If you’re dreaming of the perfect festive getaway this holiday season, look no further than Newcastle as your perfect festive break destination. With its renowned North-East charm, vibrant Christmas markets, stunning light displays, and rich history, Newcastle offers everything you need for a memorable Christmas break. Whether you’re here to shop, visit local attractions, see a festive show, or simply enjoy a stroll along one of the many beautiful beaches close to the city, Newcastle has it all!
Here are our top 12 reasons why Newcastle is the ultimate Christmas destination and how Week2Week can make your stay even more magical!
1. Bustling Christmas Markets Full of Local Charm
Newcastle’s Christmas markets are a seasonal highlight, offering unique gifts and a cosy atmosphere perfect for festive shopping. Located around Grey’s Monument and Old Eldon Square, the markets feature wooden huts selling handmade crafts, local produce, and artisan treats. Savour delicious sausages from Geordie Bangers and warm up with a mulled wine or hot chocolate.
- Step Back in Time at Beamish Museum
Experience a traditional Christmas like never before at Beamish Museum. Step back in time to the 1900s and 1950s to see how Christmas was celebrated in the past. Stroll through the beautifully decorated streets, enjoy festive food, and catch a classic Christmas movie at the museum’s 1950s grand cinema. Beamish’s unique festive experience is one you’ll never forget.
- Iconic Geordie Christmas Traditions
No festive trip to Newcastle is complete without a visit to Fenwick’s iconic Christmas window. This enchanting display is a beloved tradition, with elaborate themes that captivate visitors of all ages.
- Scrooge Comes to Town
This Christmas, catch the fantastic performance of A Christmas Carol at Northern Stage. Scrooge is meaner and greedier than ever in this family favourite adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic tale.
- Glide your Way into the Festive Season
Enjoy a real ice-skating experience by the coast at Ocean Beach Pleasure Park in South Shields, or in Newcastle’s City Centre try the ice rink outside Centre for Life.
- Warm Pubs, Cosy Cafés, and Festive Bars
Newcastle’s pubs, cafés, and festive bars truly embrace the holiday season! For the traditional pub lovers try The Ship Inn in Ouseburn Valley, for cocktails with a twist try The Vampire Rabbit or for something a little different, visit Moosenwirt, an alpine themed bar situated on Grey Street in the city’s heart. This cosy spot brings the magic of Austrian après ski to Newcastle, offering rustic ski lodge vibes that will warm your winter spirit. Enjoy a festive tipple, such as mulled wine or hot chocolate, while savouring classic alpine dishes like bratwurst sausages and pretzels.
If you’re more of a coffee and cake person, Newcastle’s café scene doesn’t disappoint. Escape the winter chill at local gems like Pink Lane Coffee, Earnest’s Cafe and Bar, or Deep North, where festive lattes and seasonal pastries await.
- Exceptional Christmas Shopping
Whether you’re finding special gifts for friends and family or treating yourself, Newcastle and Gateshead are a shopaholics dream! Explore high street favourites at Eldon Square, Gateshead Metrocentre, or unique treasures at Newcastle’s indoor Grainger Market and Central Arcade.
- Family Friendly Festive Activities
From enchanting pantomimes at the Theatre Royal and family favourites at the Tyneside Cinema to light trails like Northern Lights at Leazes Park, the city offers endless family fun.
- The Spirit of Christmas at the Coast
Tynemouth has lots to explore with its fabulous boutique shops, cafes and restaurants. At weekends you can enjoy the wonderful Tynemouth Market which is brimming with independent traders, with local artists, jewellery makers, food and drink outlets and so much more!
Further along the coast in South Shields, on Friday 6th December, enjoy the spectacular winter light parade which starts along Ocean Road heading towards the sea front and ending at Bents Park.
- Experience Newcastle and Gateshead in a Whole New Light with Quayside Glow
Embark on a magical night-time adventure with Quayside Glow, available via CBK Adventures an unforgettable kayak experience along the iconic River Tyne. Paddle beneath the sparkling Gateshead Millennium Bridge and immerse yourself in the vibrant urban lights that illuminate Newcastle and Gateshead.
- Not Forgetting…New Year’s Eve Celebrations
Welcome in the New Year by enjoying Laser Light City created by BAFTA award winning artist Seb Lee-Delisle. Enjoy one of three spectacular light shows on New Year’s Eve at 6pm, 9pm and midnight. The best views are opposite the Baltic and last 12 minutes.
- The Famous Geordie Welcome
Last but certainly not least, what makes Newcastle truly special all year round is its people! Known for their friendliness and warmth, Geordies will make your Christmas break an unforgettably warm experience.
Christmas Breaks with Week2Week Serviced Apartments
Make this festive season one to remember. From festive markets to timeless traditions, Newcastle has it all—and Week2Week is here to make your Christmas break truly special. Book your Christmas short stay accommodation with Week2Week today and enjoy a cosy home away from home with all the holiday trimmings!
