Yahoo News Newcastle voted in top 10 city breaks in UK - 5 things that make it worth a visit
Newcastle has been voted one of the top locations in the UK to enjoy a city break - and if you live here or are lucky enough to have visited, it's easy to see why.
The city landed in seventh place in a Which? survey of almost 4,000 people, earning an overall score of 75% for factors including food and drink, accommodation, cultural sights and shopping. It was also the cheapest place to visit out of the top 10 destinations with an average hotel price of £90 a night - £68 less than London, which took the sixth spot - making it the perfect destination for holidaymakers on a budget this summer.
From its shops, restaurants and bars to its theatres, galleries and museums, you certainly won't be stuck for things to do if you visit Newcastle - its attractions will suit everyone to history buffs and culture nerds to partygoers and foodie lovers. If you're thinking about coming to Newcastle this year, here are a few things you can look forward to which make the city such a special place to be.
The history
Newcastle sits on a rich bed of history, remnants of which can still be discovered around the city today from Roman fortresses to hidden Victorian passages. The number one must-visit attraction for any history buff is of course Newcastle Castle from which the city got its name, where today everything from ghost tours to movie and music evenings take place.
Fast forward about seven centuries and another of the city's most intriguing historical sites was built: the Victoria Tunnel, a hidden wagonway dating back to the 1800s that runs underneath Newcastle's streets. Voted the number one attraction on Tripadvisor, the tunnel offers a fascinating glimpse into life in the city during World War Two.
Among the many other historical highlights in Newcastle are Bessie Surtees House, a striking Jacobean home with a romantic history, and Blackfriars, a former medieval friary that is now a restaurant believed to be the oldest dining room in the UK. And of course there's the iconic Hadrian's Wall, a World Heritage Site that runs through Newcastle and into the Northumberland countryside, which makes for a perfect walk on a summer's day.
The culture
Us Geordies are a talented bunch, and Newcastle has a creative heart with theatre, music, art and so much more to enrich your visit to the city. The city centre alone is home to five theatres - the Theatre Royal, the Tyne Theatre and Opera House, Northern Stage, Live Theatre and Alphabetti - each with its own unique offering from national touring musicals to emerging local talent.
For a fun and fascinating day out for all the family, the city centre is also home to the Great North Museum Hancock for a glimpse into natural history and world cultures, and the Discovery Museum which shines a light on the North East's maritime history, while Seven Stories in the Ouseburn is dedicated to children's literature - all three of which have three entry. There's also the pioneering Life Science Centre, a unique award-winning attraction full of scientific exhibits and activities.
Visitors and locals alike can also visit art galleries such as the Laing or The Biscuit Factory, and of course there's the famous Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art just over the river in Gateshead. Home to music venues, cinemas, and a thriving scene of independent restaurants, bars, cafes and shops, you will certainly come home from your trip to Newcastle feeling richer for the experience.
The views
If the weather behaves itself enough to take a stroll around Newcastle this summer, you will no doubt be captivated by the city's beautiful scenery from its gorgeous old streets to its picturesque parks. With the iconic bridges stretching over the River Tyne, the bustling Quayside is among the most famous of the city's viewpoints, while Grey Street in the city centre has previously been named among the most 'Instagrammable' streets in the UK thanks to its striking Georgian architecture.
For those seeking a quieter spot, head out to one of the city's many beautiful green spaces - the historic and tranquil Jesmond Dene was previously voted the favourite of Chronicle Live readers, with its ruined chapel (Newcastle's oldest religious building), old water mill, and free petting zoo known as Pets' Corner nestled among the trees. A walk through the Dene can be continued into the neighbouring Armstrong and Heaton Parks, providing a place to lose yourself in nature among the hustle and bustle of the city.
If you're visiting Newcastle for the scenery, don't forget that the North Tyneside coast and Northumberland countryside are just a stone's throw away too. The wider region is home to Blue Flag Award-winning beaches, ancient castles and rare wildlife, while the Northumberland Coast is recognised as a designated Area Of Outstanding National Beauty sprawling 40 miles.
The nightlife
Newcastle is renowned for its nightlife, so of course we couldn't compile a list of the city's attractions without mentioning its reputation as the go-to place for an unforgettable night out. From the trendy Quayside to the cheap and cheerful Bigg Market, there's no shortage of places to go to get your party on.
The city is home to several award-winners when it comes to nightlife: Mother Mercy in the Cloth Market was recently voted among the best cocktail bars in the UK, and its talented mixologist Luke Riley and drinks consultant Angus Mason were named two of the UK's best bartenders. Meanwhile, micropubs The Town Mouse and the Mean-Eyed Cat were jointly named Newcastle Pub of the Year at the regional CAMRA awards back in February.
Earlier this year, Newcastle's "finest hidden gem" No. 28 won by a landslide when we asked Chronicle Live readers to name their favourite bar in the city, and has scooped multiple awards since it first opened in 2010 with its signature cocktails, Spanish-inspired food, bottomless brunches and live DJ nights. These are just a couple of examples of the unparalleled nightlife Newcastle has to offer, whether you're coming with a party or simply want to get a taste of local tradition while you're here.
The community
And finally, we admit we may be a little biased here, but there's one thing above all else that makes Newcastle what it is: its Geordies. With famous faces from Tyneside including Ant and Dec, Cheryl, Alan Shearer and Sting, we have previously been named as the friendliest people in the UK - which we're sure you will find to be the case if you pay the city a visit.
Us Geordies are a passionate bunch who are big on community, meaning you'll always be greeted with a smile and a friendly chat whether you're doing some retail therapy on Northumberland Street in the city centre or popping in to one of the independent businesses that line the likes of Jesmond's Osborne Road Heaton's Chillingham Road out in the suburbs. If you're planning to come to Newcastle this summer, just be warned: you may never want to leave!
