What Is Newcastle Like? A guide to the city of Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Nestled along the River Tyne in the North of England lies the city of Newcastle-upon-Tyne. An area steeped in history and known for its vibrant nightlife and culture, this city has much to offer visitors. Whether it’s the nightlife or the business opportunities or somewhere to call home, Newcastle can be an ideal destination.

History of Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Newcastle has long been a major settlement in the North East, with evidence of early settlement in the area by the Romans, predominantly in the form of a fort on Hadrian’s Wall. After the Romans left this area, it was subject to Viking raids, leading to King Arthur’s death and the destruction of his kingdom in 993. After this, much of the area saw development with stone castles and churches being erected to demonstrate Norman loyalty after they took control.

Upon gaining self-governance in 1234, Newcastle saw a surge in growth with a population boom, leading to an increase in trading activity. Towards the end of the 17th and start of the 18th centuries, coal was traded on a large scale out of Newcastle, leading to a rise in the city’s wealth and importance. This boom in financial prosperity continued until the mid 20th century when industry in the area declined sharply and caused unemployment to balloon. Since then, Newcastle has become a city centred around commerce and culture, often referred to as the “city of art’.

Culture and Nightlife

Today, Newcastle is renowned for its highly active nightlife and thriving arts culture. A home for many music venues, theatres and galleries, both locals from this area and visitors from further afield often spend time in venues like The Sage Gateshead, Tyneside Cinema and The Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art. In terms of music, Newcastle has been home to well-known British bands such as The Animals, The Futureheads and Maximo Park, as well as being well-regarded as one of the best cities for clubbing in the United Kingdom.

Business Opportunities

Newcastle is also a great destination for business opportunities due to its size, with around 50,000 businesses in the area making it a hub for new start-ups. Few places offer such opportunities in a wide range of sectors that Newcastle does, especially with regards to digital infrastructure, transport links and experienced personnel. It’s worth noting that some universities in the area offer incubators and start up resources too, giving business owners more options when it comes to getting their ventures off the ground. This is even more relevant for those looking for a career in tech or finance, since Newcastle is one of the biggest tech hotspots outside of London.

Living in Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Finally, living in Newcastle is often an option for those who want to be based near both costal areas and historical sites. Apart from providing convenient transport links to major cities such as London or Edinburgh (via the train), Newcastle provides its own scenery too with the River Tyne cutting through it and its close proximity to Durham Cathedral and Hadrian’s Wall. With plenty of green spaces too, this city is perfect for those who like to take some time out and explore nature during their spare time.

In conclusion, Newcastle is a great city with plenty to offer. With its exciting nightlife, booming economy and financial potential as well as fun activities like walking along Hadrian’s Wall or exploring The Baltic galleries – there’s something here for everyone. If you’re looking at settling down in this city or visiting it for a day out – explore everything Newcastle-upon-Tyne has to offer! For more information on how to settle down in the area or even what events are happening today head over to Visit North East England, your ultimate source for updates on Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

Insider’s Guide to Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Welcome to Newcastle-upon-Tyne, a vibrant city, known for its rich history, culture, and friendly locals. If you are planning to visit, you’re in for a treat! Here’s an insider’s guide to Newcastle that will help you discover its hidden gems and local treasures.

Local Attractions

While Newcastle has plenty of well-known attractions such as the iconic Angel of the North statue and the historic Castle Keep, there are also many lesser-known but equally fascinating places to explore:

– The Victoria Tunnel: This 19th-century tunnel was built to transport coal from the mines to the river and was later used as an air-raid shelter during World War II. Take a guided tour through its dark, damp passages and imagine what life was like during that time.

– BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art: Housed in a former flour mill, this gallery features cutting-edge contemporary art from around the world. It also offers fantastic views of the River Tyne from its rooftop terrace.

– The Lit and Phil Library: This hidden gem is one of the oldest independent libraries in the UK. With over 170,000 books, it’s a book lover’s paradise and worth a visit just to browse their collection.

Dining Spots

Newcastle has a rich food culture that celebrates local produce and traditional dishes. Here are some spots to try:

– Grainger Market: This historic covered market is an excellent place to sample local delicacies such as stotties (a savory flatbread), pease pudding (a savory spread made from split peas), and fresh seafood.

– The Botanist: While tourists might flock here for its picturesque rooftop garden, locals know that the real draw is the creative cocktails and tasty pub food like chicken hanging kebabs and smoked haddock mac and cheese.

– Dobson and Parnell: This Michelin-recommended restaurant offers contemporary British cuisine with a Geordie twist. Try their signature dish “angel’s on horseback” – crispy oysters wrapped in bacon, or their delicious seafood platter.

Cultural Experiences

Newcastle hosts numerous festivals, cultural events, and musical performances throughout the year. Here are some not to be missed:

– The Great North Run: This annual half-marathon takes place in September and attracts over 50,000 runners from around the world. It’s an excellent opportunity to see the city and its landmarks from a unique perspective.

– The Hoppings: For one week in June, Europe’s largest traveling funfair takes over Newcastle’s Town Moor. With rides, games, and plenty of food stalls, it’s a fun day out for the whole family.

– The Grainger Market Food Festival: Each August, local traders gather in the Grainger Market to showcase their products. Sample locally-produced cheeses, meats, and baked goods and watch cooking demonstrations by local chefs.

Local History

Newcastle has a long and rich history that dates back to Roman times. Here are some interesting stories from the city’s past:

– St. Nicholas’ Cathedral: This impressive Gothic cathedral has been a place of worship since 1091 and is steeped in history. Walking around its ancient stones, you can feel the weight of the centuries of events that it has witnessed.

– The Tyne Bridge: The iconic arch bridge was built in the 1920s and was inspired by the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It has become a symbol of Newcastle’s industrial heritage.

– The Black Gate: This fortified gatehouse was built in the 13th century and is all that remains of the Castle Keep complex. It’s a fascinating example of medieval architecture, and you can take a tour to learn about its history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Want to experience Newcastle like a local? Here are some insider tips:

– Attend a Newcastle United match: Football (soccer) is a religion in Newcastle, and watching a game at the historic St. James’ Park stadium is an unforgettable experience.

– Take a river cruise: See Newcastle from a different perspective by taking a cruise along the River Tyne. You’ll pass by iconic landmarks such as the Sage Gateshead and the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art.

– Visit Ouseburn Valley: This hidden gem is a creative hub filled with independent cafes, art galleries, and music venues. It’s the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon and explore Newcastle’s alternative scene.

In conclusion, Newcastle-upon-Tyne is a city with a lot to offer. From its rich history and culture to its delicious local cuisine and hidden gems, it’s a place that will capture your heart. We hope this insider’s guide has inspired you to explore some of the less well-known parts of the city and immerse yourself in its unique charm.