Newcastle is the geographic, cultural, and economic heart of North East England, a vibrant metropolis that harbours a spirited mix of heritage and urban sophistication. Industrial grit of the coal mining era has long made space for its universities and innovation centres as major economic drivers: Newcastle is one of only six designated UK Science Cities, a major centre for medical science and sustainability, and a major hub for renewable offshore energy industries.
The Victorian city centre, the glamorous quayside with its iconic bridges and magnificent concert hall, the nearby coast as well as Roman and medieval heritage sites provide scenic opportunities for sight-seeing and excursions. Famous for having more restaurants per square mile than any other city in the North of England, and continuously being voted #1 for nightlife in the UK, the city easily caters to all tastes and budgets. Add to this the legendary friendliness of the Geordie people, and you are offered a travel destination with an inner spirit that makes you instantly feel welcome and at ease.
Newcastle International Airport (NCL) is around 6 miles north-west of the city. Travel options into the city centre include:
Other nearby airports include Edinburgh Airport (about 2h to Newcastle Central Station), Manchester Airport (about 3-3.5h to Newcastle Central Station) and Leeds Bradford Airport (about 2.5h to Newcastle Central Station).
Newcastle's central train station is accessible from a majority of the country and is based in the south of the city:
Tickets can be bought on the day at the station using cash or debit/credit card, but it is invariably cheaper to book in advance. Newcastle Central Station is also served by the Tyne and Wear Metro system.
We have found that The Man In Seat Sixty-One, a tips and information service for rail travel, can be helpful when booking train tickets.