Newcastle on a Budget: Bridges, Breweries & More!

Experience Geordie hospitality and culture without breaking the bank in Newcastle upon Tyne.

21 June 2023

A trip to Newcastle upon Tyne on a limited budget can be budget-friendly and enjoyable. From visiting free museums and art galleries to exploring parks and nature reserves, there are plenty of activities to enjoy without spending a fortune. Affordable accommodation options such as hostels and budget hotels are also available throughout the city.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Culture and Cuisine

  • Start your day at the Great North Museum: Hancock, where you'll find fascinating exhibits covering everything from ancient civilizations to local flora and fauna.
  • Head to Grainger Market for lunch, where you'll find a range of delicious and affordable food options. We recommend the Geordie Banger sandwich from Pet Lamb Patisserie.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring Newcastle's historic buildings and landmarks, including Newcastle Castle and Grey's Monument.
  • For dinner, try The Tyne Bar for classic pub food and live music in a laid-back atmosphere.
  • Finish your first day with a drink at The Bridge Tavern, which serves up locally brewed ales and stunning views of the Tyne Bridge.
  • Hotel recommendation: Euro Hostel Newcastle budget-friendly accommodation in the heart of the city.
Day 2

Bridges and Breweries

  • Start your day with a walk along the Quayside, taking in the stunning views of the seven bridges that cross the River Tyne.
  • Visit the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, which houses a variety of exhibitions and events showcasing modern art and design.
  • Take a brewery tour at Wylam Brewery in Exhibition Park, where you can sample a range of craft beers and learn about the brewing process.
  • For lunch, head to The Botanist for delicious food and cocktails in a beautiful, plant-filled setting.
  • Spend the afternoon shopping at intu Eldon Square, the largest shopping center in the region.
  • End your day with a cocktail at Pleased To Meet You, a stylish bar and restaurant with an extensive gin collection.
  • Hotel recommendation: Motel One Newcastle affordable yet stylish rooms in a central location, perfect for exploring the city.

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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