Newcastle upon Tyne is the capital of the North East and one of England’s friendliest cities. Its bridges over the River Tyne, elegant Georgian streets and lively Quayside make it a great city break, with beaches and Roman sites close by.
Why visit Newcastle
For architecture, culture and a famous welcome. Locals, known as Geordies, are proud of their city, and its bars, music venues and restaurants are among the liveliest in the country.
Top things to do in Newcastle
The Quayside and the bridges
Walk along the river under the green arch of the Tyne Bridge and across the tilting Gateshead Millennium Bridge. On Sundays the Quayside hosts a market.
Baltic and The Glasshouse
The Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, in a former flour mill, and the curved music venue The Glasshouse on the Gateshead bank.
Grey Street and the Castle Keep
Grey Street, often called one of the finest streets in England, Grey’s Monument, and the medieval Castle Keep that gave the city its name.
St James’ Park
The home of Newcastle United, right in the city centre, with stadium tours.
Best time to visit Newcastle
May to September is best for walking the Quayside and trips to the coast. The Great North Run, one of the world’s biggest half marathons, takes place in September.
Getting to and around Newcastle
Newcastle Airport is linked to the city by the Tyne and Wear Metro. Trains from London King’s Cross take about three hours. The Metro also runs to the beaches at Tynemouth and Whitley Bay.
What to eat in Newcastle
A stottie with ham and pease pudding, a pan haggerty of potatoes and onions, and a pint in one of the city’s historic pubs.
Newcastle FAQ
How many days do I need?
Two days for the city, plus one or two days for the coast, Durham or Hadrian’s Wall.
Can I see the Angel of the North?
Yes. The famous steel sculpture stands beside the A1 in Gateshead, a short bus ride from the centre.
