Last minute in Newcastle

Picture the scene – you've been staying at a hostel in Newcastle. You've had a smashing time with the nightlife, shopping and everything else the city has to offer, and now you're all packed up and ready to return home.

But standing in the atrium of the rail station, you hear an announcement that automatically chills your bones: your train has been delayed, and you're stuck in a cold and draughty waiting room with practically nothing to do.

Well forget about sitting on your suitcase among the hordes of clueless commuters – treat the delay as a blessing in disguise. Organised by how long they're like to take so you can plan around the delay to your journey, the activities listed below will help you make the most of your last minute in Newcastle.

Half an hour to an hour

Only got a scant thirty minutes before the next train? No problem – there's still plenty to do around the station. If the hour is reasonable then it's well worth dropping into the Centurion pub for a drink. Situated inside Newcastle Grand Central Station itself, you can keep an eye on the time and train updates while enjoying a glass of your favourite beverage.

Voted Newcastle's Most Impressive Watering Hole by the Observer, it also features a cafe and delicatessen which is perfect if the hour is too early to consider alcohol. Grab a coffee and a toasted Panini or croissant to set yourself up for the day. The Centurion Bar, Grand Central Station, Neville Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 5DG, 0191 261 6611.

An hour to two hours

If you're a little less pressed for time then you might consider a spot of last-minute shopping. The streets surrounding the station contain a variety of shops, from big chains that you'd recognise anywhere to smaller brands that are entirely unique to Newcastle. The only danger is that you may waste precious time wondering where to start!

Metrohead shopping centre in Gateshead – commonly cited as the largest indoor shopping area in Europe with more than 330 separate shops – may be a little far afield unless you've got a bit more time, but there is an alternative for serious shoppers.

Eldon Square is a mere ten minute walk away from the transport hub of Newcastle, and is home to an impressive list of more than 150 high street names and specialist shops. So go and grab a bargain to take home with you. Eldon Square Shopping Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear, NE1 7RA.

If shopping really isn't your thing, then there is an alternative for those wishing to keep themselves entertained and warm while remaining close to the station. The Discovery Museum is only a stone's throw away, and admission is free. So you can peruse the interactive displays on everything from maritime history to developments in science and technology free of charge.

The vast array of exhibitions and collections is so varied in nature that you're sure to be entertained no matter what your interests are. It's also a great opportunity to discover all about the history of the city you've stayed in, so you can impress your friends at home with all the local knowledge you've picked up. Discovery Museum, Blandford Square, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4JA, 0191 232 6789.

More than two hours
For those with even more time to kill, a visit to the Life centre could be in order. Theatrical shows, exhibitions and events and the largest planetarium in the north of England will ensure that your extra time spent in Newcastle is not wasted.

Prepare for the ride of your life on the 4D motion ride, or visit the curiosity zone to indulge your scientific side. If you're lucky enough to be there after the ice rink has been set up, that's also worth a try, particularly if you're with a loved one. Much more romantic than sitting around in the station. Just make sure you don't get too wrapped up in all there is to do here that you miss your train! Times Square, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear, NE1 4EP, 0191 243 8210.

The Laing Art Gallery is also an option for art fanatics who might like to spend their final hours in Newcastle soaking up the atmosphere in one of its regional galleries. A rolling programme of exhibitions will ensure that you won't be bored here, even if you've visited before, and it's only a short journey from the station by metro.

Despite its ever-changing calendar, the gallery does feature one permanent exhibition – the John Martin paintings. Loved by everyone, these images depict post-apocalyptic landscapes that will undoubtedly give you something to think about on the way home. If you still have time to spare after viewing all of the exhibits, then grab tea and a scone from their delightful cafe, or pick up a book for the journey from their book shop. New Bridge Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8AG, 0191 232 7734.

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