Newcastle Upon Tyne's main centre is an ideal northern location for a weekend city break in the United Kingdom. It's compact, there's a thriving local food and drink culture, and the Geordies take pride in their extreme friendliness. If you are looking for a weekend break in Newcastle, why not stay at our Serviced Apartments? We offer affordable yet luxurious serviced apartments in two central, desirable locations.
Before we dive in, check out our previous guide on "Things to do During your Weekend Break to Newcastle".
3) Cultural things to see and do
Greys Monument, which has Grade 1 listed status, is definitely a starting point if you've come to Newcastle for culture. You can't miss it as you walk along Grey Street, which is lined with stately Georgian buildings that hold a plethora of clubs and restaurants.
The BALTIC Centre of Contemporary Art, technically located in Newcastle's neighbouring city of Gateshead, is worth the drive across the Tyne. It's the UK's largest dedicated modern art institution, and its very setting is historic: it's located in an ancient flour mill. Take in the exhibition before taking in the views of Newcastle's skyline from across the Tyne.
Art lovers should visit the Laing, Newcastle's first art gallery, which was constructed as a gift to the city in 1901.
The Biscuit Factory, the UK's biggest independent commercial art, craft, and design gallery, is located nearby the Laing. It's not in the city centre, but it's worth the trip out to Ouseburn if you have the time. Those interested in the city's history might like to visit Victoria Tunnel, a fully maintained 19th-century coal wagon-way and WW2 air-raid bunker. There's also Newcastle Castle to consider. During the summer, you could be lucky and catch an outdoor movie playing at the Screen On The Green in Old Eldon Square during your visit to Newcastle.
Do you want to walk in the footsteps of the city's many famous residents, both past and present? Plaques honouring some of Newcastle's most well-known and successful residents line the sidewalk from Baltic Square to the Swing Bridge. They cross the river and go along the Quayside to the Gateshead Millennium Bridge. Take a stroll! In terms of live entertainment, Newcastle has a lot to offer. Check out what's happening at the Theatre Royal, Live Theatre, Metro Radio Arena, City Hall, and the Sage before you go.
4) Nearby places to relax
The finest things in life are free, and people watching on the Quayside is one of the best free things to do in Newcastle throughout the day. In the summer, try to get a deckchair at the Quayside Seaside, a pop-up beach on the banks of the Tyne.
On Sundays, you can get a bite to eat at the neighbouring Quayside Market while feeling the sand beneath your feet. If you're lucky, you could glimpse the Millennium Bridge 'winking' when it rises to allow ships to pass. One of Newcastle's best attractions, the odd sight stops quayside strollers in their tracks!
If you have a sunny weekend in Newcastle, cross the river and relax outside The River Brew Co, a shipping container town where local food sellers serve the public on weekends. If the metropolitan setting isn't for you, you can always go to Jesmond Dene. A 15-minute taxi trip from Central Station to Newcastle's east end will take you to a tranquil green sanctuary with a free petting zoo!
To continue exploring all that the city of Newcastle has to offer, read Parts 1 and 3 of "Things to do During your Weekend Break to Newcastle".
Are you thinking of planning a trip away to Newcastle? Check out our serviced apartments. They will make your stay feel like a home from home.