Days Out in Newcastle

Regularly voted among the top cities to visit (not just in Britain!), this vibrant city is brim-full of culture, heritage, shopping and of course nightlife. With its unique culture, modern attractions and countless heritage sites, Newcastle has plenty of must-see attractions for first time tourists or seasoned residents alike. Thronged by seven iconic bridges alongside a bustling Quayside, get ready to be charmed by the famous Geordie spirit.

Discover the unexpected, with centuries-old history and heritage, breath-taking architecture and impressive innovation. Undeniably the go-to destination for roaring nightlife, experience the pull of a night on the Toon and be wowed by excellent culture and events all year round, with showstopping theatre, comedy and live music sitting alongside clubs, cocktail bars and independent breweries. A passionate city bursting with Northern pride, there’s world-class sport at iconic venues, or rugged Northumbrian coast and countryside just a step away. Wye aye, what are you waiting for?!

Newcastle Castle

Steeped in history, this imposing Norman fortress, right in the centre of Newcastle upon Tyne, is a rugged reminder of northern England's turbulent history. No staid stately home, Newcastle Castle is a grim reminder of royal authority where armies gathered and criminals were imprisoned and executed. Step back over 800 years in time to where the story of Newcastle began (and where the city got its name), discovering Newcastle's ancient heritage, and its rich and turbulent history. Explore the ancient passageways and chambers; with in-depth history displays revealing the hidden stories of the castle’s inhabitants over the centuries.

From royal apartments to grim dungeons, experience what life would have been like for inhabitants in the Castle Keep and Black Gate, two astonishingly preserved medieval buildings. The imposing castle keep is one of the UK's finest medieval stone castle dungeons open to the public today, replete in colourful and grim history, including records of prisoners being hung drawn and quartered, to an unusual tale of a youngster being killed by a flying donkey! If you need to take a breath, head for the keep rooftop, for incredible views over the city, river Tyne and Gateshead, or pause for a picnic in the grounds.

Go Ape Matfen

Just 15 miles from Newcastle city centre, nestled in stunning Northumberland scenery, lies a high ropes course to truly test your nerve. The first to be built in the grounds of a country house hotel, Go Ape at Matfen Hall is also rare for being built among deciduous trees, making it a stunning spring experience as leaves, blossoms and birds flourish around your 30-foot-high adventure. Recently refreshed and reopened for spring 2022, take the Treetop Challenge, whose challenging obstacles include the half trapeze and free-falling Tarzan swings, skateboard zip, and the stirrups, one of the more extreme obstacles and a true test of strength and skill. Proudly reflecting the county’s heritage, even a replica Tyne Bridge and other local landmarks await you in the trees!

This high ropes course is designed to bamboozle the adventurous and inspire rookie risk-takers, with the charming village of Matfen on hand for a nerve-settling stroll afterwards. Or if you’re ready to channel your inner warrior, take on the hour long Axe throwing experience- not just the perfect stress-reliever but bags of fun, too, with qualified instructors on-hand with tips and support. Ready, set, throw!

Newcastle Treasure Hunt

Many cities have walking tours, many cities have great pubs, Newcastle famously among them! The Great Game Newcastle is a unique treasure hunt which combines both: an exciting, immersive self-guided walking treasure hunt around the city, with real treasure at the end: discount at a great pub! Book in advance through Let’s Go Out to receive your treasure-hunt pack containing treasure map, compass and clues; even clipboard and pen.

The hunt will lead you through an exciting day out, challenging yourself with puzzles, riddles, codes and orienteering work, discovering the city’s history, famous landmarks, and secret back streets. Perfect for couples, groups and families, book in multiples of two; large groups can combine as a team or split up and compete against each other, clipboards drawn! Clues gradually reveal where to draw the X on your treasure map to locate your reward, a great pub at which you can receive 20% off your total food and drink bill. The Great Game team can even book a table so it's ready and waiting when you arrive, cheers to that!

Chesters Roman Fort and Museum

The borderland between England and Scotland, Northumberland has experienced more than its fair share of tumult, turmoil and conflict. Hadrian’s Wall, ranging across the stunning countryside, contains a series of fortifications, including Chesters Roman Fort, the most complete Roman cavalry fort in Britain. Just 30 minutes’ drive from Newcastle city centre, be transported back to the time of the legionaries at one the Roman Empire's most northern outposts. Take a stroll through history around the fort and grounds that straddle the Wall. Wander through the fort gates, the headquarters building and courtyard, hall and regimental shrine, plus the uniquely well-preserved baths and steam room, and site of the elaborate and luxurious commandant's house.

Great for budding archaeologists, historians and adventurers big and small, pick up a Chesters Fort takeover trail sheet from the admissions team and get ready for a Roman adventure. The Emperor has ordered you to run the fort, choose a character and use your trail to pick up tips to help you with your new job. Will you be the Commander, a messenger, a musician or a guard? Bring a picnic and enjoy wonderful views, or indulge in the on-site tearoom (we recommend a traditional ‘stottie cake’, for a truly Northumbrian taste sensation!)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We have also put together a list of frequently asked questions at the link below, which include some Top Tips and Did you know information, which you can use to show off with your friends and family

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We hope that you have enjoyed reading our article called Days Out in Newcastle and that you have found the information above include our FAQ page helpful in deciding on which venue you to choose for your Activities and Days Out