A mega load of reasons to visit brilliant Newcastle with magnificent Megabus!

Newcastle upon Tyne is one of the UK’s most dynamic and characterful cities. Nestled on the banks of the River Tyne in the northeast of England, Newcastle offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and modern charm that leaves a lasting impression on anyone who visits. The spirit of the Geordies—Newcastle’s proud locals—infuses the city with warmth, humour, and an irrepressible sense of community, making it a place where both visitors and residents can feel instantly at home. What’s more Megabus provides affordable, convenient and direct services from across many parts of the UK to this amazing City!

Terrific Toon Tour will take you everywhere!

And, when you arrive in the City, there’s no better way to devour it than on the Toon Tour, which won the Great Scenic Journeys UK Open Top Bus Cup in 2023 for its top notch customer service! It runs every 30 minutes and is a 55 minute whistlestop, ‘hop-on and off’ tour of the City and it’s amazing sights. The climax is on the iconic Tyne Bridge with fab panoramic views! To plan your scenic sojourn across the rooftops of Newcastle, go to The Toon Tour – Great Scenic Journeys

Roman roots to dynamic brilliance

Newcastle’s roots stretch back to Roman times, when the city was known as Pons Aelius. Remnants of its ancient history are still visible, most notably Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which once marked the northern boundary of the Roman Empire. There’s a great bus, the AD122 which goes to the heart of the Hadrian’s Wall and is easily accessible by local bus from Newcastle. To find out more, go to…AD122 Hadrian’s Wall Bus – Great Scenic Journeys

For history enthusiasts, the Great North Museum in Newcastle is a treasure trove of artifacts from this era and beyond. Here, visitors can explore everything from the remains of Roman forts to dinosaur skeletons, all while learning about the region’s fascinating past. But the city’s history isn’t confined to museums. The imposing Newcastle Castle, from which the city takes its name, stands as a testament to its medieval heritage. Once a stronghold of the Norman kings, today it offers panoramic views over the city and the River Tyne, a reminder of Newcastle’s historical significance.

Icon of industry!

The city’s industrial legacy is also something to be proud of. Newcastle was once at the heart of the UK’s coal mining industry and played a pivotal role in the development of engineering and shipbuilding. The iconic Tyne Bridge, which links Newcastle to Gateshead, is a symbol of this industrial past. Designed by the same engineers who created the Sydney Harbour Bridge, it’s an architectural marvel and an enduring emblem of Newcastle’s engineering heritage.

Castle Keep is worth visiting too – it is a striking medieval fortress that stands as a reminder of the city’s Norman past. Built between 1172 and 1177 on the site of an earlier wooden structure, it was part of a larger defensive complex designed to protect the northern frontier. The Keep’s rugged stone walls and narrow passageways give a glimpse into the lives of knights and soldiers who once resided there. Visitors can explore its historic chambers and climb to the roof for panoramic views of the River Tyne and the city, connecting the past to Newcastle’s modern landscape.

The Black Gate is also another medieval gateway that served as part of Newcastle’s defensive fortifications. Constructed between 1247 and 1250 by order of Henry III, it was originally an outer gatehouse to strengthen the defences of Newcastle Castle. The structure features thick stone walls, narrow passageways, and a fortified entrance designed to thwart invaders. Over the centuries, it was adapted for various uses, including as a residence in the 17th century.

St. James Park – a footballing shrine!

But for all its history, Newcastle is also a thoroughly modern city, brimming with life and energy. Culture thrives here, with institutions like the Sage Gateshead, a strikingly modern concert hall, which hosts everything from classical concerts to jazz festivals, showcasing the city’s eclectic cultural mix. The Theatre Royal, too, is a grand setting for both classic and contemporary performances, and it’s easy to see why Newcastle has developed a reputation for creativity and the arts.

Sport is almost a religion in Newcastle, and St. James’ Park, home of Newcastle United Football Club, is a cathedral for Geordie football fans. The black and white striped shirts of “The Toon Army” are a common sight across the city, and the passion for football is palpable. For anyone wanting to experience this firsthand, catching a Newcastle United match is an unmissable experience, especially if you can hear the roar of the crowd when the team scores. The city has also produced sporting legends, such as Alan Shearer, the Premier League’s all-time leading goal scorer and a beloved figure in the world of football. A visit to the ground, even not on Matchday is highly recommended, if not to visit the great Club Shop but certainly to admire the statue of former Magpies’ legendary player and manager, Sir Bobby Robson. Meanwhile, Newcastle Falcons, the city’s rugby team, also enjoy a strong following, making the city a true sporting hub.

Vibrant, eclectic cultural melting pot!

Newcastle’s modern-day vibrancy extends far beyond its sporting prowess. The City is a cultural melting pot – one such example is the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art. It is housed in a former flour mill on the banks of the River Tyne and is a dynamic cultural hub in Newcastle. This striking building features five floors of ever-changing exhibitions showcasing cutting-edge works by international artists. With no permanent collection, every visit offers something new, from experimental installations to thought-provoking photography and sculptures. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the viewing platforms, explore the gallery’s diverse art displays, and attend talks, workshops, or film screenings. The Baltic’s riverside location also makes it a perfect spot for a scenic stroll along the Quayside.

The city has a reputation for having one of the best nightlife scenes in the UK, with something for everyone. Whether you’re after a laid-back pint in a cosy pub or a night of dancing in a trendy club, Newcastle delivers. Bigg Market and the famous Diamond Strip are hotspots for nightlife, offering a range of bars, pubs, and clubs that stay lively until the early hours. For those looking for something a bit more relaxed, the Quayside, with its riverside bars and restaurants, offers the perfect setting for a leisurely evening with stunning views of the illuminated bridges spanning the Tyne. Popular spots like The Botanist, with its rooftop terrace, and The Tyne Bar, renowned for its live music and relaxed vibe, capture the essence of Newcastle’s social scene.

Great gourmet, gastro delights!

The city’s dining scene is equally exciting, with a variety of restaurants offering everything from traditional British fare to innovative world cuisine. For a taste of local flavours, the Grainger Market is a must-visit. A historic covered market that has been serving Newcastle since 1835, it’s the perfect place to sample Geordie delicacies like pease pudding and stottie cakes, or to grab a bite from one of its many artisanal food stalls. Newcastle’s food scene also reflects its multiculturalism, with everything from Indian street food to fine Italian dining on offer. A visit to Jesmond Dene, a beautiful green space just outside the city centre, also provides a scenic escape from the hustle and bustle, and its picturesque waterfall and resident wildlife make it a popular spot for picnics and walks.

Legends abound!

Speaking of Jesmond, it’s also home to some of Newcastle’s most famous former residents. This leafy suburb with some lovely historical features, such as the disused ruin of the Old Mill in Jesmond Dene, has been the birthplace of several well-known figures, including Rowan Atkinson, who you might recognize as Mr. Bean, and Sting, the international music icon. But the city has also produced a number of lesser-known, yet equally fascinating characters. Take, for example, Charles Parsons, the inventor of the steam turbine, who revolutionized power generation and changed the course of industrial history. Or Joseph Swan, who was born in nearby Sunderland but spent much of his life in Newcastle, where he pioneered the development of the electric light bulb.

Quirks and tidbits

Quirky facts and hidden gems abound in Newcastle too. Did you know that Grey Street, in the heart of the city, has been described as one of the most beautiful streets in the UK? Its stunning Georgian architecture, crowned by the monument to Earl Grey (yes, the same Earl Grey who lent his name to the tea), makes it a picturesque spot to stroll, shop, or simply soak in the atmosphere. And then there’s the Victoria Tunnel, an underground warren of tunnels running beneath the city. Originally built to transport coal, the tunnels were later used as air-raid shelters during World War II. Today, guided tours of the Victoria Tunnel offer a glimpse into this often-overlooked aspect of Newcastle’s history. Grainger Street (pictured below) is also renowned for its atmospheric feel and is very popular with photographers trying to capture the brilliance and heritage of Newcastle.

The past, present and future marvellously come together!

Newcastle’s identity is a mix of old and new, of tradition and innovation. It’s a city that celebrates its heritage while constantly looking forward, always evolving. The Geordie spirit is warm, welcoming, and resilient, a reflection of the city itself. Whether you’re wandering through its historic streets, cheering on the Magpies at St. James’ Park, enjoying a pint along the Quayside, or simply chatting with the locals, Newcastle offers an experience that’s rich in culture, history, and fun. It’s a place that leaves an impression, and like so many before, you might just find yourself falling in love with this vibrant city.

To find out more about a trip to Newcastle on the fabulous Megabus with its amazing fares and connectivity, go to Low cost coach and train travel in the UK | megabus.com