Places to visit in Newcastle

Found in the city centre, the now-very-old Newcastle Castle is a striking fortress that gave the city its name. Originally constructed in 1080 by William the Conqueror’s son, the castle was used as a base for invasions of Scotland, and a prison. Explore its winding staircases, ancient chambers and eerie dungeons before going to the top of the keep for panoramic views across the city.

Walk down to the HUB cycle café on the quayside to pick up your helmet, bike and local guide for a leisurely bike tour around the city. Learn about the seven bridges that cross a mere half-mile section on the River Tyne, and the city’s most famous sons and daughters including Earl Grey! There’ll be plenty of places to stop and visit to catch your breath and capture some stunning photos along the way, too.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite in the saddle, get over to Byker’s Brinkside St Brewery to try their own-brewed beer, learn how that all-important brewing magic works and enjoy one of their freshly made burgers after touring the onsite microbrewery. It’s a full craft beer experience that’s one of the best things to do in Newcastle.

INNSide by Melia Newcastle is a cool and upbeat hotel, with minimalist rooms, floor-to-ceiling windows and Newcastle-inspired murals lining its walls. Bedrooms have views towards the city’s seven bridges, alongside retro-style telephones, in-room yoga mats and eco-friendly toiletries, towels and bed linen. Its 24-hour Open Living Lounge – serves food throughout the day to a soundtrack of local DJs.

Head back in time to the Middle Ages at Blackfriars, believed to be the oldest dining room in the UK. Once regularly frequented by King Henry VIII, the restaurant is now home to a banquet hall and cookery school, as well as offering one of the most inexpensive set menus in town.

Home to a wealth of restaurants, bars, galleries and shops, Grainger Town, Newcastle’s Georgian quarter is the historic heart of the city. This pretty part of town is watched over by Earl Grey’s 135-foot monument, which was built to commemorate his role in ending slavery in the British Empire. Grainger Market, known as the ‘city’s first supermarket’, is worth a visit if you like your low-cost and authentic street food and vintage clothing.

Get cultural with local art exhibitions at The Biscuit Factory in Ouseburn. As well as being a top-notch brunch spot, houses some of the best art in the area. Inside an old warehouse in the hipster area of Ouseburn, the gallery displays works by over 250 artists at any time, including the likes of Alice Barnes, Peter Hallam and Sally Anne Fitter.

Step back in time with a tour of the Victoria Tunnel, which played a crucial part in protecting scared Newcastle residents during the Second World War bombing raids. You’ve heard the adage “taking coals to Newcastle” – this 2.4-mile underground tunnel previously served as a wagonway for deliveries of coal to the ports for exporting.

Newcastle is home to multiple art galleries, but we love the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art. This former flour mill-turned contemporary art gallery showcases an ever-changing calendar of exhibitions, and the shop is an excellent place to find unique souvenirs. Head up to Level 5 for indoor and outdoor views across the city, or the penthouse for lunch with a view at Six Riverside.

For unbeatable live music, The Glasshouse International Centre for Music is a must – and it’s a mere 10-minute walk along the riverside. Impossible to miss, this iconic bubbled building – home to the Royal Northern Sinfonia – is famed for its world-class performances, across all genres from pop and classical to indie, jazz and dance. Plus, there are six bars to choose from if you fancy an interval drink – or even a cheeky post-performance late one!