A day in Newcastle: these are my 5 favorite must-dos

Themini-cruise to Newcastle gives you about five hours to explore the city. That might sound short, but it's enough to get a taste of what makes this English city so great. These are my favorite spots after many visits.

My favourite places in Newcastle:

1. Cloister Café - for the best English breakfast
2. Grainger Market - wander among the locals
3. Marks & Spencer - Percy Pigs and a Boat Picnic
4. The Geordie Witch - crystals, magic and gifts
5. Zaap Thai - lunch as if you were in Bangkok

💡 Tip: There's currently a Black Friday offer with 50% off this mini cruise . Order now and book your weekend getaway sometime before April 1st—a great prospect!

Newcastle isn't a slick tourist town, and that's precisely why I love it so much. It's raw, genuine, and full of character. A working-class city with pubs on every corner, beautiful bridges over the Tyne, old churches, and surprisingly nice shops. The people are friendly, the atmosphere is relaxed, and you can feel the history everywhere. Don't expect Instagram perfection here, but a city where you can easily wander around.

1 - Wake up at Cloister Café

My day in Newcastle always starts in the same place: the Cloister Café . Tucked away in the courtyard of the magnificent St Mary's Cathedral, this café feels like an oasis of calm in the heart of the city. As soon as you step inside, the hustle and bustle melts away.

They serve a truly excellent English breakfast here. Think fried eggs, bacon, sausages, fried tomatoes, toast, and all the trimmings. The coffee comes in a large mug, and the homemade cakes are every bit as delicious as they look. The staff is friendly, the atmosphere is warm, and the prices are surprisingly low. After breakfast, I always pop into the cathedral to light a candle. The church itself is beautiful, and it's just a lovely way to start the day.

2 - Strolling through Grainger Market

From the Cloister Café, it's a 10-minute walk to Grainger Market , one of the finest covered markets. This market has been around since 1835, and you can feel the difference. It's a Grade I listed building with beautiful, bright halls, antique tiled floors, and over a hundred small shops and stalls.

Here you'll find everything: butchers, greengrocers, vintage clothing, flowers, gift shops, and street food. It's the perfect place to experience the real city, among the locals doing their shopping. A fun detail: the world's smallest Marks & Spencer is also located here, the original Penny Bazaar from 1895. It's a must-see.

3 - Shopping at Eldon Square and Marks & Spencer

Eldon Square is just around the corner and is the city's largest indoor shopping center. You'll find all the well-known chains there, as well as British stores you won't find in the Netherlands. It's handy if you're looking for something specific or just want to browse. It's across from Grainger Market, so you can easily walk between them.

The large Marks & Spencer in Eldon Square, on Northumberland Street, is a regular stop. It's extensive, well-organized, and exactly what you'd expect from an M&S. We never leave empty-handed. Percy Pigs for the kids, shortbread, delicious ready-made salads, and always something tasty from the food hall. This is also where I pick up sausages, chips, and cider for the return trip on the ferry. Tradition.

4 - The Geordie Witch for something special

A shop I have to visit again and again: The Geordie Witch . It's the UK's largest crystal shop, run by owner Faye, who wants to make witchcraft and magic accessible to everyone.

Think crystals of all shapes and sizes, gemstones, tarot cards, heavenly-smelling wax melts, jewelry, and books on witchcraft. The atmosphere is warm and a little magical. Whether you believe in it or not, it's simply a wonderful shop to browse. Perfect for a sweet gift or just for yourself.

5 - Lunch at Zaap Thai

Have some time to kill and fancy a quick lunch? Zaap Thai at 117 Newgate Street is highly recommended. The moment you walk in, you'll feel like you're in Bangkok: neon lights, a tuk-tuk at the entrance, an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs at work, and colorful decorations everywhere. It's a feast for the eyes.

The food is delicious, fast, and affordable. They have over eighty dishes on the menu, from pad Thai to spicy curries and crispy appetizers. It's walk-in only, so no reservations are needed. A quick, good meal and then on to the next stop.

Five hours is enough

With five hours in Newcastle, you can't see everything, but you don't need to. A good breakfast, a stroll through the market, some shopping, and maybe a quick lunch—that's just enough for a great day. And honestly? It just makes the city even more fun. You always have a reason to come back.

💡 Tip: Interested in the minicruise from IJmuiden? Then also read my article about the Newcastle minicruise with all the practical tips for your trip .