Living in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne

Consistently voted one of the UK’s favourite student cities, Newcastle is a great place to start your studies – and you’ll be in great company, with a cosmopolitan community of university-goers from across the globe.The city is known for its exciting knowledge, great local and high street shopping, iconic landmarks, friendly locals and rich history. No matter who you are or what you enjoy, Newcastle will feel like home from day one.

Careers in Newcastle

A key player in the mining, shipbuilding and wool industries in years gone by, modern Newcastle has a lot to offer in terms of graduate progression. With an economy that includes corporate headquarters, digital technology, tourism and world-leading research, it’s the perfect city to establish your career.

What makes Newcastle unique?

Newcastle is a truly iconic city in the North of England, with a contrasting blend of industrial heritage and stunning Georgian-era architecture. It is the friendly and modern heart of England.

• Cosmopolitan city with a bustling atmosphere and friendly locals

• Mix of industrial heritage, Georgian architecture and modern touches

• Fantastic nightlife with a wide range of bars and clubs to enjoy

• Rich arts scene with countless museums, theatres, galleries and live music venues

• Compact city centre that is easy and safe to explore

What is there to do for fun in Newcastle?

Whether you prefer to unwind by walking across stunning countryside or by getting friends together for an escape room, Newcastle has something for you. You can enjoy:

• the stunning Northumbrian coastline – with unspoilt beaches, areas of outstanding natural beauty and historic sites like Lindisfarne and Bamburgh Castle.

• incredible shopping – from top high street brands in the Eldon Square shopping centre to independent retailers and Tynemouth’s weekly market, Newcastle is a shopper’s paradise.

• world-famous nightlife – from top-class theatre and concerts at the Sage to some of the UK’s best bars and clubs, you’ll never run out of things to do

• Harry Potter’s castle and gardens – many of the Hogwarts scenes were filmed at nearby Alnwick Castle, which is a great day out for fans of the films

For more information about everything Newcastle has to offer, check the latest updates on the Newcastle Gateshead Tourism website.

Nightlife in Newcastle

Where can I go to watch sport in Newcastle?

Football is the sport of choice for many ‘Geordies’ (an affectionate name for people from Newcastle) – and their professional games, are played by Newcastle United at St James’ Park. Newcastle United fans are known for their passion, and match day is a big event in the city.If you’re not that into football, the Newcastle Falcons Rugby Union team play at Kingston Park in the Rugby Premiership – and the Newcastle Eagles are the most successful basketball team in Britain.

Where can I discover delicious food in Newcastle?

While Newcastle might be a city in the North of England, its rich history and multicultural community is evident in its food. In Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, you’ll find authentic restaurants serving cuisine from every corner of the globe. You could try:

• a Chinese fusion feast in Chinatown’s Nudo Noodle House

• Japanese teppanyaki hotplates at Fujiyama’s

• the best pizza in town at Pizza Punks

• The Bake One, for authentic lebanese wraps and salads

Newcastle also has a number of local dishes that are too good to miss. Fancy getting to know the city’s food culture? Look out for:

• Stotties – a type of round, white, soft bread that’s perfect for sandwiches and sharing

• Greggs bakeries can be found all over the city, and are a Newcastle institution – a few of them are even open 24 hours a day!

• Pease pudding – a spread made from split peas, perfect with ham and butter in a sandwich.

Shopping in Newcastle

What are the main festivals and events in Newcastle?

Newcastle is home to some great festivals and events throughout the year, including:

• Mouth of the Tyne Festival - a varied mix of musical acts.

• Tipping Point Live - a small music festival taking place in multiple venues in Ouseburn Valley.

• Winter Festival - an annual celebration featuring New Year fireworks and an ice skating rink.

• The Great North Run - The world's largest half marathon, every September.

• Newcastle Poetry Festival - celebrating some of the best poetry from around the world.

How much does it cost to live in Newcastle?

After a few weeks of living in Newcastle, you’ll begin to have a better understanding of what things cost. This is the ideal time to look at your finances and create your budget so you can keep track of your money. The below figures are an estimated monthly budget for the main expenses you’ll have, excluding tuition and accommodation fees. The actual amounts you spend may vary but this is a useful guide.

• Food – £150

• Entertainment and social activities – £175

• Travel (local) – £30

• Clothes and toiletries – £60

• Other expenses e.g. haircut – £40

What is the best way to travel in and around Newcastle?

Newcastle is a compact city, so making your way around on foot or on a bike is often a great option.The Tyne and Wear Metro rail system (much like the London Underground) is one of the best ways for getting around the city – it services the city centre, airport and railway station, and there are stations close to the campus.

If you need to travel a little further, the central train station offers quick connections to London, Scotland and the UK's major cities.And the Metro has over 60 stations across Newcastle for easy access to a host of locations, including Gateshead, North Tyneside and Sunderland.

A bus ticket will cost you around £3 and Metro tickets range from around £2 to £4.

You can use your Newcastle University Student ID to buy tickets and travel around the city on the Metro. Prices start from £26 for four weeks.