Top Ten Attractions in Newcastle

Originally a Roman fort in the North East of England, Newcastle is now a thriving city which is well known for its vibrant nightlife, culture, art and sports. Thriving with a diverse range of sights and attractions, you will never be short of things to do in Newcastle.

Trying to decide between all of the exciting things to do in Newcastle may seem a little daunting, therefore Holiday Inn Express has put together a list of our favourite ten attractions for you to enjoy in this great city.

1. Metro Radio Arena

The largest concert and exhibition venue in the North East of England, the Metro Radio Arena has seen some of the biggest names in show business perform on its stage. Only a 15 minute walk from Holiday Inn Express Newcastle, this entertainment venue puts on a variety of shows throughout the year. Whether you enjoy music, comedy or sports, you'll find it at Metro Radio Arena.

Distance from Holiday Inn Express Newcastle City Centre: less than 1 mile

Click here for more information about Metro Radio Arena.

2. Blue Reef Aquarium

A short drive from Holiday Inn Express Newcastle, Blue Reef Aquarium is situated on the coast of Tynemouth. Home to various forms of exotic sea life, the aquarium is also home to miniature monkeys from the Amazon Rain Forest. With over 40 themed habitats, become mesmerised by the array of colourful tropical fish and admire the seals from above and below the waterline.

Distance from Holiday Inn Express Newcastle City Centre: 9 miles

Click here for more information about Blue Reef Aquarium.

3. Tyne & Wear Museums

Newcastle is rich with culture and heritage, stemming back to its Roman roots. Tyne & Wear Museums is a collection of museums in and around Newcastle, appealing to a variety of tastes and interests. Head back in time and visit the Stephenson Railway Museum and step on board some of the most reputable steam engines in Great Britain. At the Discovery Museum, you'll be able to see the Turbinia, which used to be the fastest ship in the world. Head over to the Tyne & Wear Museums website for a full list of museums in Newcastle.

Distance from Holiday Inn Express Newcastle City Centre: less than a mile

Click here for more information about Tyne & Wear Museums.

4. Seven Stories

Do you remember your favourite children's novel? Enid Blyton, Roald Dahl and Jacqueline Wilson have written popular children's books and their work is celebrated at Seven Stories. This unique exhibition of books showcases some of the most recognisable children's novels ever written, whilst aiming to protect Britain's literary heritage for children.

Distance from Holiday Inn Express Newcastle City Centre: 1 mile

Click here for more information about Seven Stories.

5. Castle Keep

Built in 1168, and giving the city its name, Castle Keep is a reminder of the once powerful castle in Newcastle. Situated in the centre of the city, Castle Keep is a historical landmark and allows visitors to step back in time to the 12 century. Being involved in years of bloodshed has led to The Keep being renowned for hauntings, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled for spooky encounters.

Distance from Holiday Inn Express Newcastle City Centre: less than 1 mile

Click here for more information about The Castle Keep.

6. Life Science Centre

Ever wondered where we came from and how we got here? The Life Science Centre in Newcastle City Centre is an exhibition all about human life. Discover our origins and the future for the human race. After you visit the simulated Arctic environment, where you find out how Eskimos have managed to adapt to the freezing conditions, you'll enter the soaring temperature of the desert. The Life Science Centre is a fascinating journey of discovery, right in the centre of Newcastle.

Distance from Holiday Inn Express Newcastle City Centre: less than 1 mile

Click here for more information about Life Science Centre.

7. BALTIC

Contemporary art is housed within an iconic industrial building on the banks of the River Tyne in Newcastle. Originally a flour mill, the building is now home to BALTIC, which displays innovative pieces of international contemporary art throughout the year. Inspirational and thought provoking, the programme of exhibitions are changed on and on-going basis, meaning there is always something new to see.

Distance from Holiday Inn Express Newcastle City Centre: 1 mile

Click here for more information about BALTIC.

8. The Hyena Comedy Club

Up for a laugh? Sit back and relax in one of the best comedy clubs around, The Hyena Comedy Club in Newcastle. There's no use trying to stifle a laugh here, with a huge variety of up and coming and reputable comedians head lining the stage, your funny bone will well and truly be tickled. Food and drinks are served in the venue, making it the perfect choice before a night out or simply to enjoy some great comedy when visiting the city.

Distance from Holiday Inn Express Newcastle City Centre: less than 1 mile

Click here for more information about The Hyena Comedy Club.

9. Eldon Square

Eldon Square is Britain's largest city centre shopping complex. With over 140 shops, you can shop until you drop at Newcastle's premier shopping destination. Eldon Square is only a short walk from Holiday Inn Express Newcastle City Centre, meaning you won't have too far to travel with all those shopping bags!

Distance from Holiday Inn Express Newcastle City Centre: less than 1 mile

Click here for more information about Eldon Square.

10. The Gate

Newcastle's ultimate entertainment venue, The Gate has a variety of attractions for people of all ages. Head along to the 12 screen cinema to watch the latest block buster, or enjoy a great meal in one of the restaurants. At night, Newcastle comes to life, make sure to head to one of the many bars and the clubs for a great night out.

Distance from Holiday Inn Express Newcastle City Centre: less than 1 mile

Click here for more information about The Gate.