Notes from Newcastle: a guide to starting out and what not to miss

Take advantage of all Newcastle has to offer with this guide...

Jemima Ashton-Roberts
5th November 2025
You’ve just moved to a new city, you don’t know your surroundings very well, and you might not have a big group of friends to comfort you. As daunting as this may seem, you are in the best position to make a fresh start and make the most of all your opportunities- and trust me there are a lot.

My first tip would be to get involved! Saying yes is the best thing you can do and the best way to meet new people. Newcastle offers so many societies ranging from sport to education to hobbies. Join one! Try something new and immerse yourself in all it has to offer because future you will not regret it.

Saying yes is the best thing you can do and the best way to meet new people.

Secondly, explore your surroundings. Whether you are familiar with the city or have never visited before living here, there is always somewhere new to be found! Newcastle is home to some amazing cafes and independent shops as well as beautiful parks. Olive and Bean do great affordable breakfast and lunch food, and if you are a pasta lover, Zucchini Pasta Bar serves delicious homemade pasta at good prices. Coffee wise, Jesmond is bursting with incredible local cafes and bakeries. Namely, Local, Pink Lane Bakery and 1901 or, if you are looking for something closer to uni, Claremont Teahouse is excellent for coffees and food such as their renowned bagels.

If you are looking to escape the bustling city centre, Jesmond Dene is beautiful and a tranquil park, or if you are willing to travel a bit, the Tynemouth beach is wonderful. Make the most of having a seaside town right on your doorstep! Going for a swim followed by a coffee and a cake at one of the coffee shops can be the perfect weekend activity.

Maximise what the city has and take every opportunity!

The Town Moore has some tennis courts to hire which are amazing for when the weather is good and you feel like some social exercise. Not to be missed, Quayside and Ouseburn are home to some fantastic bars and markets which should not be overlooked!

I hope this short guide gives you the inspiration to explore and get involved with what’s on offer. My biggest piece of advice would be to say yes to anything and everything. You meet so many new people this way who may end up being your friends for life. Maximise what the city has and take every opportunity!

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