Location & Transportation
The cruise berths are located adjacent to Royal Quays Marina in Newcastle. There isn’t a dedicated cruise terminal building yet, but the area is well-connected by road and public transport.
- Newcastle is easily accessible via major roads such as the A1(M) (north/south) and the A69 (east/west).
- Newcastle Central Station is about nine miles (a 20-minute ride) from the docks, with intercity services to Edinburgh, York, and London. Plus, there’s a Metro from Central Station to Percy Main (approximately a 15–20 minute ride) followed by a 20-minute walk to the terminal.
- Taxis are plentiful with fixed fares to the city center at around £12, though the return journey can be slightly more.
- Some cruise lines offer shuttle services (around 16 Euros per person) the night before departure. If you’re in a group, a taxi might be the best option.
For GPS navigation, enter: “International Ferry Terminal, Royal Quays, North Shields, Tyne & Wear, NE29 6EE.”
Nearby Lodging
Newcastle offers a variety of accommodations ranging from budget-friendly inns to luxury hotels. Many are located in the city center, making it easy to explore the local area on foot.
Nearest Airport
Newcastle International Airport is about 15 miles north of the docks and is reachable in roughly 30 minutes by taxi. The airport is well-served by trains and buses if you prefer public transport.
Sightseeing
Newcastle, or Newcastle-upon-Tyne as it’s sometimes called, has come a long way from its industrial roots to become a vibrant city full of contrasts. I’ve enjoyed exploring both its ancient history and modern flair!
Highlights include:
- Strolling along the River Tyne and taking in a mix of modern art installations and historic buildings.
- Discovering remnants of the past at Hadrian’s Wall – a reminder of the city’s Roman origins.
- Wandering around Grainger Town, where beautiful neoclassical buildings tell stories of the city’s rich heritage.
- Experiencing the innovative Gateshead Millennium Bridge that tilts gracefully at noon connecting Newcastle to Gateshead (tilts run every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday from May through September).
Tours & Excursions
For a guided taste of the city, hop on the Toon Tour open-top sightseeing bus (operated by Go North East) departing from Newcastle Central Station. This hop-on hop-off tour lets you explore key spots at your own pace, with stops including:
- St James’ Park
- The lively Quayside
- BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art
- The Glasshouse International Centre for Music
- Castle Keep
The buses have open and covered top decks, ensuring a great view no matter the weather, and the audio commentary (in English) provides interesting insights into each attraction.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
Newcastle is a shopper’s delight!
- Northumberland Street is the main shopping thoroughfare, renowned for its upscale shops.
- Explore modern shopping centers like Eldon Garden and Monument Mall.
- For something a bit more traditional, check out the Grainger Market with its unique local wares.
- If you have some extra time, the Royal Quays Outlet Centre is just a short walk from the docks and offers a range of designer discounts.
Dining
Newcastle’s dining scene is lively and varied. Whether you’re looking for traditional British pub fare or international cuisine, there’s something for every taste.
- The Quayside area boasts upscale restaurants with scenic river views.
- You’ll also find a range of casual eateries throughout the city, perfect for a quick yet hearty meal.
- Be sure to try some local specialties in one of the trendy bistros or historic pubs.
Culture & Local Events
Newcastle shines with a rich cultural heritage mixed with modern vibrancy.
- The local currency is the British Pound (GBP). Credit cards are widely accepted, but I’d recommend carrying some cash for local markets and smaller shops.
- The city is a hub for music, art, and festivals. Venues such as The Glasshouse International Centre for Music and the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art host concerts, exhibitions, and various cultural events throughout the year.
- Local markets and pop-up events exude the city’s warm community spirit and are well worth a visit.
- Most local shops typically open around 9:00 AM and close in the early evening, though times may vary.
- For your safety, always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. In case of emergencies, dial 999.