10 Top Sights and Activities to See and Do in Newcastle, England

Newcastle upon Tyne, commonly known as Newcastle, is a bustling city located in the north-east of England on the banks of the River Tyne. It is home to a variety of attractions, events, and activities that cater to both locals and visitors alike. From its iconic bridges to its world-renowned art galleries, Newcastle has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a cultural experience, an outdoor adventure, or simply a relaxing day by the river, Newcastle has plenty of options to choose from.

This article is your guide to the 10 top sights and activities to see and do in Newcastle. From the city’s iconic bridges to its historic castles, you’ll find something to keep you entertained during your stay. So, let’s take a look at what makes Newcastle so special and start exploring!

1. Take a Stroll Across the Iconic Tyne Bridges

No visit to Newcastle is complete without a trip across one of its iconic bridges. The Tyne Bridge, originally built in 1928, is the most famous of the city’s bridges and is instantly recognizable for its striking arch design. The Gateshead Millennium Bridge opened in 2001 and is the world’s first and only tilting bridge that is designed to open up in the middle and allow ships to pass underneath. The High Level Bridge, built in 1849 by Robert Stephenson and Isambard Kingdom Brunel, is a Grade I listed structure and is one of the oldest bridges still in use today. Taking a stroll across one of these iconic bridges is a great way to experience the beauty of Newcastle’s skyline.

Book a bridge tour in Newcastle

2. Explore the Historic Castle Keep

The Castle Keep is one of Newcastle’s most iconic landmarks and is part of Newcastle Castle. The Castle Keep dates back to 1172 and is an impressive example of Norman architecture. It houses the Black Gate Museum which offers a fascinating insight into the history of this medieval castle. Visitors can explore the museum’s interactive exhibits, watch a short film about the castle’s history, and take in stunning views from the top of the keep.

Book a Castle Keep tour in Newcastle

3. Visit The Quayside

The Quayside is one of Newcastle’s most popular tourist attractions and is full of restaurants, bars, and other businesses alongside the picturesque River Tyne. Visitors can take a stroll along the riverbank and enjoy stunning views of the seven bridges spanning the river. The Quayside also hosts a vibrant street market every weekend which offers everything from souvenirs to local delicacies.

Book a Quayside tour in Newcastle

4. Explore Life Under the Street at Victoria Tunnel

The Victoria Tunnel is an underground passageway that was used to transport coal from Spital Tongues Colliery to the River Tyne during the 19th century. The tunnel has been restored to its former glory and is now open to visitors as a museum showcasing life under the streets during this period. Visitors can join a guided tour and explore the tunnel’s dark passages, which are lit only by candlelight.

Book a Victoria Tunnel tour in Newcastle

5. Enjoy an Outdoor Adventure at Jesmond Dene

Jesmond Dene is an urban oasis nestled in the heart of Newcastle. It’s a great place for outdoor activities such as walking and cycling, and it also features an animal centre with meerkats, otters, badgers and more. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along its winding pathways and admire its impressive waterfall and cascading streams.

Book an outdoor adventure at Jesmond Dene

6. Visit the Life Science Centre

The Life Science Centre is an interactive science museum located on the banks of the River Tyne in Newcastle. Visitors can explore its four floors of interactive exhibits which cover topics such as human biology, space exploration, engineering and more. There’s also a 3D planetarium, an IMAX cinema screen, and an exciting live science show every day!

Book a visit to the Life Science Centre

7. Take in the Views from Grey’s Monument

Grey’s Monument is a Grade I listed building located in Newcastle city centre which was built in 1838 to commemorate Earl Grey’s role in passing the Great Reform Act of 1832. Visitors can climb up its 200 steps for spectacular views over Newcastle city centre and beyond. It’s also home to an impressive bronze statue of Earl Grey himself!

Book a visit to Grey’s Monument

8. Enjoy Local Cuisine at Grey Street

Grey Street is one of Newcastle’s most iconic streets and is lined with stunning Georgian architecture as well as a variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes serving local cuisine such as fish and chips and stottie cakes. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes while taking in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic street.

Book a culinary tour on Grey Street

9. Explore the Great North Museum: Hancock

The Great North Museum: Hancock is one of Newcastle’s most visited attractions and showcases over 2000 years of history from around the world. The museum features interactive exhibits covering topics such as dinosaurs, Ancient Egypt, and Natural History as well as collections of fossils, rocks, minerals, coins, and artwork from all over the world.

Book a visit to the Great North Museum: Hancock

10. Visit St Nicholas Cathedral

The magnificent St Nicholas Cathedral dates back to 1091 and is one of Newcastle’s most impressive buildings. Visitors can explore its beautiful interior which features stained glass windows, elaborate stone carvings, and intricate wooden ceilings as well as attending services held throughout the week or special events held throughout the year such as concerts and art exhibitions.

Book a tour of St Nicholas Cathedral

From its iconic bridges to its vibrant quayside, Newcastle has something for everyone to enjoy during their stay in this lively city on the banks of the River Tyne. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or simply want to relax by the river, this article has provided you with your guide to 10 top sights and activities to see and do in Newcastle during your visit!