The Big Welcome: Your Guide to Newcastle Hot Spots

Here are some places you should check out in the Toon this welcome week.

Scarlett Palmer
16th September 2025
Image Credit: Newcastle University
Starting University in a brand-new place can feel exciting but also a little overwhelming. Luckily, Welcome Week is packed with opportunities to explore, meet new people, and get a feel for both campus life and the city. From buzzing student events to hidden gems around Newcastle, here’s your guide for the hot spots you shouldn’t miss as a fresher. 

Starting with campus, the clubs and societies fair is an absolute must. Whether you’re into music, sport or culture, or you're just looking for a fun community to join, this is where you’ll discover the huge variety of socials on offer, and information on how to get involved with them. Located in the sports hall at the top of campus, there really is something for everyone, whether you’re a Greggs enthusiast a Swiftie or keen to play sports, you’ll find something.

Another hot spot for freshers is the Student Union, not only can you stop by for a cheeky Wetherspoons with your new flatmates and friends, but you can also find out lots of information you need; there is information about nights out and being safe, but also, lots of helping hands and smiling faces. And don’t forget to take a stroll around campus to see how beautiful it is! Starting at the Student Forum, there will be lots of bright posters and fliers with information about Welcome Week, and the infamous “Big Heads”. Then, walk through the arches, stop and take in the flowers and greenery of the Quad and walk down Lovers’ Lane, taking in our campus sites. 

While campus has plenty to offer, Newcastle itself is teeming with hotspots to explore during Fresher’s Week. Start with Grey Street, lined with historic architecture and cosy cafes, it is the perfect place for dinner with parents or meeting with new friends. From there, head down to Quayside to see the iconic bridges, and a laid-back vibe alongside the river. Of course, we can’t ignore that Newcastle is known for its nightlife and drinking culture, so here are some of our personal recommendations! ‘The Hancock’ is just a short stroll from campus, with a lively student atmosphere, delicious food, and great student deals. Just a short walk away, Luther’s and The Five Swans, are also student favourites, and with lots of affordable food and drink. If it’s a big Welcome Week out that you’re after, Bigg Market is where you’ll end up. Along with the nightclubs, student nights and loud music, Bigg Market has lots of bars and fun atmospheres to offer; Cosy Joes for Karaoke, and Tropicana’s £1 Jagerbombs, there are lots of fun spots to seek out.  

There is obviously lots of choice, and as a Fresher there are many Hot Spots on campus and in the city to consider. So here is a quick Fresher’s Guide: 

  • Start the day with a stroll through campus, making sure to see the Arches, The Quad and Lovers Lane
  • Then attend the Freshers clubs and societies fair, seeing the unique social groups our university has to offer!
  • Follow this with a trip to Luther’s or Hancock for a cheeky drink, or a bite to eat
  • Lastly, end the evening your way- whether that’s a night out with your new flatmates and friends, or a peaceful stroll along Quayside. 

This is your guide to Newcastle! Spend the week exploring, socialising, and taking it all in. We wish you well in your first moments at Newcastle University, and hope this helps highlight where to start in your new home. 

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