Discover NewcastleGateshead's hidden gems

Want to explore the unexplored? From coast to city, bar to building, NewcastleGateshead is full of hidden gems. 

Get lost in the city exploring some of NewcastleGateshead's best kept secrets...

The Victoria Tunnel is hidden in plain sight. The historical landmark runs beneath the city of Newcastle-Upon-Tyne from the Town Moor down to the River Tyne. Voted in 2022 as one of the top 10% visitor attractions in the world by Tripadvisor, those who venture into the old tunnel are left in awe of the rich history running beneath NewcastleGateshead. Victoria Tunnel was built in 1842 to transport coal from Leazes Main Colliery to riverside staithes (jetties) ready for loading onto ships. In 1939, it was converted into an air-raid shelter to protect hundreds of Newcastle citizens during World War II. The entrance to the historic tunnel can now be found in Ouseburn, beside Hotel Du Vin. For those who want to experience something a bit different, join Hotel du Vin's Head Sommelier for a wine tasting session in the Victoria Tunnel on two Fridays in every month for Tipple in the Tunnel. 

Dubbed Newcastle's "hidden" bar- Mother Mercy is a cocktail and wine bar in Newcastle. The nightlife hot-spot can be found underground in the Bigg Market, directly underneath The Old George. An intimate and creative bar experience in the city centre that hosts up to 30 guests, it is a certified hidden gem of NewcastleGateshead. For those wanting to add a slice of fun into their cocktail drinking experience, they offer "The Twist of Fate". Take a risk and take a twist on the retro gumball machine containing 8 signature cocktails, mystery prizes and your very own psychic reading!

The second oldest pub in the city, The Crown Posada is well known to visitors as a historical building but not many venture through the doors of the grade two listed building. Walking through the elaborately panelled entrance, visitors are greeted with an original stained glass windows and a warm, lively, and laughter-filled atmosphere that’s as rare as the pub itself. Inside, you can relax during the day listening to the house gramophone and enjoying a variety of excellently kept cask ales. The buzz and ambience of this hidden gem will leave customers longing for the unique experience long after they have left.

Newcastle is home to many fantastic buildings, places that you walk past or into, trying to imagine what they were like years ago. You don’t need to imagine what the Lit & Phil was like because it retains its original purpose as well as all of its charm. The interior of the main reading room is sky lit with three enormous dome lanterns set into the roof. The walls of the galleried, double height space are lined with some of the 160,000 book collection.

It’s a phenomenal, inspiring and welcoming space, a great place to spend some time.

Sitting right in the middle of town, the Grainger Market is anything but hidden, but the oodles of food stalls and independents that lie within the twists and turns of Newcastle's infamous market is a pleasant surprise even for locals. Quickly becoming a foodie hotspot, the Grainger Market is a hub of delicious stalls serving up cuisine from all over the globe. From mouth watering gyros from toon favourites Acropolis, to authentic Chinese dumplings at Dumpling and Bun to handcrafted bagels from King Baby Bagels, the Grainger Market has plenty on offer... you are spoilt for choice! 

There is so much to be found in NewcastleGateshead. From days out, to must visit attractions and bars, there is something for everyone. Getting around is simple...the city is simply waiting for you to discover it.