Newcastle-upon-Tyne is an energetic city thatcombines striking architecture with fascinating museums, sports passion andbuzzing nightlife. Newcastle sits on the north banks of the River Tyne, whereits residents, nicknamed Geordies, are well known for their gregarious spirit.
Explore Newcastle’s distinctneighborhoods comfortably on foot. A good place to start isGrainger Town, the historic city center lined withgraceful classical architecture. Major attractions includeGrey’s Monument, theCentral Arcade andGrainger Market, alllocated here. Stroll down elegant Grey Street tofind bars, restaurants, boutiques and the TheatreRoyal.
Walk a short distance west to Chinatown,where British culture meets Asian influences. Discover Asian restaurants,teahouses and spice shops. A 10-minute walk south is theDiscovery Museum, where you can see athrough-the-ages history of Newcastle. Nearby, learn about dinosaurs and humananatomy at the Life Science Centre.
East of the city center are some ofNewcastle’s best museums and galleries. Admire art expositions at theLaing Art Gallery and the BiscuitFactory. Enjoy hands-on fun at the SevenStories children’s museum. Don’t miss theGreat North Museum: Hancock in the universitydistrict north of the city.
Architectural treasures exist throughout Newcastle.Visit 900-year-old St. Nicholas Cathedral and theCastle Keep, one of England’s finestexamples of a Norman-era fortress. Alternatively, witness the passionate fansof Newcastle United soccer club at St. James’Park, which towers over the city center.
Experience the much-loved Geordie hospitality whileenjoying the city’s nightlife. The boisterous pubs ofBigg Market are popular for bachelor parties.Quayside offers stylish bars with superb riverviews and great people-watching opportunities. Investigate theGateshead Millennium Bridge, which crosses theriver to neighboring Gateshead.
Access Newcastle via intercity trains and busesfrom all over Great Britain. When arriving from the south, look for the hugeAngel of the North statue. Whatever the season,including the notoriously cold winter, Newcastle remains full of vitality andexcitement. It’s also on the doorstep of great North Englandattractions such as Hadrian’s Wall Pathand Whitley Bay.
