Exploring more of the UK doesn't have to be expensive - in fact, there are many different ways everyone can discover Britain on a budget. If you've already explored our suggestions on the best free things to do in Birmingham, join CrossCountry as we head further up north to Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, or as locals call it, ‘the Toon’.
Discovery Museum
Head to the Discovery Museum to immerse yourself in the history of the North East. Entry to the museum is completely free of charge (donations are welcome), and visiting the museum is a must if you’re visiting Newcastle on a budget. With changing exhibitions, as well as permanent displays, a visit to the Discovery Museum is educational, fun, and best of all, free.
The Discovery Museum is fully accessible, with level access throughout and three lifts. Most audio points are accompanied by text versions and select exhibits feature BSL interpretations. Families can also pre-book accessible guided tours with the curatorial team, making this museum an excellent choice for an inclusive and accessible day out.
The Baltic
The Baltic Art Centre is located on the Gateshead side of the river, close to the Sage and Millennium Bridge. The Baltic showcases some fantastic contemporary and experimental artwork as well as portraying how these art pieces have affected individuals and communities. Head to the fourth and fifth floors for phenomenal views of the Quayside and city centre.
Visit the plant-filled Front Room for a cup of tea and a warm, community-focused atmosphere. The Baltic encourages visitors to feel at home and stay as long as they like, even allowing guests to bring their own packed lunches. This welcoming initiative is part of Newcastle's Warm Spaces Network, which offers free, inclusive spaces across the city to everyone—no questions asked.
Ouseburn Farm
Tucked under Byker Bridge in the quaint Ouseburn valley, is Ouseburn Farm. A free, green space where you can spend time with all manner of farm animals, including pigs, sheep, rabbits, and guinea pigs. Ouseburn Farm is a not-for-profit business that offers opportunities to learn about farming and sustainability. It also provides fun arts and crafts activities - a must-see farm when visiting Newcastle with children.
The farm hosts a variety of workshops year-round, including sessions tailored for adults with learning disabilities, difficulties, and autism. Participants have the chance to interact with the animals, which can help improve sensory tolerance and foster connections with others. Additionally, gardening and kitchen workshops are offered, providing a great opportunity to enhance observational and motor skills while improving both mental and physical wellbeing.
NewcastleGateshead Quayside
With miles of pathways that follow the river, a walk along the Quayside is enjoyable for all the family. Stop by the ‘beach’ in summer or get some exercise at the outdoor gym. If you want to travel further along the river towards the coast, why not consider hiring a bike? Whether you walk, run or ride, the views are second-to-none and there are many attractions, restaurants and bars you can stop off at along the way.
Every Sunday, the Quayside Market sets up shop along the river. The market features all manner of interesting products from independent sellers, including local and international street food and handmade items.
Newcastle’s parks
As well as being a thriving city, Newcastle also has plenty of gorgeous green spaces where you can relax, people watch or play sports. Smack bang in the city centre, Leazes Park is a lovely space to do just this. Relax with a picnic or hire a boat on the park’s central lake. If you’re headed to Jesmond, a visit to Jesmond Dene is a necessity on a sunny day. There you will find the free Pets Corner with alpacas, pot-bellied pigs and more.
Jesmond Dene actually acts as a vital wildlife corridor for a number of endangered species, including Kingfishers and Red Squirrels. It's a place for both people and wildlife to enjoy safety and tranquillity in the heart of the city.
The Seven Bridges
Newcastle has six bridges that offer fabulous views of the river. If you have the chance, it’s worth heading down to the Quayside at night-time too, to witness the spectacular multi-coloured sequence of The Gateshead Millennium Bridge. If you’re there during the day, you might be lucky enough to see the bridge “wink” and let passing ships through.
The Tyne Bridge is perhaps the most iconic and connects the city to Gateshead across the River Tyne. It's steel arch design has become a striking and defining feature of the skyline. The bridge also plays a central role in the Great North Run, acting as one of the most memorable points in the race. Runners cross it early in the course, greeted by all the cheering crowds and striking views of the quayside.
Great North Museum: Hancock
The aesthetically pleasing building that sits near Newcastle University, holds the Great North Museum: Hancock. It was created to house the growing collections of the Natural History Society of Northumbria, and there are exhibitions that will interest the whole family, including a planetarium and the Mouse House for under 5's. The museum is free to enter and is open seven days a week.
The Angel of the North
If you’re prepared to hop on a bus, The Angel of the North is a must-see landmark whilst you’re in the North East. Free to visit and walk around, the landmark is a reminder of the region’s character and history and one of the most recognisable pieces of public art ever produced. Created by sculptor Anthony Gormley and installed in 1998, the Angel stands 20 meters tall with a wingspan of 54 meters, symbolising strength and resilience. You can easily reach it from the city centre by catching the 21 Angel bus from Haymarket.
Affordable Places to Eat in Newcastle
Eating in Newcastle doesn’t have to break the bank. Of course, there are plenty of fine dining options, but there are budget friendly alternatives that are loved by tourists and locals alike.
Grainger Market
Grainger Market is a great place to have a wander, but it also has some delicious food options, with Turkish, Chinese, Italian, and other cultural delicacies all under one roof. With almost all options doing special offers, you are bound to bag a bargain. Get some pork and cabbage dumplings from Dumpling & Bun or head to The French Oven Bakery and order “yesterday’s bakes” at hugely reduced prices.
Eat4Less
A favourite amongst students, Eat4Less is located on Northumberland Street and offers great value for money on anything from paninis, to jacket potatoes and bagel pizzas (yes, that’s a thing). You can get a full English or an 8” pizza, fries and a soft drink for next to nothing.
Thali Tray
Newcastle’s first craft brewery and Indian street food joint, Thali Tray is located in Arch 2, Ouseburn. Catering for meat eaters, vegetarians and vegans, Thali Tray has something for everyone. Outdoor seating is available, and Thali Tray even provides blankets for ‘non-Geordies’ when it gets a bit chilly. For a small price you can get the statement Thali Tray, which includes two curries, an onion seed naan or puri bread, a soyawadi tikka skewer, cardamom turmeric rice, lime pickle and fresh chillies.
How to get to Newcastle by Train
Newcastle is well-connected with direct CrossCountry services from several major UK cities. You can travel conveniently from Birmingham New Street, Bristol Temple Meads, or Nottingham. If you're coming from a nearby city, trains from Durham or Darlington offer a quick journey. Just hop on a CrossCountry train to enjoy a comfortable ride.
If you’re planning an affordable trip to Newcastle, don’t forget to book Advance rail tickets via our website or the CrossCountry app. Before you travel, make sure to check scheduled train times to find the best journey for you. If you need more information, you can contact us here.
Written by Julia