travel guides family from newcastle

Travel Guides' Fren family take viewers inside their restaurant Oma's Kitchen

5 years ago

Three million tuned in last night for the season finale of Channel Nine's Travel Guides , but it's business as usual for series favourites the Frens, who between global jaunts and a busy TV schedule, together run German restaurant Oma's Kitchen.

The foursome, made up of Mark, Cathy and kids Victoria and Jono, have been starring on the reality series since it began three seasons ago.

Their self-depreciating attitude has had lounge rooms in stitches across the country.

But while the Frens might be used to being put up in swanky digs on the other side of the world and dishing out ratings as part of their role as TV travel critics, A Current Affair reporter Steve Marshall turned the tables on Australia's favourite clan, visiting their popular Newcastle diner to dish them a rating of his own.

Former kindy teachers Mark and Cathy opened Oma's Kitchen several years ago, bringing the kids onboard the family business.

It's this close-knit working environment that's fostered their cheeky, no-holds-barred sense of humour, Mark says.

"I've got be honest, I've got a great family and 'cause we work so closely together in the restaurant we kind of just can take the mickey out of each other and make fun of each other without anyone getting too upset."

The success of Travel Guides has made the Fren's local celebrities, attracting many customers to the restaurant.

"'We are really humbled by the amount of people who come from all over Oz to meet us and it's really injected tourism, I suppose, for Newcastle," Mark says.

Though if you ask the family, they'll tell you life really hasn't changed that much at all despite their fame.

"It hasn't [changed], I still work here," daughter Victoria says, jokingly adding "yes, [for] minimum wage."

Matriarch Cathy admits she didn't realise people would like them when the series began.

"I thought they'd think we were nuts but apparently we are the norm.

"What you see is what you get but everyone likes it, so we figured it's the new normal," she says.

Watch the full segment above for A Current Affair 's final verdict on the restaurant.

Nine are currently on the hunt for a new group of travel recruits for season 4 of Travel Guides. To submit an application, visit travelguidestv.com.au before midnight on Monday, April 15, 2019.

To catch up on the latest episodes of A Current Affair, visit 9now.com.au/a-current-affair .

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How Travel Guides' Fren family became fan-favourites by being 'exactly how we are'

• 07 Dec 2021

If there's one thing we know about the Fren family from watching them on  Travel Guides , it's that they know how to have a good time.

WATCH BELOW: Travel Guides: The Fren family visit a farm

Often finding themselves in unpredictable situations due to their 'have-a-go' nature, the Frens always find the funny side of any holiday disaster.

It's something that has proven to be quite handy during their travels on the Channel Nine reality show, where they act as travel critics on a week-long holiday.

Ever since they first graced our screens in 2017, the Frens - Mark, Cathy, Jono and Victoria - have been providing us with laughs, and the show wouldn't be the same without them.

Get to know more about the family here.

Meet the Frens (L-R): Jonathon, Victoria, Cathy and Mark.

With their good-natured bickering and silly antics, the Frens have found the perfect balance to make their family work.

Mark keeps things upbeat and is a forthright dad, and is the other half to his wife Cathy, who has a quirky sense of humour and distinctive laugh that's very contagious.

The couple have been married for more than 30 years and share two kids together, Victoria and Jonathon.

While Victoria is always ready to voice an opinion, Jonathon is a little more on the reserved side out of the bunch - offering a good mix within the family.

"Something that we said straight off was that we’re portrayed exactly how we are."

Although, while it seems like the show is the perfect fit for the family, Mark and Cathy were originally approached by Channel 9 to audition for something completely different - a cooking series called The Hotplate .

The show was never renewed for a second season, and the Frens family found themselves with spots on the  Travel Guides cast, where they say what you see is what you get.

"Something that we said straight off was that we’re portrayed exactly how we are. And all the people in the show, how they act, and how Channel 9 portrays them is exactly how they act," Cathy told In Touch magazine.

“And that's what we like. We’re ourselves. Halfway through the first series, I said to a producer, ‘How are we going? Are we alright?’ And he went, ‘Oh, you’re hilarious.’ And I said, ‘Well, I didn't even know it was supposed to be a humorous show.’ We were just ourselves, so that's just the way it went.”

The Frens are fan-favourites on Travel Guides.

While we're used to seeing the Frens as just a family of four, the tight-knit clan expanded when Jono wed his partner of two years, Danielle Clark, on June 5 this year.

"They're a great match," his mum Cathy told Woman's Day .  "They really complement each other. They're madly in love and they're really caring towards each other."

His dad Mark also said that they were "so proud" of both the bride and groom, and Victoria added that Danielle has brought her older 
brother out of his shell.

"Individually they're both quiet people, but when they're out and about together they're the total opposite – they're really outgoing and keen to party," she said.

Jono recently wed his partner of two years, adding a new Fren family member.

The Fren family could also see another exciting addition now that the pair are married, with Danielle, who's since changed her last name to Fren, and Jono having confirmed their readiness to be parents.

"Definitely!" he told the magazine. "A whole new Fren family!"

His family are certainly already keen, with Victoria having said: "I think a baby will be within the next few months. A few months... plus nine!"

Mark also added: "We've already worked out our grandparent names!"

Travel Guides airs Tuesday, 9pm, Nine Network.

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A look inside Travel Guides' Fren family wedding

The Fren family is no stranger to having a good time, in fact, they've made a reputation out of making people laugh on Nine's hit series Travel Guides .

So, it will come as no surprise that there was plenty of fun when Mark, Cathy, Jonathon and Victoria welcomed a new addition to their brood, as Jonathon married his partner of two years, Danielle Clarke.

"I think my favourite moment was seeing Danielle come down the aisle and seeing the look on Jonathon's face it was just priceless," Mark said.

READ MORE: Travel Guides: The Great Aussie Adventure

The couple was surrounded by their close friends and family at the outdoors ceremony in the Hunter Valley, including their Travel Guides family.

"I'm so embarrassed about getting emotional. I'd given mum and dad shit all week, about 'don't cry because you'll look like an idiot', and then I was the one that was balling my bloody eyes out," Victoria said.

Co-stars Matt, Brett, Kevin, Janetta, Mel and Stack were all in attendance.

READ MORE: Fren family from Travel Guides get back to business in own backyard

"I think it's the first time we've all got together and I think all the Travel Guides let their hair down too which was great," Jonathon said.

The 30-year-old reality star and Danielle met on dating app Tinder in 2019 and he proposed on a romantic getaway after just seven months.

"We've got another beautiful daughter now and a bigger extended family, so Travel Guides might have to extend their budget, we can fill a plane now," Mark said.

READ MORE: The Travel Guides have very different wrestling experiences

But matriarch Cathy was quick to add, she doesn't think they'll subject Danielle to the torture of filming with the family.

"I really don't know if she'd survive doing Travel Guides with us," Cathy said.

Danielle, who holds her own amongst the Fren family, said she has no interest.

"I don't like the limelight. I wouldn't want to be on TV," she said.

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The accident that led to the Fren Family being cast on Travel Guides

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Newcastle Travel Guides the Fren family have had Australia in stitches since they started on the Nine network show in 2017.

But mum and daughter Cathy and Victoria Fren told Vacations & Travel their appearance on the reality TV show was a total accident.

They never even applied.

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The Fren family, Mark (59) and Cathy (57), and their two kids Jonathon (29) and Victoria (27) owned and operated Bavarian-style restaurant Oma together for ten years.

“Because of the restaurant they actually asked Mum to audition for a cooking show,” Victoria said.

“We didn’t get on that, I don’t even think the show ever aired.”

“But 12 months later we got a call asking about a show called Travel Guides and now here we are.”

The Fren Family matriarchs, Victoria and Cathy are well-known for being upfront. Jonathon and Mark are a bit more reserved.

But Victoria says the boys were “super keen” when Cathy pitched the Travel Guides plan to her clan.

“I mean who doesn’t love a free holiday,” Victoria said.

The Fren family have been on 38 “free holidays” to be exact. They’ve been lucky enough to travel to the most spectacular international and domestic destinations.

The Fren family on Travel Guides 2021

The Travel Guides 2021 season sees the Fren family jet Greece, South Korea, Mauritius and Cambodia.

Cathy doesn’t want anyone getting the wrong idea: “Obviously all the overseas destinations were filmed before the pandemic”.

“We started filming this season in July of 2019 and we finished somewhere around mid November that year.”

Of all the international destinations that feature on Travel Guides 2021, Cathy and Victoria say that “Hands down, Greece was our favourite.”

“Mykonos was party central,” Cathy said.

Victoria disagrees, taking a dig at her mum.

“No, Mum and Dad went home early, I stayed and partied way on into the morning,” she said.

It clearly hits the spot.

“What are you talking about? We have a great relationship,” jokes Cathy.

Funny Frens

It’s clear that a great sense of humour is what keeps the Fren family so tight-knit.

They never take themselves too seriously.

“There isn’t a week if not a day that goes by where we don’t laugh about something that we’ve done,” Cathy told Vacations & Travel.

Of all the unpredictable situations the mother-daughter duo have found themselves in, they say that their ‘Mermaid Makeover’ is one they still can’t stop cracking up over.

Even though the Fren family are always up for a laugh they say that this season of Travel Guides was especially eye opening for them.

“We got to go to Cambodia and that was a real culture shock for us because it’s a developing country. We got to see a lot of sadness there but it was really special to be able to do something like that,” Victoria said.

Brutally honest

Although they’re always grateful to journey abroad, the Fren family take their job as travel critics very seriously.

“We always tell the truth, because we know that there are so many people out there who actually go and do the same holiday we do,” Cathy said

“If we say we like something that we didn’t and then someone goes to that destination they’ll know we were lying.”

So many Australians relate to the larrikin family. But Cathy says she was initially surprised to hear that her family was the norm.

“When I brought my family on the show, I thought we were all crazy. But after being on the show so many people told us that we’re normal. I actually can’t believe it.”

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Newcastle's Fren family are back in Oma's Kitchen - and on our television screens

They’re a funny bunch, the Fren family from Newcastle. And by funny, I mean humorous – and also unique in their own delightful way.

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Mark and Cathy Fren, along with their children Victoria and Jonathon, have owned and run Bavarian restaurant Oma’s Kitchen on Watt Street since 2012. Cathy is in charge of the kitchen, using recipes passed down from her German grandmother. 

Their lives changed in 2017 when they starred in season one of Nine’s reality series Travel Guides . Their offbeat, self-deprecating humour and confidence in front of the camera endeared them to audiences and the show’s producers, who asked them to return in 2018 for season two, and again this year. The first episode of season three airs on February 5. 

The Frens will be holding a themed dinner and screening on Tuesday night at Oma’s Kitchen to celebrate, and this will be repeated weekly throughout season three. A caterer will this year take care of the cooking duties to allow the Frens to mingle with guests rather than being confined to the kitchen. 

“We go to Hawaii in the first episode so Billy Goat Catering will be preparing a Hawaiian buffet. We’ll leave it in his capable hands,” Cathy says.

“It was really hard last year doing the cooking at the screenings because we’re away and having to close the restaurant all the time, so have only got a really small staff. We’re happy to hand it over to someone else and see how it goes.”

Mark agrees.

“Having a caterer is going to take the pressure off so that we can be a little more relaxed and sit and have a chat. And a buffet is right up our alley – we love a good buffet. Every week we will try to have some sort of food from the countries that we are visiting. Dinner starts at 7pm, then we watch the show on the big screen at 9pm and after that, have a chat and people can take photos if they want. It’s always a really fun night.”

You’ll be able to spot the Frens a mile away. They will all be wearing Hawaiian shirts purchased on their travels. So, how do they feel about season three? Excited, Cathy says, and thankful.

“It’s a great gig. We thought we were pretty lucky with season one, let alone getting to season three. It’s like winning the travel lottery, it really is. We were used to the camera after day one, it never bothered us. We’ve always been ourselves and never tried to be anyone different. 

You know what? The question people ask us the most about season three is will Jonathon get a girlfriend. - Mark Fren

“I think we are better at it now, though, because we know the routine. The people we work with on the show are just fantastic.” 

Mark says the crew have got the formula just right when it comes to his family. 

“They set the situation up for us and just stand back and watch our reactions. It’s funny, we always come home and sit back and reflect about the holiday and say ‘Did that really happen? Did you really say that?’ and we have a laugh.

“We feel so lucky that we get to do all of this as a family. We’ve had 24 wonderful holidays now, and the ride is still going. We’re happy as long as people are still watching the show and laughing at us just being ourselves. It has surprised us how much enjoyment people get from the show.”

That’s the rewarding part, Cathy says. Making people laugh. Meeting fans of the show has been a plus, too. 

“We find it hard to go anywhere these days, to be honest,” Mark says, laughing. 

“I’m serious. In Israel one of the sound guys told us these people kept on walking past. Eventually they came up to us and said they had seen us on TV –  Travel Guides is screened in Israel – and wanted to meet us. And last Saturday we had five different groups from Sydney drive up to meet us.

“A lovely lady from Melbourne also rang, wanting to know what our Easter trading hours were because she was planning a holiday and wanted to make sure she saw us first. It’s really quite amazing and it has been great for business.”

The Frens travel to nine destinations in season three.

“We didn’t think they’d be able to beat series two but this year is going to be hilarious and the destinations are unbelievable,” Mark says.

All the regulars are back, Cathy says, and this year there’s a new team: a newlywed Indian-born couple from Melbourne.

If you’d like to watch Travel Guides with the Frens at Oma’s Kitchen on Tuesday night, go online to thefrenfamily.com and secure your seat at the table. You can also order handmade treats and Fren family merchandise online. The restaurant is otherwise open three days a week – Thursday, Friday and Saturday – from 11am until late, and the Frens also have a stall at Sunday’s Newcastle City Farmers Market. 

“You know what? The question people ask us the most about season three is will Jonathon get a girlfriend,” Mark says, laughing again.

And the answer to that question?  

“I’m just beyond all hope, really. The Frens are hopeless when it comes to match making,” Jonathon says. Quips his father: “It’s lucky we’re not on Married At First Sight being asked to match people together – although come to think of it, maybe Jonathon could try his luck on that show.”

Lisa Rockman

Newcastle Herald

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Hotels Find

List of best hotels

Best Newcastle upon Tyne Hotels For Families With Kids

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In the charming city of Newcastle upon Tyne, families can look forward to a delightful stay at a range of welcoming accommodations tailored for their needs. From cozy bed and breakfasts to modern hotels offering spacious family rooms, there is something to suit every preference and budget. Explore the diverse selection of family-friendly hotels in Newcastle upon Tyne and make the most of your visit to this vibrant city in the United Kingdom.

Best hotels in Newcastle upon Tyne for families

1. Sleeperz Hotel Newcastle

2. Maldron Hotel Newcastle

3. Holiday Inn Newcastle Gosforth Park, An Ihg Hotel

4. County Hotel & County Aparthotel Newcastle

Family-Friendly Bed and Breakfasts

5. Doubletree By Hilton Hotel Newcastle International Airport

6. Village Hotel Newcastle

7. Delta Hotels By Marriott Newcastle Gateshead

Spacious Suites for Families

8. Copthorne Hotel Newcastle

9. Leonardo Hotel Newcastle - Formerly Jurys Inn

10. Sandman Signature Newcastle Hotel

Sleeperz Hotel Newcastle

The hotel is just a pleasant stroll from O2 Academy Newcastle Music Venue, with St Mary's Heritage Centre approximately an 11-minute walk away. The accommodation is around a 5-minute walk from Historic England and around a 9-minute walk from Grey's Monument.

This 3-star hotel is placed relatively close to Leazes Public Park Lion Sculture, and Newcastle Coach bus station is only 10 minutes' walk away.

Certain rooms have sound-proofed windows along with a sofa bed for guests' convenience. Also, they feature marble flooring. The private bathrooms are fitted with a hairdryer and towels. Some units have views of the lake.

Maldron Hotel Newcastle

This comfortable accommodation is placed in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne, right near the bustling Grainger Market. The Maldron Hotel Newcastle is centrally situated approximately 11 minutes' walk from The Quayside Market.

Visit Splashes, a 14-minute walk from the eco-friendly property, and feel complete harmony with the nature of United Kingdom. There is the Refurbished Great North Victorian Museum approximately a 14-minute walk away, and Eldon Square bus station a minute's walk from Maldron Hotel Newcastle.

You can stay in one of the 257 air-conditioned rooms featuring complimentary wireless internet along with tea and coffee making equipment. Guests can use an additional toilet together with hair dryers and dressing gowns. Some units also have views of the city.

Holiday Inn Newcastle Gosforth Park, An Ihg Hotel

This Newcastle upon Tyne property is perfectly set within 3 km of Azure Garden Centre & Cafe. Havannah And Three Hills Nature Reserve is right at the Holiday Inn Newcastle Gosforth Park, An Ihg, while Holiday Inn-N/b bus stop is just 100 metres away.

The 4-star accommodation is placed a stroll from St James Park. Holiday Inn Newcastle Gosforth Park, An Ihg Hotel offers close proximity to Concordia Leisure Centre, which is located 3.5 km away and helps strengthen mental and physical health.

There are 151 smoke-free rooms at the property, some of them feature a carpeted floor, along with such conveniences as Wi-Fi and a direct dial telephone. A Jacuzzi and a sauna, together with such comforts as a hairdryer and guest toiletries are also provided. Certain units have views of the garden.

When it comes to experiencing a homely atmosphere during your stay in Newcastle upon Tyne, family-friendly bed and breakfasts offer a personalized touch. These quaint accommodations provide comfortable rooms for families, served with a delicious breakfast to kickstart your day of exploration. With a warm and inviting ambiance, guests can enjoy a cozy retreat after a day of sightseeing in the city.

County Hotel & County Aparthotel Newcastle

Set not very far from the 11th - century Newcastle Castle, the hotel is located in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne. The nearby sports attractions include St James' Park Football Stadium, within 0.9 km of the comfortable hotel.

This property is situated within arm's reach of Gateshead Millenium Bridge, and Newcastle Coach bus station lies 450 metres away.

The refurbished units are equipped with smoke detectors and an electronic key card to keep you safe. A flat-screen TV with satellite channels together with a minibar fridge and coffee/tea makers are provided. Some unique rooms feature private bathrooms. Providing a shower, some bathrooms come with a hair dryer and dressing gowns.

Doubletree By Hilton Hotel Newcastle International Airport

Matfen Hall Golf Club is approximately a 10-minute ride away, and Kingston Park Multi-Purpose Stadium is around a 10-minute ride from the 4-star modern property. The contemporary Doubletree By Hilton Hotel Newcastle International Airport is located within walking distance of St James Park.

Such entertainment attractions as Ponteland Golf Club are also a 25-minute walk away.

Some rooms provide a mini-bar and coffee/tea making machines as well as a TV to help you enjoy your stay. Certain units feature comfortable interior along with carpeted flooring. The modern bathrooms come with a roll in shower together with hair dryers and towels.

Hotels in Newcastle upon Tyne

Village hotel newcastle.

The 3-star luxury property is placed about 25 km from Newcastle airport and within a 6-km distance of such cultural venues as Jarrow Hall. Attractions within 15 minutes' drive of the sleek Village Hotel Newcastle include the Quiet Northumberland Victorian Park.

Visit West Allotment Pond, 350 metres from this accommodation, and feel complete harmony with the nature of United Kingdom. Approximately a 15-minute ride from Village Hotel Newcastle, guests will also find Old Low Light Heritage Centre Gallery.

Some rooms provide an electric kettle as well as complimentary WiFi and a TV set to help you enjoy your stay. They are furnished with standard decor. Offering amenities such as hairdryers and free toiletries, the bathrooms also feature a Jacuzzi bath and a roll in shower. Certain units overlook the courtyard.

For families seeking ample space and luxury during their stay, Newcastle upon Tyne boasts a selection of hotels with spacious suites. These accommodations provide separate living areas, multiple bedrooms, and often include special amenities for younger guests. Enjoy the convenience of having a home away from home, with added touches of elegance and comfort ideal for family getaways.

Delta Hotels By Marriott Newcastle Gateshead

The accommodation is placed in the Gateshead district, nearly a 10-minute ride from the 12th - century fortress "Newcastle Castle". Sports fans will also enjoy visiting the multi - purpose Gateshead International Stadium, 15 minutes by car from the Delta Hotels By Marriott Newcastle Gateshead.

The property is situated within a minute's drive of Metrocentre, while MetroCentre bus station lies only a 10-minute walk away.

There are 150 rooms with a lounge area and a terrace. Some of them offer Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV together with a mini-bar, tea and coffee making equipment. Nice touches to enhance your stay include a separate toilet and a shower, along with hairdryers and bath sheets.

Copthorne Hotel Newcastle

The accommodation lies in the very heart of Newcastle upon Tyne, relatively near the 11th - century Newcastle Castle. From the prestigious hotel it will take about 20 minutes to walk to St James' Park Football Stadium.

Its' central location gives access to sports attractions like Gateshead International Multi-Purpose Stadium, which is a 5-minute ride away.

Some of the well-appointed units feature a TV set as well as a mini-bar and coffee/tea making facilities. The private bathrooms provide guests with a separate toilet and a shower along with hairdryers and shower caps.

Leonardo Hotel Newcastle - Formerly Jurys Inn

The 55 - acre Saltwell Park is located within 10 minutes' drive of the property, while Exhibition Public Park is 5 minutes away by car. The nearby sports attractions include St James' Park Football Stadium, not too far from the Leonardo Hotel Newcastle - Formerly Jurys Inn.

Along with other cultural attractions the renovated Victorian Seven Stories Mill is nestled 5 minutes by car from the accommodation.

Appointed with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, the comfortable rooms at the property have private bathrooms and spacious bedrooms. They have comfortable interior. Providing a power shower and an additional toilet, the bathrooms are also equipped with a hair dryer and towels. Some units have views of the inner courtyard.

Family-Friendly Hotels with Leisure Facilities

Families looking to unwind and have fun together will appreciate the family-friendly hotels in Newcastle upon Tyne that offer leisure facilities. From swimming pools to play areas, these hotels are equipped with amenities to keep both children and adults entertained throughout their stay. Embrace a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation, ensuring a memorable experience for the whole family.

Sandman Signature Newcastle Hotel

The pet-friendly accommodation is based directly opposite a stadium and a park in Newcastle upon Tyne. This Newcastle upon Tyne hotel is nearly a 5-minute stroll from St James Gallowgate bus stop and a few metres away from Chinatown.

The property is placed just a short drive from St James Park. Sandman Signature Newcastle Hotel has a central location about a 7-minute stroll from the bustling Grainger Market.

The modern units include a private balcony and a dining area, furnished with a fireplace and big windows, and some of them face the city. They have modern-style interior. The private bathrooms are appointed with a hairdryer and bath sheets.

The property is situated on the outskirts of Newcastle upon Tyne, relatively near Discovery Museum. The hotel offers proximity to such natural sights as the 55-acre Saltwell Park (3.2 km) and Exhibition Public Park (2.1 km).

Guests can easily get in touch with the history of Newcastle upon Tyne by visiting the 12th - century fortress "Newcastle Castle", located approximately an 18-minute walk from the accommodation.

Some of the 50 comfortable rooms come with tea/coffee making facilities and an electric kettle, and essentials such as an iron and air conditioning. Certain units feature comfortable interior along with carpeted flooring. The private bathrooms include a shower, and amenities such as free toiletries and towels.

Royal Station Hotel- Part Of The Cairn Collection

This non-smoking accommodation is within a 13-minute walk of St James' Park Football Stadium and approximately 500 metres from the bustling Grainger Market. The Royal Station Hotel- Part Of The Cairn Collection Newcastle upon Tyne offers proximity to such natural sights as Exhibition Public Park (2 km) and Leazes Public Park Lion Sculture (1.6 km).

The classic property is placed relatively close to St James Park. Royal Station Hotel- Part Of The Cairn Collection is situated next door to Belsay Hall, and Newcastle Coach bus station lies just 500 metres away.

Some of the spacious rooms are equipped with an iron/ironing board and air conditioner, as well as media facilities such as free Wi-Fi. Guests can also use a tub and a sauna, along with such amenities as hair dryers and toiletries.

Elegant Townhouse Accommodations

Immerse yourself in the charm of Newcastle upon Tyne by opting for an elegant townhouse accommodation for your family stay. These historical buildings have been transformed into stylish hotels, offering a unique setting for families to enjoy their visit. Indulge in the blend of modern comforts within a classic setting, creating a sophisticated backdrop for your family holiday.

Easyhotel Newcastle

Guests may find Garden Front a short way from the accommodation, and The Tyne Arch Bridge is about a 5-minute stroll away. Set near a train station, the quality hotel is at a moderate distance from Gateshead Millenium Bridge.

This property also lies just near the bustling Grainger Market.

All 104 rooms are smoke-free and equipped with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. They have standard interior. Providing a bathtub and a roll in shower, the bathrooms are also equipped with towels.

Jesmond Dene House

The Jesmond Dene House stands in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne, a short distance from Jesmond Dene Park. Guests can visit places of worship such as the catholic Church Of The Holy Name, set a mere 550 metres from this grand property.

The luxury accommodation is placed within a minute's drive of Big Bay. You can easily find Ouseburn Farm Charity Ltd within a 2.7-km distance of Jesmond Dene House Hotel.

There are 40 comfortable rooms at the accommodation, some of them have a bay window, and modern facilities such as Wi-Fi. Certain units feature comfortable interior along with oak-wood flooring. Providing a hair dryer and slippers, the private bathrooms also come with underfloor heating and an additional toilet. Guests will enjoy great views of the courtyard.

Corner House Inn By Greene King Inns Newcastle upon Tyne

Set 25 minutes on foot from Laing Art Gallery, the property also gives access to such sports venues as St James' Park Football Stadium, which is a 10-minute drive away. Heaton Park is nearly a 15-minute walk away, while Peoples Theatre Green Room is only a short distance from the Corner House Inn By Greene King Inns Newcastle upon Tyne.

Guests can visit historical sights, including the 12th-century fortress "Newcastle Castle", placed at a distance of 3 km from the accommodation, and learn more about Newcastle upon Tyne.

This Newcastle upon Tyne property has 9 rooms appointed with a TV set, as well as self-catering options such as coffee/tea makers. They have comfortable interior. Providing a tub and a shower, the bathrooms also have a hair dryer and towels.

Family-Friendly Hotels Near Attractions

Convenience meets comfort at family-friendly hotels located near the top attractions in Newcastle upon Tyne. Enjoy easy access to popular landmarks, museums, and entertainment venues, making it convenient for families to explore the city without unnecessary travel time. Choose from a variety of accommodations situated in prime locations, allowing you to make the most of your family getaway in Newcastle upon Tyne.

Tomahawk Steakhouse Ponteland Hotel

The accommodation is placed about 15 km from Newcastle airport and around 3.5 km from such cultural venues as Ogle Castle. Guests will enjoy visiting Kirkley Hall, situated within a 2.5-km distance of this 4-star hotel.

Located around 2.5 km from Kirkley Hall Zoological Gardens, the property puts the city at your fingertips.

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The Fren Family reveal their Christmas plans

Mark, Cathy, Jono and Victoria may be considered “bogan royalty” to their millions of fans, but their Christmas has a decidedly international flavour, thanks to their European heritage and former lives running a renowned German restaurant.

“Our signature dish was pork knuckle, and it’s better than anything you’ll find in Munich!” Mark proudly tells Woman’s Day.

“We started our business selling German shortbreads, slices of Bavarian apple cake and baked German cheesecake and German sausages on a roll at the local farmer’s market. Then we opened our own restaurant called Oma’s Kitchen.”

Named after Cathy’s late grandmother, who was always called Oma, the restaurant became an institution in Newcastle long before they found fame on Travel Guides , and ironically, it was their fame that forced them to close it down three years ago.

“When we had the restaurant it was very humbling, that we would get emails every day from people who watched the show,” says Mark.

“We would have people coming from all around Australia to visit us. We’re still getting messages from people saying Travel Guides brings families together, because some families get so much enjoyment out of the show.”

Mark, 62, says the popularity of the Nine show brought thousands of people into the restaurant, and they even started special “Travel Guides With Friends” nights where they would put on a buffet and watch an episode live with the fans.

But eventually, juggling their newfound fame and travel schedule on top of running a busy restaurant started to take its toll, and they decided to close Oma’s Kitchen down and work part-time to earn extra income in between trips.

They now travel six months of the year, and have just notched up their 61st free holiday and are about to head off on a new adventure, before returning to Newcastle to spend Christmas together at home.

“Cathy and I have both always loved Christmas, and growing up with the kids, Christmas was always important to us to celebrate being together and appreciate what we have. The beautiful Christmas tree we’ve still got is 36 years old now,” says Mark.

Victoria, 30, insists they’ve cut down on presents and reckons they mostly buy gifts online because of their hectic travel schedules. “It used to be toys, now it’s more like home appliances,” explains Victoria, who married her sweetheart Nathan earlier this year.

The one thing she won’t consider giving Mark and Cathy, 60, for Christmas is a grandchild, and they have also lucked out with Jonathan, 32, who is equally adamant that he and his bride of two years, Danielle, have no immediate plans to become parents.

That said, it’s hard to find a family more enthused about the festive season.

“My wife put up our Christmas tree in the middle of November!” reveals Jono, who says he’s happy to spend Christmas anywhere as long as the family spend it together.

“For me Christmas isn’t necessarily about the gift giving, it’s more about us enjoying food together as a celebration,” says Cathy.

Ever since she and Mark dusted off their ancient Christmas tree in November, Cathy is once again planning to get up at 4am on Christmas morning to start preparing a huge Christmas feast, which will include a turkey, roast pork and a honey-glazed ham – which Victoria hopes to win at a raffle.

“Victoria would always raid the presents under the tree trying to determine what they were – and she still does!” laughs Mark, who says Cathy will also cook roast vegetables, a traditional German red cabbage dish and homemade stuffing.

The dessert table will be groaning with homemade almond and hazelnut shortbread, ginger biscuits, pavlova and trifle. “We did try having a traditional German Christmas Eve dinner one year, but then everyone was ringing up on Christmas Day saying, ‘We’re bored!'” recalls Mark.

The quirky family of four, who delight millions each week with their antics and no-filter personalities, are dreaming of a quiet Christmas at home this year, but they also have some bucket list destinations.

Victoria says the whole family would love to return to Germany to experience a white Christmas and shop at the Christmas markets, while Mark says he’d love to return to Finland, where they travelled to last year to visit Santa Claus.

“We went to the home of Santa Claus and it didn’t matter how old you were, it was a really good place to visit,” insists Victoria, who would love to spend one Christmas cruising the high seas. Mark says the family loved badly re-enacting The Sound Of Music on a European river cruise.

“We were running around dancing and we called ourselves the von Fren family,” he giggles. “We don’t really care where we are for Christmas, as long as we’re all together. No one gets to experience the experiences we’ve had on Travel Guides. We would never have gone to India or Sri Lanka or the Greek islands as a family.”

Cathy and Mark both returned to primary school teaching this year, while Jono is working front of house in a Newcastle RSL club and Victoria is working in the aged care and disability sector and studying for a degree. But they are already gearing up for more travel next year.

“When we do retire, I think we’ll have seen enough of the world to stay at home,” says Mark.

Woman’s Day is an iconic Australian weekly magazine providing readers with information about celebrity news, royals, lifestyle, beauty, fashion, real life stories, recipes and more. Established in 1948, Woman’s Day has become a successful and recognisable brand determined to bring entertainment and lifestyle news to women all over Australia.

Related stories

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EXCLUSIVE: Travel Guides’ Jono Fren reveals his fairytale wedding to his long-time partner Danielle Clark – with a surprise reality star MC

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Newcastle upon Tyne

• 1.1 Tourist information
• 3.1.1 To and from the city
• 3.2 By train
• 3.5 By boat
• 4.1 By bicycle
• 4.3 By Metro
• 4.4 By train
• 4.5 By taxi
• 5.1 Galleries and museums
• 5.2 Further afield
• 6.1 Theatre
• 10.1.1 City centre
• 10.1.2 North Newcastle
• 10.2 Mid-range
• 10.3 Splurge
• 11.1 Bigg Market
• 11.2 Central Station
• 11.3 Quayside
• 11.4 Ouseburn
• 11.5 Jesmond
• 11.6 Others
• 11.7 Breweries
• 12.1 Budget
• 12.2 Mid-range
• 12.3 Splurge
• 14 Stay safe

Newcastle upon Tyne is a city in Tyne and Wear in the north-east of England . It's an industrial but lively, cultural place on the north bank of the River Tyne, with a population of just over 300,000 in 2019, and another half a million residing in its outlying areas.

Newcastle formed its own county or borough as early as 1400, between Northumberland to the north and County Durham to the south. In 1974 the nearby urban areas of those counties were combined with Newcastle to form the new metropolis of Tyne and Wear.

Understand [ edit ]

The Iraqi and Syrian occupation of town is nowadays forgotten, let bygones be bygones. But in 200 AD the Roman army recruited from those territories and brought so many to serve here that the depot fort was called Arbeia , the Arab place. Their job was to tote supplies from the ship wharves to the old castle of Pons Aelius, then up the military roads west along Hadrian's Wall (built 80 years earlier) or north into the bandit lands of the Picts. The Romans left around 400 AD and in their wake eventually grew up a kingdom of Northumbria, which knew the town as Munucceaster. But again and again, the region was devastated by Viking raids: what it needed was a new castle.

Robert Curthose obliged in 1080, fearing attack by Scots or rebels, though he mostly warred with his own family. (He was the eldest son of William the Conqueror but was disinherited, to spend his last 20 years in dungeons.) His wooden Novum Castellum was soon replaced by a stone castle, then another in 1172 which is the ruin you see today. Its walls were extended to protect the entire town, which stood out against the Scots and for several months against Cromwell; the region was Royalist in the Civil Wars then fell to assault.

Newcastle became industrial early in the Middle Ages, from salt-panning, coal that was shallow and easily mined, limestone quarried for masonry and quicklime, and farm produce from the fertile hinterland. Trade and transport by sea were important, including from London in an era when roads were miserable cart tracks, but it was only one of many ports along the Tyne, and small sailing vessels didn't need much harbour facilities. The burgesses of Newcastle set fire to the rival port at North Shields, but their masterstroke in 1290 was to win a Royal monopoly on local mining and export of coal. This lucrative cartel was only busted in 1750, while the other ports subsisted on other trade such as fish.

The city's industrial heyday was in the 19th century, with deep mining of coal, smoke-stack industry including shipbuilding, and a busy port. Urban squalour co-existed with the elegant central district of Grainger Town and Grey Street, nowadays one of the finest cityscapes in Britain. There were horrible accidents, cholera and a devastating factory explosion, but there was also electric lighting, steam-hauled railways and turboprop ships. The 20th century brought the slump of the miners' strike, the Depression and wartime bombing. There was enough variety and innovation of trade for the city to recover, with a growing public sector, two universities and attractive new architecture. By the 21st century, Newcastle could re-launch itself as a year-round leisure travel destination.

The climate is cool in summer (around 20°C) and seldom below freezing in winter. It's not particularly wet but can rain any time: see Tyne and Wear climate chart. Daylight hours range from 4:30AM to 9:45PM in the summer, to 8:30AM to just after 3:30PM in winter.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• Visit Northeast England

Talk [ edit ]

The distinctive dialect here and throughout the northeast is "Geordie" — George or Geordie was a common name among local miners. Its pronunciation is closer to Anglo-Saxon than other English dialects, but its vocabulary is more modern. The only word you need to know is "Howay!", an all-purpose exclamation. Whether you understand anything else of it depends on whether the speaker wishes you to understand, so anyone reliant on your tourist money will ensure you do.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

An alternative is Manchester Airport ( MAN  IATA ), with a great range of long-haul flights, saving the hassle of a change in Heathrow or Amsterdam. From the airport railway station, it's 3 hours to Newcastle: you may need to change at Manchester Piccadilly or York.

To and from the city [ edit ]

• By Metro: A journey on the Tyne and Wear Metro takes around 20–25 minutes, with up to 5 trains per hour running during the day and up to 4 trains per hour running in the evening and on Sunday. As of July 2022, a single three-zone ticket costs £3.90 and an all-day three-zone ticket costs £5.70.
• By bus : Stagecoach operate the half-hourly X78 service, which runs express to Eldon Square via Ponteland Road, with an average journey time of around 20–25 minutes.
• By taxi : There is a taxi rank at the airport, with an average fare of around £15.00–£20.00.
• By car: The airport is situated off the A696, which can be reached easily from a number of principal routes, including the A1, A68 & A69. The estimated journey time to the city centre from Newcastle International Airport is 15–20 minutes, with an increased travel time during peak hours.

By train [ edit ]

Newcastle is on the East Coast Main Line, with the following services:

• LNER trains running once or twice an hour between Edinburgh (90 min) and London King's Cross (3 hours) via York (one hour).
• Lumo also operate a few trains between Edinburgh and London.
• CrossCountry runs hourly from the West Country via Birmingham (3 hours 30 min), Sheffield (2 hours 15 minutes), Leeds (90 min) and York.
• TransPennine Express runs from Liverpool via Manchester Victoria (2 hours 30 min). The direct train from Manchester Airport and Manchester Piccadilly remains suspended in March 2023.
• Northern Trains run from Carlisle (90 min) via Hexham and from Middlesbrough (80 min).

For timetables, fares, disruptions and real-time service information see National Rail . You can supplement your rail ticket with a Plusbus ticket for local buses. See the "Get around" section for further information. In most cases, few travellers benefit.

Central Station is on both lines of the Tyne & Wear Metro, with frequent trains to the airport, suburbs, Gateshead and outlying towns. See below.

By car [ edit ]

From north or south follow A1(M), which passes west of the city by Metrocentre. For most central destinations, use Exit 69 onto A184, which brings you in via Gateshead and the Tyne Bridge. Don't take A19, which bypasses the city away to the east via the toll tunnel. From Glasgow or Stranraer (from Ireland) head via Carlisle onto A69.

Newcastle Park & Rides are aimed at commuters from rural Northumberland, so they're mostly north and west:

• Callerton Parkway and Kingston are on the Metro Green Line from the airport,
• Newcastle Great Park at Wide Open uses the bus (but is closed in 2022)
• Regent Centre to the north is on the Metro Yellow Line, as is Walkergate to the east.
• Heworth near Gateshead is the only P&R south of the River Tyne: it's on both Metro lines but not particularly convenient for the A1.

The city centre has multi-storey carparks with over 10,000 spaces, charging around £2 per hour M-Sa 8AM-5PM and free at other times. Street parking is a last resort: it's pricey, is typically for a maximum of one hour, and the only space you can find is obstructed by a builder's skip.

Car hire companies include Europcar (who have a desk in Central Station), Avis , National , Sixt , Budget and Enterprise . These also serve the airport and Gateshead.

By bus [ edit ]

National Express buses take 7-8 hours from London Victoria via Milton Keynes , Sheffield , Leeds , Middlesbrough and Sunderland ; one-way fares from London start from £7. There are three morning departures, one afternoon and one overnight. Four buses a day run from Liverpool via Manchester airport and city and Leeds, though you may need to change. Three a day run from Birmingham via Sheffield and Leeds, and three a day from Glasgow via Edinburgh .

Megabus have five buses a day from London Victoria, for similar fares. The fastest take 7 hours, but some take 10 hours via Heathrow airport, Coventry , Birmingham airport and city, Manchester airport and city, Huddersfield , Leeds , Middlesbrough and Sunderland . Megabus don't use Newcastle bus station, they stop on John Dobson Street a couple of blocks east of Eldon Square, close to the universities.

Stagecoach Bus 685 runs from Carlisle via Brampton , Haltwhistle (for Hadrian's Wall ), Hexham , Corbridge and Heddon-on-the-Wall. It's supposed to be an hourly service but is sporadic in 2022. See Tyne and Wear#Get around for regional bus routes: you're always better by train or Metro where available, for instance from Berwick-upon-Tweed , Durham or Sunderland .

By boat [ edit ]

Port of Tyne, 7 mi (11 km) east of city centre, has overnight DFDS ferries from IJmuiden near Amsterdam . See Tynemouth#Get in for how to get there.

Get around [ edit ]

Walking is always first choice for city centre, the university main campuses, Quayside and the opposite river bank of Gateshead.

By bicycle [ edit ]

Newcastle is a reasonably cycle-friendly city, with cycle lanes and lock-up points. A few Metro stations have secure storage for bicycles, but only fold-away bikes are permitted on Metro trains. You don't need a bike in town, but might use one to explore Hadrian's Wall path or venture out to the coast. See Tyne and Wear#Get in for long distance bike routes.

Newcastle doesn't have a bike-share scheme, and the shops sell bikes and kit but don't hire, however there is one rental facility:

54.97058 -1.58732 1 Cycle Hub , Ouseburn NE61BU ( east bank of Ouseburn outlet ), ☏ +44 191 276 7250 , [email protected] . M-W 8:30AM-4:30PM, Th F 9:30AM-2PM, Sa Su 10AM-4:30PM . A full-service place with a cafe, a shop, a workshop, and bike hire with a good selection. Pricey, but knowledgeable friendly service. ( updated Dec 2021 )

Go North East Q3 or Quaylink runs every 30 min south from Great Park P&R through Gosforth, Jesmond, Haymarket and Pilgrim St in city centre, then east along Quayside to St Peter's, Walker and Wallsend. Bus 33 also runs between Gosforth, Jesmond and the centre.

Bus 1 runs every 30 min from Gateshead to Market St in city centre, then east to Wallsend and the coast.

These city buses ply the streets and don't use the bus station. See Tyne and Wear#Get around for buses to the outlying towns, and individual towns' "Get in".

The bus companies offer day-tickets and longer passes, but these are only valid for the issuing company, with a variety of fare zones. For instance a Go North East day-ticket for city centre in 2022 is £5.30, more than separate there-and-back singles.

Plusbus is a supplement to your rail ticket, valid for local buses but not the Metro. A day ticket is adult £4, child £2. The travel area corresponds to Fare Zones A+B, so it costs more than an ordinary single, and only makes sense for multiple journeys. 7-day and longer tickets are available.

By Metro [ edit ]

Tyne & Wear Metro is quick and inexpensive, and is the best option for outlying areas. There are two lines, mostly overground, but running together underground through the city centre.

• The Green Line runs from the airport to South Gosforth, the city centre, Gateshead, Heworth, Sunderland and South Hylton.
• The Yellow Line makes a great loop north from St James in the city centre to Wallsend, North Shields, Tynemouth, Whitley Bay then South Gosforth, back through the city centre (crossing itself at Monument) then Gateshead, Heworth, Jarrow and North Shields. So for the north bank of Tyne always take the anti-clockwise loop, but for Whitley Bay, you could go either way.

Trains run between 6AM and 11PM, normally every 6-10 min but in 2021/22 this is scaled back to 12-15 min. There are three fare zones: in 2022 a single for one is £2.30, two zones £3.20 and all zones (e.g. from the airport) £3.90. A day ticket for one zone is £3.60, for two is £4.70 and for all is £5.70. Plusbus is not valid on the Metro.

Ticket machines take cards or cash. Main stations have ticket barriers. Outlying stations may have no gates or leave them open at quiet times, but ticket inspectors patrol and are wearily familiar with lame excuses by fare dodgers. Smoking is banned in the entire system, including open-air stations. All stations on the network offer step-free access from street to train, and the metro carriages have ample space for wheelchairs. Mobility scooters are not allowed on the Metro.

You might use train rather than Metro or bus for a few districts, for similar fares:

• north via Manors (for both universities) to Cramlington and Morpeth . Manors Metro is 100 yards north of Manors railway station so it's not mapped as an interchange, but a short walk.
• west via Dunston (west edge of Gateshead) and Metrocentre to Prudhoe, Corbridge , Hexham and Carlisle .
• southeast via Heworth to Sunderland , Stockton-on-Tees and Middlesbrough .

A new line is under construction in 2022 through the northern suburbs to Blyth and Ashington. It might open in 2024.

By taxi [ edit ]

Operators include Premier (incorporating Newcastle Taxis) ☏ +44 191 638 0 638 , LA Taxis ☏ +44 191 287 7777 , Blueline ☏ +44 191 262 6666 , and Uber . They all get mixed reviews for reliability and general state of repair of vehicles and drivers. A ride from city centre to the airport in 2022 is around £15, and to the ferry terminal is £18.

See [ edit ]

• The River Tyne north bank has a footpath and cycleway. It's called "Hadrian's Way" but is entirely modern, as the Roman original is lost under the city centre.
• Gateshead : the south bank of the Tyne is a separate city, but its main sites are along the riverside a short walk from Newcastle. For instance BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art is by the Millennium Bridge, and Gateshead also has Sage Music Centre, the Athletics Stadium, and Metro shopping centre. Angel of the North stands at the south tip of the city.

• 54.99 -1.59 9 Jesmond Dene is a park in the bosky gorge of the Ouseburn river, laid out by the industrialist and inventor Lord Armstrong in the 1860s. Multiple access points, the Metro Yellow and Green Lines run half a mile west to their fork at South Gosforth.

Galleries and museums [ edit ]

• 54.97832 -1.60868 10 Gallery North , Northumbria University, Sandyford Road NE1 8QE , ☏ +44 191 349 5382 , [email protected] . W-Sa 10AM-4PM . The gallery was established in 1977 within Northumbria University and has rotating exhibitions. The University's permanent art collection is for teaching and research, and not generally on public display. However the Woon Gallery , opened in 2018, is a long-term loan of Asian (mostly Buddhist) art. Free . ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.96907 -1.60832 18 Side Gallery , 5 & 9 Side NE1 3JE , ☏ +44 191 232 2208 . Th-F 11AM-5PM, Sa-Su noon-5PM . Documentary photography gallery and archive, also has a 50-seater cinema showing independent films. Free . ( updated Dec 2022 )

Further afield [ edit ]

• 54.988 -1.531 19 Wallsend is actually Wall's Beginning, as construction of Hadrian's Wall started here in 122 AD and worked west. The Roman fort of Segedunum is next to Mile Zero of the wall and Wallsend Metro station (not Hadrian Road). Hadrian's Wall path and cycleway follows the north bank of the Tyne but is entirely modern for 14 miles west, as through Newcastle the ancient route and structures are obliterated.
• Stephenson Railway Museum: see Tynemouth .
• Tynemouth at the river outflow has a ruined castle and priory and is a beach resort.
• The Angel of the North is the distinctive 20-m winged sculpture by Antony Gormley. It's at the south edge of Gateshead , at the junction of the A1 and A167. From Newcastle city centre or Gateshead Interchange (on the Metro), take bus route 21 "The Angel" to Durham Road / Deneford.
• Hadrian's Wall can be discerned west from Heddon-on-the Wall, though the best parts begin 20 miles further west around Hexham .

Do [ edit ]

• What's on? Read The Crack magazine.
• River Escapes . Apr-Oct: Su; Jun-Sep: Tu Th Sa . In summer they have 3-hour boat trips upriver to the countryside or downriver to the sea, embarking from St Anne's Quay near Premier Inn. Weekends they have one hour city trips, embarking from City Marina beneath Tyne Bridge. ( updated Dec 2021 )

Theatre [ edit ]

Music [ edit ]

• See Gateshead for Sage Music Centre. It's easiest accessed from Newcastle by walking across the low-level swing bridge.
• Northumbria and Newcastle University have large venues in their unions' for mainstream and indie acts alike and attract some of the biggest names from across the UK and abroad.
• For smaller, indie gigs check out Head of Steam , The Cluny and Tyne Bar

Sport [ edit ]

• 55.0316 -1.604 9 Newcastle Racecourse is nowadays to the north at High Gosforth Park NE3 5HP. It's an artificial Tapeta surface, with flat-racing held year-round and jumps races Oct-March. It's a mile north of South Gosforth on both metro lines.
• Football: Newcastle United play at 54.97546 -1.62175 10 St James Park , half a mile north of the railway station. They play soccer in the Premier League, England's top tier. Since 2021 they are by some distance the world's richest club, being owned by the Saudi Arabian sovereign investment fund.
• Rugby Union (15-a-side): Newcastle Falcons were promoted in 2020 so they now play in the Premiership, the top tier of English rugby union. Their home ground is 55.0187 -1.6721 11 Kingston Park in the north of the city.
• Rugby League (13-a-side): Newcastle Thunder folded in 2023 so the city lacks a pro RL team.
• Basketball: Newcastle Eagles play at the Vertu Motors Arena.
• Go to the dog track , also at Brough Park - the dogs chase round the outer track, the bikes race within.
• Athletics at 54.96096 -1.57962 12 Gateshead International Stadium , south of the river with its own Metro station. This multi-use stadium hosts other events, and its sports facilities can be used by members.
• Watch cricket at the Riverside Ground in Chester-le-Street , 10 mi (16 km) south. This is home to Durham County Cricket Club, one of the 18 First Class Counties, the top tier of English cricket. County matches normally last 3-4 days. The stadium also hosts international or Test Matches, lasting up to five days. The stadium is half a mile east of the railway station, frequent trains take ten min from Newcastle.

Cinema [ edit ]

• 54.97243 -1.61819 13 Cineworld , The Gate, Newgate St NE1 5TG , ☏ +44 330 333 4444 . Chain multiplex showing mainstream releases. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.97266 -1.61262 15 Everyman , 75 Grey St NE1 6EF , ☏ +44 1233 555642 . Delightful salon-style cinema where you recline on sofas and are served food and drink. Obviously that's reflected in the ticket prices. Adult £13, child £9 . ( updated Dec 2021 )
• Side Cinema is within Side Gallery, see above.
• 54.979 -1.595 16 Star and Shadow , Warwick Street NE2 1BB ( by City Stadium ), ☏ +44 191 261 8315 , [email protected] . Volunteer-run indie cinema and performance venue. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• Odeon is in the Metrocentre (see Buy) in Gateshead . Vue Cinema is in central Gateshead.

Events [ edit ]

• Chinese New Year follows a lunar calendar, so the next is in February 2024, starting the Year of the Dragon. Expect firecrackers, drums and weaving dragons in the vicinity of Stowell St 11AM-4PM.
• Hoppings is a funfair in late June, held on Town Moor (Metro or bus to Jesmond). The next is anticipated for June 2024.
• Northern Pride is a gay pride festival on Town Moor in July, with the next on 20-21 July 2024.
• MELA means "meeting" in Hindi and it's a celebration of Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi cuisine, music and art. It's held on the August bank holiday on Exhibition Park, the south corner of Town Moor (directions as above) with spillover events around the Monument. The next is Sunday 27 to Monday 28 Aug 2023.
• Great North Run is a half marathon, staged between Newcastle and South Shields in September. The next is Sunday 10 Sep 2023.
• Christmas Market is held through December to Christmas Eve, centred on Monument. In bygone years this had a funfair and extended down Northumberland St, but the scale of the 2023 market is not yet known.

Learn [ edit ]

Work [ edit ]

Employers always hiring are the call centres here and in Gateshead, and the many bars and restaurants.

As elsewhere in the UK, British and Irish citizens always have the right to take up work, but other EU nationals generally do not.

Buy [ edit ]

• 54.97547 -1.6152 2 Eldon Square is the block west of Northumberland St. It has John Lewis, Argos, Boots and Next.
• 54.97284 -1.61491 3 Grainger Market , Grainger St . M-Sa 9AM-5:30PM . A bustling indoor market in a hall from 1835. ( updated Nov 2023 )
• Cloth Market , west of Grey St, has vintage clothing shops.
• Farmer's Market is around Grey's Monument. It's normally first Friday every month 9:30AM-2:30PM but is suspended as of 2021.

Eat [ edit ]

Budget [ edit ].

City centre [ edit ]

• 54.977223 -1.612078 1 Frankie & Tony’s Sandwich Bar , 19 Ridley Pl . Generous portions. Quick service. Worth waiting in the queue. A sandwich is for about £4. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 54.972352 -1.611595 2 Pani's Cafe , 61-65 High Bridge , ☏ +44 191 232 4366 . M-F noon-3PM, 5-9PM, Sa noon-10PM . Italian specialising in Sardinian. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 54.969017 -1.607781 3 Uno's , 18 Sandhill , ☏ +44 191 261 5264 . Cheerful trattoria on Quayside. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 54.97503 -1.617862 4 El Coto , 21 Leazes Park Rd , ☏ +44 191 261 0555 . Daily 11AM-11PM . Lively tapas restaurant near the football stadium. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 54.969672 -1.616539 5 Zapatista Grainger St . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 54.977255 -1.611581 6 Zapatista Ridley Pl , 28 Ridley Place , ☏ +44 191 261 7769 . M-Sa 11AM-8PM, Su 11:30AM-7PM . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 54.975005 -1.616639 7 Pizza Express , 7 St George's Way ( within Eldon Sq Shopping Centre ), ☏ +44 191 232 3228 . Daily 11:30AM-9PM . Reasonably priced Italian chain. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• Otherwise there are also found the chain restaurants JD Wetherspoon, eat4less, Chicken Cottage, Wok Inn, Tortilla and Chicken Shack.

North Newcastle [ edit ]

• 54.991 -1.598 8 Francesca's , 134-136 Manor House Road, Jesmond , ☏ +44 191 281 6586 . M-Sa noon-2:30PM, 5-9:30PM . Friendly Italian restaurant. ( updated Feb 2023 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 54.971613 -1.619579 9 Blackfriars Restaurant . British restaurant. The feel of the place is calming and feels private. The original features of the building and the history make your visit here something special. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 54.971602 -1.611499 10 Zizzi , 42 Grey St , ☏ +44 191 261 8360 . Daily 11:30AM-11PM . Reliable mid-price Italian chain. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 54.970516 -1.610167 11 Marco Polo , 33 Dean St , ☏ +44 191 232 5533 , [email protected] . M-Th noon-11PM, F Sa noon-midnight . Stylish and popular Italian. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 54.9695 -1.606096 12 Khai Khai , 29 Queen St . Indian restaurant opened in 2021. ( updated Feb 2023 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 54.971599 -1.619498 13 Blackfriar's Restaurant , Friars St , ☏ +44 191 261 5945 . M-F noon-2:30PM, 5:30-10PM, Sa 9:30AM-10PM, Su 9:30AM-4PM . Great reviews for what may be the UK's oldest restaurant. You sit at long tables in a 13th-century monastery refectory, and consume better monkfish than ever the locally-sourced freshly-shrived Black Friars got to eat. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 54.966695 -1.618539 14 Sachins , Forth Banks ( south side of Central station ), ☏ +44 191 232 4660 , [email protected] . M-Sa noon-1:30PM, 5-9:30PM . Upscale Punjabi restaurant, gets very busy with the post-match crowd. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 54.970571 -1.604681 15 21 , Trinity Gardens, Quayside , ☏ +44 191 222 0755 . Tu-Sa noon-2:30PM, 5:30-9PM . Slick restaurant serving quality British and French bistro food. The same group runs Café 21 within Fenwick's on Northumberland St. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 54.973105 -1.619436 16 Landmark Oriental , 20 Stowell St , ☏ +44 191 261 0882 . Tu-Th 5PM-9PM, F Sa noon-2:30PM, 5-9:30PM, Su noon-8PM . Great reviews for this high-class Chinese restaurant and bar in Chinatown. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• And see Sleep for Jesmond Dene House.

Drink [ edit ]

The main drinking strips are Bigg Market, Quayside and around Central Station.

Bigg Market [ edit ]

• 54.97121 -1.6146 1 City Vaults ( Idols ), 13 Bigg Market NE1 1UN , ☏ +44 191 221 0850 . Th-Su 8PM-3AM . This spacious club features three bars, different music in different rooms, and big screens for showing football on match days. Topless dancers and scantily clad bar staff abound. As if all that wasn't enough, they serve food, including sandwiches, burgers, salads, and curries. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.97138 -1.61394 2 Popworld , 14 Bigg Market NE1 1UW , ☏ +44 191 260 2919 . Su-Th 8PM-1AM, F 7PM-2AM, Sa 5PM-2AM . Fizing atmosphere for cocktails and music. ( updated Dec 2021 )

Central Station [ edit ]

• 54.96897 -1.61643 3 Centurion , Neville St NE1 5DG ( within Central Station ), ☏ +44 191 261 6611 . Daily 8AM-11PM . An impressively designed bar and restaurant in the restored Victorian lounge of the Central Station, the Centurion is a favourite stop for commuters. Live sports on a drop-down big screen. Choose from the bustling main bar or the more intimate cafe-deli. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.96992 -1.61373 4 ChachaBuchi ( formerly Floritas ), 28 Collingwood St NE1 1JF , ☏ +44 191 261 8271 . Su-Th 11AM-1AM, F Sa 11AM-3AM . Split-level cocktail bar with outdoor garden bar. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.96859 -1.62085 5 The Dog And Parrot , 52 Clayton St West NE1 4EX , ☏ +44 7512 350561 . Daily 11AM-1AM . Rock n' roll themed bar with good live music and cheap drinks. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.96985 -1.61403 6 Revolution , Collingwood St NE1 1JF , ☏ +44 191 261 8901 . M-Th noon-midnight, F-Su noon-1AM . Spacious, ultra-modern vodka bar with cool architecture (pillars, high sculpted ceiling, stainless steel bar and huge windows) and great selection of flavoured vodkas and cocktails. Dress is "smart casual", which means no baseball caps or hoodies. Music ranges from pop to indie to R&B to house. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.9706 -1.62136 7 The Bodega , 125 Westgate Road NE1 4AG ( next to Tyne Theatre ), ☏ +44 191 221 1552 . Su-Th noon-11PM, F Sa noon-midnight . A beautiful Victorian pub with ornate stained glass domes, friendly bar staff and a great selection of real ales and premium lagers. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.96959 -1.61841 8 Forth Hotel , 17-23 Pink Lane NE1 5DW ( by St Mary's Cathedral ), ☏ +44 191 232 6478 . Su-Th noon-11PM, F Sa noon-1AM . Cosy pub with a great selection of real ales, imported beers and wine, serves food. It doesn't have accommodation. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.96957 -1.61553 9 The Head of Steam , 2 Neville St NE1 5EN ( within Hampton by Hilton ), ☏ +44 191 230 4236 , [email protected] . W-Su 5PM-2AM . On the first floor, you'll find a wide selection of real ales, lagers, cider, wine and spirits in a comfortable atmosphere. The basement, which holds 50-some, is a live music venue showcasing up-and-coming bands. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.96815 -1.61411 10 The Telegraph , Orchard St NE1 3NY ( south flank of Station ), ☏ +44 191 261 8991 . M-Th 3PM-11PM, F Sa noon-2AM, Su noon-midnight . Handy for station, charming interior and roof terrace. They often have DJs or live bands. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.97047 -1.62062 11 Tilleys , 105 Westgate Rd NE1 4AG ( next to Tyne Theatre ), ☏ +44 191 232 0692 . W Th Su noon-10PM, F Sa noon-11PM . Cosy pub with L-shaped bar, with a large selection of real ales, craft and premium lagers and ciders, serves decent food. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.96923 -1.61323 12 Tokyo , 17 Westgate Rd NE1 1SE , ☏ +44 191 230 3318 . Su-F 5PM-2AM, Sa 3PM-2AM . A stylish, modern venue with an elegant rooftop garden bar and a good selection of cocktails, spirits, wines and beers. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.96924 -1.61345 13 The Mile Castle , 19–25 Westgate Road NE1 5XU ( corner of Grainger St ), ☏ +44 191 211 1160 . Su-Th 8AM-1AM, F Sa 8AM-2AM . JD Wetherspoon pub with large 3-storey bar serving food, big enough to find a seat at the weekend. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.96781 -1.62052 14 Rusty's ( formerly Baron and Baroness ), Times Square NE1 4EP . Daily 8PM-3AM . Lively gay bar near the station. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.96829 -1.62282 15 Powerhouse , 7-19 Westmorland Rd NE1 4EQ , ☏ +44 191 261 9326 . Nightly 11PM-4AM . Newcastle's longest running and biggest gay dance club, with four floors of music from the 1990s to disco and more. ( updated Dec 2021 )

Quayside [ edit ]

• 54.96877 -1.60813 16 Quilted Camel , 36 Sandhill NE1 3JF , ☏ +44 191 221 1885 . F Sa 6PM-1AM . Quirky cocktail bar with a range of 30 cocktails, with retro-chic interior. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.96943 -1.60754 17 Bridge Tavern , 7 Akenside Hill NE1 3UF ( beneath Tyne Bridge ), ☏ +44 191 261 9966 . M-Th noon-midnight, F Sa noon-1AM, Su noon-11PM . A great craft brewpub: reasonably priced and always busy, serves food. 10+ taps on the bar which change regularly. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.97052 -1.59953 19 Pitcher & Piano , 108 Quayside NE1 3DX ( by Malmaison ), ☏ +44 191 232 4110 . Daily 11AM-10PM . An extensive list of beers, wines, shooters and cocktails. The glass fronted building has two floors and a rooftop terrace, nice views of the river and Millennium Bridge. DJs and occasional live music. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.969281 -1.60884 21 Crown Posada , 31 The Side NE1 3JE , ☏ +44 191 232 1269 . Daily 11AM-midnight . Beautifully preserved 1880s long-room pub, with stained glass windows and wood-panel ceiling. A gramophone in back cranks out vintage tunes, and it's a great place to try real ales from local breweries. ( updated Dec 2021 )

Ouseburn [ edit ]

• 54.97102 -1.58709 23 The Free Trade Inn , 12 St Lawrence Rd NE6 1AP , ☏ +44 191 265 5764 . Daily noon-10PM . A cosy trad pub by the Tyne, with an excellent selection of beers. A free jukebox supplies the music. Limited food, but there's deli sandwiches, and a pizza van visits. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.97157 -1.58818 24 Tyne Bar , Mailing St NE6 1LP , ☏ +44 191 265 2550 . Daily noon-9PM . Beneath Walker St bridge where Ouseburn flows into the Tyne, this has a good selection of real ales and a beer garden. Live music at weekends, and bands in the garden during summer. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.9754 -1.58925 25 Cumberland Arms , James Place St NE6 1LD , ☏ +44 191 265 1725 . M 5PM-10PM, Tu-F 2PM-10PM, Sa Su noon-10PM . Atmospheric 1860s pub with real ales, a roaring fire and live music, large outside seating area with heaters. ( updated Dec 2021 )

Jesmond [ edit ]

Jesmond and Gosforth are upmarket areas, and several bars are part of hotels.

• 54.98999 -1.60435 26 Bar Blanc , 38-42 Osborne Rd NE2 2AL ( within Whites Hotel ), ☏ +44 191 281 5126 . M-Sa 11AM-11PM, Su noon-10:30PM . Relaxing place with a mixture of locals and hotel guests, shiny decor and a large outside seating area. B&B double £50 . ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.99112 -1.60458 27 Osbornes , 61-69 Osborne Rd NE2 2AN , ☏ +44 191 240 7778 . Su-Th noon-11PM, F Sa noon-11PM . This spacious bar shows live sports on wide-screen TVs and has an outdoor beer garden. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.99385 -1.6092 28 The Lonsdale , Lonsdale Terrace, West Jesmond NE2 3HQ ( by West Jesmond Metro ), ☏ +44 191 281 0039 . M-Th 11AM-11PM, F-Su 10AM-11PM . Trad pub with a relaxed atmosphere. Quiz nights, digital juke box, and monthly live music. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 55.00668 -1.60301 29 Brandling Villa , Haddrick's Mill Rd, South Gosforth NE3 1QL , ☏ +44 191 284 0490 . Su-Th noon-11PM, F Sa noon-midnight . Cask beer and great selection of whisky, dog-friendly. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.98517 -1.60879 30 Collingwood Arms , Brandling Village NE2 4RS , ☏ +44 191 281 0570 . M-Th noon-11PM, F Sa noon-midnight, Su 1PM-11PM . Old-style pub with great ales, dog-friendly. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 55.00599 -1.61951 31 Brandling Arms , High St, Gosforth NE3 1HD , ☏ +44 191 285 4023 . Su-W noon-11PM, Th F noon-midnight, Sa 10AM-midnight . Pub with decent food and patio garden, dog-friendly. ( updated Dec 2021 )

Others [ edit ]

• 54.97233 -1.61114 32 Bacchus , 42-48 High Bridge NE1 6BX , ☏ +44 191 261 1008 . M-Sa 11AM-midnight, Su noon-10:30PM . Ocean liner decor redolent of Tyneside's shipbuilding days. A long drink list includes wines, cask ales and microbrews. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.97126 -1.60885 33 Bar 52 , 55 Degrees North, Pilgrim St NE1 8BJ , ☏ +44 191 261 1066 . Daily noon-midnight . Chain sports pub, okay-ish food. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.97765 -1.61195 34 The Five Swans , 14 St Mary's Place NE1 7PG , ☏ +44 191 211 1140 . Daily 8AM-midnight, F Sa 8AM-1AM . JD Weatherspoons chain pub, good value for drinks and food. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.97998 -1.61132 35 The Hancock , 2a Hancock St NE2 4PU , ☏ +44 191 281 5653 . Daily noon-midnight . Next to both universities, so it has a student vibe with juke boxes, pool tables, big screen TVs and game machines, plus an array of DJs four nights a week. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.97481 -1.61955 36 The Strawberry , 7-8 Strawberry Place NE1 4SF ( east side of football stadium ), ☏ +44 191 232 6865 . Daily 11AM-11PM . A shrine to next-door Newcastle United, displaying a huge amount of club memorabilia from down the years, and packed around home games. It has real ales and bar meals, big screen TVs, a jukebox, pool table and a roof terrace. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.97709 -1.61838 37 The Trent House , 1-2 Leazes Lane NE1 4QT ( just south of Newcastle University ), ☏ +44 191 261 2154 . M-Sa 11AM-11PM, Su noon-11PM . Friendly pub with a great selection of real ales, beers and spirits, but most famous for their free jukebox playing soul, rock and 1970s music. It's heaving when Newcastle Utd are playing at home. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.97272 -1.60839 38 World HQ , Curtis Mayfield House, Carliol Square East NE1 6UF . Sa-Th 24 hrs . Great place to go clubbing for the night with cheap drinks and a crazy audience. ( updated Dec 2021 )

Breweries [ edit ]

• Lots! There are nowadays no big commercial breweries hereabouts, but small independents include Newcastle Brewing , Brinkburn Street , Full Circle , Northern Alchemy , Wylam , Almasty , Anarchy , and Tyne Bank .
• Gateshead just across the bridge has several more.
• Newcastle Brown is the city's flagship ale but local production ended in 2005. Now owned by Heineken, the domestic product is brewed in Tadcaster , North Yorkshire, and the export product is made in Zoeterwoude near Leiden in the Netherlands. It's 4.7% ABV; in 2015 the red-brown colouring agent was switched from caramel to roasted malt. It's traditionally sold in pint (568 ml) clear bottles, served cold but not chilled. It pours quietly without a head, so you can fill your glass to the brim without froth escaping down your pants. In Britain it's marketed as a trad, no-nonsense, working-man's budget pint, while other markets get jazzier treatments. Some find it insipid and gassy (what doesn't bubble out as a head is sure to make its presence known elsewhere) but it's a question of the right drink for the right occasion. On a dreary day with the drizzle blowing in from the North Sea, you'll be grateful to sit down to a meat casserole or pie with a bottle or three of Nookie Broon within reach.

Sleep [ edit ]

• 54.97085 -1.61584 1 Albatross Hostel , 51 Grainger St NE1 5JE , ☏ +44 191 233 1330 , [email protected] . Large youth hostel in a former bank near Central Station. Basic but clean, 24 hr reception. Dorm from £17 ppn . ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.96591 -1.62266 2 Leonardo Hotel ( formerly Jury's Inn ), Scotswood Rd NE1 4AD ( west side of station ), ☏ +44 191 201 4400 . Boxy modern hotel, usually clean. They have another in Gateshead. B&B double £60 . ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.96882 -1.60635 3 Premier Inn Quayside , Quayside NE1 3AE , ☏ +44 333 321 1347 . Budget chain offering, very central, a bit grubby. They also have two other city hotels, one in Gateshead, one at Metro Centre and two next to the airport. Double (room only) £70 . ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.96824 -1.63185 4 Rooms Inn , 40 West Parade NE4 7LB , ☏ +44 191 273 3034 . Basic hotel in a residential area, value for what you're paying. Double (room only) £45 . ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.98128 -1.60329 5 Hansen Hotel , 131 Sandyford Road NE2 1QR , ☏ +44 191 281 0289 , [email protected] . Small budget hotel near Jesmond metro station. Poor reviews 2021-23. ( updated May 2023 )
• 54.97338 -1.608038 6 YHA Hostel , 17 Carliol Square . Hostel with dormitories, private rooms and cafe. There is no self-catering kitchen. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.969 -1.613 7 Sleeperz , 15 Westgate Road, NE1 1SE ( Rail & Metro: Newcastle Central, 300 m ). Check-in: 3PM , check-out: 11AM . Basic, but smart and comfy, city centre hotel. Ask for a room with a view, as the castle, Tyne Bridge and railway tracks are all in sight. Good buffet breakfast, but very limited vegan and vegetarian options. £50 pppn. Breakfast £9 . ( updated May 2023 )

• 55.03863 -1.71419 8 Britannia Hotel , Ponteland NE13 8DJ ( by the airport ), ☏ +44 871 222 0028 . A business hotel equipped with wireless internet and a 400-person conference hall. Double (room only) £40 . ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.96898 -1.62271 9 Holiday Inn Express , Waterloo Square, St James Blvd NE1 4DN ( west side of station ), ☏ +44 191 224 685 , fax : +44 870 428 1477 , [email protected] . Comfy central place, pet-friendly. Parking is in the public multi-storey. B&B double £50 . ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 55.008 -1.668 10 Hotel Novotel Newcastle Airport , Ponteland Road, Kenton NE3 3HZ ( junction of A1 and A696, 3 mi (4.8 km) from airport ), ☏ +44 191 214 0303 , [email protected] . In 2021 this is acting as asylum-seeker accommodation. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.9692 -1.61534 11 Royal Station Hotel , Neville St NE1 5DH ( at Central Station ), ☏ +44 191 232 0781 , [email protected] . Opened by Prince Albert and Queen Victoria in 1858, this is a grand old Victorian railway hotel. Modern interior, gets good scores for comfort and service. B&B double £90 . ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.96944 -1.61695 12 County Hotel ( formerly Thistle ), Neville Street NE1 5DF ( by Central Station ), ☏ +44 191 731 6670 . Comfy place in Victorian pile, very central, the downside is street noise and lack of parking. B&B double £80 . ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.97071 -1.60285 13 Travelodge ( Newcastle Central ), Forster Street, Quayside NE1 2NH , ☏ +44 871 984 6164 . Reliable chain hotel, inevitably they get a lot of stag and hen parties. Travelodge have two other central sites plus one in Gateshead and three further out by racecourse, airport and Seaton Burn. Double (room only) £80 . ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.96905 -1.60955 14 Vermont Hotel , Castle Garth, Quayside NE1 1RQ ( by castle ), ☏ +44 191 233 1010 . Decent central mid-price hotel. They don't accept stag / hen parties. B&B double £120 . ( updated Dec 2021 )
• 54.96628 -1.61273 15 Copthorne Hotel , The Close, Quayside NE1 3RT ( one block south of station ), ☏ +44 191 222-0333 , [email protected] . Good central hotel with river views, some railway noise. B&B double £110 . ( updated Oct 2021 )
• 54.971 -1.61 16 Grey Street Hotel , 2-12 Grey St NE1 6EE , ☏ +44 191 230 6777 , fax : +44 191 230 6888 , [email protected] . Great value in this central hotel on elegant Grey St. B&B double £145 . ( updated Oct 2021 )
• 54.999 -1.604 17 Jesmond Dene House , Jesmond Dene Rd NE2 2EY , ☏ +44 191 212 3000 , [email protected] . A leafy boutique hotel, great reviews for service, comfort and cuisine. B&B double £160 . ( updated Oct 2021 )
• 54.97 -1.6 18 Malmaison , 104 Quayside NE1 3DX , ☏ +44 191 389 8627 , [email protected] . Smart upscale hotel, very central. B&B double £160 . ( updated Oct 2021 )

Connect [ edit ]

As of July 2021, Newcastle has 5G from EE and 4G from the other UK carriers.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Newcastle is a safe city, and friendly in its hard-faced northern way. Watch for traffic, avoid drunks and boisterous revellers, safeguard valuables, you'll do fine. There are rough outlying areas where you have no reason to go.

Historically there was a sharp rivalry between Newcastle Utd and Sunderland, but the disparity in league standings and club wealth means that anyone taken to be a Sunderland supporter nowadays won't get more than derisory banter. Nevertheless, you should avoid wearing Sunderland shirts while in Newcastle unless you want to risk inviting harassment from local football fans.

Cope [ edit ]

Medical: only go to Hospital for outright emergencies. Otherwise try the walk-in centres at Westgate or Molineaux St, or phone 111.

Pharmacies: 54.97509 -1.61539 5 Boots in Eldon Square is open M-Sa to 8PM, Su to 5PM. The others keep standard shop hours.

Laundrettes: 54.97753 -1.63905 6 Swiss Wash on Fenham Rd is open M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM. Coin-op on Heaton Rd is open M-Sa 9AM-6PM.

Go next [ edit ]

• Tynemouth , a short Metro ride east, stands on the coast with a ruined priory and castle.
• Hadrian's Wall starts just east of the city at Wallsend , but the best of it is 25 mi (40 km)-40 mi (64 km) west between Hexham and Brampton, with sites such Vindolanda and Housesteads.
• Alnwick is a charming small town with a fine castle and gardens, and Alnmouth is a picturesque village on the coast. The railway station is between them, with a connecting bus.
• Durham is only 20 min by train. Its castle and cathedral are set in a well-preserved old town centre.
• Beamish has an extensive Open Air Museum depicting northern town life circa 1913.
• Northumberland 's coastal highlights are Dunstanburgh Castle north of Alnwick , Bamburgh castle near Seahouses , and the tidal Holy Isle of Lindisfarne .
• Northumberland National Park has forests centred on Kielder reservoir, with activities such as abseiling, canoeing, hiking and mountain biking.

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Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Against its dramatic backdrop of Victorian elegance and industrial grit, this fiercely independent city harbours a spirited mix of heritage and urban sophistication, with excellent art galleries and a magnificent concert hall, along with boutique hotels, some exceptional restaurants and, of course, interesting bars: Newcastle is renowned throughout Britain for its thumping nightlife, bolstered by an energetic, 42,000-strong student population. The city retains deep-rooted traditions, embodied by the no-nonsense, likeable locals.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Life Science Centre

Part of a sober-minded institute devoted to the study of genetic science, this centre lets you discover the secrets of life through a fascinating series…

BALTIC – Centre for Contemporary Art

Once a huge mustard-coloured grain store, BALTIC is now a huge mustard-coloured art gallery rivalling London's Tate Modern. There are no permanent…

Victoria Tunnel

Walking Newcastle's streets, you'd never know this extraordinary tunnel runs for 2.5 miles beneath your feet. Built between 1839 and 1842 as a coal-wagon…

Discovery Museum

Tyneside's rich history is explored at this unmissable museum. Exhibitions spread across three floors of the former Co-operative Wholesale Society…

Great North Museum

The contents of Newcastle University's museums and the prestigious Hancock Museum's natural-history exhibits come together in the latter's neoclassical…

The last strong post of Hadrian's Wall was the fort of Segedunum, 5 miles east of Newcastle at the 'wall's end', now the Newcastle suburb of Wallsend…

Seven Stories – The Centre for Children's Books

A marvellous conversion of a handsome Victorian mill has resulted in Seven Stories, a very hands-on museum dedicated to the wondrous world of children's…

Biscuit Factory

No prizes for guessing what this commercial art gallery used to be. These days, it's the UK's biggest contemporary art, craft and design gallery/shop,…

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Spanned by iconic bridges, the mighty River Tyne is the spectacular backdrop of this former industrial powerhouse turned Northeast England's cultural hub…

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Newcastle City Guides Walking Tours

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Welcome to Newcastle City Guides

Newcastle city guides will be back with their 2024 programme of walks. you'll find their  guided tours and heritage walks  on these pages soon. these fascinating guided tours explore newcastle's historic city centre as well as delve into the stories and heritage within the surrounding region - from heaton to jesmond, gateshead to tynemouth. .

• The new season of events and tours begins in Spring 2024. 
• City Highlights daily walking tours
• Grey's Monu ment tours  are every first Saturday of the month from April - September each year.  Find out more.
• Season Tickets for the 2024 season are now on sale!

Follow Newcastle City Guides on  Facebook  or Twitter  to see further updates about guided tours by Newcastle City Guides and discover interesting facts about our city.

Whether you are new to Newcastle, you've visited time and time before, or you're a local to the North East, discover the city and its rich heritage during the City Guide season.

Find out more about the regular City Highlights Tour here , which run every day from 1st May - 31st October (excluding Great North Run day).

You can also follow the City Guides on Facebook here.

About Newcastle City Guides

We are a group of well trained and enthusiastic volunteers who share a passion for the history, heritage and culture of our great city - Newcastle upon Tyne.  We are ready to take you on a guided tour to showcase the fascinating heritage you may not have discovered yet.

Whether you’re visiting Newcastle and Gateshead for the first time , or you’re a local who wants to discover more about our fascinating region, join one of our knowledgeable Newcastle City Guides for a wide range of entertaining and carefully researched historical walks around Newcastle, Gateshead and surrounding areas.

 If you have any questions or would like to know more, please contact us by email. .

Newcastle city guides information and events, you may also like, crowne plaza newcastle stephenson....

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What to do in Newcastle with kids - a 2 night itinerary

Newcastle is a vibrant city bursting with culture, history and diversity.

North-East’s capital of cool offers loads of attractions to keep all the family busy. Landmarks, museums, parks, exhibitions, and the iconic Angel of the North should all be on your list of things to do with the kids whilst you are here.

I’ve included plenty of ideas to enjoy the great outdoors, soak up the culture and experience some great indoor venues too, just in case the Northern weather takes a turn for the worst.

Friday afternoon in Newcastle

Start the weekend of your Newcastle family holiday with a trip to one of the North East’s most well-known landmarks – the iconic Angel of the North. This awe inspiring sculpture stands over 20 metres tall and stands guard over the A1, the main route into Newcastle. It’s open 24 hours and if you love a sunset it’s the perfect place to catch one.

Head into the city and stop off at the Discovery Museum, I guarantee you this will go down a storm and best of all it’s free. Think hands on, interactive science and local history themed activities and displays. You won’t need to worry about keeping your little ones under control here as you are encouraged to explore freely. Make sure you visit the water play room which has a miniature River Tyne complete with boats, you can take a breather for half an hour while your little one enjoys some fun.

Afterwards head five minutes out of the city centre to the tranquil surroundings of Exhibition Park. Here you’ll find a beautiful leafy urban park which stretches between the two stylish suburbs of Jesmond and Gosforth. Enjoy a relaxing stroll around the boating lake and Victorian bandstand then visit the children’s play area where your little ones can burn off any excess energy.

If you need any refreshments, I recommend you stop by Urban Green Cafe which sits within the park. It’s a gorgeous community cafe serving locally baked goods and to-die-for ice-creams.

Friday evening in Newcastle

Check into your accommodation (I’ve recommended a selection of great places further down) and head down to the stunning Newcastle Quayside for an evening stroll and a spot of sightseeing. Walk the lively stretch along the River Tyne, it’s packed full of cafes , restaurants and some fantastic arts and culture venues such as the Baltic and the Sage.

One of the first things that will catch your eye will be the amount of bridges along the stretch. The Quayside is home to seven iconic bridges including The Millenium Bridge. Make sure you stroll across this bridge as it is beautifully lit and changes colours intermittently every few minutes. Your little ones will love running back and forth, you will feel like you are walking through a rainbow!

Stop at Detroit inspired “I Scream For Pizza” and grab a few slices of their legendary American style pizza, sit on the pavement seating and watch the world bustle by.

The Quayside comes alive at night and people watching will keep everyone entertained while you eat. You can’t leave without one of their scrumptious ice creams to take with you as you all continue your wander.

If you prefer sitting in and treating yourselves to a fancy meal, try the Baltic restaurant Six. I can personally recommend Six, it’s a cool, modern restaurant on the sixth floor, with panoramic views right across the city. It’ll keep your little ones well and truly entertained while you eat. Your children will love the glass elevator – think Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – a few trips up and down is a must before you settle in to enjoy your food.

You’ll need of some downtime after a busy first day so head back to your accommodation of choice for a good night’s sleep ready for day two of your Newcastle family holiday adventure.

Saturday afternoon in Newcastle

After lunch you are heading to The Seven Stories – The National Centre for Children’s Books. You are in for a real treat – with seven floors packed full of exhibitions, books and famous illustrations and manuscripts – it’s the perfect place to let your children and their imaginations run wild. There are daily story times and a stage area with costumes for any budding actors or actresses with you.

Afterwards walk two minutes up the road to Ouseburn Farm. You’ll find hidden in the middle of the city a charitable, working community farm. The farm was opened in 1976 by parents in the city who wanted their children to have access to nature, look after animals and grow their own food. It is now a charity and is free to visit.

As with many of the places in your itinerary for a Newcastle family holiday, the farm will provide you with a laid back environment where you and your children will feel relaxed and calm. Wander through the gardens and poly tunnels and stop by the small farmyard to visit the animals and chickens before you leave.

Your visit to Ouseburn would not be complete without a visit to Proven Goods. THE most amazing hand made, slow proven donuts in the North East. You’ll find them in Hoults Yard which is around a ten minute walk. If you all prefer ice cream, De Mios make the best Italian ice cream and If you aren’t full from lunch I can vouch for their traditional Italian pizzas. You’ll find most people take out and sit on the stone steps just outside the cafe by the river, to watch the world go by.

Sunday morning in Newcastle

Wake up early and head into Newcastle city centre. You have to make a visit to Blakes Coffee and Kitchen. This has been a favourite of mine all of my adult life and my children love it too. It has been described as an institution for coffee & food lovers alike.

You’ll be given a great big Geordie welcome and you will all feel relaxed and at ease in this cosy hipster coffee shop. Your whole family will be spoilt for choice with the quirky combination of sandwiches and cakes on offer. I dare you not to leave with a few extra items for the journey home. Take a stroll up to the Great North Museum after breakfast and be prepared to be blown away. You will be taken on a journey through world cultures, natural history, archaeology and geology. Sneak up to the huge T-Rex replica and explore the ancient fossils on display – if you have any Dino mad little ones, this will go down a storm. Over the many floors you can discover world cultures including Ancient Egypt and The Greeks. Visit the Natural Northumbria display and discover what is special about the North East of England’s animals and plants.

If you have children under 5 there is dedicated play space known as The Mouse House. A super little stop off to entertain them while you have a little breather.

From here walk the scenic route through the centre of the city and head down Dene street to the Quayside Market. The market has been running for years but these days is more of a vibrant gathering of local craftsmen, food vendors, street artists and buskers. You will find great gifts to take home as a souvenir of your Newcastle family holiday. Soak up the welcoming Geordie culture until it’s time to head home.

Before you leave, pop into The Great British Cupcakery and treat everyone to a cake, shake or bake with a difference. Extra doesn’t describe the prettiness and sweet treats menu on offer underneath the branches of pretty blossom trees.

If you aren’t rushing home, why not try one of the many Newcastle pubs and treat the family to a good old North East Sunday roast. I would recommend Branches Jesmond for stunning decor and food that lives up to its excellent reputation. The Broad Chare on the Quayside serves up a great pub lunch, dogs are welcome and the food is hearty.

As your Newcastle family holiday draws to a close, you will have many memories of a fantastic 48 hours exploring the city. There are still so many places for families to explore such as ChinaTown, Centre for Life science Museum, Newcastle Keep and The Grey’s Monument. Newcastle is a city you’ll want to return to again and again.

Accommodation recommendations for a Newcastle family holiday

Jesmond Dene House Hotel Jesmond Dene House has all the feels of a countryside manor yet is set within the city suburb of Jesmond. Sitting on the edge of the Dene, this independently owned hotel promises to listen to its guests and meet their wishes wherever possible. It is an indulgent hotel where you will feel both spoiled and comfortable as you are welcomed into this family owned house.

NE1 luxury apartment NE1 is a luxury city centre stay. Situated at the heart of Newcastle, you will step out of the front door and straight into the hub of the city. You will have restaurants within metres. On an evening watch the world go by from the views you’ll enjoy from your vantage point above the City.The air-conditioned apartment consists of 1 bedroom, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge and a kettle, and 1 bathroom with a shower and free toiletries. Towels and bed linen are provided in the apartment.

The Vermont Hotel Step into the perfect combination of modern and 1930’s classic decor. In a beautiful spot overlooking the Quayside and its bridges, you’ll enjoy panoramic views over the city. Try out the restaurant and bar that recently opened on the rooftop, aptly named “Above”. At the Vermont you’ll enjoy luxury rooms and a delicious menu should you decide to dine in.

Westfield Yurts If it’s getting back to nature you’re after then Westfield Yurts are for you. Set on the borders of Newcastle and Northumberland these luxury shepherds huts are a cosy alternative to a city centre hotel. Enjoy cosy log burners, hot tubs and dark skies for miles. Freedom and nature in abundance is what you will find here at Westfield Yurts.

Staybridge Suites These serviced apartments are a great home-from-home for a Newcastle family holiday. Fully equipped with a kitchen and all the amenities you need to feel completely at home during your stay. Located on the edge of Ouseburn, they are also within walking distance of the city centre, with a scenic half hour stroll along the Quayside and up into the city.

My favourite places to stay

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Newcastle family-friendly travel guide

About newcastle.

As Australia ‘s second-oldest city, Newcastle is rich in history and culture.

Here, convict-built sandstone buildings blend seamlessly with modern architecture and hippie-styled boutiques.

The city’s stunning coastline is dotted with beautiful, family-friendly beaches – with a diverse range of trendy waterfront cafes and eateries – and local hangouts like the Bogey Hole and the Art Deco Ocean Baths are just waiting to be explored.

Newcastle’s ever-changing and always exciting events calendar promises everything from concerts to motor racing and Surfest , the biggest surfing festival in Australia.

Or if it’s a quiet weekend retreat you’re after, the weekly farmers market or monthly Olive Tree Market provide the perfect excuse for a visit.

Just a two-hour drive north of Sydney, you’re sure to find something for everyone in Newcastle, whether it’s shopping, food or simply fun in the sun.

Main image: Blacksmiths beach © Paul Foley, Lake Macquarie Tourism

Newcastle facts

Emergency number, helpful information, where to go, best time to go to newcastle, getting in and around for families, food and drinks that kids will love, electricity, safety and health precautions, most photographed places, nobbys beach.

Newcastle’s most popular beach has something for everyone. Aspiring surfies can pick up a lesson or two with Newcastle Surf School , while history buffs will love a visit to Nobbys Lighthouse. The third lighthouse built in NSW, Nobbys Lighthouse has been in operation since 1858 and gives panoramic views of Newcastle and Stockton Beach.

Blackbutt Reserve

Occupying 182 hectares of native bushland, Blackbutt Reserve is perfect for animal lovers. The reserve houses many resident animals including wombats and koalas, and a number of walking trails snake their way through the eucalypt bushland.

Fort Scratchley

Fort Scratchley was built in 1882 to defend Newcastle from a potential attack and is now one of the city’s top historical sites. Kids both big and small will love exploring the network of tunnels underneath the fort on a guided tour, while the site’s unique history will keep the whole family enthralled.

Hunter Wetlands Centre

The Hunter Wetlands Centre  is home to a huge range of birds, reptiles and other native animals. Younger kids will love dip-netting to see first hand the critters that live in the wetlands, while older children will enjoy exploring the vast park by canoe, bike or Segway.

Although there’s no bad time to visit Newcastle, summer is the time to go if you want to embrace everything that the city has to offer. Surf nuts will want to be there in February, when Surfest  (Australia’s largest surfing festival) runs. Temperatures average in the high twenties in summer, while winters are fairly mild, with clear skies during the day, but cooler temperatures at night.

Major airport

Those flying from Australia’s eastern states will be able to fly direct to Newcastle Airport , approximately 25 minutes by car from the Newcastle City Centre.

For visitors flying from any other state, or internationally, fly to  Sydney  or Brisbane Airport , where you’ll be able to get a connecting flight to Newcastle.

By car, Newcastle is approximately 2.5 hours north of Sydney or 8.5 hours south of Brisbane. Most major attractions have decent amounts of parking, and you’ll find street parking throughout the city.

Public transport

Newcastle is a three-hour train trip from Sydney. The city is served by a network of trains, buses, ferries and light rail, so most attractions within the city can be easily accessed by public transport.

There’s plenty to eat and drink in Newcastle. Darby Street is the city’s culinary hub, with 25 different eateries. Highlights include Goldbergs Coffee House and  Delucas Pizza , but with a bit of exploration along the street you’re sure to find something to keep the whole family happy.

The Hunter Valley is only a short drive away, and lovers of food and wine will feel right at home. Many of the region’s wineries will offer dining experiences (it’s hard to top alfresco dining in a winery courtyard), but you’ll find a number of dedicated restaurants as well.

Newcastle has a numerous shopping centres with all the usual supermarkets and department stores. For something a bit different though, check out the Newcastle City Farmers Market , where you’ll get the chance to meet the people that grow your fruit and veg, as well as pick up groceries at prices often below what a supermarket will charge. For those interested in art and design, the Olive Tree Market  brings together Newcastle’s top artists, craftspeople and musicians once a month in Civic Park.

Newcastle also plays host to a number of specialty stores. For everything Christmas-related (at any time of year), Forever Christmas  is a must-visit. Bookworms will want to spend some time in Q’s Books , which specialises in second hand and rare books, and bargain hunters need to check out  The Retro Wardrobe , stocking an eclectic mix of second hand items.

T ipping is appreciated, but not expected in Australia.

What to wear

Attire-wise, anything goes in Newcastle. Just make sure (particularly in the summer months) to wear sun safe clothes; a hat and some sunscreen will go a long way towards making your holiday happy and free of sunburn.

Mains voltage in Australia is 230V AC, 50Hz. Use a  two-pin (shaped like a “V”) or  three-pin adaptor (different to British three-pin adaptors).

Health precautions

No special immunisations or vaccinations are required to visit Australia unless you have come from, or have visited, a yellow fever infected country within six days of your arrival. However, regulations and medical advice can change at short notice, so check with your doctor and the   Australian Department of Health  before you leave home.

Tap water is generally safe to drink in Australian cities.

By and large, Newcastle is considered a safe destination, although still exercise regular safety precautions as you would at home.

Be sure to stay vigilant around the beaches, not only with sunscreen but also watching your kids while they’re in the water. Educate your little ones about rips and remember that lifeguards are doing their best to watch everybody, but the beaches can be extremely crowded and you should never consider them your child’s babysitter!

This popular swimming spot was carved out of the rocky shoreline around 1820 and is one of the most dramatic sights around Newcastle. The ocean crashes against the rocks beside the pool, while the glassy water looks almost ethereal at sunset. Occasionally you’ll even spot dolphins from the pool! In strong winds though, waves can come over the edge of the pool, so check the weather before heading out.

King Edward Park

This grassy knoll was designated as parkland in 1863 and has given Newcastle residents some of the best views around since then. With towering Norfolk Island pines and pops of colour in the sunken garden, there’s plenty of photographic opportunities here.

With pristine stretches of sand, a lighthouse and a breakwall, Nobbys Beach puts a couple of Newcastle icons within walking distance of each other. From Nobbys Head you’ll get views over the beach and the breakwall, as well as a great panorama back towards Newcastle City.

NSW accommodation

Tasman holiday parks – north star (previously north star holiday resort), rydges resort hunter valley, rydges mount panorama bathurst, q station manly, nrma darlington beach holiday resort, holiday haven on the nsw south coast, nsw features.

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Travel Guide To Newcastle

Newcastle may have been a favourite for the title of European City of Culture 2008, but the culture here is more earthy Chaucer and Brueghel than refined Poussin and Schubert. Like its inhabitants, the city lives hard and bounces back because over the centuries it has had to learn how. The 'new castle' to which the city owes its origins and its name was built by Henry II in the second half of the 12th century. The first recorded ship built on the Tyne was a galley made for Edward I. By the 1950s, the shipyards along the river were producing more vessels per year than the entire USA and Newcastle was the biggest coal-exporting port on the planet. Half a century later there are no coal mines and no shipbuilding, and yet- with its vibrant nightlife, cool bars and world-class restaurants - Newcastle is a boomtown.

Writing in the 1950s, the historian Arthur Mee said that Newcastle is 'a city that should be admired not for its appearance but its achievements'. You can check those off, from the bridges and the shipyards to the fact that the reading room at the Literary and Philosophical Society was the first public room in the world to be lit by electric light. The city is brimming with confidence. And with its spectacular bridges, edgy galleries and packed streets, it has every reason to be.

Where to stay in Newcastle

JESMOND DENE HOUSE

Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE2 2EY (0191 212 3000; fax: 0191 212 3001; www.jesmonddenehouse.co.uk ). This grand house has a leafy setting near the heart of the city and 40 well-designed rooms. All boast spacious bathrooms with under floor heating, Egyptian cotton sheets and flat screen TVs. Overlooking the wooded valley of Jesmond Dene, it guarantees peace and rural idyll, with the lively distractions of the city a five-minute drive away. There are also rooms for meeting, dining and celebrating - from the wood-panelled Great Hall to the light-filled garden room. Food is straightforward, flavoursome and makes the most of seasonal local produce. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly but with an attention to detail. ££

MALMAISON NEWCASTLE

Quayside (0191 245 5000; www.malmaison.com/newcastle ). Tyneside branch of the hotel chain with a deserved reputation for style and service. Riverside rooms look directly out on the Gateshead Millennium Bridge and across the Tyne. £

THE VERMONT HOTEL

Castle Garth (0191 233 1010; www.vermont-hotel.com ). Smart, independent hotel in a 1930s building next to the castle. South-facing rooms have fine views of the Tyne Bridge. £

OUTSIDE NEWCASTLE

SEAHAM HALL

Seaham Hall, Lord Byron's Walk, Seaham, County Durham (0191 516 1400; www.seaham-hall.com ). The house where Byron fatefully married Anabella Milbanke in 1815 has been converted into an all-suite 18-room hotel by the owners of The Samling. Perched on a rugged cliff-top overlooking the sea, the hotel has a dining room for lunch and dinner, a grand drawing room for afternoon tea, plus a big new spa and Thai restaurant in a separate building. Seaham Hall was featured in our special feature on UK Hotels. ££

THE SAMLING

The Samling, Ambleside Road, Windermere, Cumbria (01539 431922; www.thesamling.com ). Emphatically a hotel in the country, not a country-house hotel, this 10-room (nine of them suites) property was once the home of William Wordsworth's landlord. Features include open fireplaces, Oriental rugs, and great big sofas to sprawl on. There are spectacular views over Lake Windermere and the restaurant serves locally sourced fish, meat and vegetables. The Samling was featured in our special feature on UK Hotels. £

Where to eat out in Newcastle

BARS & CAFES

Chains such as Pitcher & Piano, Revolution and Zizzi have set up shop in the city, often in impressive buildings. The following are more individual, independent establishments.

8 Nelson Street (0191 231 3000). Home-baked bread and bagels, freshly squeezed juice, Sunday brunch, all in a building that's the interior design equivalent of a chambray work shirt and chinos.

PANI'S

61 High Bridge (0191 232 4366). Bustling café around the corner from the Theatre Royal. Run by a cheerful Sardinian family, Pani's has good pasta and panini and excellent coffee.

82 Pilgrim Street (0191 232 8923). Spanish and North African food and cocktails in a typically throbbing Newcastle atmosphere. There's a quieter restaurant, Paradiso, upstairs.

THE CROWN POSADA

31-33 The Side (0191 232 1269). Pevsner praised the Pre-Raphaelite stained-glass windows and ornamental mouldings, but most people come for beer. Arguably one of England's finest pubs.

THE FREE TRADE INN

St Lawrence Road, Byker (0191 265 5764). A no-frills pub with good beer from local breweries such as Mordue and Wylam. In the evening you can sit by the front window and watch the sun setting behind the Tyne bridges.

RESTAURANTS

BARN@THE BISCUIT

The Biscuit Factory, Stoddart Street (0191 230 3338). Attached to the new art gallery in the old Nice biscuit factory. Serves good brasserie food - Greek salad, cod in beer batter with chunky chips - in a room with vague, ironic hints of the Old West.

19-21 Queen Street (0191 222 0755). Chef Terence Laybourne's deservedly lauded restaurant is more informal today than in years gone by, and the set lunch is one of the best bargains in the city.

TREACLE MOON

5-7 The Side (0191 232 4949). A small Quayside restaurant owned by Tom Maxfield, the man behind The Samling in Cumbria and Seaham Hall in County Durham. The fusion cooking here sidesteps gimmickry and concentrates on flavour. Dishes include hot smoked salmon with wasabi crème fraîche, monkfish wrapped in Parma ham, and a wonderful chocolate tart. Open for dinner only.

What to see in Newcastle

Newcastle was settled by the Romans, but Hadrian's Wall is mostly invisible; just off New Bridge Street a short section of the foundations can be seen disappearing into the garden of a council house. But bits of the 'new castle' are still standing, notably the keep and the Black Gate. During the reign of Henry VIII, John Leland noted that the walls of Newcastle 'in strength and magnificence far passeth all the walls of the cities of England'. There is not much evidence to support that assertion now. The longest and best-preserved stretch can be found between Bath Lane and Gallowgate. The old moat is still visible, the water long gone and the trench now speckled with daisies and elderflower petals. The narrow alleyways that run between the wall and the Chinese restaurants of Stowell Street still look and smell authentically medieval, however.

Nearby, in the quiet courtyard of Blackfriars, are the ruins of the Dominican friary. Newcastle was once a town of two monastic communities, the Dominicans and the Carmelites. The former wore black, the latter white. This is said to be the origin of Newcastle United's black-and-white striped shirts, so popular with the locals that the Saturday shopping crowds in Northumberland Street often resemble a herd of zebra or a gigantic bar code. Their place of devotion, St James's Park, towers above the city, bigger than any cathedral.

The fortifications gave Newcastle its name, but the river gave it its fortune. And for all the excellence of Dobson's work on Grey Street and Central Station, it is here that the real structural glory of the city lies. In the industrial north-east, engineering has always outranked architecture, and the bridges of the Tyne show why. The Swing Bridge, built in 1876, swivelled aside so that the warships built and repaired upstream at Elswick (close to the Vickers-Armstrong armament plants) could pass through. The High Level Bridge with its encased, serpentine arches, was designed, by George Stephenson's son, Robert, to carry trains on the upper tier and road traffic on the lower. And best of all is the Tyne Bridge, opened in 1928 by George V. The top of the vast arching span stands nearly 200ft above the river. And if it looks a little like the Sydney Harbour Bridge, that is not so surprising: the same company, Dorman Long of Middlesbrough, built both.

GREY STREET

In a few short years, business-builders and architects like Richard Grainger, Thomas Oliver and John Dobson fashioned the best-designed Victorian town in England, with classical facades of stone lining splendid new streets, most notably Grey Street, that takes its name from the Northumberland dynasty of political heavyweights whose most illustrious member was the second Earl Grey, prime minister from 1830 to 1834. Grey Street still shows off much of its Victorian elegance, best exemplified by the Theatre Royal and by Grainger Market, open Mon to Sat, from 8am to 5pm.

LAING GALLERY

Newcastle's premier art collection is the Laing Gallery on New Bridge Street, off John Dobson Street, behind the library. It's a well-organised museum in which local pottery, glassware, costume and sculpture play their part, while on permanent display is a sweep through British art from Reynolds to John Hoyland with a smattering of Pre-Raphaelites. The real treat is the paintings of John Martin (1789-1854), a self-taught Northumberland painter with a penchant for massive biblical scenes inspired by the dramatic north-eastern scenery.

THE CATHEDRAL

Standing on Nicholas Street, this is remarkable chiefly for its tower, erected in 1470, it is topped with a crown-like structure of turrets and arches supporting a lantern. Much of the interior was given a neo-Gothic remodelling in the late 19th century under Sir George Gilbert Scott.

How to get to Newcastle

Newcastle's airport, six miles north of the city, is linked to Central Station by Metro, which runs every eight to 15 minutes.

AIRLINES FROM THE UK

British Airways (0870 850 9850; www.ba.com ) flies from Gatwick and Heathrow to Newcastle. Regional options include: Air Wales (0870 777 3131; www.airwales.com ) from Cardiff; Eastern Airways (01652 680600; www.easternairways.com ) from Birmingham; and flyBE (0871 700 0535; www.flybe.com ) from Belfast City.