Newcastle is a city like no other in the UK, with its rich history and vibrant nightlife providing a true ‘Geordie’ welcome to all its guests.
Theatre Royal
Theatre Royal opened in Newcastle in 1788 but moved to its Grey Street home in 1837, where it quickly became one of England’s leading theatres. Today, it is the Northern regional home of the Royal Shakespeare Company and every year attracts over 400 performances including the finest West-End musicals, RSC productions, comics, drama and pantomimes. Some of the greatest names in the stage have performed at Theatre Royal Newcastle through the centuries, from Laurence Olivier to Dame Judi Dench. Celebrated actor Sir Ian McKellen has even described the Theatre Royal as his favourite theatre.
St James' Park
The home of Newcastle United Football Club, St James’ Park ranks as one of the largest stadiums in the UK by capacity. With over 50,000 Toon fans streaming into the ground around 3pm on a Saturday, the atmosphere at a game is one truly not to be missed. While even outside of match day, there is something to be enjoyed as the stadium runs regular tours for visitors. While, for a little extra, a Rooftop Tour provides rare views of the pitch and incredible panoramic views over the city. A Legend’s Tour includes a tour with a former Newcastle United player and exclusive access to Q&A sessions.
Newcastle City Hall
Newcastle City Hall as a venue has a weight of history and tradition behind it as the city’s first dedicated concert venue, built in 1927. The Harrison and Harrison organ which was built for use in the hall still remains almost a century later and has endured as one of the oldest and largest organs of its kind. Since its opening the venue has played host to some of the biggest names in the music industry including a Motörhead and Slade. While to this day, it still attracts the brightest stars in music, comedy and entertainment; including Will Young, Alan Carr and Kevin Bridges to name a few.
Newcastle Castle
The city of Newcastle takes its name from a medieval fortification built in 12th century Norman England but with origins that stretch back to the Roman occupation of Britain in the mid 2nd century. What remains today is the Castle Keep, a strong stone tower, and The Black Gate, the gateway to the old city. In 2015, Newcastle Castle Keep and The Black Gate joined together to create a new heritage visitor attraction for the city called Newcastle Castle. The castle is open daily from 10am to 5pm and tells the story of its evolution from a border fortress to grim dungeon, teeming slum and now a well-preserved historic castle.
Utilita Arena
The Utilita Arena is the largest concert and exhibition venue in the North East of England and some of the biggest names in music have performed there, from Oasis to Beyoncé and Rihanna. The 11,000 seater music venue is the 7th busiest in the world according to Pollstar Magazine and hosts an annual calendar of British Basketball featuring Newcastle Eagles, music concerts, boxing, wrestling, professional darts and major conferences and exhibitions.
The Angel of the North
Discover the iconic signifier of the Northeast, the legendary Angel of the North, just a short distance from the city centre. Completed by acclaimed British sculptor Antony Gormley in 1998, 2023 marked the 25 year anniversary of the piece, believed to be the tallest portrayal of an angel in the world.
Intu Eldon Square Shopping Centre
Intu Eldon Square is the place to shop till you drop and features over 150 high street stores and marquee brands including Debenhams, John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, Apple, Hollister, Adidas, River Island and Topshop. While if you like to shop off the beaten path then you’ll also enjoy the nearby Newcastle Grainger Market – which is home to the original Marks & Spencer penny bazaar – the oldest and smallest M&S store in the world, tucked away on alley three.