Newcastle upon Tyne sits on the north bank of the River Tyne, facing Gateshead on the opposite shore. The city grew up around its castle and quayside, and much of what a visitor wants to see clusters within a compact centre that you can cross on foot.
For a visitor, the practical question is which bank and which quarter to base yourself in. The city centre and Quayside put you within walking distance of the castle, the river and the main rail and Metro hub at Central Station; areas just outside the centre trade a little convenience for quieter surroundings. This guide covers the areas the sources identify, what each suits, and how the accommodation tiers work.
Best areas to stay in Newcastle upon Tyne
1. City centre and Quayside
The central area around Central Station, Neville Street, Grainger Street, Grey Street and the Quayside is the most convenient base. It is where you find the castle, the river frontage and the main transport connections, and it holds the widest spread of accommodation, from budget chains and hostels to upscale hotels.
It suits first-time visitors and anyone who wants to walk to the sights. Note that this is also where stag and hen parties concentrate, and some central properties sit close to the railway, so street and rail noise is a real consideration. Parking is limited at several central addresses.
2. Jesmond
Jesmond lies to the north of the centre, around the Jesmond Metro station and Jesmond Dene. It is a more residential, leafy setting, with a small budget hotel near the Metro and a boutique property in the dene itself.
It suits visitors who prefer quieter surroundings and are happy to use the Metro to reach the centre. The Metro connection is the practical point to weigh: you are not walking distance from the Quayside, but you are linked to it.
3. West of the station
The streets immediately west of Central Station, including Scotswood Road and the St James Boulevard area, hold a cluster of modern chain hotels. These are central without being on the Quayside itself.
It suits travellers who want a straightforward, central chain stay, including those arriving by train, and families looking for predictable comfort. Parking at some of these addresses is in a public multi-storey rather than on site.
4. Gateshead, south bank of the river
The south bank of the Tyne, across the river in Gateshead, is treated as a separate accommodation area from Newcastle proper. Several chains operate properties there alongside their Newcastle sites.
It suits visitors who want to be near the river and the Quayside without staying on the Newcastle side. Check how you will cross the river and how that fits your plans for the day.
5. Airport and eastern bypass corridor
There is a band of accommodation around the airport and along the A19 eastern bypass, including the strip towards Tynemouth. These are business and transit-oriented locations rather than sightseeing bases.
It suits travellers with early flights, those arriving by car and anyone whose trip is built around the wider region rather than the city centre. The trade-off is clear: you are away from the centre and dependent on a vehicle or onward transport.
6. Metro Centre area
The Metro Centre, west of the city, also has chain accommodation. It is a retail-focused location rather than a historic one.
It suits visitors who want easy access to the shopping complex and are travelling by car. It is not a base for walking the city centre.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: hostels with dormitories and some private rooms, basic city-centre hotels, and budget chain hotels. Some are very central; some sit in residential areas. Expect simple rooms and limited facilities, and check whether breakfast is included.
- Mid-range: comfortable chain and independent hotels, often central or by the station, with a mix of room-only and breakfast-included rates. Some are pet-friendly, and parking may be in a public multi-storey.
- Splurge: upscale and boutique hotels, several on or near the Quayside with river views, and a leafy boutique option in Jesmond. Expect smart interiors and higher rates; some central properties still pick up railway noise.
Best area for a first visit
For a first visit, base yourself in the city centre and Quayside. It puts the castle, the river frontage and Central Station within walking distance, and it gives you the largest choice of accommodation at every price level. If noise or party crowds are a concern, look at the west side of the station or Jesmond and use the Metro.
Frequently asked questions
Which side of the river should I stay on?
Newcastle's centre and Quayside are on the north bank, and that is where most of the city-centre sights and connections are. Gateshead, on the south bank, is a separate accommodation area with its own chain hotels, so choose it only if the river crossing suits your plans.
Is it cheaper to stay mid-week?
Yes. Some hotels charge more for a two-night Friday and Saturday stay than for five nights from Sunday to Thursday, so if your schedule allows, stay mid-week.
Where should I stay if I want somewhere quiet?
Jesmond is the quieter, more residential option, with a Metro link into the centre. Within the centre itself, be aware that some properties pick up street noise and railway noise.
Should I stay near the airport instead?
Only if your trip is built around flying or driving the wider region. The airport and the A19 eastern bypass strip are away from the city centre and are not walking bases for the sights.
Compare live prices for your dates with the booking tools on this page before you decide.