Medieval churches, riverside trails, traditional seaside pursuits, legendary stadiums and lush, green parks... if you’re staying at one of our Newcastle hotels, all of the city’s highlights will be within your reach. There are some great places to explore, and most of them are within walking distance of each other too, leaving you plenty of time to hit the town after your day of sightseeing.
Attractions in Newcastle
Historic Buildings
Cameras at the ready! Newcastle is full of beautiful architecture and historic landmarks just waiting to be photographed.
For a real mix of architectural styles, head to the Quayside. Just a stone’s throw from our Premier Inn Newcastle City Centre (Quayside) hotel, you can admire beautiful buildings like the iconic The Glasshouse International Centre for Music (formerly Sage Gateshead) or the converted flour mill that is now home to the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Arts. You’ll also get the chance to marvel at the award-winning Gateshead Millennium Bridge, which tilts to let small ships and boats sail up the River Tyne. Linking Gateshead to Newcastle, it’s well worth wandering across the bridge to take in its engineering excellence.
Made from 200 tonnes of steel, standing 20 metres tall and with wings that span 54 metres, the Angel of the North dominates the skyline as you enter Newcastle. One of the most talked about pieces of public art ever made, Antony Gormley’s sculpture is a must-see.
Newcastle was named after the medieval fortress at its centre. One of the only surviving parts of this building, the Castle Keep is now a city landmark.Take a tour, check out the view from the turret or simply enjoy this great building as you wander through Newcastle. Or head to the Church of St Thomas the Martyr, one of the most prominent landmarks in Newcastle. Built in 1830, the ornate exterior and high ceilinged interior are the standout features of this gothic church.
Coming to Newcastle to study? From Newcastle University and Northumbria University to Newcastle College, there's something for everyone and every subject!
Parks
Wherever you find yourself in Newcastle, a park is never far away. You’ll find children’s playgrounds, bowling greens, play farms and tennis courts - and acres of green spaces just crying out for your picnic blanket.
Smaller and quieter than some of Newcastle’s other green spaces, Heaton Park is a peaceful spot in the centre of this bustling city. Take a woodland walk, stroll amongst the shrubs or explore a ruined castle. There are plenty of places to eat your sarnies, or just head to the popular restaurant at its centre.
You’ll think you’re out in the countryside if you visit the community farm at Ouseburn Valley. At Ouseburn Farm you’ll find out all about the city’s farming heritage and meet a variety of animals from sheep and cows to cuddly guinea pigs. Watch the animals being fed - or have a go yourself!
Jesmond Dene Park is a narrow wooded valley that follows the river between Gosforth and Jesmond. Here, visitors find a spectacular mix of babbling brooks and waterfalls, native and exotic trees, not to mention an abundance of wildlife. Spot everything from kingfishers to red squirrels as you wander the trail.
Leazes Park is the oldest park in the city. Located to the west of the city centre, close to St James’ Park, this park is perfect for sporty types.
Arena
Newcastle has its own arena that’s seen everything from huge WWE events to auditions for the X-Factor.
Metro Radio Arena can hold over 11,000 screaming fans and still give you a great view of all the action, wherever you’re sitting. Whether you’re here for a sports match or a huge pop concert, you’ll find all the facilities you need to give you a great night out. And, the Premier Inn Newcastle City Centre (The Gate) hotel is less than a mile away so you can just stroll back to your comfortable bed when the show’s over.
Stadiums
Not surprisingly for a city so fanatical about its sport, Newcastle has a range of stadiums dedicated to football, rugby and even greyhound racing.
Although it may rock to the sound of 52,000 football fans on Saturdays, there’s more to do at St James' Park than come to a match. Why not find out all about its history on a tour, or buy a black and white souvenir to take home from the club shop?
Previously known as Brough Park, head to Newcastle Stadium for a night of greyhound racing, food and fun. With a restaurant and bar area overlooking the track, you can grab a bite to eat, pick up a pint and place your bets on the next race. Are you feeling lucky?
If rugby is your sport, take a trip to Kingston Park. Home to the Newcastle Falcons, this stadium hosts rugby union and league matches, as well as the occasional football match. Smaller than some of Newcastle’s other sporting venues, you won’t miss a crash tackle or conversion at Kingston Park.