Whether it’s an adventurous night on the Toon you’re after or an action packed weekend of sight-seeing and exploring, Newcastle has it all. Expertly blending Victorian elegance with an urban edge, this northern city is bursting with hidden gems. Stroll along the quayside on the banks of the river Tyne, gorge on some award-winning gastronomy in Jesmond and visit the iconic Angel of the North. Follow our 48 hour guide for the ultimate mini-break in Newcastle.
Located just 0.2 miles from Newcastle Central Station, Sleeperz Hotel Newcastle is the perfect spot to rest your head for a few nights. Set right in the heart of the city, close to its most iconic attractions, you’ll wake up to an abundance of history on your doorstep. A stone’s throw away from St. James Park football stadium, Sleeperz has 98 stylish, contemporary bedrooms kitted out with everything you could possible need. Reasonable prices and an unrivalled location make this hotel a great option for your weekend away in Newcastle.
Sleeperz Hotel Newcastle – 15 Westgate Road
Gateshead Millennium Bridge - S Shore Road
Nicknamed the Blinking Eye, Gateshead Millennium Bridge is the world’s first and only tilting bridge. Linking Newcastle with Gateshead via Newcastle’s Quayside on the north bank and Gateshead Quays arts quarter on the south bank, the structure is a real sight for sore eyes. Engineered and designed by Gifford and Wilkinson Eyre Architects, the landmark is the only foot and cycle bridge crossing the River Tyne. Opened in 2001, visit the bridge at 12pm any day of the week, to watch it tilt on its side.
The Biscuit Factory – 16 Stoddart Street
Located in the heart of Ouseburn, Newcastle’s cultural quarter, the Biscuit Factory is the largest independent commercial art, craft and design gallery in the UK. Since 2002, the space has been providing a platform for local and national artists to showcase their works in a series of seasonally changing exhibitions. The gallery, housed in an old 1870 Victorian biscuit warehouse, sells the works of over 200 artists. A must-see, this is definitely one to add to the list of what to do in Newcastle upon Tyne.
Angel of the North – Durham Road
No trip to Newcastle would ever be complete without paying a visit to Antony Gormley’s iconic sculpture in Gateshead. The 20 metre tall structure is said to be one of the most recognisable pieces of artwork ever produced and dominates the city skyline. Completed in 1998, the steel monument towers above the A1 and can be reached from the city centre by taking the number 21 north east Angel bus.
St. James Park – Barrack Road
Whether you’re a football fan or not, a tour of the stadium is well worth it. Home of Newcastle United since 1892, St. James’ Park is located in the heart of the city, making it one of the most accessible and well-connected stadiums in the country. Just a ten minute walk from Newcastle Central Station, the stadium offers a series of unique tours from rooftop walks to classic access all area packages.
The Laing Gallery – New Bridge St. W
Designed by architects Cackett and Burns Dick, the Laing Gallery houses an internationally important collection of art focusing on British oil, watercolours, silver, ceramic and glassware. The building itself is a fine example of the Baroque style mixed with elements of Art Nouveau and is listed as a grade II protected site. Channel your inner art critic and visit the gallery to see historic, modern and contemporary works through the decades.
Newcastle Castle – Castle Garth
The medieval castle that gave the city its name, is situated in the centre of Newcastle. Open seven days a week, the family friendly historic attraction offers an interesting look at the area’s past and how it came to life. The Castle Keep and its 13th century gatehouse, the Black Gate are the most well preserved elements of the Norman castle. Take a tour explore the hidden passageways and rooms of one of Newcastle’s oldest attractions.
Sohe – 97 Osborne Road
Both cocktail bar and Asian fusion restaurant, you’ll find Sohe in Jesmond, Newcastle’s culinary hub. The Victorian venue offers an eclectic menu rich in flavour and heavily influenced by countries all over Asia. Settle into the stunning surroundings and relaxed atmosphere and spend the evening being transported to other worlds. Order from their dynamic cocktail menu to complete the experience.
Fat Hippo Underground – 2-6 Shakespeare Street
Head below the streets and sink your teeth into the ultimate juicy burger at Fat Hippo Underground. The comfort food spot is set in exposed brick with a red neon sign making it not only a delicious place to eat at, but to look at too. With veggie and vegan options as well as good old fashioned beefy choices, this restaurant caters for everyone and is the ideal spot to grab a post sight-seeing bite or a pre-drinks feed.
For more information on the city of Newcastle visit http://www.visitnortheastengland.co.uk
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Flights to Newcastle
- Lucy Norris
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