The 7 things to do in Newcastle

Visit Newcastle: what are the best things to do and see in the city of Geordies?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a city in the north-eastern part of England with about 270,000 inhabitants. The city lies between Edinburgh in Scotland and London . It is known worldwide for its football team and for the special emphasis of its inhabitants, called the Geordies!

The origins of Newcastle are more than 2,000 years old. At the time, the Romans had built an imposing fort to protect their empire. Years later, the industrial revolution allowed Newcastle to develop actively. The economy was then centred on the trade in steel and coal. Constituting one of the world’s largest production centres, Newcastle quickly became a rich and attractive city, imposing itself as one of the largest in England.

Today, the city has evolved into a modern, artistic and living metropolis. Its often original architecture and museums make it a cultural city in which a warm atmosphere reigns. She was named European Capital of Culture in 2008!

Are you planning to visit Newcastle upon Tyne and wondering what you can find in this British city? Here is a selection of 6 must-sees to visit during your trip!

1. Castle Keep

What would be a visit to Newcastle without passing through the "new castle" to which the city owes its name? The discovery of Newcastle castle and its dungeon, whose origin would go back to 1178, is possible every day. There is a panoramic view of the entire city.

Visits for children are also planned, with reconstructions and costume guides. Its Norman stone architecture and playful visits make this site an unmistakable point of interest in the city. You don't know what to do in Newcastle when you get here? So don't miss the Castle Keep.

2. The banks of the Tyne

It’s safe to visit the docks, on the banks of the Tyne River is a must to visit Newcastle. On Sundays, you will find a market for clothes, antiques and works of art called Quayside.

You can also enjoy a walk along the docks to discover the modern architecture of this Newcastle district. One of the highlights of the panorama is the Millenium Bridge. This pedestrian bridge was built in 2000. It is the first in the world to use a rotation system on the side to let the boats pass. This show, which lasts about 4 minutes, makes it very popular with travellers, as well as its colourful illumination at night.

3. Downtown

The heart of Newcastle has a lot of animation thanks to its many shops and restaurants. The neoclassical architecture is very present, especially in the Street Grey , often considered one of the most beautiful in England. In the evening, we discover the enlivened atmosphere of a university and cultural city. You will quickly realize this: Newcastle is a festive city!

It is also a student city that hosts a very well-known university in England, founded in 1834. It is separated into three faculties: medicine, human and social sciences and science. The visit to the campus and its period building is very interesting to discover.

4. Musée d’art contemporain BALTIC

The Museum BALTIC , located on the banks of the Tyne, is considered an emblem of the modern architecture of the city. BALTIC is one of the world’s largest museums of contemporary art.

His particularity? It has no permanent gallery. This museum welcomes ever-renewed exhibitions, as well as many events where influential figures from the artistic world express themselves. BALTIC is a museum to discover without hesitation if you are looking for what to do in Newcastle. There is also a gourmet restaurant with stunning views of the Tyne River!

5. Sage Gateshead

You can't miss this building in particular form, when you visit the banks of the Tyne in Newcastle. It is on the side of the Gateshead , and you will certainly have to borrow it Millenium Bridge To see him closer.

Opened in 2004, The Sage is actually a showroom, which was ranked among the best in the world. Its curved glass and steel design is as much appreciated from the outside as from the inside. Indeed, it allows you to enjoy an exceptional acoustic performance. There are three different scenes that allow the Sage to offer hundreds of concerts each year.

The greatest stars of the song are regularly there. So if you don't know what to do in Newcastle to occupy your evenings, you can learn about the concerts scheduled during your stay. The opportunity to experience an amazing sound experience.

6. The North Angel

Angel of the North is a sculpture created by the artist Sir Antony Gormley in 1998. It is 20 m tall and measures 54 m wide. Designed as a kind of totem, this work has become the emblem of the city of Gateshead.

It is located on Birtley Hill, above the city centre. Built exclusively in steel, the structure resists the sometimes complicated weather conditions in England, and it seems that we come to admire it a bit for this reason also... It represents the transition from the industrial era to the era of information and marks the evolution of the Newcastle-Gateshead region.

7. To see and do also in Newcastle

• St James’ Park Stadium : going to see a game in Newcastle is the best way to swim in the city’s effervescent atmosphere.
• Gateshead : the city center of Gateshead is pleasant to discover half-day time.
• The North Sea: You can go to South Shields by metro and walk by the sea to discover a peaceful countryside atmosphere, close to Newcastle.
• Sunderland: The small town Sunderland, connected by the Metro of Newcastle is especially known for its football team but also has a lot of charm.
• Grainger Market: The Grainger Market is a covered market where you can come to eat, buy fresh products or simply tour the many small shops! A must-see when visiting Newcastle.

How do I get to Newcastle?

Newcastle upon Tyne has an airport located north of the city, 15 minutes from the centre. There are regular direct flights from France (Paris and Nice in particular). You can then reach the city by public transport, or by car if you opted for the car rental or private transfer .

It is also possible to register the city in an itinerary in England from the capital. Trains and buses depart every day from London to Newcastle.

It should also be noted that Newcastle is a two-hour drive from Edinburgh to Scotland. Thus, train and bus transfers are frequent between these two cities. To search for the best price for your trip, use our partner Ulysses !

Where to stay in Newcastle?

Newcastle is a concentrated city, known for its very active nightlife. If it is not always advisable to sleep in the city centre, the surrounding areas will be a good option for your trip. Similarly, the city of Gateshead, located on the opposite bank, will allow you to discover Newcastle easily. Read our article about them areas where to stay in Newcastle To help you!

To find your hotel at the best price in Newcastle, feel free to use this Compare hotels ! Finally, if the apartments make you want, know that the entire housing offers in Newcastle and surrounding areas are very common on the site Airbnb .