Things To Do in Newcastle

Attractions

Look out for ghosts as you climb the narrow medieval staircase to the top of the Castle Keep that gave the city its name. Younger children love to get their hands on the exhibits at the Life Science Centre. The hours will fly by as they make and test their own paper aeroplane designs or watch a show in the 4D theatre. The Discovery Museum tells Newcastle’s story from the days when the city’s ships set out to explore the world’s oceans.

Shopping

Take a stroll down the glass-roofed, Edwardian Central Arcade to browse boutiques selling designer labels and musical instruments. The arcade is in the heart of elegant Grainger Town, where you can pick up high street fashions in carefully restored Georgian and Victorian townhouses. Let a bus whisk you off along the riverbank to grab a bargain at Royal Quays, an outlet mall with up to 40 per cent discounts.

Nightlife

Seemingly impervious to the sometimes biting North Sea winds, locals embrace the manic party atmosphere of the Bigg Market. Join them with a Newcastle Brown Ale, known simply as ‘broon’. There’s a more relaxed vibe down at the Quayside where the BALTIC contemporary arts centre provides an impressive backdrop to evening drinks. If you’re in the mood for music, take in one of the concerts nearby at the undulating glass Sage Gateshead arts centre.