Newcastle Tourist Information

Newcastle - upon - Tyne is one of Britain's most exciting cities. Formerly a city at the forefront of industrial advancement, the city is now one of the leader's in arts and culture in the north of England. It has one of the fastest growing tourist industries in the world and it's not hard to see why.

As a city devoted to the arts it is unparalleled in the north of England. Home to the Northern Sinfonia, Folkworks and third home of the Royal Shakespeare company, together with a past steeped in history and one of the best nights out you can hope for, Newcastle has it all. Add to that the famous Geordie hospitality and we guarantee that you will not find this city wanting.

History:

The city's history has been carefully preserved over the years ensuring that the young, old and all future generations can enjoy the story of Newcastle's past. One of the most famous Ancient Roman remains, Hadrian's Wall, crosses the Northumbria countryside. The Discovery Museum provides visitors with an insight into the region's colourful past and celebrates its importance throughout the ages. Amongst its many attractions is the first steam boat, The Turbinia. The Beamish is a unique museum experience. Set in over 300 acres of countryside, this open air museum is a living, working, experience of life as it was in the north of England in the 19th and 20th Centuries. Walk down the famous Mosley street, the first street to be light by gas in 1811 and later in 1891 became the first street to be lit by electricity.

Markets:

Newcastle has an eclectic array of markets dotted throughout the city. Grainger Market first opened in 1835 and is bursting at the seams with greengrocers, butchers, booksellers and the unique Marks & Spencer's Penny Bazaar. Also worth a look is the Farmers' & Country Market, which is held on the first Friday of every month, on Grainger Street. Armstrong Bridge Market in Jesmond is a great place to buy art.

Shopping:

Eldon Garden is home to famous fashion labels such as Armani, Moschino, DKNY, Prada and Jimmy Choo. However if that isn't enough to satisfy your shopping needs, the MetroCentre is Europe's largest shopping and leisure centre. Inside its walls you'll find just about anything you desire, from highstreet names, department stores, boutiques, restaurants and bars.

Art:

Undoubtedly Newcastle's most recognizable work of art is the Angel of the North. In recent years Newcastle has become a hive of creativity for budding and established artists. The Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art houses some of the best art in the world. The Biscuit Factory sells paintings, drawing, prints, sculpture, photography, ceramics and glass by artists from all over the world.

Sport:

Newcastle United Football Club needs little or no introduction. The club's ground, St. James' Park is renowned for its enthusiastic fans and atmosphere. Newcastle Falcons are the city's best known rugby team and home to England fly-half Johnny Wilkinson. The club, based in Kingston Park, were formerly coached by Rob Andrew and continue to enjoy some success under new coach John Fletcher. Newcastle's Ice Hockey team, The Newcastle Vipers play on Saturday evenings throughout the season at the Metro Radio Arena. Also an attraction at the Metro Radio Arena are the Newcastle Eagles, the city's premier league team. Each basketball game is preceeded by live music and various other forms of entertainment. Far from the rush and action of the basketball court and the rugby ground are Newcastle's golf courses. The counties of Northumbria and Tyne and wear have dozens of golf courses that cater to members and visitors, no matter what their handicap.

Leisure:

When you're through with sight seeing, sporting action and shopping, relax in one of Newcastle's parks. Saltwell Park in Gateshead has been open since 1876. The park contains a boating lake, childrens play area, basketball and tennis courts. Exhibition Park boasts a skate park, crazy golf and two croquet lawns amongst other things. It is also the venue for the Newcastle Mela. Whickham Thorns Activity Park is not for the faint hearted. It has an assault course, climbing wall, ski slope, archery, orienteering and a snowboarding club. Slaley Hall is set in 1000 acres of forest and moorland. Visitors can enjoy the gymnasium and spa, as well as the outdoor pursuits of fishing, archery, mountain biking, quad biking and hot air ballooning