Still wondering what to do in Newcastle? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Newcastle and book your hotel today!
Newcastle upon Tyne, the beating heart of the North East, is a city famous for its industrial heritage, passionate locals, and its stunning series of bridges over the River Tyne. The iconic Tyne Bridge, a symbol of the city, links Newcastle to Gateshead and is part of a dramatic riverside landscape that includes the futuristic Millennium Bridge and the historic High Level Bridge.
The city’s cultural life is centred around the lively Quayside, packed with bars and restaurants, and the historic Grainger Town, which features grand Georgian streets and the impressive Grey's Monument. From the grandeur of the Theatre Royal to the lively match-day atmosphere at St James' Park, Newcastle offers a friendly, electric energy that makes it one of the UK’s most exciting cities to visit.
The best areas for hotels in Newcastle offer a choice between historic elegance, river views, or easy access to transport and shopping.
The City Centre is the most convenient base for first-time visitors. This area places you close to Eldon Square for shopping, the historic Castle Keep, and the main retail and dining streets. There is a wide variety of hotels here, from budget chains to high-end options, all offering excellent access to the Metro and bus networks.
The Quayside is highly recommended for its scenic location and vibrant nightlife. Hotels here offer spectacular views of the Tyne bridges and are within walking distance of popular restaurants, art galleries, and lively bars, providing an atmospheric and upmarket base, especially in the evenings.
For excellent transport connections, the area around Central Station is highly practical. This is a major rail hub and offers easy access to the Metro system for travel around the city and out to the coast. You will find several large chain hotels here, making it a great option for short breaks or those planning day trips.
The suburb of Jesmond, easily accessible via the Metro, offers a more residential, leafy, and generally quieter environment, known for its stylish bars and restaurants and providing a popular alternative to the busy city centre.
Newcastle is served by Newcastle International Airport (NCL), with a direct and efficient Metro line running straight into the city centre and major stations. The city centre is very walkable, and the Metro network is perfect for exploring the wider area, including the coast and Hadrian’s Wall.
To find the best value on your hotel in Newcastle, you must factor in the city's lively weekend culture, which drives up prices significantly. The most expensive day to book a hotel is usually Saturday, with prices often nearly double those during the week.
For the greatest savings, plan your visit for a Sunday night or a mid-week break, as this is when prices drop to their lowest. A unique and crucial factor to watch out for is the Newcastle United FC match schedule. On days when the team plays at home at St James' Park, hotel availability across the city is greatly reduced, and prices surge dramatically. Booking your stay to avoid these specific match days will be the most effective way to secure a competitive rate.