London to Newcastle? It’s easier than you think. The train from London to Newcastle takes just 2 hours and 41 minutes.* So, pocket your train tickets with LNER, check in to the Toon and press play on a city break this Autumn.

*Based on 25% of LNER’s weekday services between London King’s Cross and Newcastle Station following the December 2025 timetable change. Actual journey times may vary by service.

There are plenty of great hotel options in Newcastle and Gateshead to choose from. Prefer something more central? Hotels such as Motel One, Maldron, Crowne Plaza and Sandman Signature all offer a comfortable and stylish stay within walking distance of Newcastle’s best bars, restaurants, and attractions.

Fancy a touch of luxury? Experience five-star sophistication at Hotel Gotham on Pilgrim Street, the beautiful Dakota Hotel on the Quayside, or opt for the elegant Vermont Hotel, located right beside Newcastle Castle. For unforgettable views, the Hilton Newcastle Tyne Bridge offers a stunning overlook of the iconic Tyne Bridge.

Start your day right with a delicious brunch in the city centre. For your first morning coffee, head to Filto inside Fenwick where you can expect beautiful dishes, speciality coffee, matcha in cans, cocktails alongside their amazing steak and eggs, all served in a modern space. Whether you are taking a break from shopping or making Filto the highlight of your day, it is the perfect place to fuel up for your day.

Newcastle Castle is a must-visit attraction in Newcastle which not only explores the rich history of the city but also offers incredible views from its rooftop. There is much to discover about Newcastle Castle, from which the city gained its name many centuries ago. The Keep currently stands as one of the UK's finest medieval stone castle dungeons which is still open to the public.

Visitors to the iconic castle will enjoy picturesque views, alongside in-depth history displays covering the backgrounds of castle inhabitants over the ages. From a royal fortress to grim dungeons, new exhibits allow visitors to experience what life would have been like for inhabitants in these two astonishingly preserved medieval buildings.

Home to hundreds of local traders and small businesses, Grainger Market boasts everything from cobblers, florists, and jewellers to haberdasheries, artisan bakeries, high-quality butchers and greengrocers. Visitors to Grainger Market can pick up fresh fish, meat, fruit and veg, while browsing the mini bazaars, as well as indulging in a slice of fresh, stonebaked pizza, rich mac n cheese, Mexican tacos, crispy fried chicken or handmade cakes at one of the many independent cafes - it's a hit with local foodies!

Make sure to include a stop at the iconic Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art in Gateshead after strolling along the Quayside. Housed in a converted flour mill on the south bank of the River Tyne, Baltic is the largest gallery of its kind in the world.

With an exciting and ever-changing calendar of exhibitions and interactive installations, Baltic provides a unique and engaging introduction to contemporary visual art. It’s the perfect cultural pitstop to inspire creativity and curiosity. Make sure to browse their gift shop on your way out, it's packed with local artwork, gifts, cards and so much more.

Khai Khai is a fire-led Indian restaurant on Queen Street, just moments from Newcastle Quayside. The menu explores heritage Indian comfort food and regional recipes, prepared using fire-cooking techniques including the tandoor, hot coals, wood fire and Josper.

Set within an atmospheric Grade II listed building, Khai Khai offers a distinctive dining experience shaped by smoke, spice and the warmth of Indian hospitality.

ZEROX is a city-centre bar and club shaped by a deep love of music, art, fashion and cult cinema. Inspired by everything from punk and disco to jazz and acid house, the space brings together fantastic late-night DJ sets, live music, art, food and drinks under one roof. Expect eclectic sounds, creative energy and a night out all inspired by the DIY spirit of the zines, record collections and subcultures that have shaped its story.

Set within a Grade II listed building, The Central is a traditional Gateshead pub packed with character and history. Just a short walk from the Tyne Bridge, this unusual wedge-shaped Victorian building serves up a fantastic selection of ales, ciders, craft beers, wines and spirits.

Music is a big part of the atmosphere, with regular live gigs bringing local musicians and talented acts through the doors. From live bands and acoustic sets, there’s often something playing in the background while you enjoy a drink. With a rooftop terrace too, it’s a great spot to enjoy live music and drinks.

Head to The Glasshouse to catch some of the best live music, gigs and performances in Gateshead. All kinds of music can be heard here including world, rock, pop, classical, acoustic, indie, country, folk, jazz, electronic and dance music, and its own orchestra Northern Sinfonia is at the heart of The Glasshouse International Centre for Music's classical programme. It's an international home for music and musical discovery.

A small independently run coffee house based underneath the Tyne Bridge just off Newcastle’s picturesque Quayside. If you're looking for a hearty breakfast, then Quay Ingredient is a must visit, serving up homemade loveliness fresh from the true heart of Newcastle. On the menu you can expect food such as Danish pastries, pancakes, breakfast sandwiches and even cereals to try. Quay Ingredient is small, but mighty is and ever so popular, so get there early to grab a table, a strong coffee and a delicious breakfast.

A short ride out of the city centre, you’ll find the Angel of the North. The 20-metre-high structure is an iconic symbol of the North East. You’ve got to experience her up close to truly appreciate the scale. When you’re standing at those enormous feet, craning your neck to take it all in, you’ll understand why this remarkable landmark means so much to locals and beyond. It’s a symbol of our heritage, our pride, and the warm welcome that awaits. Don’t forget your camera, as everyone needs a classic Angel selfie.

Speciality coffee shop across the road from Central Station in Newcastle upon Tyne. Amazing coffee, tasty sandwiches made fresh daily and indulgent cakes and treats to tempt you, including regular deliveries from Proven Goods Co.

With empty coffee sacks transformed into soft furnishings and old crates doubling up as coffee tables, Pink Lane’s urban-inspired, quirky atmosphere fits in well with the assortment of trendy food and drink establishments clustered around the cobbles of Pink Lane. A lovely, relaxed place to sit and read or watch the world go by with a decent cup of coffee.

Set sail on The Canny Lass, NewcastleGateshead’s newest sightseeing experience and get ready to see the city from a whole new perspective. This 98-passenger catamaran offers one-hour city cruises, two-hour country cruises and three-hour sea cruises, so there are plenty ways to take in the sights. If you’re after a quick trip or a longer voyage, the choice is yours. Glide beneath the iconic bridges, take in panoramic views and even tuck into tasty food and drinks from the onboard cafe and licensed bar.

Blackfriars Restaurant and Parlour Bar is an award-winning restaurant where you’ll find traditional-British cooking using local seasonal produce, supplied by nearby farms and markets. The restaurant serves up lunches, afternoon teas and stunning fine-dining multi-course dinners. Set in a beautifully preserved 13th-century friary, it offers a unique atmosphere where history meets modern dining.

Set inside the restored Grade II-listed Worswick Chambers, STACK Newcastle spans three floors, with an outdoor terrace and courtyard bringing together a mix of food, drink and entertainment all under one roof. With plenty of street food vendors, bars and regular live music on the outdoor stage, you can tuck into some good local food, grab a drink and dance the night away to local acts and singers.

O2 City Hall Newcastle prides itself on showcasing some of the finest acts from around the world, welcoming big names from rock and pop alongside artists spanning a wide range of genres. Set within a beautiful Grade II listed venue, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a fantastic night of live music and entertainment.

Freight Island is Newcastle’s newest neighbourhood - an island above the city centre built around food, drink and music inside Eldon Square. Bringing together a mix of independent kitchens, bars and a music venue (coming soon!) Music runs through everything at Freight Island, with a mix of DJs, selectors and live performances from laid-back daytime sets to busier evening sessions and special events. With its season-long programme of music, championing local talent alongside wider names, you’re in for a great night.