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Newcastle upon Tyne is a vibrant city on the River Tyne in the northeast of England. Widely regarded at the region’s capital, you’ll find plenty to do if you’re planning a day without the kids. From shopping and wine tasting to hiking or opera, try these adult-only suggestions for an unforgettable break.
Shop Till You Drop
Fashionistas and shopaholics will love Newcastle since it’s home to two of the largest shopping centres in the UK. Intu Eldon Square has a flagship John Lewis and a huge Debenhams, as well as all the high street favourites. The largest shopping centre in Europe, Intu Metrocentre has department stores, shopping malls, high street shops, and two leisure and dining areas. You’ll also find five-storey Fenwick Newcastle, and several markets and shopping arcades housing independent boutiques.
Wine Tasting
Newcastle Wine School runs wine tasting in Newcastle for people who enjoy wine and want to learn more about it. Tastings take place at Blackfriars in Friars Street, and they also run afternoon sessions, a Guide to Whisky, a Prosecco and Gin Experience, and much more. Check their website for a Wine Tasting Experience Day in Newcastle, and then line up an overnight stay to coincide with your chosen date.
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Wine and Dine in Style
Located right in the centre of Newcastle, The Maldron is the city’s newest four-star hotel. They offer a Wine and Dine package for two, including an overnight stay in a deluxe double or twin room, a three-course dinner in their Grain and Grill restaurant, and a full English breakfast in the morning. In addition, when you arrive, you’ll be offered canapés and a glass of wine in the bar or restaurant. What better way to set the mood for a relaxing or romantic stay that allows you to totally unwind?
If you like this post then check out 41 Me Time Ideas For Mum’s That Need A Break.
Dance the Night Away
If you like to up the tempo a bit and have a night out, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the nightclubs in Newcastle. Take for example: The Empress, a lively nightspot with VIP booths; Flares Newcastle, a retro bar complete with glitter balls; Perdu, with its exposed brick bar, mood lighting and chandeliers; House of Smith, a stylish nightclub with brick, drapes and chandeliers; Madame Koo with Asian-style decor, cocktails and a DJ; Eden Newcastle with themed bars and disco room; and, Tup Tup Palace a multi-level nightclub featuring waterfalls, Eastern-style decor and mosaic lamps. After all that dancing, you’ll be ready for a rest.
A Lazy Brunch
There’s no better way to start a carefree day without the kids than with a tasty brunch by the quayside. The Quayside is a JD Wetherspoon pub, so you can be sure of a hearty and fulfilling breakfast, any day of the week. Violets is a quintessentially British neighbourhood bistro serving breakfast, lunch and daily bakes throughout the day.
Take in Some Art and Culture
To stimulate your mind, visit the Laing Art Gallery on New Bridge Street. View the 18th and 19th-century British oil paintings, watercolours, and Newcastle ceramics, silver and glassware on show. Afterwards, you can treat yourself to a cream tea or smoked salmon sandwich in the newly refurbished Cafe Laing.
The BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art is housed in a landmark industrial building on the south bank of the River Tyne. As well as artwork, sculptures, exhibitions and a shop, you can enjoy aerial views of the city. Ascend to Level five, where there is an indoor viewing box, and Level 4, where there’s an External Terrace to take in the sights. You might even see the UK’s most inland nesting colony of Kittiwakes from here.
Visit Hadrian’s Wall
Prefer to be a bit more active? Newcastle is a great starting point for exploring the Roman remains of Hadrian’s Wall. This ancient defensive barrier once ran 73 miles from coast to coast; today, you can see remains including barracks, ramparts, forts, bathhouses, turrets and shrines. Visit the Great North Museum: Hancock at Barras Bridge, explore the Segedunum Romand Fort and Museum in Buddle Street, or the Arbeia, Soth Shields Roman Fort in Baring Street.
Theatre Trip
For a night at the theatre, choose from venues including the Theatre Royal Newcastle and the Tyne Theatre. A Grade-one listed building, at Theatre Royal, you can see a ballet, contemporary dance, a Shakespearian play, a Christmas pantomime, a musical or an opera. Also a Grade-one listed building, at the Tyne Theatre and Opera House, you can choose to see a comedian live for a night filled with laughs. Alternatively, check out what’s on from opera to theatre shows to pantomimes and talks.
Whatever you choose to do on your visit to Newcastle, you’re sure to find plenty of choice and a multitude of experiences. Make the most of your time whether you want to party, explore, or kick back and relax.
