My Guide to Newcastle

After living in Newcastle for just over a year I have been able to explore the city and enjoy everything that Newcastle has to offer. From wandering the streets to finding the best eats, here are my top ten things to do in Newcastle:

1. The Baltic  

A contemporary art gallery situated on the south bank of the river in Gateshead, with ever-changing exhibitions and a shop where you can get amazing souvenirs. The best part is actually the views over the city from the panoramic viewing deck at the top. The Baltic is free to enter and is the perfect place to escape the rain and immerse yourself in art. 

2. Jesmond Dene

Jesmond Dene is a unique haven just a step away from the city. The narrow wooded valley follows the Ouseburn river and is the perfect place to walk and take in all the nature and wildlife. From exotic trees and woodland birds to waterfalls. Whatever the weather it is always a great walk. 

3. Laing Art Gallery 

The Laing Art Gallery is home to an impressive collection of art and sculpture perched on New Bridge street and is the best thing to do in Newcastle if you’re something of an art lover. A great spot for contemporary art too. 

4. Quay Side – Sunday Market

Take a wander along the Quay Side and taking in the architecture and the bridges that create the iconic landscape. With bars and restaurants running parallel to the river there is so much choice that allows you to dine with a view. On Sundays, the Sunday market stall line the pavements which a variety of options from foods and crafts, well worth a visit. 

5. Tyne Bridge

This was on my bucket list before I left Newcastle and it was to walk over Tyne bridge and it doesn’t disappoint. After driving across many a time you don’t get to see the full extent of this magnificent structure that bridges Newcastle and Gateshead.

6. Tynemouth 

With just a short drive or a quick metro journey, you will find yourself at Tynemouth. It is a lovely little down with a large sandy beach and is the perfect destination to relax on the beach. The view of Tynemouth Priory and castle is the perfect place to sit and enjoy some fish and chips from Longsands Fish Kitchen. Some of the best fish and chips I have ever tasted and the curry sauce and scraps of batter topped it off. And if you are in Tynemouth on the weekend, you need to head to Tynemouth train station for the weekend markets. Spread across two platforms, it is a feast for the eyes and stomach. From crafts and bric-a-brac to cupcakes and hot dogs there is something for everyone and makes for a great day out. 

 

7. Ouseburn Valley

The Ouseburn Valley lies east of Newcastle. If you are up for a long walk this is the one for you. It was at the centre of the industrial revolution on Tyneside, the former warehouses and manufacturing buildings of Ouseburn now house creative spaces and laidback coffee shops and bars. Home to the Biscuit Factory, the UK’s largest independent art and crafts gallery, Seven Stories the national centre of children’s books, and the Victoria Tunnels.

8. Angle of the North

She is well worth a visit. Towering over the landscape when entering and leaving Newcastle from the south. It is a contemporary sculpture designed by Antony Gormley and is the largest sculpture in Britain. It recognises the sacrifice of the miners who worked beneath the site. 

9. Fenwick 

Fenwick is an independent department store and you cannot go wrong with a trip there. Even if you don’t buy anything it is a sense of tranquillity in the heart of the city. My favourite part of Fenwick is the food court where you are met by all kinds of deliciousness. 

10. Grainger town

The heart of the city built in the 1800s by Richard Grainger still holds its charm and characteristics. Wander through High Bridge and Grey street to a variety of shops and restaurants as well as central arcade and Grainger market the largest covered market in Europe. 

Newcastle is a relatively small city, which means it’s perfect to walk around. However, if your legs get tired, the metro is so efficient and easy to use. 

Stay tuned for the best places to eat and drink.