When you think of Newcastle, what is the first thing that comes to mind? You’ll expect to see the gorgeous Angel of the North, our award-winning museums and experience the vibrant nightlife. It is the hidden gems in Newcastle that give the city it’s charm and mystery, including a curry train, a secret tower entrance and a very haunted pub! Here are some alternative things to do in Newcastle, things you are unlikely to find in the guidebooks.
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Newcastle’s Most Haunted Pub
The Old George Pub dates back to 1582 and is the oldest and reportedly the most haunted pub in Newcastle. A former haunt (pardon the pun!) of Charles I, there is a room dedicated to the former monarch. While the identity of the spook isn’t clear (again, sorry!), the Charles I Room has a chair in which Charles sat when he visited and sightings of the outline of a grey figure have been reported sitting in it. Staff have also reported feeling uneasy when alone in the pub, as if they are being watched. Besides the ghost stories, they have a great craft beer selection and an excellent menu with a regular and ever-changing events calendar to entertain you.
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Grey’s Monument Climb Â
While Grey’s Monument is certainly not hidden, not many know that you can actually enter and climb the tower. The Grade I listed monument is a meeting point, a metro stop and the guardian of Grey Street but is not open to the general public. By appointment, and on occasional dates through the year, the tower is opened and a guide will accompany a small group to the top of the narrow, spiral staircase to the viewing balcony 40 metres above the city centre. The panoramic views over Newcastle are absolutely stunning and it’s a viewpoint not many get to experience. Bonus fact; the monument’s namesake, Earl Charles Grey, also lent his name to the delicious blend of Earl Grey Tea.Â
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The Tyne BarÂ
It’s a bit of a walk from the town centre but The Tyne Bar is easily one of Newcastle’s best places to experience on your trip. This authentic and independent pub has been around for over 30 years and is a staple on the Newcastle music scene. Having quietly evolved to become one of Newcastle’s most famous bars and music venues, they have an impressive real ale selection and an inclusive menu serving all tastes and preferences. The venue believes that free live music gives Newcastle its soul and have a packed schedule of bands, singers and DJs. If you happen to be there when there isn’t an event, their free jukebox is filled with the best in alternative music.
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St James Rooftop Tour
Whether you’re a football fan or not, the St James guided rooftop tours are a little-known wonder. From the roof of the impressive stadium you’ll enjoy an unrivalled bird’s eye view of the grounds and The Toon. You’ll see many famous landmarks from this panoramic spot, 150m above the ground, like the Tyne Bridge, Grey’s Monument and The Sage. They also have an array of stadium tours to couple with the rooftop experience where you can learn about the history of the stadium and the club from a local fanatic and expert guide. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a match day, you’ll be amazed at the atmosphere created by the dedicated fans.
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Passage to India
If you’re a fan of an Indian Curry, it’s not hard to find a decent restaurant in town. If you’re looking for something completely out of the ordinary, book your ticket on the wonderful Passage to India curry train! Meet at the big clock at Newcastle Central station at 6pm and be transported to an elegant Indian wonderland. You’ll be transported on the Raj-Style train to Corbridge and indulge in a delicious four-course meal from The Valley restaurant. The friendly uniformed staff will escort you to and from the train and ensure your experience is as authentically Indian as they can in central Newcastle!
If you’re wondering what else to do in Newcastle, away from the usual tourist traps, the best way to find out is to explore for yourself! Book your stay on PREMIER SUITES Newcastle’s official website to ensure you are enjoying our best available rate. We are close to the best popular attractions and the hidden gems in Newcastle.
