Newcastle and Gateshead QuaysideaWe’ve recently teamed up with Visit North East England to promote one of the most interesting regions of England. The largest city in the North East is Newcastle located on the north bank of the River Tyne, originally a Roman Settlement called Pons Aelius, the city is named after a castle built in 1080 by Robert II. Over time the city has played an important role in both the wool and coal mining industries and is now one of the most vibrant cities in the UK as a strong cultural centre with a thriving nightlife scene.

Here’s our quick guide to visiting Newcastle…


Shopping

Newcastle is a shoppers heaven with a wide variety of shops from some of the largest shopping centres in Europe to stylish independent boutiques. Just four miles south of Newcastle city centre is the Metro Centre which holds the title of Europe’s largest shopping and retail complex, a great place to indulge in some retail therapy. If you prefer to stick around the centre you’ll experience some fine designer stores including Cruise, Karen Millen, All Saints and Oasis. There are also three large shopping centres, Eldon Square, Eldon Garden and Monument Mall offering all of the major highstreet chains.

Nightlife

Newcastle has one of the liveliest nightlife scenes in Britain with a great range of pubs, bars and nightclubs. If you’re looking for a traditional pub head to the Crown Posada for a bottle of the city’s own Newcastle Brown Ale.
Those looking for a more upbeat venue could try out The Lodge Bar located by the Quayside you might even bump into Ant and Dec as they own it!
When you’re ready to move on and hit a nightclub you will struggle to beat Digital a large club that blasts out the latest chart, dance, and urban tunes until the early hours.

Eating

There’s a fantastic range of restaurants to choose from in Newcastle amongst the well known chains are some fine independents such as Jesmond Dene housed in a grand building and serving a menu of high quality food. If you’re looking to dine with Newcastle’s elite then head to Secco Restobar serving up a Italian food and a comprehensive drinks menu.

Sport

If you get a chance to take in a game at St James Park the home of Newcastle United you’ll be treated to one of the best atmosphere’s in British football. The locals are notoriously passionate about their football and following relegation from the Premier League they are determined to win promotion at the first attempt.

Useful Links
Fly to Newcastle Airport
Car hire in Newcastle
Hotels  – Hilton (Newcastle Gateshead) or City Express Hotel

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