Things to Do in Newcastle

Natural history and world cultures museum with dinosaur skeletons, Egyptian mummies, and local archaeological finds. Housed in a grand Victorian building.

🕐 Mon-Fri 10:00-17:00, Sat 11:00-16:00, Sun 11:00-16:00

💡 Head to the rooftop viewing platform for a free panoramic view of the city and the River Tyne. The planetarium shows cost a few quid but are worth it.

A 135-foot column commemorating Earl Grey, with a viewing platform accessed by 164 spiral steps. The surrounding pedestrian area is the city's main meeting point.

🕐 Mon-Sat 10:00-17:00, Sun 11:00-16:00 (closed Jan-Feb)

💡 Climbing the monument costs £5.50, but the steps themselves are free and the views from the top are decent. For a cheaper alternative, stand at the base and look up—it's still impressive.

A former industrial valley turned creative quarter with street art, independent studios, free galleries (like the Biscuit Factory), and pubs along the river.

🕐 Public spaces open 24 hours; individual venues vary, typically 10:00-18:00

💡 Walk the Ouseburn River Trail from the city centre—it takes 20 minutes. The free exhibitions at the Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art change monthly and are rarely crowded.

A steep-sided wooded valley with a stream, footpaths, waterfalls, and a small free-access petting zoo. A proper escape from the city noise.

🕐 Open 24 hours; animal enclosure daily 10:00-16:45 (closes earlier in winter)

💡 Enter from the Osbourne Road end and walk downhill to the old mill. The cafe by the animal enclosure does decent tea, but bring cash.

The medieval fortress that gave Newcastle its name. Includes the Castle Keep and Black Gate with interactive exhibits on city history.

🕐 Daily 10:00-17:00 (last entry 16:15); closed 24-26 Dec

💡 Entry costs £8.50 for adults, but a combined ticket with the nearby Laing Art Gallery costs under £12. Arrive just before opening to avoid queues.