With Grand UK Holidays, an added bonus too many of our tours is that you get free time popular destinations across the UK, but then what will you do with your free time? To help you prepare for your free time in Newcastle, we have created our top recommendations for half and full day activities. All of our top tips have been endorsed by previous holiday makers.
Victoria Tunnel
Despite being a long way underground, there is nothing gloomy about Victoria Tunnel; You can opt to join either a 1 or 2 hour tour of the fully preserved tunnels. Originally built in the 19th century the tunnels were used to transport coal but were re-opened in the World War II as a shelter during air raids. The tour begins in the main office, which takes you on a trip back in history with its black and white photos of historic Ouseburn.
The tour then continues with your personal informative and funny guide. Who will bring the tunnels to life with their knowledge, stories and their accounts of people who lived in the area in the 19th century. As a bonus the tunnels are in a fantastic location in Ouseburn, which means you can easy to combine this tour along with other attractions in one day. *Top Tip: Be sure you wear sturdy shoes with good grip, as the tunnels can be damp and the temperature in the tunnel is a constant 12°C, so plan your clothing accordingly.
Newcastle Castle
It wouldn't be a visit to Newcastle without heading to the fantastically preserved castle that dates back to 1178, this is one of the best kept Norman stone buildings in The UK. Originally the castle was occupied by Romans and settlements known as the Pons Aelius however, in the 12th century the ‘New’ stone castle was built by William II and introduced the addition of the Black Gate.
Once inside you are met with well displayed, informative and intriguing information. The volunteers work hard to make all parts of the castle Interactive and if you dare, head to the dungeons and view the rings still in the wall from the chains and shackles.
You could easily spend hours exploring the rooms, corridors, trying on costumes and enjoying the castle, however, one thing you must do if you are able is to take the steps up to the turrets of the Castle and admire the view over the city itself.
The location of the castle is in the heart of the city centre, 10-minute walk from Central Station you could spend either a whole or half a day here.
The Quayside
If you are looking for a more relaxed activity then I would recommend taking a walk along the Quayside. In this very scenic area of Newcastle you’ll have views of all the bridges including the iconic Tyne and Swing Bridges and the magnificent Millennium Bridge. There are plenty of places to eat and sit along the way, it makes for a stress-free picturesque walk. In the evening the area is lit up as the lights reflect on the Tyne River, providing you with the perfect picture moment.
Jesmond Dene Park
Laid out by Lord Armstrong in Victorian times the Dene has approximately 2 miles of scenic walking available, Jesmond Dene Park is perhaps the best way to experience this side of Newcastle and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. You can choose a number of well-maintained routes and paths of varied in distance, while a stroll around the whole park will take around 2 hours (depending if you linger for food or at the petting zoo). I recommend taking the short trail along the river to admire the picturesque abandoned water mill. The Corner House End is the restaurant within the Park, open most days and sells a range of pleasant scones, cakes and homemade sandwiches for hungry walkers, the food is reasonably priced and there is even a petting zoo at the back. So whether you like to walk, people watch or just enjoy the country life Jesmond Dene Park is a must for a bit of peace and quiet in your day.
Grey Street
If like me when you travel you love to take a trip to the local shops and treat yourself or someone else, Newcastle doesn’t disappoint. From the usual high streets shops to little boutiques and specialist food shops, it is a delight to walk down Grey Street, you feel safe in the warm and welcoming friendly atmosphere. With beautiful sandstone buildings and the central architectural master piece of the Theatre Royal, the whole area has a sense elegance and the buildings all tell stories of the history of Newcastle.
It is lovely, clean and central to other popular attractions so you can pop down on your way too or from, if you fancy a spot of lunch there are many nice bars, restaurants and coffee shops to choose from.