To say Newcastle is a historic cathedral city is the understatement of the century. There are more Newcastle landmarks than you can shake a selfie stick at and you'd need months to map them all.
Whether you're an architecture buff, amateur historian or just plain curious, this northern powerhouse city has something for you. In this guide, we'll explore some of the most iconic historic sites in Newcastle, as well as offer some insights on where to rest up after a hard day of exploring the city's past.
Keep it Real at Newcastle Castle
Known as 'The Castle' to locals, this Grade I listed building dates back all the way to Roman times when the site was used for a fort and settlement. The original 'Motte and Bailey' castle was built in 1080 by the eldest son of William the Conqueror.Though the fort and original castle have long been lost to time, visitors can still visit the Castle Keep (pictured) and Black Gate.
Historians can not only enjoy exploring the ancient passageways and chambers but also hop up to the roof for an amazing panoramic view of Newcastle. The site is managed by the Old Newcastle Project who keep visitors' interest in its history piqued through events like film nights, mediaeval taverns, live theatre and even mediaeval talks.
For the true VIP experience, book an evening tour for £12 per person where a guide will help you discover the castle's secrets after everyone else has gone home for the day. The castle is not fully accessible, as it contains many winding stairs, so make sure to call ahead if any of your party have mobility issues.
Carry a Tune at Newcastle Cathedral
Originally called the Cathedral Church of St Nicholas, this site has been a place of Christian worship since 1091, though the current building was completed in 1350.
As an ancient building, the architecture of Newcastle Cathedral itself is fascinating, given it has a 'lantern spire'. There are also a number of monuments, fascinating stain-glass windows and ledger stones offering fascinating insight into the city's past.
The official website specifically states that visitors are welcome to explore the building and entry is free of charge.
The Cathedral hosts a huge range of activities throughout the year and has its own dedicated childrens' choir. There are also a number of musical events for adults such as Choral Evenson
Explore the Gothic Architecture of St. Mary's
St. Mary's Cathedral Newcastle is Roman Catholic, as evidenced by the huge statue to Cardinal Basil Hume in the Monument Garden just outside the building. It was inaugurated as a Cathedral in 1850, making it the very first in Newcastle.
Lying along Clayton Street, the cathedral was designed by pioneering architect Augustus Pugin, who pioneered the 'Gothic Revival' style. (He also famously designed the interior of the Houses of Parliament in Westminster).
Pugin has left his mark on St. Mary's elegant needle spire, richly carved altars and Lady statue, as well as the wall and floor-tile work which was designed in the neo-Gothic style.
Newer features include the magnificent organ and choir gallery, though as a Grade I listed building, the original features of the Cathedral have been preserved.
St. Mary's newsletter states that all are welcome and there is no charge for admission.
Explore the All New All Saints
Based in Lower Pilgrim Street, the site of All Saints has been used for Christian worship since at least 1286. At the end of the 18th century the old Gothic church was pulled down and the All Saints Church Newcastle knows today was built.
It is the only elliptical church building in England and is still intriguing despite the loss of many of the original monuments, relics and windows of the original building. The building was damaged by flood damage from 2010 - 2015 but in 2019, a comprehensive restoration project was begun allowing church services to resume on the site.
The church is open for self-guided tours every Thursday from 1pm to 4pm. Admission is free and visitors don't have to book in advance : you just need to show up and start looking. The building is also open to the public on Newcastle Heritage open days.
Get Involved at St. Thomas
Nestled in the heart of Newcastle, this church is one of the city centre's most prominent landmarks being situated close to both universities and the Haymarket shopping district.
The original site housed a chapel supposedly erected by one of the murderers of St. Thomas Beckett in the late 12th Century but there's no consensus on when exactly the original building was founded.
The present church was built from 1827 - 1830 by famous Newcastle architect John Dobson, in an elegant Gothic style.
From 2019 - 2022 a major renovation took place, which while being respectful of the church's status as a listed building introduced new partitions for meeting rooms and spaces in former church aisles. The 19th Century benches have also been replaced by stackable chairs. The 1837 galleries have been sealed off with glass, so can still be enjoyed by visitors.
St. Thomas' has a reputation for getting involved with campaigning for social causes including 'Make Poverty History'. The building is also open from 12:00 - 14:00 from Monday to Thursday for visitors who want to explore the modern renovations and/or classic architecture.
Crash at Kabbannas
Although we've not been around quite as long as some of these historic Newcastle landmarks, at Kabannas Newcastle (a mere 5-minutes from Grey's Quarter), we offer an affordable and comfortable place to rest after a long day's sightseeing.
We have suites that can host up to 14 people, with two bathrooms and a lounge area featuring a Smart TV. Prices start from just £20 per person.
If you need a touch more solitude after your landmark hunt, consider staying in one of our double rooms – each decked out with an ensuite bathroom and free towels.
Why wait? Seize the moment and book your Newcastle rest stop today!!
