Spring is close enough to touch, and with it comes some of the best days out with your friends, your partner, or yourself (who doesn’t love a good solo date?). Along with its bustling nightlife, Newcastle has many secret, and not-so-secret, gems that make it the perfect Spring destination.
From art to artisanal beer, here are the eight best ways to spend this Spring in Newcastle.
Only a short metro ride away, Jesmond Dene is the epitome of hidden gems in Newcastle. This idyllic park is a fan favourite amongst students, and it’s no surprise why. From the peaceful waterfall to the boating lake, Jesmond Dene is the perfect spring day out for some fresh air and a clear mind.
In case you didn’t already know, Newcastle is home to an array of pet cafés. My personal favourites are Mog on the Tyne and Dog and Scone. With only a small entry fee and no requirement to buy any food or drinks, these cafés make the perfect activity for rainy spring days when you’re missing your furry friends at home.
Hidden in the heart of Ouseburn, this charity farm is completely free to the public (with donations always welcome). Here you can find sheep, ducks, a very friendly cow, and even goats that you can take on walks. Ouseburn is also home to many lovely pubs and restaurants, making it the perfect location for a Sunday stroll.
If you haven’t already been to the Quayside market, you’ve probably been living under a rock. Nevertheless, it must be said that the Sunday market is still an ideal spring day out.
Fancying a market but getting a bit tired of the Quayside? Just hop on the metro to Tynemouth any Saturday or Sunday to browse over 150 stalls. It’s also undercover, so no need to worry about the weather. The beach is only a short walk away, so if you happen to go on a day of good weather, why not join everyone in a swim? End the day with dinner at a local bistro and watch the sunset before returning to the toon. Sounds perfect to me.
This huge park is hidden right in plain sight, and just a short walk from campus. Don’t be fooled by its emptiness over winter, as soon as the weather reaches 15 degrees, you’ll be able to find a flock of students sunbathing at Leazes Park.
I may be being a bit optimistic here, but as soon as April hits you’ll most likely be able to find me at the nearest beer garden, come rain or shine. Right next to campus is Crows Nest, which has a beer garden hidden away. Alternatively, Urban Garden on the Quayside is the ultimate beer garden.
Newcastle is home to an array of art galleries, perfect to visit on a rainy spring day, including The Baltic, The Laing, and The Biscuit Factory which are all free entry. As well as The Hancock Gallery on campus, which is free entry for all students.