Newcastle 'advent calendar' returns with top city attractions opening doors for free

A chance to see behind the scenes at St James’ Park and drive a Metro train simulator are up for grabs as top city attractions prepare to lay on free festive treats in December.

NE1 has announced the return of its 24 Doors of Christmas which will see a range of Newcastle venues take turns to offer free access during the run-up to December 25. Working like an advent calendar, one venue a day will open its doors to the public, offering behind-the-scenes tours or sneak peeks at areas usually out of bounds.

Nexus will be opening up its depot to invite people to drive a Metro train simulator and also enjoy a tour, while a visit to the home of Newcastle United will include a visit pitch-side and a chance to see the players’ dugout and changing rooms before enjoying a free drink across the road at Stack.

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NE1 has signed up a range of gems again this year and a new addition is Wylam Brewery in Exhibition Park which will be offering guided tours and samples of some of its brews. Tickets for 24 Days of Christmas, while free, need to be booked and tend to be snapped up fast so this time the business improvement district company is releasing ticket opportunities for the 24 attractions in two stages - with the first block open now - to give more people a chance to bag a date.

NE1's event is out to 'unlock' a mix of our best-loved, historic and unusual buildings and businesses for what it calls 'money-can’t-buy' experiences. Newcastle Castle, Bessie Surtees’ House and the Guildhall also will be among the range of venues taking part.

Other participants, opening their doors on different days, will include Tyneside Cinema, Theatre Royal, Grainger Market, The Lit & Phil, Great North Museum: Hancock, Laing Art Gallery and the Discovery Museum.

Those interested in booking a date can apply now or join a wait-list. The second release of tickets for the remainder of the calendar will be on Thursday, November 21 at noon.

Rachel Barlow, head of marketing and events at NE1 Ltd, said 24 Doors of Christmas is one of the team's favourite Christmas events and she added: "We have great fun deliberating on what doors to open and working with the many brilliant businesses and custodians of Newcastle’s most famous and historic architectural gems." To see the list of all 24 Doors of Christmas venues and to find booking information see here.