The Ultimate Weekend Guide: Newcastle Upon Tyne!

Discover history and culture at the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne.

22 April 2023

Newcastle upon Tyne, located in the northeast of England, is a hub of cultural and historical significance that offers travelers plenty of options to explore. Visitors can take a stroll along the quayside to see iconic Tyne Bridges or head to vibrant nightlife in the city center. The city also offers sublime dining options, museums, galleries and several historic sites that provide a glimpse into the region's rich past.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Quayside

  • Stay at the Malmaison Newcastle for a stylish boutique hotel experience.
  • Start the day with breakfast at the Quay Ingredient, a cozy spot perfect for coffee lovers.
  • Head to the Quayside market for unique souvenirs and local crafts.
  • Visit the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, housed in a former flour mill with stunning views of the Tyne River.
  • Enjoy lunch at The Broad Chare, a traditional pub with local specialties like haggis and black pudding.
  • End the day with a stroll along the Millennium Bridge, the perfect spot to watch the sunset and take in the city skyline.
Day 2

Castle, Cathedral, and Coffee

  • Start the day with a caffeine fix from Flat Caps Coffee, known for their artisanal brews.
  • Explore Newcastle Castle, with history dating back over 2000 years including stories of medieval kings and highwaymen.
  • Take a short walk to St. Nicholas Cathedral, an iconic landmark with stunning architecture and medieval history.
  • Grab lunch at Pizzeria Francesca, a hidden gem specializing in wood-fired pizzas.
  • Take a walk through Grey's Monument, a towering statue in the middle of a bustling shopping district.
  • End the day with a pint at The Free Trade Inn, a traditional pub with stunning views of the Tyne River and Quayside.

How 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.

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