Frommer's Favorite Experiences in Newcastle
Enjoying the city’s iconic waterfront at sundown: The Tyne Bridge motif is seen all over the city but get yourself down to the riverfront and you’ll find that it is not the only remarkable construction on Tyneside. As the sun goes down stroll past the renovated flour mill that now houses the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Arts, the bulbous organic shapes of The Sage Gateshead and the graceful arch of the Newcastle Gateshead Millennium Bridge.
Hanging ten in one of Britain’s new surf hotspots: Newcastle’s seafront at Tynemouth offer miles of sandy beaches and some of the country’s best surfing. Hawaii this isn’t and the icy waters of the North Sea are made considerably more bearable with the addition of a wet suit but once you out there you will soon forget about the chill and enjoy the ride. A number of surf shops can provide you with tuition and advice as well as the all-important equipment.
Getting a feel for the scale of the country’s most famous statue: Thousands of motorists speed past the Angel of the North each day as they round Newcastle on the city bypass. If you take the time to journey to the foot of the statue however, you’ll be rewarded with an awe inspiring perspective of Anthony Gormley’s 20m tall masterpiece.
Joining the Toon Army: A one club city, Newcastle is completely football mad. The ‘Toon Army’ uniform of black and white stripes is evident each and every day but join them on match days as they march up to the stadium, visible all over the city, and urge their club forward. Keep an eye out for the famous supporters who opt to support the team topless, whatever the weather.
Escaping the city on a riverside walk: While the Tyne is Newcastle’s most famous river, a trip to Jesmond Dene will take you to Ouseburn. As you head into the river valley you will hear crashing water as the Ouseburn descends a number of waterfalls and dykes, a white thread of tumbling water. Enjoy any one of a number of nature walks along the waterside or take the kids to the petting zoo.
