There’s a lot more to Newcastle than Brown Ale and football. Formerly an industrialised city, Newcastle upon Tyne has undergone revitalization in the last few years, and is now a cosmopolitan city teeming with visitors.  The historic city still retains its medieval layout in many parts, with many pedestrian-only streets. Spend a few hours wandering through the city, and you’ll be able to see many dramatic, modern structures side-by-side with centuries-old buildings.

See
The Castle – Newcastle is named after this stone structure that was first put up in the 9th century. Made up of Castle Keep and the Black Gate, visitors do not have to travel far to view these ancient buildings, as they are situated in the centre of the city. For a really spooky experience, get a ticket for the Ghost Walk tour (between 7pm and 8.30pm) and meet the castle’s resident poltergeists. For a less hair-raising visit, go in the day, and enjoy a stunning view of the River Tyne from the top of the Castle. Tickets cost £4 for adults, and £2.50 for students and senior citizens.

Stay
Kensington Aparthotel – Located in the leafy suburb of Jesmond, and only five minutes away from the city centre, these 23 apartments provide a luxurious retreat for visitors. Rooms are stylishly decorated, featuring gorgeously patterned wallpaper, tasteful framed pictures, and divinely soft bedding. The addition of a kitchen and living room in every apartment makes it a great choice of accommodation for families or larger groups travelling together. Apartment rates start from around £100.

Shop
Grainger Market – Step into this beautiful old market, and take a trip to the past. Unlike the shiny, fluorescent-bathed shopping centres of today, this 175-year-old indoor market is a treasure trove of unexpected delights. Pay a visit to the last Marks and Spencer’s Penny Bazaar, the world’s smallest branch of the famous high street stall, still boasting its beautifully painted original signage from 1895. If you’re feeling peckish, head on over to Sarah’s Tuck-in, where almost everything is fried, and indulge in some goodies. You may want to skip a visit to the Weigh House after that though, where you pay 20p to step on a pair of huge scales while attendants note down your weight on a slip of paper.