Things to Do in Newcastle: Top 10
The United Kingdom is home to some of the best of Europe and is not to be missed during your European travels. Although less touristy and often overlooked by travelers, northern England, and Newcastle especially, is north east hidden gem within the UK that should be added to your itinerary. There are so many incredible and unusual places to visit in north east England with Newcastle upon Tyne situated at the heart of the region.
Newcastle is a mid-sized city situated in North East England with a deep industrial heritage, rich cultural landscape, and thriving university scene. Unofficially known as the capital of the North East, Newcastle is a lively city with loads to offer those who visit.
Undeniable, Newcastle has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, nightlife, football, gastronomy or anything in between, this hidden gem in the north east has plenty to offer you during your UK travels.
Here are the top 10 things to do in Newcastle:
1. Visit Grainger Market
Grainger Market is an indoor covered market located in Grainger Town at the heart of Newcastle’s city centre. Open Monday-Saturday, the market is filled with stalls featuring countless varieties of international and European foods alike. The market is typically bustling with both tourists and locals alike, as the latter frequent the fresh fruit, meat and fish stalls during their weekly shops. Whether you are seeking a tasty meal or just interested in a stroll to watch the purveyors going about their daily routine, Grainger Market is a fun place to explore on any trip to Newcastle.
2. Explore The Quayside Sunday Market
If you visit Newcastle over a weekend, a visit to the Quayside Sunday Market is an essential stop. This open-air market runs year round on Sundays from 9:30-16:00 along the Quayside between the Tyne and Millennium Bridges. The market brings in countless local vendors, food trucks and entertainment, making it a fun way to spend a lazy sunday outdoors, rain or shine.
3. Visit The Baltic Centre For Contemporary Art
Following a visit to the Quayside Sunday Market, it’s worth checking out the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, which is located just across the Millennium Bridge in Gateshead. This small museum situated in a historic mill building offers free entry on Sundays, and has unique exhibitions throughout the year.
Even if the art isn’t really your thing, the Baltic has some of the best views of Newcastle, so is worth a visit for that in itself. Head to the 4th floor to see the outdoor viewing terrace, and 5th floor viewing platform to see all of Newcastle before your eyes. Be sure to check out the museum gift shop on your way out for a look for unique gifts, books, and art from local artists in the North East. Visit the Baltic’s website for the latest details on opening times and current exhibitions.
4. Take In The Newcastle Nightlife
Especially famous for its nightlife, Newcastle is known for having one of the best (and most affordable) nights out in the UK. If you are interested in indulging in a bit of nightlife during your UK travels, there are endless options for you to choose from in Newcastle. For the heart of the nightlife scene, head to Bigg Market, where pubs, bars and clubs will be bustling every day until the wee hours of the morning.
5. Go To St James Park
For football fans, a visit to St James Park is a must during a visit to Newcastle. Football is a massive part of culture in Newcastle, and Newcastle United’s presence and dedicated fans can be felt throughout the city. St James Park has been the club’s home since 1892 and fills up weekly for matches, with the roaring thunder of crowds felt and heard throughout the city on game days. For the full experience, book a stadium tour, and learn everything there is to know about St James Park and this storied and beloved club.
6. Visit The Great North Museum
For those seeking culture and history, another great place to visit is the Great North Museum (formerly Hancock Museum). This natural history museum features a range of exhibitions, notably including archaeological material from nearby historical landmark Hadrian’s Wall. Located in the city centre on the Newcastle University campus, the museum is open every day and has free entry, making it a great stop during a visit to Newcastle. Visit the museum’s website for the latest exhibitions and opening times.
7. Tour The Victoria Tunnels
Another historical part of a visit to Newcastle is the Victoria Tunnels, which are 19th century waggonways originally built to transport coal. These well-preserved tunnels stretch from the Town Moor to the Tyne River, and are now possible to visit through guided tours, adding a unique and memorable adventure to your stop in Newcastle.
8. Take A Walk In Jesmond Dene
If you are willing to venture a little bit outside of the city centre, those seeking a bit of nature will love to have a wander in the quiet, tranquil trails of Jesmond Dene, which is a a far cry from the nearby, bustling city centre. Miles of trails throughout the wooded park include trees, wildlife and waterfalls and offer a quiet escape from the city life.
9. Visit Newcastle Castle
An essential touristic part of a visit to Newcastle is a visit to the city’s namesake castle. Situated within the city centre, this castle is a medieval fortification which offers a peek into the deep history of the city and surrounding area. Book your visit directly on the castle’s website.
10. Go To Gregg’s
Finally, no visit to Newcastle is complete without a trip to Gregg’s. This beloved fast-food chain restaurant is local to the region, with its origins tracing back to Newcastle. You can find a Gregg’s on nearly every corner within the city centre, and they are often brimming with people at every hour of the day. Grab a hot sausage roll to truly take in the feeling and flavour of life in the North East.
Whether you are a fan of the city life, or a lover of the outdoors, there are loads of things to do in Newcastle and beyond!
The UK offers some of the best of Europe, and with so many north east hidden gems within this region, Newcastle should be at the top of your list. Whether you are looking to take in history, culture, or nightlife, there are plenty of interesting and unique things to do in Newcastle. When you are planning your next UK travels and considering places to visit in north east England, make sure to include Newcastle on the itinerary for an unforgettable trip up North!
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Want more tips on Newcastle? Check out my post on the 5 Best Things to Do Outdoors in Newcastle.
Interested in learning more about UK travels? Find all of my England travel blog posts here.
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