15 best things to do in Newcastle if you’re looking for adventure
As someone who’s been in Newcastle for a long time, I’ve had those days where I feel; like I’d seen it all. But honestly, as the town keeps on evolving, there’s always something new popping up to check out.
And funnily enough, it’s made me appreciate the places I used to visit and things I used to do all the time, especially since I get to show them off to friends now.
So, if you’re on the lookout for things to do in Newcastle, keep on reading. Our adventures might just give you some fresh ideas!
Historical and cultural things to do in Newcastle
1. Walk through medieval passageways in Newcastle Castle
Media credits: newcastlecastle
Address: The Black Gate, Castle Garth
Contact details: +44 191-230-6300
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Price: £
Newcastle Castle isn’t a fancy royal palace. It’s a real medieval fortress with thick stone walls, narrow passageways, and a strong sense of history. You’ll learn about the people who lived there, from kings to prisoners.
When you explore the Castle Keep, be ready for a lot of stairs because there are over 100 steps to the top. But once you’re up there, the view of Newcastle is amazing. The inside is also full of twisting corridors, small rooms, and cool old features.
There didn’t seem to be any lifts or ways for wheelchairs or prams to get around. The paths are also uneven, so it’s not great for people who need easy access.
Pro tip:
When you visit here, give yourself at least 1.5 to 2 hours. There’s plenty to explore, especially if you want to enjoy the view from the top and take your time through the chambers and passageways.
2. Admire the Gothic style of St Nicholas’ Cathedral
Media credits: newcastlecathedral
Address: St. Nicholas Sq
Contact details: +44 191-232-1939
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8 AM – 6 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 8 AM – 5 PM
Price: Free
Our team was pleased that the atmosphere inside the cathedral was welcoming. The entrance was free, though we happily dropped a donation in the collection box. The volunteers and staff were friendly and offered us helpful bits of information.
Inside, the cathedral is full of impressive details. You can always admire the stained glass windows, ornate carvings, and loads of interesting monuments and plaques. We especially liked the medieval font and the intricately carved wooden cover over it.
If you want a peaceful spot to take a break, check out the new terrace and churchyard trail. Before we left, we visited the little cafe and shop, which was perfect to grab some hot drinks.
Pro tip:
Check for events or concerts on their website or ask the staff what’s on. They often host live music and community events here.
3. Join a guided tour in Victoria Tunnel
Address: Ouseburn Valley, 51 Lime St
Contact details: +44 191-261-6596
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM – 4 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 3 PM
Price: ££
Our team booked the 2-hour tour, and it gave us a full look at the tunnel’s two main stories. First is how it was used during World War II, and second is what its original purpose was as a coal transport tunnel in the 1800s.
The tour started with our guide telling us how the tunnel was turned into an air-raid shelter during the war. We saw bunk beds, benches and even old graffiti left by people then.
With the sound effects of sirens and bombs, it felt like stepping back in time. They gave us hard hats and flashlights, which added to the adventure.
If you’re not a fan of tight or dark spaces, this tour might not be the best choice. But most of us thought it was really cool, especially with the spooky stories of the place.
Pro tip:
Use the bathroom before the tour. There are no toilets in the tunnel, and once you’re inside, you’re in there for the duration.
4. Enjoy people-watching in Grey’s Monument
Address: 150 Grainger St
Contact details: +44 191-440-5720
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Price: £
Grey’s Monument is a tall, beautiful statue right in the middle of the city centre. We learned that it was built to honour Charles Grey, who helped bring big political changes in the 1800s.
We managed to join a guided tour that let us climb the 164 steps to the top. It’s a bit of a climb, but once you reach the viewing platform, the views are amazing. You can see all across Newcastle and the River Tyne.
The area around the monument is also full of life. There were street musicians, performers, and people walking around or sitting near cafes and shops. There are also plaques at the base of the monument so you can learn about what Mr. Grey did.
Pro tip:
If you’re visiting during an open climb, we suggest going early or late in the day. This will help you avoid crowds at the viewing platform, which can only fit about 8 people.
Food and drinks in Newcastle
5. Sip on some coffee at Tiny Tiny
Media credits: tiny_tiny_newcastle
Address: 9, 11 Carliol Square
Contact details: +44 191-261-5748
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 8 AM – 4 PM
Price: ££
Tiny Tiny is a small cafe, but it’s super cosy with wooden tables, lots of plants, and a chill lounge area inside. Some of our teammates sat outside, which also had a quiet and relaxing atmosphere.
The coffee was amazing here, especially the iced lattes. They were smooth and refreshing. Since they roast their own coffee, we’ve really tasted the quality.
They’ve got lots of dishes here, from breakfast and lunch to snacks. Their huevos rancheros had great flavour, and their smashed avocado toast was way more interesting than the usual avocado toast we’ve tasted.
Pro tip:
It’s a great spot for working or studying because of their Wi-Fi, but power outlets are limited. We suggest coming here with all of your devices charged up.
6. Enjoy fine dining at House of Tides
Media credits: houseoftides
Address: 28-30 Close
Contact details: +44 191-230-3720
Operating hours:
- Monday to Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday to Thursday: 5:30 PM – 9 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 12 PM – 2 PM, 5:30 PM – 9 PM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 4 PM
Price: £££
House of Tides has so much character, with its old stone floors, wooden beams, and a bar downstairs for drinks before dinner. Upstairs, the dining room is warm and elegant. We also loved the big fireplace and views of the river.
We all chose the tasting menu, and every single dish was full of flavour. The portion may look small at first, but by the end, we were completely satisfied. We also did the wine pairing, and the wines matched the dishes perfectly.
Pro tip:
Book early to secure your preferred date and time. House of Tides is a Michelin-starred restaurant with limited seating, so reservations fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
7. Get some lunch at The Botanist
Media credits: thebotanistuk
Address: Monument Mall
Contact details: +44 191-261-6307
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 11 AM – 12 AM
- Thursday: 11 AM – 1 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 10 AM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 10 AM – 11 PM
Price: ££
Walking right into The Botanist, you’ll be greeted with a beautiful garden-like space. There’s a huge indoor tree, twinkly lights, and lots of plants. We did have to walk up three flights of stairs to get to the restaurant, but it was worth it.
We went for lunch and tried the hanging kebabs, which were served on a tall skewer that let the sauce drip down onto our side dish. The chicken kebab had that subtle smokiness like it had been cooked over open flames.
It was lovely that the menu had something for everyone, like meat dishes, vegan options, and even a kids’ menu if you’re coming with a family. It was also nice seeing other customers with their dogs, and the staff was friendly to them.
Pro tip:
If you want to enjoy some live music, we suggest visiting The Botanist in the evenings. The music will pair perfectly with cocktails and dinner, making it a great choice for date nights, group outings, or just a relaxed catch-up with friends.
8. Find your favourite cocktail at The Alchemist
Media credits: thealchemistuk
Address: 5 Grey’s Quarter, Eldon Square
Contact details: +44 191-261-1112
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 12 PM – 11 PM
- Friday: 12 PM – 1 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 11 PM
Price: £££
We really like how The Alchemist is right in Eldon’s Square, so it was really central and easy to get to. The place had a theatrical vibe, with drinks and dishes that played on the city’s mix of old Roman history and magical stories.
The cocktails were the real highlight, and each one felt like a mini science experiment. There was smoke, bubbles, colour changes, and even a few flames! The Mad Hatters Tea Party cocktail was served in a teapot, and it has a sweet and fruity flavour.
If you get hungry, their menu is super varied, with options by cuisines from all over the world. We really like that they offer plenty of options for different dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free, so no one gets left out.
Pro tip:
If you’re a National Health Service (NHS) staff, make sure to take advantage of the discount they offer! Not only does it give you a little extra saving on your bill, but it’s a thoughtful gesture that makes your experience even more enjoyable.
Entertaining things to do in Newcastle
9. Catch some live performances at the Theatre Royal
Media credits: newcastletheatreroyal
Address: 100 Grey St
Contact details: +44 191-232-7010
Operating hours:
- Depends on the show schedule
Price: £££
Theatre Royal has five levels. The seats are surprisingly comfortable for an old building, and we like that there’s a lift to help you get to all the floors.
Our team saw The Little Mermaid panto during our visit, and it was amazing. We sat in the grand circle, which had great views. But if someone tall sits in front of you, you might have to twist a bit to see the staff.
We also loved the bars inside the building. Even though it got busy before the show, the staff served drinks quickly. We had some Prosecco, and we were very satisfied. The Oliver Suite also offers a nice afternoon tea if you’re in the mood for something else.
Pro tip:
If you need extra assistance, don’t hesitate to use your health and disability access card. The staff are really helpful and will ensure your experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
10. Enjoy a night of laughter at the Stand Comedy Club
Media credits: standnewcastle
Address: 31 High Bridge
Contact details: +44 131-558-7272
Operating hours:
- Monday to Tuesday: 6 PM – 11:30 PM
- Wednesday to Saturday: 6 PM – 12 AM
- Sunday: 6 PM – 11 PM
Price: ££
We arrived early at the Stand Comedy Club to grab a good seat because it was first-come, first-served. However, the staff were also quick to find extra seating as the place filled up. The layout of the venue is great, and there’s a strict no-bar-noise rule.
The comedians were all excellent, and we loved that there was a mix of local and international talent. We’ve heard that on Wednesday, they have this “Red Raw” event, which is a fun way to see new comedians perform.
As for the food and drinks, we couldn’t complain. Their menu has home-cooked options like burgers, nachos, and tacos. The bar inside, although small, had a decent selection of drinks at reasonable prices.
Pro tip:
Some shows are more for grown-ups and might include mature content, so it’s a good idea to check the show details first if you’re thinking of bringing younger ones along.
11. Hit the dance floor at World Headquarters
Media credits: worldheadquartersclub
Address: Curtis Mayfield House, Carliol Square, East, Pilgrim St
Contact details: +44 191-281-3445
Operating hours:
- Monday to Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Price: £
The vibe inside World Headquarters was super welcoming. Everyone was friendly, and we really loved how it didn’t matter who you were or where you came from. We recommend this place without a doubt if you’re into bass and techno music.
The club has two floors, and each one has a different feel. Upstairs was full of energy, with wall art and a raised DJ booth that made it feel like a mini-festival. The sound system there was really powerful and you could feel the music through the floor.
Downstairs was more relaxed but still had awesome sound. We loved how you could choose the kind of vibe you wanted depending on your mood. We didn’t see a cloakroom, so just be aware if you’re bringing a big coat.
Pro tip:
Dress comfortably but cool. The vibe’s pretty laid-back and leans more underground or alternative. We suggest wearing shoes so you can dance all night.
12. Play bowling with your friends at Lane7
Media credits: lane7_
Address: 80-90 St James’ Blvd
Contact details: +44 191-261-6161
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 4 PM – 12 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 11 AM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 12 AM
Price: ££
We were really impressed by the cool 1950s decor mixed with street art inside Lane 7. There’s also a cool black-and-white tiling at the counter and street art on the walls. Even the check-in felt smooth and welcoming, which we appreciated.
We kicked things off with bowling, and it was way more stylish than your usual bowling alley. There were plenty of balls to choose from, and we didn’t feel rushed at all. A few of us grabbed drinks, like an alcoholic slushie, just for the fun of it.
What’s great is that we weren’t stuck doing just one thing. It’s packed with options like mini golf, beer pong, and arcade games. It’s super easy to mix and match activities.
Pro tip:
If you’re bringing kids or teens, aim to go in the afternoon. Those who are under 18 have to leave by 7 PM because of licensing laws.
Outdoor things to do in Newcastle
13. Look at the ducks at the Exhibition Park’s pond
Media credits: snowbamboo999
Address: Claremont Rd
Contact details: +44 191-278-7878
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Price: Free
The Exhibition Park is just a short walk from the city centre and super easy to get to. Most of us hopped off at Haymarket Metro and were there within minutes.
Some of us went straight for a walk around the lake where the swans and ducks were really friendly. If you’re planning to feed them, it’s better to bring bird-friendly snacks like seeds or oats rather than bread.
The walking path was lovely, especially with all the trees and little bursts of flowers along the way.
Pro tip:
If you want to avoid crowds or catch a festival, check online for what’s happening. Big events like the Mela Festival or Battle of the Burger can change the park’s vibe completely.
14. Enjoy a picnic at Leazes Park
Media credits: alexsofiaphotography
Address: Richardson Rd
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Price: Free
As we wandered through Leazes Park, we came across the old Jubilee Gates and the restored bandstand, which are both full of history. The tree-lined paths are perfect for a slow walk, and there are loads of benches dotted around for when you want to rest.
There were also kids playing at the playground. We also saw a few people having a quick game on the tennis courts. There’s no booking needed, so it’s a good idea to bring your own racket just in case you feel like playing.
Later on, we stopped by the Tower Cafe near the lake. We weren’t expecting much, but the pizza was amazing, especially with all the vegan options.
Pro tip:
The Tower Cafe isn’t just for when you forget to pack food. It also has toilets, including disabled facilities and baby changing. It’s really convenient if you’re visiting with kids or need a quick break during your stroll.
15. Have a relaxing walk at Town Moor
Media credits: alexbfree
Address: Grandstand Rd
Contact details: +44 191-278-7878
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Price: Free
Our team was really impressed by how peaceful and spacious Town Moor is. Covering 1,000 acres, it’s larger than some of the world’s most famous parks, and it feels like a true escape from the city buzz.
The place is perfect for walking, running, or just relaxing in the open space. We saw lots of people walking their dogs. During the warmer months, we’ve heard cows graze on the land, which also adds to the charm of it.
The paths are well-kept and easy to walk on. There’s also new lighting and CCTV, making it safe, especially for evening strolls.
Pro tip:If you’re a birdwatching enthusiast, bring binoculars. The moor is home to some rare bird species, so keep an eye out, especially around dawn or dusk when birds are most active.