About Place
- "A vibrant city with a rich industrial heritage."
- "Incredible nightlife and friendly locals."
- "Beautiful Georgian architecture and scenic river views."
Reasons to Visit
- Impressive Historical and Cultural Heritage :
- Iconic landmarks like the Tyne Bridge and Newcastle Castle.
- Grey Street, often cited as one of the most beautiful streets in the UK.
- Vibrant Nightlife and Social Scene :
- Famous for its friendly locals and buzzing nightlife.
- Numerous pubs, bars, and clubs creating a lively and welcoming environment.
- Gateway to Scenic Landscapes of Northumberland :
- Easy access to stunning countryside and coastal areas.
- Close to historic sites like Hadrian's Wall, making it an excellent base for exploring northern England.
Visa
- For EU Citizens : No visa required for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period).
- For US Citizens : No visa required for short stays up to 6 months.
- For Australian Citizens : No visa required for short stays up to 6 months.
- For Indian Citizens : A visa is required. Visitors can apply for a standard visitor visa online, which allows stays up to 6 months.
- For Chinese Citizens : A visa is required. Visitors can apply for a standard visitor visa online, which allows stays up to 6 months.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from destination :
- Estimated cost for round-trip airfare from a major metro city like London to Newcastle: $150 per person. Total for two people: $300.
- Hotel cost :
- Average hotel cost in Newcastle: $120 per night. Total for 3 nights: $360 for one room for two people.
- Food cost :
- Estimated daily cost for lunch and dinner per person: $50. Total for 3 days for two people: $300.
- Activity cost :
- Newcastle Castle: $10 per person
- Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art: Free
- Great North Museum: Free
- Theatre Royal: $40 per person
- Tynemouth Priory and Castle: $10 per person
- Total for activities: $120 for two people.
- Near destination travel cost :
- Estimated car rental cost: $50 per day. Total for 3 days: $150.
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Start your day with a visit to Newcastle Castle from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, exploring its rich history and stunning views of the city. For lunch, head to The Broad Chare around 12:30 PM to try traditional British cuisine, including their famous fish and chips. In the afternoon, visit the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM to enjoy modern art exhibitions and a panoramic view of the city from the viewing platform. For dinner, visit Blackfriars Restaurant at 7:00 PM, known for its medieval setting and locally-sourced dishes. End the evening with a leisurely walk along the Quayside, taking in the illuminated bridges and vibrant atmosphere.
Day 2 : Begin with a visit to the Great North Museum from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM to discover natural history and ancient artifacts. Have lunch at The Botanist at 1:00 PM, where you can enjoy delicious food and a unique interior. In the afternoon, explore the historic Grey Street and visit the Theatre Royal from 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM. For dinner, dine at House of Tides at 7:30 PM, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite cuisine. Spend the night experiencing Newcastle's nightlife in the Bigg Market area, known for its lively pubs and bars.
Day 3 : Travel to the nearby coastal town of Tynemouth, starting with a visit to Tynemouth Priory and Castle from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. For lunch, enjoy fresh seafood at Riley’s Fish Shack at 1:00 PM, right on the beach. Spend the afternoon relaxing on Tynemouth Longsands Beach or exploring the local shops and cafes. Return to Newcastle in the evening for dinner at Dobson and Parnell at 7:00 PM, known for its fine dining and seasonal menus. Conclude your trip with a visit to a live music venue like The Cluny to experience the local music scene.
Safety Tips
- Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
- Use licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing services.
- Stay in well-lit and populated areas.
- Avoid walking alone late at night.
- Keep a copy of your passport and important documents.
- Follow local laws and customs.
- Have emergency contact numbers saved in your phone.
- Stay updated on weather conditions.
- Drink responsibly and know your limits.
Flights
- British Airways : London to Newcastle, approximately 1 hour. Cost: ~$100 per person.
- EasyJet : London to Newcastle, approximately 1 hour. Cost: ~$60 per person.
- Flybe : Birmingham to Newcastle, approximately 1 hour. Cost: ~$80 per person.
Hotels
- Malmaison Newcastle
- Hotel du Vin & Bistro Newcastle
- Crowne Plaza Newcastle - Stephenson Quarter
- Jesmond Dene House
- The Vermont Hotel
Contacts
- Indian Embassy in London : +44 20 8629 5950
- Police : 999 (emergency), 101 (non-emergency)
- Ambulance : 999
- Firefighters : 999
Country
Closet Airport
- Newcastle International Airport (NCL)
Nearest City
- Edinburgh
Heritage Sites
- Hadrian's Wall
Airlines
- British Airways
- EasyJet
- Flybe
- Ryanair
Currency
- British Pound (GBP)
Languages Spoken
- English
Real Story
The Great Fire of Newcastle and Gateshead (1854)
One of the most significant events in Newcastle's history is the Great Fire of 1854, which devastated large parts of both Newcastle and the neighboring town of Gateshead. The fire began on October 6, 1854, in a large factory on the Gateshead quayside that contained a substantial amount of chemicals and flammable materials. The blaze quickly spread to nearby buildings and warehouses.
Despite the efforts of local fire brigades, the fire intensified due to the explosive nature of the stored chemicals. The flames leaped across the River Tyne, reaching the Newcastle quayside and engulfing buildings there. The fire raged through the night, consuming homes, businesses, and iconic structures.
The fire caused an enormous explosion, which was heard up to 40 miles away. This explosion demolished buildings, killed 53 people, and injured many more. The scale of the destruction was immense, with over 800 buildings damaged or destroyed. The fire fundamentally changed the landscape of Newcastle and Gateshead, leading to significant rebuilding efforts in the years that followed.
In the aftermath, the fire brought about improvements in firefighting techniques and regulations. The event highlighted the need for better urban planning and building regulations to prevent such disasters in the future. The Great Fire remains a pivotal moment in the history of Newcastle, showcasing the resilience and determination of its people to rebuild and recover from tragedy.
Cuisine
Newcastle’s cuisine is a delightful mix of traditional British fare and modern culinary innovations, reflecting the city's rich history and vibrant culture. One of the most iconic local dishes is the stottie cake, a type of dense, round bread traditionally filled with ham and pease pudding. This hearty sandwich is a beloved staple in Newcastle and can be found in bakeries and cafes throughout the city.
Another regional specialty is pan haggerty, a comforting dish made from layers of potatoes, onions, and cheese, baked until golden and crispy. It's a simple yet delicious meal that showcases the region's agricultural produce and love for hearty, warming foods.
Singin’ hinnies are traditional Northumbrian griddle cakes made from flour, butter, and currants. The name comes from the sizzling sound they make while cooking on the griddle. These sweet treats are perfect for afternoon tea and offer a taste of the area's culinary heritage.
Newcastle is also renowned for its seafood, thanks to its proximity to the North Sea. Fresh fish, crab, and lobster are commonly featured on menus, with many restaurants offering dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients. A visit to the city would not be complete without trying the fresh seafood at one of the many excellent eateries along the coast.
Overall, Newcastle's cuisine is a testament to its rich cultural heritage and the region's abundant natural resources, offering visitors a diverse and flavorful culinary experience.
Culture and History
Newcastle is a city with a deep industrial heritage and a strong cultural identity. Known for its historic architecture, vibrant nightlife, and friendly locals, it has a unique charm that attracts visitors from around the world. The Geordie culture, characterized by its distinct accent and friendly demeanor, is a significant part of the city's identity. Newcastle has a rich history dating back to Roman times, with landmarks such as Hadrian's Wall and the medieval Newcastle Castle highlighting its historical significance. The city played a crucial role during the Industrial Revolution, becoming a hub for coal mining, shipbuilding, and engineering. Today, it is a thriving cultural center with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters. The annual Newcastle International Film Festival, the Newcastle Science Festival, and the world-famous Great North Run are just a few of the events that showcase the city's dynamic cultural scene. Newcastle's vibrant nightlife, centered around the Bigg Market, the Quayside, and the Ouseburn Valley, is renowned for its lively pubs, bars, and clubs, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The city's culinary scene is also noteworthy, with a range of restaurants offering everything from traditional British fare to international cuisine. Newcastle's blend of historical heritage, cultural vibrancy, and modern attractions makes it a unique and appealing destination for travelers.