Newcastle Upon Tyne Mini Guide
Why Should I Visit Newcastle?
It’s almost unique amongst English cities in having its own culture, music and dialect of English called ‘Geordie’. People from Newcastle are renowned as some of the friendliest and most welcoming in the country. It was founded over 2,000 years ago as a Roman town at one end of Hadrian’s Wall, parts of which can be seen still around the city today. It grew substantially as a port and centre of heavy industry during the Industrial Revolution and when industry declined in the 70s it began reinventing itself as a centre for scientific research and as a tourist destination.
How do I get to Newcastle?
Newcastle has its own international airport which also receives flights from around the UK with Flybe offering the greatest range of destinations. From the airport it’s a short and inexpensive ride on the metro into the city. An alternative way of getting there is to take the east coast railway line from
London. Other services operate from the south west and west of England.
What is There to see and do in Newcastle?
Newcastle has a wide range of things to see and do, both inside and out of the city. Begin by visiting the old heart of the city called Grainger Town and named after the architect that designed it. Grey Street, in Grainger Town, was voted ‘Britain’s Most Beautiful Street’ in a survey six years ago. Some of the city’s finest buildings are to be found here. The Tyne Bridge has become an icon of the city and is very photogenic although it is being upstaged by its newer rival, the Gateshead Millennium Bridge. Outside the city, the beautiful and dramatic Northumberland coast is within easy reach as too is the start of a long distance walk along Hadrian’s Wall and across the Pennine mountains.
What Should I buy in Newcastle?
The city is known as the top shopping destination in the north but there is little beyond high street chains to tempt the tourist. For gifts to take home, the best idea is to buy some of the local ale including the world famous Newcastle Brown Ale.
What Should I eat in Newcastle?
Newcastle is culturally very diverse and so you are likely to be faced with a barrage of international cuisine when looking for a place to dine. Traditional Tyneside food goes very much hand in hand with traditional English including stews and roasts. There is a local bread called ‘Stottie cake’ which is baked on the bottom of the oven and comprised simply of flour, salt and milk. It was made originally to bulk out main meals, a little like the idea of Yorkshire pudding.
What About Evening Entertainment?
Newcastle is known for its bar and club scene and is becoming the new top destination for hen and stag parties. The atmosphere is convivial and, providing common sense is exercised, you should have a safe and enjoyable night out.