if your idea of heaven involves biscuits and creativity.
Learn more9. Angel of the North
Durham Rd, Low Eighton, Gateshead NE9 7TY, UK
Ah, behold the iconic Angel of the North in jolly Newcastle upon Tyne, an absolute hoot! This magnificent 66-foot-tall sculpture, resembling a colossal winged creature, greets you as you enter Geordieland like a sassy sentinel with its wings spread wide, as if saying, 'Alreet, welcome to Newcastle, pet!' But wait, before you ponder whether this giant beauty has fallen from the heavens or if it's just posing for an oversized bird photoshoot, let me assure you, it's good old-fashioned steel! Yep, it weighs a whopping 200 tons, which is probably the equivalent of every Geordie's weekly curry intake. Now that's one sturdy angel! Prepare to be blown away, both metaphorically and quite possibly literally, by the relentlessly windy northeast weather as you admire this striking, shimmering landmark. Whether you find it awe-inspiring or just a bloody big sculpture, the Angel of the North will certainly give you tales to share and a prime opportunity to indulge in your favorite activity: taking silly pictures pretending you're being carried away by a gigantic metal creature.
Learn more10. Eldon Square Shopping Centre
Percy St, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7JB, UK
Welcome to Eldon Square Shopping Centre in Newcastle upon Tyne, the place where retail therapy meets Geordie hilarity! Prepare yourself for a shopping experience that is as lively as the locals, with a plethora of stores that can satisfy your every desire, from fancy frocks to toffee treats for the sweet-toothed. And fear not, weary shoppers, for when your legs can take no more, the food court awaits, offering enough sustenance to keep you fueled for an all-night dance party at the Bigg Market. So, whether you're after a fashionable ensemble or simply a good laugh, Eldon Square is the place to be!
Learn more11. Newcastle United Football Club Stadium Tour
St James Park, Strawberry Pl, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4ST, UK
Step into the land of roaring Geordies and mighty Magpies with a stadium tour of Newcastle United Football Club in Newcastle upon Tyne. Immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere as you wander through the hallowed grounds that have witnessed both joy and despair, goals and own goals, and more black and white stripes than a zebra fashion show. Prepare to be overwhelmed by the colossal presence of St. James' Park, where even seagulls have taken up season tickets for the best view in the city.
Learn more12. The Tyne Bridge
A167, Gateshead, Newcastle upon Tyne NE8 2BE, UK
Welcome to the marvelous city of Newcastle upon Tyne, where you'll find the delightfully handsome Tyne Bridge boldly stretching across the mesmerizing River Tyne. As if having a giant metal rainbow was not intriguing enough, this charming structure also doubles as a portal to Newcastle's vibrant past and present. Take a leisurely stroll on this epic gem and soak in the breathtaking views of the city, while secretly hoping that the local seagulls are kind enough not to drop any surprises from above!
Learn more13. St James' Park
Barrack Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4ST, UK
Welcome to St James' Park, the hallowed grounds of Newcastle upon Tyne where football is treated like a religion and even the seagulls cheer for the home team. With a seating capacity that could rival a small town, this colossal stadium is as loud as a herd of stampeding geordies after a victory. So grab a pint of Newcastle Brown Ale, find your seat, and prepare to witness the Magpies soar high, much like the dreams of their fans during transfer season.
Learn more14. Newcastle Museum and Art Gallery
67 Westgate Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1SG, UK
Welcome to the Newcastle Museum and Art Gallery, where you can feast your eyes on an exquisite collection of artifacts, paintings, and objects that make you question whether aliens have indeed visited Earth. Prepare to be bewitched by the mesmerizing display of Egyptian mummies, making you wonder if you should keep your garlic necklace handy. Oh, and don't miss the chance to have a staring contest with a rather stern-looking statue of a medieval knight, just to see who is braver!
www.newcastle-arts-centre.co.uk
Learn more15. The Great North Museum
Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4PT, UK
Welcome to the Great North Museum in Newcastle upon Tyne, where history and hilarity collide! Step inside this majestic building that's big enough to swing a Zumbuka (don't actually try it, though). Marvel at the plethora of fascinating exhibits that will leave you wiser than a pompous owl wearing reading glasses. With its quirky collection and pun-tastic displays, this museum is a must-visit for anyone looking to unleash their inner nerd and have a whale of a time!
Learn more16. Discovery Museum
Blandford Square, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4JA, UK
Welcome to the Discovery Museum in Newcastle upon Tyne, where history and quirkiness unite in a way that only Geordies could manage. Step inside to witness the mind-boggling collection of industrial marvels that will make even the straightest engineer go weak at the knees. From locomotives that seem more like tea kettles on wheels, to the alarming yet intriguing contraptions used in Victorian times, this place will take you on a journey through time like no other.
Learn more17. Jesmond Dene Park
Newcastle upon Tyne NE7 7DZ, UK
Welcome to Jesmond Dene Park, Newcastle's charming getaway from the hustle and bustle of the Toon. Stroll through this mini oasis and pretend you're a character straight out of a Jane Austen novel, surrounded by lush greenery. You might even catch a glimpse of a squirrel doing its best ninja impression, leaping gracefully from one tree branch to another, reminding you that the park is not just for humans looking for a good old picnic.
Learn more18. Victoria Tunnel
Victoria Tunnel Entrance, Ouse St, Byker, Valley, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 2PF, UK
Welcome to the Victoria Tunnel in Newcastle upon Tyne, a must-visit spot for history buffs and budding tunnel enthusiasts. This subterranean marvel is no ordinary pathway; it has seen it all, from coal transport to air-raid shelter during World War II. Be prepared to embark on a journey through time, where you'll explore pitch-black passages and maybe even encounter a friendly ghost or two (friendly ghosts not guaranteed, specter sightings vary).
Learn more19. Royal Quays Outlet Centre
Coble Dene, North Shields NE29 6DW, UK
Welcome to Royal Quays Outlet Centre, where shopping and laughter go hand in hand! Nestled in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne, this retail haven is a delightful mix of retail therapy and chuckles galore. With its stunning riverside location, prepare to be swept away by a wave of bargains that will leave you grinning like a Cheshire cat - ready, set, shop till you drop!
Learn more20. Laing Art Gallery
New Bridge St W, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8AG, UK
Nestled amidst the vibrant streets of Newcastle upon Tyne, the Laing Art Gallery beckons art aficionados and culture enthusiasts with its charm. With a somewhat posh exterior that whispers sophistication, stepping inside is like entering a secret realm where old paintings and sculptures gather to gossip about modern art. The gallery's collection boasts an impressive array of works, much like a buffet of creativity, leaving visitors feeling both inspired and slightly guilty about their own stick figure doodles.
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Newcastle upon Tyne by plane is to fly into Newcastle International Airport, which is located about 6 miles from the city center. There are several airlines that fly into this airport from major cities across Europe, including British Airways, Ryanair, and easyJet.
Car
If you are traveling to Newcastle upon Tyne by car, the best route is via the A1(M) motorway. This motorway runs directly from London to Newcastle and is well-maintained, making for a smooth and comfortable journey. However, be aware that traffic can be heavy during rush hour.
Train
If you are looking to travel to Newcastle upon Tyne by train, the best option is to take a direct train from London Kings Cross Station. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and there are several trains that run daily.
Boat
Although there are no direct ferry services to Newcastle upon Tyne, you can travel to the nearby port of North Shields and then take a short taxi or bus ride into the city. DFDS Seaways operates ferries from Amsterdam and Norway to North Shields.
Bus
One of the most affordable ways to get to Newcastle upon Tyne is by bus. There are several national coach operators that run regular services to the city, including Megabus and National Express. The journey time will depend on your starting point, but the average journey time from London is around 8 hours.