Top 33 things to do in Newcastle

Newcastle is popular with tourists, it is a very fun and noisy city. Rest is sure to be enjoyed by those who like to visit new interesting places, historical attractions, religious monuments, and theaters, museums as well as those who love incendiary discos, bars, and nightclubs.
Newcastle is located on the River Tyne, it has become a city of bridges, so the beautiful views will impress lovers of walking. Every tourist can find something for themselves and will fall in love with Newcastle and want to stay here forever.

Last updated: 17.05.2023
Content:

Best things to do in Newcastle

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Below we will tell you about the 33 top Newcastle attractions that are worth visiting if you are planning a trip to this city.

1. Newcastle Cathedral

What is it?
Newcastle Cathedral is the cathedral of the Church of England, which is the main northern diocese church in England and the residence of the bishop.

Why you should go?
This cathedral was built in the 6th and 15th centuries. It is the second-tallest religious building in Newcastle and the sixth-tallest city building. Its brightest feature is the lantern tower, its height of 197 feet, at night the spire of the tower is illuminated with fascinating backlight. Among the bright interior items worth mentioning are the pulpit, organ, and numerous beautiful statues. Outside there is the Statue of Queen Victoria, as well as St. Nicholas Square.

Open hours: Saturdays and Sundays 8am - 5pm, Mondays to Fridays 8am - 6pm, Bank Holidays 8am - 6pm
Cost: free
Official site: https://newcastlecathedral.org.uk/
Address: St. Nicholas Sq, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1PF, UK

2. Baltic Center for Contemporary Art

What is it?
Baltic Center for Contemporary is a museum for modern art located in Gateshead (Newcastle, England). It is a registered charity organization headed by Sarah Munro, the first woman in England to hold such a position.

Why you should go?
This place will appeal to both art lovers and visitors who first came to the museum of art. The center often hosts exhibitions, excursions, lectures, educational programs, and other cultural events. As a rule, they are always different and the program is constantly updated.

Open hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10am-6pm.
Cost: free
Official site: https://baltic.art/

3. Newcastle Lit and Phil Society

What is it?
The Literary and Philosophical Society of Newcastle upon Tyne is one of the largest libraries even outside England. It was founded in 1793 by Reverend William Turner and other members as a «conversation club» and became one of the most attractive things to do in Newcastle for book fans.

Why you should go?
This place will appeal not only to literary lovers but also to visitors who want to learn more about Newcastle culture. Today, the library is not just a place to store books, but also a creative space for literary evenings, lectures, and live music concerts.

Open hours:Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 9.30am-7pm, Tuesday 9.30am-8pm, Friday 9.30am-5pm, Saturday 9.30am-1pm. On the last Monday of every month the Lit & Phil will open at 10.30am.
Cost: free
Official site: https://www.litandphil.org.uk/

4. Victoria Tunnel

What is it?
The Victoria Tunnel is an underground wagonway, which is located under Newcastle. It was built between 1839 and 1842 to transport coal to the coastal quays for further loading on ships. The tunnel is 3.9 km long and 26 meters deep.

Why you should go?
If you want to know everything about Newcastle’s history, its underground life should also interest you. You can join the tour to learn more about the history of this tunnel and other mysteries of Newcastle. The tunnel is open to tour groups all year round, where you can enjoy the mysterious sounds, and unusual visual effects, listen to interesting stories from the guide and ask your questions.

Cost: £4–7
Official site: https://www.ouseburntrust.org.uk/

5. Jesmond Dene

What is it?
This is one of Newcastle’s finest parks that date back to the 19th century. It combines the city’s historical attractions and natural potential.

Why you should go?
This park will certainly appeal to lovers of flora and fauna, as it grows a lot of unique plants, and is home to many animals. In the park, you can walk on numerous bridges, have a picnic, visit the cafe, and for children, there are play areas. Also, there is an open-air theater, which periodically holds performances on the territory of the park.

Cost: free

6. Grainger Town

What is it?
Grainger Town is the historic commercial center of Newcastle. Grainger Town covers 26 hectares. This area of the city was founded by Richard Greiner in the 19th century and is notable for its unique architecture.

Why you should go?
Connoisseurs of architecture will appreciate this attraction. Here you can walk the streets, and enjoy the beautiful views and cultural monuments, including Grey Street with Grey's Monument and Grainger Market which consist of different shops.

Open hours:24 hours daily
Cost: free

7. Laing Art Gallery

What is it?
This is a baroque gallery that was opened in the early 20th century. It presents a collection of paintings, including both modern and classic objects.

Why you should go?
If you are an art lover, you should first visit this center. Laing Art Gallery has a regular program of exhibitions, so you can go there and learn more about the art of Newcastle.

Open hours: Monday to Sunday, 10am-7.30 pm.
Cost: free
Official site: https://laingartgallery.org.uk/

8. Church of St. Thomas the Martyr

What is it?
This church is the heart of Newcastle, as it is located in the city center near the municipality hall, universities, and the main shopping district. It was built on the foundation of a medieval 19th-century chapel and was restored in 2019.

Why you should go?
If you are a pilgrim or just interested in religious or architectural attractions, you should visit this church. It is very popular among Newcastle students and youth. You can walk around the church, look at the unique architecture, see the organ and listen to it.

Open hours:Monday to Sunday 24 hours
Official site:https://stthomas.church/

9. St. Mary’s Cathedral

What is it?
It is a neo-gothic Catholic cathedral built and designed in the second half of the 19th century by Augustus Welby Pugin.

Why you should go?
The cathedral has attracted the attention of tourists for many years, as it is the cultural heritage of England. Unique architecture, magnificent style, and historical value - all make visitors come back to this place time after time.

Official site:https://www.stmaryscathedral.org.uk/

10. Gateshead Millennium Bridge

What is it?
It is a bridge that crosses the Tyne River and connects the two cities of Gateshead and Newcastle. It is the world’s first sloping bridge. It was designed by WilkinsonEyre and opened in 2001. It is 126 m long and 8 m wide.

Why you should go?
It is safe to say the bridge is one of the most modern Newcastle attractions. Its design is impressive, and in the evening it is decorated with a unique illumination. This is one of the most incredible top things to see in Newcastle.

Open hours:Monday to Sunday 24 hours
Cost:free

11. Newcastle Castle

What is it?
It is a medieval fortification, which was built in 1080. In its honor was named the city.

Why you should go?
Newcastle Castle attracts the attention of all tourists. It can be found in any guide to Newcastle for the weekends. So you should visit this place during your old new castle trip, you will see a magnificent building with a rich history.

Open hours:Monday to Sunday 10am - 5pm, last entry 4pm
Cost:£5.75 - £25.50, free for infants ages 4 and under
Official site:https://www.newcastlecastle.co.uk/

12. Sage Gateshead

What is it?
It is a concert and educational center that was founded in 2004. It is named after the patron company of The Sage Group.

Why you should go?
This place hosts a variety of cultural events including concerts and performances that tourists may like, especially this is an ideal opportunity to visit the center. Also, visitors should pay attention to the modern design of the building.

Open hours:Depend on events
Cost: Depend on events
Official site: https://sagegateshead.com/

13. For the Lover of the North

What is it?
It is one of the most popular souvenir shops that offer a wide range of goods. There you can buy unique postcards, magnets, and other gifts from artists, and craftsmen who live in North East England.

Why you should go?
Any tourist trip is never without shopping, especially buying some souvenirs. So visit this store you can not only buy something but also plunge into the atmosphere of Newcastle.

Open hours: Monday to Sunday 10.30am-4.30 pm.
Cost:free
Official site: https://www.fortheloveofthenorth.co.uk/

14. Rising Sun Country Park

What is it?
This is a 126-hectare park located in the north of Tyneside. It is a protected area with numerous ponds, forests, and meadows, where many animals live.

Why you should go?
In this park, you will be able to walk, breathe the air, enjoy nature, ride a bike, visit a cafe, have a picnic, visit various cultural events or rent a room for private meetings, parties, or events.

Open hours:The wider park is open all day, every day of year.Centre grounds: Open from 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday; and 9am to 4.30pm on Saturday, Sundays and Bank Holidays.
Cost: free

15. The Biscuit Factory

What is it?
It is the largest independent British gallery of commercial art, crafts, and design, located in the Newcastle Center founded in 2002.

Why you should go?
This art gallery is worth the tourists' attention. It is quite large, there are beautiful galleries that contain works of modern fine art, including paintings, engravings, sculptures, and jewelry. The exhibition is always updated, there are four major exhibitions a year, where you can see the works of about 250 different artists so that you can always see something new and be aware of current trends in the art world.

Open hours:Daily 10am - 5pm
Cost:free
Official site: https://www.thebiscuitfactory.com/

Unusual things to do for couple

Newcastle is an ideal holiday destination for couples. In the morning you can enjoy a delicious breakfast in one of the restaurants, have a cup of coffee in a cozy coffee shop, walk through the streets of the city, admire the architecture, and get closer to history and culture. In the evening, life in Newcastle is just beginning, opening clubs, bars, and pubs. If you want to have a romantic date, Newcastle is an ideal city for this. You will fall in love with it.

16. City Hall Newcastle

What is it?
Newcastle City Hall is a concert hall that opened in 1928. Today the concert hall is managed by the Academy Music Group. It hosts the biggest concerts of the season.

Why you should go?
Orchestras from around the world perform in this concert hall, as well as major rock, pop, and comedy concerts. It is an ideal place not only to spend time with your soulmate but also to enjoy the show.

Open hours:Depend on events
Cost: Depend on events

17. Tyne Bridge

What is it?
It is an arched bridge that connects Newcastle and Gateshead. It was designed by the engineering company Mott, Hay, and Anderson and opened in 1928. It’s 389 meters long and 17 meters wide.

Why you should go?
Anyone may or may not know about Newcastle, but they do know about Tyne Bridge. Of all the seven bridges on the River Tyne, this bridge is the most popular. You can drive over the bridge or even walk over it to see the magnificent city.

Open hours:24 hours daily
Cost: free

18. Salsa Club

What is it?
It’s a salsa fan club where you can have fun.

Why you should go?
You and your soulmate want to make your vacation unforgettable and think about unusual things to do. Try salsa dancing in the Salsa Club! It is distinguished by its stylish design. Here you can always enjoy your favorite dishes and drinks to the sound of salsa. In the evening, this club also often holds live performances, there are famous DJs and musicians.

Official site: https://salsadancingnewcastle.co.uk/

19. The Theater Royal

What is it?
It is one of nine registered theaters in England. It was founded in 1837 and renovated in 1901.

Why you should go?
You can spend an unforgettable evening with your soul mate in the theater. It is located in the center of the city, near it are many restaurants and bars where you can arrange a romantic dinner after the performance.

Open hours:Depend on events
Cost: Depend on events
Official site: https://www.theatreroyal.co.uk/

20. Tyneside Cinema

What is it?
It is the first art-house cinema in the city, rebuilt, with an international wide-spectrum program. It was opened in 1937 and renovated in 2008.

Why you should go?
In Tyneside Cinema you can not only watch movies from the main program but also watch free screenings of archive documentaries. There are also guided city tours where you can learn more about the history of the cinema.

Open hours:Tyneside Cinema Box office is open from 12:00 Mon - Sun
Cost: £1.00 - £13.50
Official site: https://tynesidecinema.co.uk/

Free things to do in Newcastle

What places to visit in Newcastle if you have a limited budget? You cannot worry about this, many Newcastle attractions can be seen for free.

21. Quayside

What is it?
Quayside has many historic buildings with beautiful architecture.

Why you should go?
In this area, you can walk through the streets and squares, and see many monuments, sculptures, and buildings that have historical and cultural value.

Open hours:24 hours daily
Cost:free

22. Newcastle upon Tyne Swing Bridge

What is it?
Newcastle is a city of bridges where seven ones cross the Tyne River. They are the main symbol of the city.

Why you should go?
You can walk on bridges and enjoy the beautiful views of the city from the height of a bird’s flight.

Open hours:24 hours daily
Cost:free

23. Chares

What is it?
Chares is one of the oldest districts of Newcastle.

Why you should go?
This area is considered a historical heritage of Newcastle, with well-preserved narrow medieval streets and alleys, monuments, and churches. Therefore, this area is an excellent place for walking.

Open hours:24 hours daily
Cost:free

24. Leazes Park

What is it?
Leazes Park is Newcastle’s oldest park known for its lake.

Why you should go?
This is a cool place to relax in nature from the city bustle. Here you can walk and admire nature, as well as play tennis or basketball.

Open hours:24 hours daily
Cost: free

25. Angel of the North

What is it?
The Angel of the North is a steel sculpture 20 meters high, with a wingspan of 54 meters and weighing 208 tons. Anthony Gormley created the statue in 1998.

Why you should go?
This statue is the largest angel sculpture in the world. It’s even bigger than the Statue of Liberty. So if you’ve been to Newcastle, you should see it with your own eyes.

Open hours:24 hours daily
Cost: free

Kids attractions

If you are planning a trip with the kids, you will probably ask yourself what to do in Newcastle. There are a lot of fun things to do including entertainment centers, parks, and interesting attractions that even children will like.

26. Ouseburn Farm

What is it?
Ouseburn Farm is located in Ouseburn Valley near the center of Newcastle. There are farmland and meadows, which are home to many animals such as cows, sheep, goats, pigs and chickens.

Why you should go?
This place will please both children and adults. Here you can feed the animals, as well as visit a variety of activities for entertainment and education. The entrance to the farm is free and does not require any contributions. There is also a cafe where you can try dishes of local farm products. In addition, the farm often hosts street food festivals.

Open hours:Monday - Closed, Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 3pm
Cost:free
Official site:https://www.ouseburnfarm.org.uk/

27. Life Science Center

What is it?
It’s an educational center for children.

Why you should go?
This educational center presents many exciting Newcastle activities for children in a playful form. Here your kids will be able to study space, conduct experiments, participate in theatrical performances, and much more.

Open hours: 10am - 5pm daily
Cost: Childen aged 4 and under visit for FREE (Maximum of 3 children per paying adult), family of 2 (Max. 1 adult) £21.00, family of 3 (Max. 2 adults) £29.00, family of 4 (Max. 2 adults) £36.50, family of 5 (Max. 2 adults) £45.00,adult (Aged 18 and over) £16.50, concession (Over 60s, Students) £13.50,c hild (Aged 5-17) £9.00, carer Ticket (Please bring proof) £0.00
Official site: https://www.life.org.uk/

28. Great North Museum Hancock

What is it?
It is a museum that will interest not only children but even adults.

Why you should go?
This museum contains many interesting exhibits, including dinosaur skeletons, animal figures, Egyptian mummies, and many other artifacts.

Open hours:Monday to Friday 10am - 5pm, Saturday, Sunday 10am - 4pm
Cost:free
Official site: https://greatnorthmuseum.org.uk/

29. Flight Simulator Centre

What is it?
It is a game center for fans of simulators.

Why you should go?
With older children, you can visit this place. In this center, visitors are offered to learn how to fly the plane, the gaming room simulates the cockpit as accurately as possible. There are also many other simulators. This entertainment center is popular not only for time spent by kids but also for activities for adults.

Open hours:9am - 9pm daily
Cost:£39.99 - £730.00
Official site: flightsimcentre.com

Family attractions

Newcastle is a wonderful city for a family vacation, where everyone will find something to do. You can visit museums, theaters, cinemas, exhibitions, walk in parks or just through the streets of the city.

30. Discovery Museum

What is it?
This is the Museum of Discovery, which was opened in 1934. It was the first science museum in England outside London.

Why you should go?
This museum contains a lot of exhibits on various subjects, including cars, windmills, steam engines, airplanes, works of art, and many others. Thus, every visitor will be able to find something interesting for themselves, even a child, so it is a good place for a family holiday.

Open hours:Monday to Friday 10am - 4pm, closed on Bank Holidays
Cost: free
Official site: https://discoverymuseum.org.uk/

31. Eldon Square Shopping Center

What is it?
It is a large shopping center that was founded in 1976.

Why you should go?
Shopping malls are always good places for family activities. You can buy some things, go to a restaurant or a cafe, or just stroll there to get to know Newcastle. Eldon Square Shopping Center provides many shops, restaurants, cafes, and other leisure facilities.

Open hours:Monday to Saturday 9am - 6pm, Sunday 11am - 5pm
Cost: free
Official site: https://eldonsquare.co.uk/

32. Native Newcastle See Do Tours

What is it?
This is a guided city tour for tourists to get to know Newcastle faster and better.

Why you should go?
This is a city tour of the most picturesque places to go in Newcastle, which includes a whole complex of natural attractions. You will visit the coastal areas, tropical reserves, parks, and squares. Such a vacation is sure to be enjoyed by every member of the family.

33. Go Ape Matfen

What is it?
This is an amusement park near Newcastle in the village of Matfen.

Why you should go?
This place will appeal to fans of extreme sports and outdoor activities. Here you can have fun and actively spend time with your family in the rope park. There is also entertainment for those who are afraid of heights, such as archery or throwing axes.

Open hours: 9am - 2 pm daily
Cost:£33.00
Official site:https://goape.co.uk/
FAQ
  • 1
    Best times of year to visit Newcastle?
    Newcastle is beautiful at any time of year, but for a tourist trip, the period from April to June is considered more favorable. At this time, there is an ideal climate for walking.
  • 2
    What are the must-visit destinations near Newcastle?
    If you are going to visit Newcastle, go to several near places. On the way, you can visit London, Edinburgh, York, Manchester, Dallas, Liverpool, etc.

    In London, you can see Windsor Castle, Edinburgh – Edinburgh Castle, York – York Castle Museum, Manchester – Manchester Cathedral, Dallas – Dallas World Aquarium, and Liverpool – Liverpool Cathedral.

    Of course, this is not the whole list of places you can see in these cities, but there are some must-visit destinations.
  • 3
    Where to Stay in Newcastle?
    If you are visiting Newcastle for the first time, it is best to stay in the city center, especially near Quayside, with its popular shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. All attractions are easily accessible from here.

    Newcastle has many hotels and hostels, so every tourist will be able to choose the most suitable option based on their budget.

    There are luxury hotels that are usually located in the heart of the city. Among them are Indigo Newcastle, Crowne Plaza Newcastle, du Vin & Bistro Newcastle.

    Newcastle also has mid-level hotels, many of which are even located in the city center as well. There are Staybridge Suites Newcastle and One Newcastle. Also, there is a category of cheap hotels, among them, are Tune and The Waterside.