I have been living in Newcastle for 7 years now and can call myself a local. I have put together a number of tips for you to discover the hidden gems of this beautiful and vibrant city and to experience Newcastle as a real local!
ARTS AND CULTURE
1. Ouseburn is traditionally an industrial area, but nowadays it is home to many artists, musicians, printers and brewers. There is even a city farm that you can visit for free. You can get there by public transport, but on a nice spring day you can also take a walk along the Quayside towards Ouseburn. Are you travelling with children? Then the Seven Stories is recommended: the National Centre for Children's Books with all kinds of fun activities for families.
2. The English climate is not always kind, but on a rainy day you can also go underground. You can book a guided tour through the 19th century Victoria Tunnel under the city. This tunnel was originally a railway and was converted into an air raid shelter during the Second World War.
3. During the Puppetry Festival from 19 to 27 April there will be various performances with handmade puppets and figures throughout the city. On 19 April there will be a parade through Northumberland Street that you can view for free.
4. Art lovers can also indulge themselves in Newcastle. Many museums are free, with the exception of surcharges for exhibitions. For example, the Laing Gallery has a beautiful exhibition that can be admired until 26 April: Romance to Realities: the Northern Landscape and shifting identities. A beautiful exhibition about more than 200 years of landscape painting in the north of England and Scotland.
PUBS & BEERGARDENS
5. The Wylam Brewery is located in the Exhibition Park and is housed in a beautiful building where you can taste delicious craft beers. On the 29th and 30th of March they are hosting the popular Burger Battle where you can eat the tastiest burgers while enjoying live music. You can sit outside and enjoy the spring sunshine. If you are in Newcastle on the 7th of April you can also visit the Crafty Bazaar at the Wylam Brewery where you can buy local handmade products.
6. Enjoy a pint in the spring sunshine? You can do this in one of the many beergardens in Newcastle, such as: Barluga, Wetherspoons on the Quay side, Bridge Tavern beergarden and Mile Castle.
PUBS
7. Of course I can’t write a blog about Newcastle without talking about pubs. One of the oldest and most famous pubs is the Crown Posada. The Victorian look and original stained glass windows create a special atmosphere. The music plays from a gramophone and you can enjoy a wide variety of cask ales.
8. One of Newcastle’s hidden gems is the Exchange Pub. Literally ‘hidden’ because you have to go through an old-fashioned red telephone box to get in! As soon as you step inside, you step back in time, the 1930s to be precise. Quirky details such as a gangster-inspired menu, an old-fashioned telephone on each table that you can use to contact a complete stranger at another table, make this pub unique.
9. The Free Trade Inn is a pub with the best views of Newcastle and a favourite with the locals. It is an old pub with character that has changed little over the years. If it rains you can sit inside by the old fashioned fireplace, but if the sun is shining you can enjoy the beautiful view of the River Tyne in the beer garden outside.
10. Walk across the Highlevel Bridge to the Railway Quarter in Gateshead. Opened in 1849, it is now only accessible to pedestrians, cyclists, buses and taxis. Visit the Station East pub, the Microbus pub or The Central. The latter is also known as the ‘Coffin pub’ by regulars because of the unusual shape of the building.
Want to experience Newcastle outside the tourist hotspots? Then a MiniCruise or city break is the perfect way! Whether you like art and culture, cosy pubs or relaxing in a beer garden, this vibrant city has something for everyone. Discover the hidden gems like a true local and enjoy the unique atmosphere.
