Newcastle upon Tyne

Introduction

You will find Newcastle upon Tyne, often referred to simply as Newcastle, situated on the northern bank of the River Tyne. Located in the county of Tyne and Wear, this city serves as a major hub within the Tyneside conurbation.

As you explore the region, you will notice its position as the northernmost city in England, positioned directly across the river from Gateshead to the south.

Before you go

Prepare for your visit by familiarizing yourself with the local culture and dialect. You will encounter "Geordie," a distinctive northeast accent that leans toward Anglo-Saxon pronunciation. While much of the vocabulary is modern, you may hear the all-purpose exclamation "Howay!" to navigate the local atmosphere.

To ensure a smooth trip, keep these practical tips in mind:

• Be mindful of your surroundings by avoiding boisterous revellers and keeping your valuables secure.
• Stick to the main areas, as some outlying neighborhoods are rougher than others.
• Be aware of the intense local football rivalry; avoid wearing Sunderland shirts to prevent unwanted attention from fans.

Getting there

You can reach the city by air via Newcastle International Airport, which offers flights from various European cities and the Mediterranean, as well as domestic routes to destinations like Belfast and Edinburgh. If you prefer to fly into Manchester Airport, you can take a train to Newcastle, though this journey typically requires a change at stations such as York or Manchester Piccadilly.

For rail travelers, Newcastle Central Station serves as a major hub on the East Coast Main Line with frequent connections from London, Edinburgh, and the West Country. If you arrive by car, the city is accessible via the A1 and A69 routes; however, be mindful of congestion on the Gateshead flyover. Once in the city, you can navigate using the Tyne and Wear Metro, which provides frequent service to the airport and surrounding areas, or take a local Stagecoach bus for express travel to Eldon Square.

Getting around

Walking is your best option for navigating the city centre, the university main campuses, the Quayside, and the opposite river bank of Gateshead. If you prefer to cycle, the city features dedicated lanes and lock-up points. While you do not need a bike to get around town, you can use one to reach the coast or explore the Hadrian's Wall path. Note that while some Metro stations offer secure storage for bicycles, only fold-away bikes are permitted on the trains.

The Tyne & Wear Metro provides a quick way to reach outlying areas via two lines that run together underground through the city centre. For local travel by bus, several operators provide routes to popular sites such as the Angel of the North, Beamish Museum, Quayside, and Saltwell Park. You can also choose to travel by taxi using various local operators or ride-sharing services.

Where to stay

You can find a variety of accommodations across the city and its surrounding areas. For those seeking a central stay, you can choose between budget-friendly options like a large youth hostel in a former bank near Central Station or several hotels located along the Quayside. If you prefer a more upscale experience, consider staying at a boutique hotel in the leafy Jesmond area or an elegant establishment on Grey Street. Some nearby areas offer different atmospheres, such as the south bank of the river in Gateshead or the strip along the A19 in Tynemouth.

When planning your stay, consider these options based on your preferences:

• Central locations near the station and Quayside offering a mix of modern and historic Victorian buildings.
• Upscale hotels providing river views or located in boutique settings.
• Budget-friendly choices including hostels with dormitories and private rooms, or basic hotels in residential areas.

Food & drink

Explore a diverse culinary scene across several distinct areas. You can find an eclectic mix of eateries in Bigg Market and explore the vibrant Chinatown along Stowell Street. The Quayside and Central Station areas also offer numerous dining options. For those seeking specific cuisines, you can enjoy Sardinian specialties at Pani's Cafe, high-quality Mexican at Zapatista, or a selection of Italian dishes at venues like Uno's, Marco Polo, or the reliable chain Zizzi. If you prefer a more upscale experience, consider the historic atmosphere of Blackfriar's Restaurant in a 13th-century monastery refectory, the Punjabi flavors of Sachins near Central Station, or the French and British bistro fare at a riverside location on the Quayside.

The city offers various atmospheres for your evening drinks. The Quayside provides scenic views of the river and Millennium Bridge from rooftop terraces, while the area around Central Station features a variety of pubs, including some with Victorian architecture or those offering live music in basement venues. For a more local feel, visit the Ouseburn area to find a cozy traditional pub by the Tyne. Other notable spots include the lively atmosphere of City Vaults and Popworld in Bigg Market, or the selection of real ales at the Crown Posada.

What to see and do

Explore the historic heart of the city in Grainger Town, where you can walk along the sublime curving classical facade of Grey Street. You can visit the towering Grey's Monument or browse the charming shops within the Edwardian Central Arcade. For a taste of local culture, explore the vibrant Chinatown along Stowell Street or find tranquility in Jesmond Dene, a park set within a wooded gorge.

Experience the riverside by crossing the Tyne on the striking steel arch of the Tyne Bridge or the tilting Gateshead Millennium Bridge. The south bank offers access to the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art and the Sage Music Centre, while the iconic Angel of the North stands at the southern tip of the city. You can also explore various cultural sites:

• Newcastle Castle, featuring the historic Keep and Black Gate
• The Perpendicular style Newcastle Cathedral with its distinctive lantern spire
• Specialized galleries including the Biscuit Factory for contemporary art, Hatton Gallery for a wide range of works, and Seven Stories, which focuses on children's books
• Science and engineering exhibits at the Discovery Museum and the Life Science Centre

Three days in Newcastle upon Tyne

Day one, you can begin your journey by exploring the vibrant atmosphere of Tyneside. You can take in the sights along the River Tyne and experience the local culture as you wander through the heart of Newcastle.

Day two, you can explore the area around the Quayside. You can enjoy the scenery and soak up the local character while staying within the city center.

Day three, you can take in the sights near Eldon Square before preparing for your next destination. Whether you are traveling toward other parts of England or beyond, you can enjoy your final moments in the city.