There is plenty to see and do in Newcastle, from historic landmarks to nightlife spots and industrial monuments. Whether you want to come here for a weekend or plan to stay longer, we have you covered. Explore the Tyneside region with our list of the best Newcastle activities.
1. Newcastle Castle
Discover the medieval castle in the heart of Newcastle. Founded in 1080, Newcastle Castle gave the city its name — it’s an excellent starting point for exploring the city. Immerse yourself in the history of the tumultuous past of England while admiring the breathtaking interiors of the castle’s chambers and passageways.
Address: The Black Gate, Castle Garth NE1 1RQ
Cost: £9.25 for adults and £5.75 for children (5-15)
2. The Victoria Tunnel
Delve into the mysteries of the city’s past with the tour of the underground wagonway. Built between 1839 and 1842, the tunnel runs down to the River Tyne from the Town Moor. Learn what it took to construct the Victoria Tunnel and how people used it through fascinating personal stories.
Address: Ouse Street, Byker, Valley NE1 2PF
Cost: £10-12 for adults and £5 for children (7-15)
3. Jesmond Dene
The historic park in suburban Newcastle is a beautiful place to spend a day with friends and family or walk in peace. There are numerous attractions here to make your visit to Jesmond Dene memorable. Have a picnic, marvel at old bridges, have afternoon tea at the cafe, and enjoy an open-air theater performance. You and your kids can also get up close with animals of all shapes and sizes at Pets’ Corner. Check out the best things to do in Newcastle except parks.
Address: Jesmond Dene NE7 7DZ
Cost: free
4. The Laing Art Gallery
There is plenty to see at the Laing Art Gallery, home to a rich art collection, including masterpieces by Paul Gauguin, Henry Moore, J. M. W. Turner, and Stanley Spencer. Visit rotating exhibitions to feel the atmosphere of the buzzing art scene of Newcastle. Admire the gallery building, a work of art in itself, with fine stained-glass windows and a spectacular dome.
Address: New Bridge Street West NE1 8AG
Cost: free, but tickets might be required for some temporary exhibitions
5. Newcastle Cathedral
Feel like a time traveler while admiring the only cathedral in the UK dedicated to St. Nicholas. See the cathedral’s legendary Lantern Tower, once used as a ship’s guiding light. For 900 years, Newcastle Cathedral has witnessed many events from England’s past, making it the perfect destination for exploring the city’s history. The cathedral also hosts numerous activities and events, including tours, exhibitions, and public talks for visitors of all ages.
Address: St. Nicholas Square NE1 1PF
Cost: free
6. Baltic Center for Contemporary Art
It’s impossible to walk past the magnificent industrial building of the Baltic Center by the River Tyne — and there’s no need to. Opened in 2002, the institution proved to be one of the leading centers supporting contemporary artists worldwide. Experience art at the 28,000 square feet of exhibition space and let your creativity flow.
Address: South Shore Road, Gateshead NE8 3BA
Cost: free
7. The Discovery Museum
Learn more about the heritage of Newcastle and the Tyneside area. Immerse yourself in the history, from ancient times to the present day, at the Discovery Museum. See once the world’s fastest steam-powered ship, the Turbinia, and delve into the region’s industrial past. Hear the stories of people who made Tyneside and Newcastle what it is today. The Discovery Museum also invites kids and their parents to get creative in the interactive play space.
Address: Blandford Square NE1 4JA
Cost: free
8. Gateshead Millennium Bridge
Opened in 2001, the bridge linking Newcastle and Gateshead has quickly become an iconic landmark. Moreover, it is the world’s only bridge that tilts at certain hours of the day, making it worth seeing at least once in your life. Marvel at the bridge’s magnificent contemporary design in the light of the evening illumination and take memorable photos.
Address: South Shore Rd, Gateshead NE8 3BA
Cost: free
