5 Fun and Free Things to Do in Newcastle

Newcastle is a vibrant and bustling city in the North East of England, with plenty of things to do and see. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a week, there’s sure to be something to keep you occupied. If you’re looking for fun activities that won’t break the bank, here are five free things to do in Newcastle.

Explore the Quayside

The best place to start your adventure in the city is the Quayside. This vibrant location is full of life and home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and attractions. Take a stroll along the River Tyne and enjoy the views of the iconic bridges, or explore the cobbled streets and admire the old buildings. In the summer, you can take a boat trip along the river and enjoy the stunning scenery.

The Quayside is also home to an array of free events throughout the year such as live music, art exhibitions, and markets. It’s the perfect spot to spend a day soaking up the atmosphere and soaking up the culture Newcastle has to offer.

When the sun goes down, there are plenty of bars and pubs to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a chilled out evening or a wild night out, the Quayside has something for everyone.

Visit the Castle Keep

The Castle Keep is located in the heart of Newcastle and it’s a must-see for any visitor to the city. It dates back to the 11th century and is the oldest surviving structure in Newcastle. The castle is open to visitors and the entrance is free. Explore the ancient walls and take in the history of the city.

The castle also offers a range of activities and events throughout the year, such as guided tours, re-enactments, and workshops. There’s plenty to explore here, so make sure you allow yourself plenty of time to take it all in.

If you’re looking for a bite to eat, there are plenty of restaurants in the vicinity. Or, you can take a stroll down to the Quayside to sample some of Newcastle’s most popular dishes.

Walk Along the River

Take a leisurely stroll along the River Tyne for some stunning views of the city. Stretching from the Quayside to the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, the path is the perfect spot to go for a walk and take in the sights. You can also take a boat trip down the river, or hire a bike and explore the area.

As you walk along the river, you’ll come across some of Newcastle’s most iconic landmarks such as the Tyne Bridge and the Millennium Bridge. You’ll also be able to take in the stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not take a short walk across the bridge to Gateshead and explore the other side of the Tyne?

Visit the Museums

Newcastle is home to a number of fascinating museums, all of which are free to enter. The Great North Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the city. You can explore the exhibits, watch a movie in the planetarium, or take a guided tour of the building.

The Discovery Museum is another popular attraction. It’s full of interactive exhibits on the history of the city, from the Roman era to the present day. You can also take part in workshops and events, or take a walk through the Victorian streets.

The Hancock Museum is another great option for a free day out. This museum is packed full of interesting artefacts, from ancient Egyptian mummies to dinosaur fossils.

Visit the Galleries

If you’re looking for something a bit more creative, why not visit one of Newcastle’s galleries? The Biscuit Factory is the largest independent gallery in the UK and it’s free to enter. Here you can admire the work of local and international artists, or take part in one of their workshops.

The Hatton Gallery is another great option for art lovers. It houses a permanent collection of contemporary art, as well as temporary exhibitions. The gallery also holds events throughout the year, such as talks and workshops.

The BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art is another popular destination. This gallery is home to a range of modern and contemporary artworks, as well as a variety of events and workshops.

Visit the Beach

If you’re in need of some fresh air and a change of scenery, why not take a trip to the beach? Tynemouth is a beachside town just a short drive away from Newcastle city centre. Here you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach, dip your toes in the sea, or simply relax in the sunshine.

The town has a great selection of cafes, bars, and restaurants, as well as plenty of shops to explore. There’s also a great selection of activities to take part in, such as beach volleyball, surfing, and kite-surfing.

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not take a walk along the coastal path and explore some of the hidden coves and caves?

Summary

Newcastle is full of things to do and see, and there’s no shortage of free activities to enjoy. From exploring the Quayside to visiting the galleries and museums, there’s something for everyone. Why not take a stroll along the River Tyne, visit the Castle Keep, or take a trip to the beach? Whatever you decide to do, you’re sure to have a great time.