Newcastle-upon-Tyne (or simply Newcastle) is a gateway to the North and one of England’s most vibrant, friendly, and inspiring cities. Living near Newcastle, I was able to visit this city easily and spent many days exploring its museums and restaurants. So, I am very familiar with all of the attractions in Newcastle.
Newcastle is a city of universities, with Northumbria University (Northumbria University) and Newcastle University (Newcastle University) located in the center. Students frequent many of the cool bars and restaurants in Newcastle, which offers some of the most exciting nightlife. Newcastle was once an industrial city with a bustling port. However, much of the riverside has been renovated to transform old factories. The Quayside is a renovated area that now houses trendy apartments, restaurants, and galleries.
The River Tyne offers a beautiful way to begin your visit to Newcastle. You can then climb the steep banks of the river into the city. The Geordies, or people from Newcastle, will greet you with their unmistakable accents and friendly nature. Most of the city’s attractions are easily accessible on foot. The city is a mix of old structures like the castle, Victorian architecture, and 16th-century inns with modern facilities like the Sage.
Newcastle is located near the coast, and Northumberland’s rolling green spaces are just a quick drive or metro ride away. Newcastle is the perfect place to go shopping, explore culture in one of its museums, or enjoy tasty food in trendy surroundings. The best things to see and do in Newcastle (or the “toon,” as locals call it) are listed below.
See the Exhibits at Great North Museum: HANCOCK
Great North Museum Hancock: This is one of Newcastle’s best museums, combining natural history, science, history, and more.
John Hancock is an ornithologist from Newcastle and a taxidermist. He helped to secure funding for the museum. It was named after him.
The Natural History Society of Northumbria runs the museum, which opened in 1884.
There are many exciting exhibits for children and adults. These include a display of wildlife and habitats called Living Planet, a museum filled with artifacts and facts about Hadrian’s Wall, which is nearby, and a focus on Ancient Egypt, with two mummies on display.
NEWCASTLE CASTLE: A CASTLE TO EXPLORE
Newcastle Castle is a Norman castle in the center of the city that gives the town its name.
The Black Gate and the Castle Keep are the two remaining structures.
The origins of the castle date back to the Roman Times when a fort and settlement were built on this site.
William the Conqueror and Henry II built the Castle Keep, Black Gate, and City Walls.
Explore the history of the city and enjoy the stunning views of the river.
Visit the Discovery Museum
Free entry to the museum, which is packed with exhibits on the life of the city, the surrounding area, shipbuilding, and scientific discoveries.
The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions. Shalom is one of them. The museum has a number of temporary exhibitions, including Shalom!
The museum offers a variety of trails and interactive activities for kids and hosts regular themed days during holidays.
Discovery Museum is located at Blandford Square in Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE1 (4JA).
LEARN SOMETHING NEW AT THE LIFE SCIENCE CENTRE
The Life Science Centre in Singapore is an attraction that is unique to the city. It focuses on the body and life.
Most of the exhibits are interactive and offer experiments.
It is not only a museum but also a place where people in the fields of education, business, and science can conduct research and experiments that could lead to breakthroughs.
When visiting Newcastle during Christmas, skate on the outdoor ice skating rink at the museum.
The Life Science Centre can be found at the International Centre for Life in Times Square, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE1 4EP.
CROSSING THE TYNE BRIDG
The green iron Tyne Bridge is one of many bridges that cross the River Tyne.
Mott, Hay, and Anderson designed the Tyne Bridge, which is very similar to the other famous bridge they built in Sydney Harbour.
The bridge was built in 1928, and King George V officially opened it.
The Tyne Bridge is a symbol for Newcastle and the North East.
The road is used by both cars and pedestrians. It offers excellent views of the River Tyne, the mouth of the river, and the sea beyond.
GRAINGER MALL: SHOP AND EAT
Grainger Market in Newcastle is a great place to try foods from all over the world.
John Dobson created the market, which opened in 1835. Today, it is a listed structure that houses more than 100 independent traders who sell plants, crafts, artworks, and other items.
The market also has 17 amazing food stalls run by passionate people who serve delicious foods.
Fed’s Fried Chicken offers crispy and juicy fried poultry, while Dumpling & Bun serves flavourful dumplings. You can also stock up on food for a picnic or have a relaxing and varied meal in La Casa Delicatessen’s Spanish tapas and deli.
Enjoy the works at the LAING Art Gallery
Alexander Laing, an entrepreneur from the area, donated funds to the city in the late 1800s to help build a fine art museum. The gallery was first opened in 1901.
Many of the oil paintings painted by British artists are displayed in this gallery.
The gallery also features collections of silverware, watercolors, and fine china.
The museum regularly chains displays with previous exhibitions. This includes a focus on Leonardo Da Vinci’s works.
Watch a show at The Theatre Royal
John and Benjamin Green designed the Theatre Royal in the early 1830s with Richard Grainger’s input, who is responsible for many of Newcastle’s most iconic Victorian structures. The theatre opened in 1837 with The Merchant of Venice.
After a fire in 1900, Frank Matcham added the famous columned façade to the theatre in 1901.
This Grade I listed building, which was built in 1898, has hosted many performances since then, including Shakespeare’s plays and the Scottish Opera and Ballet.
Theatre Royal is located at 100 Grey Street in Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE1 6BR.