The 15 best things to do in Newcastle for a weekend worth bragging about
If you’re on the hunt for things to do in Newcastle, you’re in for a treat because this city doesn’t do boring. From scenic walks to food markets, there’s always something going on.
And when the festive season rolls around, the list only gets longer. There’s even a whole bunch of Christmas activities that go beyond just shopping and sipping hot chocolate.
Even if you’re with friends, family, or flying solo, Newcastle offers fun in every corner. So grab your coat, charge your phone, and start ticking off that to-do list of experiences.
1. Marvel at the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art
Media credit: stevieu33
Website: https://baltic.art/
Location: S Shore Rd, Gateshead NE8 3BA
Contact: 0191 478 1810
Hours: Wednesday to Sunday: 10 AM – 6 PM
Pricing: Free
We always stop by BALTIC around the Quayside—a converted flour mill that has been turned into a massive contemporary art gallery. Entry is completely free, and the exhibitions change frequently, featuring both international and local artists.
It spans several floors and features industrial-style interiors, along with quirky installations that occasionally spill into the stairwells. There’s also a floor-to-ceiling glass elevator with stunning views of the Tyne.
On the top floor, there’s a viewing platform offering one of the best panoramic views in Newcastle. It’s a quiet alternative to tourist-heavy spots like the Castle Keep.
We love how inclusive the place is. It often holds family-friendly workshops, late-night openings, and artist talks. Depending on what’s on, you can spend as little as 20 minutes or linger for hours.
Pro Tip:
The elevator to the viewing deck often skips floors when busy. Take the stairs from Level 4 to 5 for faster access to the viewing deck.
2. Stroll through Jesmond Dene
Media credit: jesmonddenehouse
Website: https://jesmonddene.org.uk/
Location: 20 Bemersyde Dr, NE2 2HL
Hours: Open 24 hours
Pricing: Free
Jesmond Dene is like a slice of countryside hidden in the city. We always find it peaceful yet full of hidden gems. It follows a wooded valley with a babbling stream, old stone bridges, and lots of shade for hot days.
The park stretches around 3 km and features waterfalls, picnic areas, and a small petting zoo called Pets’ Corner. It’s completely free to enter and open daily.
We usually start at Armstrong Bridge and loop past the ruins of Lord Armstrong’s old mill. If you’re lucky, you might spot red squirrels near the wilder edges.
It’s perfect for casual strolls and light hikes, and the changing foliage throughout the seasons keeps it interesting. We’ve also seen lots of joggers and dog walkers here, especially early in the morning.
Pro Tip:
Use the free public toilet near Pets’ Corner before heading into deeper trails. There are no other facilities further in, and the mobile signal gets weak in some areas.
3. Discover history at Newcastle Castle
Media credit: brenoe87
Website: https://www.newcastlecastle.co.uk/
Location: The Black Gate, Castle Garth, NE1 1RQ
Contact: +44 191 230 6300
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Pricing: ££
This is where the city gets its name, and trust us, it’s worth visiting for the gritty stone walls and narrow stairwells alone. The Castle Keep and Black Gate are included in the £9.50 adult ticket.
Inside, you’ll see medieval graffiti, prison cells, and Roman artefacts. It’s not overly curated, which we actually liked—it feels raw and real.
We counted over 100 steep stone steps to the roof, but the view over the River Tyne and city rooftops is a reward in itself. It’s one of the highest points in central Newcastle.
The signage is minimal, but there are QR codes for optional audio guides. School groups often visit in the morning, so we recommend a mid-afternoon slot.
Pro Tip:
If you’re bringing kids or older adults, note that there’s no lift and over 100 steep steps. We recommend visiting mid-afternoon, when it’s quieter and cooler, to avoid heat or crowd fatigue.
4. Tour the Victoria Tunnel
Media credit: victoria_tunnel
Website: https://ouseburntrust.org.uk/events/tunnel-tours/
Location: Ouseburn Valley, 51 Lime St, NE1 2PQ
Contact: +44 191 261 6596
Hours: Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM | Saturday: 9:30 AM – 4 PM | Sunday: 11 AM – 3 PM
Pricing: ££
The Victoria Tunnel is one of Newcastle’s more unusual historical sites, a 19th-century coal wagon tunnel that was converted into a WWII air-raid shelter. Guided tours run from Thursday to Sunday and must be booked in advance online (that’s £10 for adults and £5 for kids).
Tours last 75–90 minutes and go underground, so you’ll need a jacket. It’s a chilly 12°C year-round. The guides use headlamps and share both fun and grim facts.
We find it fascinating how the tunnel evolved over time, from transporting coal to providing shelter for families during bombings. Parts of it are pitch black and echoey, which adds to the atmosphere.
However, it’s not wheelchair accessible and involves walking on uneven surfaces, but we think it’s one of Newcastle’s best-kept secrets. The meeting point is at the Ouseburn Trust office, just 10 minutes from the city centre.
Pro Tip:
Book the first or last tour slot of the day. Group sizes are usually smaller, so you’ll hear the guide better and have more space inside the tunnel.
5. Step inside the Great North Museum: Hancock
Media credit: gnm_hancock
Website: https://www.northeastmuseums.org.uk/greatnorthmuseum
Location: Barras Bridge, NE2 4PT
Contact: +44 191 208 6765
Hours: Monday to Friday: 10 AM – 5 PM | Saturday: 10 AM – 4 PM | Sunday: 11 AM – 4 PM
Pricing: Free
The Great North Museum is Newcastle’s leading natural history and archaeology museum. Entry is free, and it’s located near both the university and Haymarket Metro.
Exhibits here typically include an ancient Egyptian mummy, a full-size T. rex skeleton, and displays of Hadrian’s Wall. We like that it mixes interactive areas with more traditional galleries.
Meanwhile, the planetarium shows cost an extra £3, but you can easily spend a full afternoon here without paying anything. It’s well-lit, family-friendly, and has wide corridors for accessibility.
The Roman Britain and Ancient World collections are especially well-suited for kids, but adults will also find them engaging.
Pro Tip:
Bring a refillable bottle. There’s a free water station in the ground-floor café, so you can avoid buying overpriced bottled drinks.
6. Climb the Grey’s Monument
Media credit: chyna2008
Website: https://newcastlegateshead.com/events/greys-monument-tours
Location: 150 Grainger St, NE1 5AF
Hours: Open 24 hours
Pricing: £
Grey’s Monument stands at the top of Grey Street and marks the heart of the city centre. The column is over 40 metres high and honours Charles Grey, the man behind Earl Grey tea.
While the column itself is always visible, you can only climb it on select open days. We’ve done it, and it’s 164 spiral steps to the top with no handrails.
The views overlook the city rooftops, Theatre Royal, and Dean Street. It’s a very short activity but an iconic Newcastle experience.
And if you’re around in summer, check for free history tours at the monument’s base. The surrounding square often has pop-up markets and food trucks.
Pro Tip:
If you can’t get a ticket to climb, stand at the Monument Street crossing for the best wide-angle photo with the full column and curve of Grey Street.
7. See a show at Theatre Royal
Media credit: fawcettimo
Website: https://www.theatreroyal.co.uk/
Location: 100 Grey St, NE1 6BR
Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10 AM – 8 PM
Pricing: ££
The Theatre Royal is one of the most stunning historical venues in northern England. It dates back to 1837 and hosts a diverse range of performances, including opera, ballet, comedy, and musicals.
We usually book online. Tickets vary widely, starting from £10 depending on the show and seat. The seats in the gallery are the cheapest but have a steep view.
Inside, the red-and-gold Victorian interiors are well-preserved, with a bar on every level. No need to worry because the front-of-house staff are professional and helpful with seating queries.
You can even get there in under 3 minutes from the Monument Metro Station.
Pro Tip:
Avoid Row A in the Stalls if you’re under 5’6”. The stage can block your view due to the theatre’s height. Opt for Row D–F for best value and visibility.
8. Visit the Discovery Museum
Media credit: discovery_mus
Website: https://www.northeastmuseums.org.uk/discoverymuseum
Location: Blandford Square, NE1 4JA
Contact: +44 191 232 6789
Hours: Monday to Friday: 10 AM – 4 PM | Saturday and Sunday: 11 AM – 4 PM
Pricing: Free
The Discovery Museum focuses on Newcastle’s industrial, maritime, and scientific past. The exhibits here are spread across multiple levels in a grand old building.
We saw the full-size Turbinia, the world’s first steam-turbine ship, in the lobby. There are also galleries on shipbuilding, women’s rights, and local innovation.
Families will appreciate the Science Maze and water play area for younger children. Plus, everything is wheelchair accessible and includes baby change facilities.
It’s also located near St James’ Boulevard, a 5-minute walk from Central Station. The good thing is that the museum also has a café and lockers for those who plan to stay for longer visits.
Pro Tip:
We highly recommend visiting the top floor to capture unique views of St James’ Park, a great hidden photo spot.
9. Step inside Newcastle Cathedral
Media credit: newcastlecathedral
Website: https://newcastlecathedral.org.uk/
Location: St. Nicholas Square, NE1 1PF
Contact: +44 191 232 1939
Hours: Monday to Friday: 8 AM – 6 PM | Saturday and Sunday: 8 AM – 5 PM
Pricing: Free
Newcastle Cathedral is the oldest building in the city, dating back to the 14th century, and is still in use. It’s open daily and admission is completely free, although donations are encouraged.
We like the stained glass, medieval stonework, and the Lantern Tower, which used to guide ships on the Tyne. It’s a quiet space amid the busy city centre.
The cathedral often hosts free lunchtime concerts and rotating exhibitions. Guided tours are available and usually cost around £5.
Plus, there’s a café inside, clean restrooms, and a small gift shop near the exit. You can even walk to it in under 2 minutes from Newcastle Castle or Central Station.
Pro Tip:
On weekdays, free lunchtime concerts are often held around 1 PM. They feature great music; no ticket is needed, and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
10. Visit the Ouseburn Farm
Media credit: twobytwobrewing
Website: https://www.ouseburnfarm.org.uk/
Location: Ouseburn Farm, Ouseburn Rd, NE1 2PA
Contact: +44 191 232 3698
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10 AM – 3 PM
Pricing: Free
Ouseburn Farm is a working community farm in the heart of Newcastle’s cultural quarter. It’s free to enter and open every day except Mondays.
You’ll see pigs, goats, chickens, and small animals, and staff are on hand to answer questions. Despite being right in the city, we found it surprisingly peaceful.
There’s also a garden area, café, and outdoor classrooms where workshops are held. Most paths are flat and buggy-accessible.
It’s a short walk from the Quayside or Byker Metro Station. You can also combine it with a visit to nearby Seven Stories or the Victoria Tunnel.
Pro Tip:
The goats and pigs are usually most active right after feeding at 10:30 AM, so arrive 10 minutes early for the best chance to pet them calmly before the noise level increases.
11. Enjoy the views at Leazes Park
Media credit: hope_allon
Website: https://newcastlegateshead.com/business-directory/things-to-do/leazes-park
Location: Richardson Rd, NE2 4BJ
Hours: Open 24 hours
Pricing: Free
Leazes Park is Newcastle’s oldest public park, right behind St James’ Park stadium. It’s flat, peaceful, and a favourite among locals for a quick walk or a quiet lunch break.
There’s a central lake with ducks and geese, plenty of benches, and a well-maintained flower garden. It’s ideal for low-key relaxation without straying far from the city.
The paths are also suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Near the lake, there’s even a basketball court and a small children’s play area. You can enter from several gates, including Percy Street and Richardson Road.
Pro Tip:
If you want to feed the ducks, bring some oats or chopped vegetables. Bread is discouraged, and park signs explain what’s safe for them to eat.
12. Visit the Seven Stories (National Centre for Children’s Books)
Media credit: 7stories
Website: https://sevenstories.org.uk/
Location: 30 Lime St, NE1 2PQ
Contact: +44 300 330 1095
Hours: Monday to Sunday (except Wednesday): 9:30 AM – 5 PM
Pricing: ££
Seven Stories is the UK’s only museum dedicated to children’s literature. It’s located in the Ouseburn Valley and tickets cost around £8.95 for adults and £7.95 for children.
The building has seven floors, each themed around a different aspect of children’s books or play. There’s also a cosy reading room and a bookshop with curated titles.
Exhibits here rotate frequently, showcasing original illustrations, manuscripts, and characters from beloved British authors. Families will appreciate the storytelling sessions and interactive spaces.
It’s within walking distance of Ouseburn Farm and the Victoria Tunnel. You’re in luck because most areas are pram-accessible, and there is lift access throughout.
Pro Tip:
The lift sometimes gets crowded. If you’re with older kids or teens, ask the staff for the back stairs. They’re faster and have story-themed wall art along the way.
13. See contemporary work at Laing Art Gallery
Media credit: laingartgallery
Website: https://www.northeastmuseums.org.uk/laing
Location: New Bridge St W, NE1 8AG
Contact: +44 191 278 1611
Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10 AM – 4:30 PM
Pricing: ££
The Laing Art Gallery is a compact but high-quality museum in the city centre. It’s free to enter, except for special exhibitions, which cost £5–£10.
Its permanent collection includes 18th–20th century British painting, decorative arts, and contemporary installations. During one of our visits, we saw a mix of traditional oil paintings and modern sculpture.
We also appreciate the calm reading lounge, free lockers, and the on-site café. These spots rarely feel crowded, even on weekends.
The gallery is situated near Northumberland Street, a prominent shopping district. It’s ideal for a cultural stop in between errands or sightseeing.
Pro Tip:
If you visit in winter, go early. Natural lighting from the glass ceilings fades by mid-afternoon, and some art details are harder to see under gallery lights.
14. Stroll through Heaton Park and Armstrong Park
Media credit: manchester_new_girl
Website: https://urbangreennewcastle.org/our-green-spaces/parks/armstrong-park/
Location: 1 Burlington Gardens, NE6 5QJ
Hours: Open 24 hours
Pricing: Free
These two adjoining parks stretch across the eastern edge of Newcastle, near Heaton Road. They’re perfect for nature walks, dog runs, or scenic breaks from city life.
We like that they offer trails, tennis courts, picnic areas, and historic features, such as the Shoe Tree and King John’s Well. Entry is free, and there are open grassy areas for games and picnics (one of my favourite activities).
The parks are quieter than Jesmond Dene but just as green and walkable. They’re especially pretty in autumn with colourful leaves along the paths.
However, the downside is that there’s limited parking nearby. But don’t worry, because there are several bus routes that stop along Heaton Road. It’s also a 20-minute walk from the city centre too.
Pro Tip:
Download a free offline map before you go, as once you’re deep inside Armstrong Park, there’s no signage. Plus, mobile data is patchy around the woodland trails.
15. Visit St. James’ Park (Newcastle United Stadium Tour)
Media credit: nufc
Website: https://www.newcastleunited.com/en/st-james-park
Location: Barrack Rd, NE1 4ST
Contact: +44 (0) 344 372 1892
Hours: Monday to Saturday: 9 AM – 6 PM | Sunday: 11 AM – 6 PM
Pricing: ££
St James’ Park is the home of Newcastle United and a city landmark in its own right. You don’t have to be a football fan to enjoy the stadium tour.
Tours last 90 minutes and cost £20 for adults and £12 for children. During the tour, you’ll visit the pitch, changing rooms, media suite, and rooftop views over the city. Tours run several times a week and start from the Milburn Stand reception.
There’s also a club shop for merch and a café inside the stadium.
It’s right in the city centre, just a few minutes’ walk from the Monument and Eldon Square. However, note that matchday access is limited, so plan your visit outside of fixtures.
Pro Tip:
Rooftop access is weather-dependent, so please call the box office an hour before your tour to confirm, especially if it’s windy or raining, to avoid any surprises.