Weekend Fun: Newcastle upon Tyne Travel Guide

Discover the vibrant culture and rich history of Newcastle upon Tyne.

03 May 2023

Newcastle upon Tyne is a vibrant city in the north of England, offering a wealth of activities for tourists. Visitors can explore the city's rich history by visiting landmarks such as the Castle Keep and St. Nicholas Cathedral, or indulge in the thriving nightlife scene by exploring the numerous bars and clubs. The city is also known for its iconic bridges, including the Tyne Bridge, offering stunning views of the River Tyne.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Discovering Newcastle

  • Check-in at the stylish Motel One Hotel, located in the heart of Newcastle city center.
  • Take a stroll around historic Grainger Town and its beautiful Georgian architecture.
  • Visit the iconic Grey's Monument in the center of town and enjoy the views from the top.
  • Explore Newcastle Castle, a fascinating medieval fortress with a dungeon and prison cells.
  • Savor a delicious dinner at The Botanist, an Instagram-worthy restaurant with an eclectic menu and charming decor.
Day 2

River Cruise and Art Galleries

  • Begin the day with a scenic cruise along the River Tyne from Newcastle Quayside.
  • Visit the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, one of the UK's most cutting-edge galleries.
  • Admire the stunning Victorian architecture of The Laing Art Gallery and enjoy its diverse collection.
  • Have a traditional English afternoon tea at the luxurious Slater's Country Inn, with homemade scones and cakes.
  • Enjoy an evening of live music and scrumptious Italian cuisine at the lively Sabatini restaurant.
Day 3

Castles and Coastline

  • Take a short train ride to Tynemouth and wander around its enchanting ruins of Tynemouth Castle and Priory.
  • Explore the breathtaking coastline and the lovely Tynemouth Market, filled with artisanal crafts and jewelry.
  • Take a relaxing stroll along Whitley Bay Beach and soak up some sun and sea breeze.
  • Dine at the panoramic Riley's Fish Shack, tucked away in King Edward's Bay, and enjoy fresh seafood caught that day.
  • End the trip at the charming and cozy Jesmond Dene House Hotel, with its beautiful gardens and luxurious amenities.

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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