photo journal for Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne
in

Although one of the UK’s major cities, few make the journey to visit the Tyne and Wear capital, Newcastle. From a distance, little is understood of what makes this city tick (aside from a notorious nightlife, well-documented across Britain’s tabloids) including its architecture (which pans 18th to 19th century styles), contemporary art scene and energetic charm - these attractions remain exclusive to those “in the know”.

Rarely does anyone mention the beauty to be found in Newcastle, from strolls along the vibrant Quayside, connected to neighbouring Gateshead by no fewer than seven bridges, to wild seasides which take you from ruined castle keeps to charming fishing villages. No matter where your ideal scene, laid back pubs offer real ales with some even offering a selection of local booze from enterprising mead-makers, gin distillers and even urban winemakers.

What Newcastle is widely revered for is its friendly locals - with the Geordie accent being counted among one of the most trusting and beautiful across the country. While the city bustles locals will still find the time to smile, consider one another and even start up a conversation with complete strangers. It’s this spirit and a celebrated sense of humour that really makes the North East stand out among the rest.

The Newcastle side of the Quayside look at the Baltic Gallery and down towards the Millennium Bridge.

The Quayside played a central part of Newcastle's industrial history, serving as a commercial dockside. Coal was ferried down to the Quayside via the Victoria Tunnels and factories like the Baltic Flour Mill and Hoults Yard pottery, which have both since been transformed, flourished. The area underwent a huge regeneration in the early 2000s, and has since become a hub of arts and culture.

View of the Tyne Bridge from The Sage, Gateshead

The Tyne Bridge seen from The Sage, Gateshead

The Millennium Bridge and The Baltic Art Gallery seen from The Sage in Gateshead

The Millennium Bridge and Baltic Art Gallery seen from The Sage Gateshead

Tyne Bridge seen from Quayside with the Sage in the background

Officially opened by King George V in 1928 the Tyne Bridge is one of the most iconic symbols of Tyneside.

The Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art seen from The Millennium Bridge, Quayside

Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, previously a flour mill, opened as a a contemporary art gallery in 2002.

The Red House seen on the streets of the Quayside with outdoor seating laid out

Red House on the Quayside is a traditional ale house and pie and mash eatery in a Grade II listed building.

A view of two plates of pie and mash with pints next to.

Pies from Amble Butchers in Northumberland with mash peas and liquor.

Town Moor covered with a sheet of ice and city buildings in the distance.

The Town Moor, just outside of Central Newcastle, is a total of 1,000 acres (400 ha) - larger than Hyde Park and Hampstead Heath combined. It’s also larger than New York City's Central Park.

A modern building made of car windshields atop red brick

Modern house and architecture studio made from Ford Transit windscreens on Tynemouth seafront.

Vehicles ready for sailing & surfing under Tynemouth Priory

Tynemouth Castle and Priory was once one of the largest fortified areas in England.

Fish Bar and grill in a small enclave of beach

Kind Edward’s Bay is home to Riley’s Fish Shack - a semi portable fish bar & grill.

A harbour leading up the a pub at the top

Seaton Sluice - a village north of the Tyne and Wear coastline in Northumberland.

A bronze statue of a WWI soldier leaning on his gun by Ray Lonsdale

Tommy, a statue of a First World War soldier by artist Ray Lonsdale, displayed close to Seaham war memorial, on Terrace Green in Seaham.

Looking for restaurants, bars or hotels in Newcastle upon Tyne? Maybe our map can help.

Eliza Clark’s ‘Boy Parts’ from our book club picks is a suspenseful novel set between Newcastle upon Tyne & London.

For more UK destinations check out our photo journal for Rye & Hastings & photo journal for Edinburgh.