Hotels in Newcastle

Use our guide to decide where to stay based on what you want to do while in Newcastle...

If you're planning a visit and want to experience a proper taste of the party atmosphere, head to one of the many great hotels in the city centre, or opt to stay in one of the quality B&Bs in the area. Stay in one of the Newcastle hotels on Ocean Road in South Shields and you'll be in easy reach of a number of pubs and bars, including The Life of Riley, which offers regular live music and shows. You'll also be close to Marine Park, where you can experience picturesque views across the sea. Marine Park is also conveniently situated near Ocean Beach Pleasure Park. With a huge maritime history Newcastle is a great location for seaside adventures and is well suited to all age ranges. For a family holiday why not opt for a centrally-located budget lodge, or depending on your needs, a five-star resort complex outside of town, complete with spas and a golf course. You could even time your visit to coincide with the Great North Run, an annual half marathon starting at Newcastle and finishing in South Shields.

Opt for a centrally located hotel along the banks of the River Tyne and you'll find activities and attractions within minutes of your doorstep: from Georgian architecture in the city centre and the iconic St James' Park, to excellent shopping opportunities at Eldon Square or the Metro Centre. Choose a hotel further outside the city centre and you'll have the chance to quickly and easily access the surrounding areas, such as Gateshead, Whitley Bay and Durham. You will also have the chance to view the stunning coastal scenery en route to Bamburgh Castle or the world-famous open-air Beamish Museum.

Centred on Newcastle’s rich heritage, wild nightlife and the friendly Geordie spirit, the city centre is packed with all kinds of intriguing attractions.

Top five attractionsThe Quayside

Once an industrial dockside, serious redevelopment has transformed the Quayside into one of Newcastle’s premier areas for eating, drinking, music and culture. Descend underground at the Victoria Tunnels, catch a show at the Sage or simply take in the dramatic views of the River Tyne.

Eldon Square Shopping Centre

Weave your way through classic arcades and shop-lined passages in search of a bargain at one of Newcastle’s leading shopping centres. From designer boutiques to High Street favourites, Eldon Square, near Percy Street, is ideal for a little retail therapy.

St James’ Park

A true cathedral of football, Newcastle United’s stadium is located smack-bang in the centre of the city. On match day you’ll hear 52,000 Geordies roaring the Magpies on – get a ticket and you might just begin to understand football’s importance in the North East.

The Discovery Museum

Learn about Newcastle’s fascinating past through a combination of permanent displays and temporary exhibitions. Spread out over three floors of a renovated Co-operative society building, the museum explains Newcastle’s importance in the fields of maritime, science and technology – ideal for families and couple alike.

Jesmond Dene Park

Need some respite from the bustle of the city? Head to Jesmond Dene, a tranquil oasis in the heart of Newcastle. Take a hike through the park using the nature trail, keeping an eye out for the 18th-century Old Mill, red squirrels and the exotic trees that grow here.

Visit Newcastle at any time of the year to be enthralled by the city's varied events.

South Tyneside Festival; July to August: This festival combines big names (UB40, Lindisfarne and Billy Ocean) with home-grown talent as live music takes over South Shields for the summer. In between the music, dance in the carnival, ride the dodgems at the fun fare and get the obligatory fish and chips for a quintessentially British day out at the seaside.

Bupa Great North Run; September: The biggest half marathon in the UK, almost 60,000 runners descend upon Newcastle every year to run for good causes, family reasons or personal fitness goals. During the 13.1 mile race a carnival atmosphere takes over the city as spectators urge on friends and family from the side lines. Be sure to get a place in the race early – they shift quicker than Mo Farah!

International Christmas Market; November to December: Artisans from around the world gather to sell their handcrafted wares at Newcastle’s International Christmas Market – perfect for grabbing a few last-minute gifts. All that shopping is bound to make you hungry; luckily, a fleet of global gourmets are on hand to keep you fed. Mulled wine and currywurst anyone?