Newcastle is the place to be when it comes to fun activities and unique tourist spots. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, BA Hons Hospitality and Tourism Management student Dana Johnstone has you covered with a list of suggestions on where to hit around the Toon.
Here’s hoping that some of these outside-the-box ideas might be helpful if you are feeling a bit stuck.
1. Fenwick
First on our list and starting off strong has to be the iconic Fenwick Department Store with everything you could possibly need all under one roof! Thinking of getting someone a gift? Whether they're into perfume, handbags, jewellery, clothes, make-up or flowers, you’re sure to find something here to spoil your loved one! Watch their face light up as you hand over the trade-mark green bag!
Another worthy mention would be Fenwick's Food Hall, brimming with lots of goodies including a fancy chocolate and macaron counter. Mason + Rye also does stunning desserts which can either be taken away, or you can sit down and treat yourself to a coffee as well.
2. Waterstones
Everyone loves getting lost in a good book, and at Waterstones there will certainly be something that will appeal to your taste; whether you enjoy classic literature or more modern fiction, or you have specific hobbies or areas of interest that you enjoy learning about such as cooking/baking, gardening, travel, fashion, photography, art, history, science, or sport. The worlds and possibilities are endless as there is something for everyone…
3. Flore Café
Just outside of the Central Arcade, Flore Café appears to draw inspiration from the renowned, picturesque Café De Flore in Paris, known for its prominent outdoor floral display (as the name suggests) and famous clientele.
With gorgeous pastel pink and floral interiors, they serve up a tasty brunch such as the Berry French Toast and PINK Eggs Benedict! They also have a whole range of cool, Insta-worthy speciality drinks from their signature ‘Cloud Coffee’ (pictured here; a cloud of candy floss hanging over a cup of coffee) to their strawberry love heart hot chocolate. A very trendy up-and-coming establishment for Newcastle, and the perfect place for a brunch date.
4. La Chocolatrice
Sticking with the ‘sweet’ theme for now, on Westgate Road (not too far from Central Station) is the chocolate shop/studio La Chocolatrice. As well as being able to purchase delicious, locally hand-made chocolate, they also run workshops teaching you to MAKE your own chocolate for something fun and a little bit different! We can’t think of a better bonding activity to do with some friends and you will even get a scrumptious reward at the end for all your efforts.
5. Newcastle Arts Centre
Combining tourism, art and gift ideas... just next door to La Chocolatrice on Westgate Road is Newcastle Arts Centre which sells lots of unique, quirky gifts you wouldn’t find on high street shelves. Think pottery, glass-work, ornaments/decorations, art, home-made soaps and; all locally sourced. There is always something extra special about receiving a gift that has been lovingly made whilst also supporting the local community. We are sure you'll find some amazing gifts and souvenirs in this shop!
6 The Glamorous Owl
Tucked away on the hidden cobbled street of Old George Yard lies the Glamorous Owl, where you can make your very own bespoke ring or bangle! How cool is that? After visiting once, you can get discount on your next visit if you show them your bling from the previous time you went. Sign us up for a new jewellery set please.
They do also have a cute little gift store opposite the workshop selling mostly jewellery, but also art, trinkets, soaps/candles, accessories such as scarves and socks, and other crafts such as sewing and felt work.
7. The Theatre Royal
Why not check out what’s on at the Theatre Royal over the upcoming months? Later this month, Titanic the Musical will be performing which would be a great evening spent in the heart of Newcastle, as everybody loves the film with young Kate and Leo right? Another classic, Dirty Dancing sweeps on to the stage in August. If you have always wanted to see a ballet, there is Sleeping Beauty coming up in April. Or if you like watching Strictly Come Dancing, you may enjoy going to see Strictly Ballroom in May? If you're mad about musicals, you also have the options of Sister Act in June or Kinky Boots in July, so there’s plenty of choice.
8. Lifestyle Academy - Chefs' Academy & The Retreat
Whilst Newcastle City Centre has plenty of cool places to visit, don’t forget about our very own facilities on campus including 3 course lunches for £14.50pp Tuesday-Friday 12-1.30pm at the Chefs' Academy as well as a wide range of well-priced, luxurious treatments just next door at the Retreat if you could do with a bit of pampering. Why not combine the two and make an afternoon out of it whilst spending some quality, relaxing time together with a friend or loved one? You can pop up to the reception desk on the top floor of the Lifestyle Academy to make enquires, book appointments or purchase vouchers.
9. The Quayside Market
Lining the road by the riverside every Sunday between 9.30am-4pm is the infamous Newcastle Quayside Market. The perfect place to wrap up and go for a stroll with a hot drink in hand whilst taking in the stunning sights of the Tyne, the bridges, plus the Sage and Baltic, all whilst seeing what’s new on the market that week. From a wide range of locally-made arts and gifts, to foods from all over the world provided by regional vendors, there is plenty to see and sample, making for an enjoyable leisurely afternoon.
If it’s a cold day and you want to head inside, fret not, for there are many nearby restaurants such as Pitcher & Piano or the new Gino D’ACampo to choose from where you can enjoy a spot of lunch seated in a comfortable, warm environment whilst still admiring the incredible surrounding views.
