Newcastle, Northumberland and the North East are often overlooked. Don’t make that mistake though. I lived in Newcastle for a year and fell in love with the region. It’s home to tons to see and do. There are also beautiful hotels in Newcastle Upon Tyne you can stay at.
Newcastle makes a great base to explore the area. It’s central, with a train station and an airport. The city itself has lots to offer also. Think historical monuments, castles, and beautiful landscapes. Spend a week exploring, or just stop over between London and Edinburgh. You won’t regret it.
When you’re ready, reach out! Let’s plan your trip to Newcastle, Northumberland and North East England.
Newcastle Upon Tyne
Newcastle Upon Tyne
The city of Newcastle is the perfect base into the area. The trains arrive from all over the UK, including London. There’s also an international airport that’s well connected.
The city itself offers plenty to explore. See the 13th-century Castle Keep and West Walls.
Stroll along the Quayside. There are tons of restaurants, bars, and shops.
Grainger Town is the historic center. The neoclassical architecture is the real draw, but it’s lined with shops to stop in at.
Escape to Jesmond Dene. This public park is a wooded valley. Walk along the Ouseburn River.
The Angel of the North is one of the world’s largest public artworks. This giant sculpture overlooks the countryside. It’s almost 70 feet tall with a wingspan of over 175 feet.
St. Mary’s Lighthouse
Explore the museums and galleries. The Great North Museum focuses on natural history and ancient civilizations. The BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art has rotating exhibits. The Centre For Life houses the Life Science Centre. It was the first in Europe licensed for stem cell research using human embryos.
Take a short metro ride to Tynemouth. This charming seaside town offers fish and chips. Visit Tynemouth Castle and Priory.
Whitley Bay is also nearby. Enjoy the amusement arcade. Relax on Long Sands Beach and build sandcastles. Check out St Mary’s Lighthouse. It has a nature reserve, and a wetland habitat.
Visit Segedunum. This Roman fort dates back almost 2,000 years. Explore the ruins and visit the museum.
The Theatre Royal is the third home for the Royal Shakespeare Company. They perform here in the fall. The theatre hosts many other shows too.
Exploring Northumberland & North East England
Bamburgh Castle
Don’t spend all your time in Newcastle, however. The area of Northumberland and North East England is packed. Here is just a selection of some things to do here:
Hike Hadrian’s Wall. Follow the Hadrian’s Wall Path. It’s a long-distance footpath stretching over 80 miles.
See Bamburgh Castle. It’s a beautiful coastal castle with a rich history. The quaint village of Bamburgh is also worth a stop.
Visit the tidal island of Holy Island. Check the tidal times to cross safely. Wander the quaint village. Stroll the rocky paths. Check out Lindisfarne Castle.
Explore Durham. South of Newcastle, it’s home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle.
Whitby Abbey
Discover Whitby. It’s a seaside town south of Newcastle. The ruins of Whitby Abbey are famous for its connection to Dracula.
Venture inland to the Northumberland National Park. It covers a large area, stretching to the Scottish border. See Kielder Forest, the largest man-made forest in Europe. Explore the Cheviot Hills and the Sycamore Gap as well.
Consider a day trip to Edinburgh. It’s best for a weekend or multi-day trip, but a day trip is possible. Take the train early, return in the evening. You can see Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill, Arthur’s Seat. and stroll along the Royal Mile.
Where To Stay
Image courtesy of Malmaison Newcastle
Hotels in Newcastle Upon Tyne can range by boutique hotels to international brands. Common names you’ll recognize are the Doubletree, Hilton and the Premier Inn.
Some of the best hotels in Newcastle Upon Tyne are:
- Crowne Plaza Newcastle – Stephenson Quarter: This modern hotel is conveniently located in the city center. It’s close to the train station, with comfortable rooms and amenities.
- Malmaison Newcastle: This boutique hotel on the Quayside is a former prison.Offers unique rooms and river views.
- Sandman Signature Newcastle Hotel: A vibrant, stylish hotel right across from St James Park (home to Newcastle United). There’s spacious suites and multiple dining options.
- INNSiDE by Meliá Newcastle: This contemporary hotel is near the Quayside. It’s known for a sleek design and rooftop bar.
- Jesmond Dene House: An elegant boutique hotel in Jesmond Dene. Its peaceful setting and fine dining are the main draw
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