Newcastle

Newcastle balances a spirited riverside city with quick access to Northumberland's celebrated coast and countryside, making days out genuinely varied. Straddling the River Tyne near the North Sea, the city lies within reach of golden beaches, castle-topped headlands and inland waterfalls. Our guides bring together the best beaches, quiet hidden gems, tumbling waterfalls and standout places to visit, from a short hop to the seaside at the mouth of the Tyne to fuller days exploring the coast and hills further north.

Best Beaches Near Newcastle

King Edward's Bay at the Tyne mouth, Embleton Bay and Sugar Sands rank among the best beaches near Newcastle, on the great sandy coast of Northumberland.

Best Places to Visit Near Newcastle

A short hop down the Tyne, the best places to visit near Newcastle run from the Grainger Market and Lit & Phil to Tynemouth Priory and its outdoor pool.

Best Waterfalls Near Newcastle

North and south of Newcastle the uplands hold grand waterfalls, from High Force and Low Force to Hareshaw Linn and Ashgill Force, each a drive into the hills.

Hidden Gems Near Newcastle

The Grainger Market, wooded Jesmond Dene and the Roman fort at Arbeia count among the hidden gems near Newcastle, from the quayside to the old streets.

Top Beaches Day Trips from Newcastle

Best beaches near Newcastle sit on both sides of the Tyne, from Sandhaven and King Edward's Bay to Seaton Sluice, Whitburn and the wide Newbiggin East Beach.

Top Hidden Gems Day Trips from Newcastle

The Grainger Market, the Lit and Phil and leafy Jesmond Dene number among Newcastle's hidden gems, most a short stroll or bus ride from the city centre.

Top Waterfalls Day Trips from Newcastle

Newcastle makes a fine waterfall base, with Hareshaw Linn in the Northumberland hills and High Force off in Teesdale, two very different days out to the west.

What are the best beaches near Newcastle?

The Northumberland and Tyneside coast offers superb sandy beaches, from lively seaside towns near the city to vast, castle-backed sweeps further north. Our beach guides cover the closest options and longer day trips, so you can match the outing to families, surfers or a bracing coastal walk.

Where are the best waterfalls near Newcastle?

The countryside west and north of the city hides several attractive falls among woodland and moorland. Our waterfalls guide gathers the best to seek out, both nearby and as day trips; wear sturdy footwear and take care near the water, as rocks can be slippery after rain.

What are the best day trips from Newcastle?

Newcastle is an excellent base for exploring the Northumberland coast and countryside, with beaches, castles, waterfalls and hidden gems all within reach. Our day-trip guides highlight the best options by car or Metro, letting you swap the city for open coast and hills in around an hour.