After the excesses of the last few months both on your body and your brain we have got the perfect antidote with a relaxing, chilled break in NewcastleGateshead.
As a city we’re known for our great party scene and nighttime vibe, but did you know we’re also a fab place to take things more slowly, enjoy the moment and revive the mindand soul.
So here’s 10 reasons why NewcastleGateshead is the ultimate destination to recharge the batteries!
Getting here
1. Let’s start with getting here! We may be the birthplace of the steam train but these days our rail travel is much more environmentally friendly. Jump on the fully-electric LUMO service with daily trains from London and Edinburgh, that offer great value and a travel time of under 3hrs from London.
Buy your tickets here
Stay in style
2. Once you’re here why not book yourself into a city centre spa hotel? The Crowne Plaza Stephenson Quarter is a great choice, located just minutes from the city centre you can indulge in a treatment or two in their Mineral House Spa, or relax, unwind and rejuvenate in their 10m swimming pool and sauna.
Check out the latest offers here
Take in some art
3. Enjoy the peace and quiet or get some creative inspiration in one of NewcastleGateshead’s many free art galleries and museums. Choose from North East Museum’s portfolio which includes the Laing Art Gallery; Shipley Art Gallery and Discovery Museum or explore the exhibitions and displays at the BALTIC: Centre for Contemporary Art and take in the views of the city from the Level 5 viewing platform.
Here’s some more ideas for free things to do in the city
Find your bit of space
4. With an abundance of green space in and around NewcastleGateshead you can find your own piece of tranquillity to take in a bit of nature or in summer break out the picnic blanket. You can explore further on bike with a Posh Parks tour taking you to some of the most stunning spots around the city including Jesmond Dene Park, Exhibition Park and Town Moor, which is double the size of London’s Hyde Park and right in the heart of Newcastle.
City walks
5. Explore on foot and not only take in the beautiful architecture and heritage but get your step count up while you’re at it! You can either join a daily walking tour with *Newcastle City Guides or discover the city on your own on a Treasure Hunt taking in some of the most famous landmarks in NewcastleGateshead.
*Tours start in May for 2025 season
Take in the sea air
6. Breathe in the sea air with a trip to the North Sea coast (just a short Metro ride or drive from the city centre). Head to Whitley Bay with its stunning miles of golden sands or the popular seaside village of Tynemouth with its independent shops, tea rooms and Priory overlooking breathtaking King Edward’s Bay.
Coastal revival
7. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous on your visit to the coast you could choose an activity to reinvigorate the mind, body and soul. Choose a yoga class on the beach with Shore Yoga or enjoy the icy waters of the North Sea before warming up in a sauna tent and book an *Ice Dip Social with CBK Adventures. (*Only available during winter).
Dark Sky wonders
8. Take advantage of the darkest skies in England at Northumberland National Park and book yourself on to a Dark Skies Tour. Stay in Maldron Hotel in Newcastle where your guide will meet you and take you to England’s most tranquil county, Northumberland! You’ll hear from an expert astronomer before having the opportunity to experience the incredible starry skies and use some of equipment provided!
Eat Well
9. Watch the world go by whilst sampling some of the best vegan dishes or menus created promoting zero food waste. There are some great choices from restaurants specialising in vegan-only options like Veganatomy and Earthlings Healing Café to The Magic Hat Café which is Newcastle first café dedicated to challenging UK food waste. By collecting surplus food from independents, supermarkets, wholesalers and hospitality venues across the city – the team create a daily menu and stock an inhouse ‘pay as you feel’ shop.
Relax in a city centre spa
10. Take a dip in the newly renovated Turkish Bath & Spa at Newcastle’s City Baths in the heart of the city centre. This historic venue was lovingly restored to celebrate its rich history and heritage. The regeneration work of the Grade II listed building has sensitively restored many of the buildings original features. Featuring ornate, art deco inspired relaxation rooms, heated chambers that range from 40C up to 70C and invigorating plunge showers to refresh the body and mind, Newcastle’s The City Baths offers an authentic Turkish Baths experience.
ENDS
