June 22, 2024
If you’re visiting Newcastle, there are plenty of things to do. However, if you want to take a break from the city and explore slightly further out, there are also plenty of places for a day out.
In this article, we have shared some top things to do near Newcastle. Some are closer, and some are slightly further away, but easily accessible from the city centre. Read on to find out more.
Exploring the history that lies near Newcastle? Hadrian's Wall is an exceptional choice for a day out. Built under the order of Roman Emperor Hadrian in AD 122, this ancient fortification marks the boundary of the Roman Empire’s northern frontier.
Best Views Near Newcastle: While traversing the wall, you'll encounter remnants that tell tales of Roman ambition. Close to Newcastle, there are prime spots for you to visit:
Getting There: The wall is easily accessible by train, with Hadrian's Wall being a short journey from Newcastle. A leisurely excursion immerses you in history and admires the rugged landscapes that have stood the test of time.
Attending Events: Look for local events celebrating the history of this UNESCO landmark. For example, the Hadrian's Wall 1900 Festival featured various activities showcasing the wall's historical significance.
Tip: If you visit Hadrains Wall, visit us in Corbridge too, for a bite to eat and a hot drink.
Located on the North East coast of England, Tynemouth Priory and Castle is a significant historical site with a past that stretches back over 2,000 years. When you visit, you can expect to witness a place once among England's grandest fortified areas.
Tynemouth Priory has a rich lineage, serving as a monastery, a royal castle, and a coastal defence. Its origins lie in the early 7th century as a religious site, which later became fortified due to its strategic importance.
Address: Pier Road, Tynemouth, Tyne and Wear, NE30 4BZ
Remember to check the opening times before you visit, as they may vary seasonally or during special events. This coastal headland site promises you a walk through the annals of history and a peaceful retreat with some of the most commanding views you'll find in the North East.
If you plan a day out near Newcastle, Seven Stories, the National Centre for Children's Books, deserves a place on your itinerary. Situated in the vibrant Ouseburn Valley, Seven Stories offers a unique experience celebrating the wonders of children's literature.
Why Visit?
Visiting Details:
Experience the wonders of underwater life at Blue Reef Aquarium Tynemouth. Located near Newcastle, this aquarium offers you a chance to see diverse marine life through engaging exhibits, daily talks, and feeds.
What You'll Discover:
Daily Events:
Plan your visit and book your tickets to ensure a smooth entry. Embrace a day filled with marine education and family fun at the Blue Reef Aquarium Tynemouth.
Jesmond Dene Park, nestled in the suburban area between Jesmond, Heaton, and South Gosforth, offers a serene escape from the bustling city of Newcastle. This historic park, centred around the Ouseburn River, boasts steep-sided wooded valleys that grant a sense of seclusion and tranquillity.
Key Features:
Amenities:
Visiting Hours: Open daily, with extended access during summer.
As you wander through the park, you'll be enveloped by a mixture of native and exotic trees, indicative of the park's dedication to biodiversity. The idyllic landscapes provide an ideal backdrop for leisure activities, and you're likely to spot local wildlife during your exploration.
Stop at Pets' Corner for an engaging family day out, where you can meet and learn about various animals, from farmyard friends to exotic birds.
Rising Sun Country Park is a serene expanse in North Tyneside, easily reachable for a day out. Its gates are always open, providing unrestricted access to explore the 400-acre park free of charge throughout the year.
As you wander through the park, you'll encounter abundant wildlife within its habitats. The lake, a focal point of the area, is a Local Nature Reserve. It's surrounded by grassland, woodlands, ponds, wetlands, and extensive grasslands, offering a glimpse of the rich diversity of northern English flora and fauna. Don't miss out on using the bird hide to spot local bird species in their natural environment.
The Rising Sun Country Park caters to various activities suitable for all ages. You can take advantage of the facilities including:
Centre and Points of Interest
You'll appreciate the informational leaflets available, which include maps to help you navigate the park's multiple routes. These paths will guide you to various points of interest, ensuring you can fully immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the surroundings.
Located on the scenic Gateshead Quayside, the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art offers an engaging cultural experience in the North East of England. As a premier venue for contemporary artwork, it presents an ever-changing calendar of exhibitions and events.
Your visit to BALTIC is free of charge. You're encouraged to drop in without booking, which allows for a spontaneous and flexible itinerary.
What’s On:
Engage with thought-provoking art and enjoy the creative atmosphere at BALTIC. With its policy of free entry and commitment to accessibility, your trip can be as affordable as it is enriching.
The Biscuit Factory stands out as a must-visit destination when planning a day out in Newcastle. Located in the Ouseburn area, Newcastle's cultural quarter, this independent gallery celebrates contemporary art, craft, and design.
Set within a charming Victorian warehouse, The Biscuit Factory offers an immersive experience across two floors. You'll encounter various fine art, sculpture, original prints, and jewellery — from traditional to modern creations.
A distinctive feature is The Factory Kitchen cafe, where you can enjoy a refreshing break amidst your cultural exploration.
Remember, The Biscuit Factory is the UK's largest commercial art space and a vital part of Newcastle's artistic identity. It's an environment that supports and promotes the work of artists and makers, providing you with a uniquely engaging artistic encounter.
Your shopping and leisure experience in Gateshead, near Newcastle, is redefined by the Metrocentre. Recognised as one of the UK's premier centres for shopping, it is a destination where you can indulge in an extensive range of retail therapy, leisure, and dining options.
When it's time to unwind, you have plenty to choose from:
After shopping and entertainment, dine at over 50 eateries catering to various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you're looking for quick bites or leisurely meals, the options are plentiful.
As you explore the North East, Tynemouth Market emerges as a must-visit destination close to Newcastle. Every weekend, Tynemouth Station transforms into a bustling bazaar. The Victorian architecture provides a grand canopy over a diverse selection of over 150 stalls.
Here’s what you can find:
Remember to check the local weather and dress appropriately, as the market is covered but can be breezy. It’s an experience enriched by community spirit and local charm, ensuring every visit offers something different.
