How to Spend Your Summer in Newcastle

About the author: Hi, I’m Lara Parsons! I recently graduated from Newcastle University with a degree in Journalism, Media and Culture. Originally from London, I've loved experiencing the buzz of both cities and I'm excited to share my tips on the best places to explore near you!

Newcastle is a rare city in that it's beautiful no matter the season. That said, the Toon undeniably comes into its own in the summer, with the bright sunshine bringing forth a whole host of possible activities to do in Newcastle. Say goodbye to grey skies and rain – we're not staying indoors this summer!

Throw a glow-up garden party

Living with your friends has many perks, but the ability to have house parties with no curfews and no rules comes out on top. Many student houses have sociable backyards which are practically crying out to be decorated with fairy lights, bunting and outside furniture for summer garden parties. However, if you're aiming to be the hostess with the mostess, you can spruce up a simple friendly gathering with a barbeque – which will attract hordes of hungry students. Homemade burgers, hot dogs, pints and Pimm's… it's all to play for! What a wholesome way to spend your summer evenings.

Hit the beach in Tynemouth

Just a 30-minute metro ride away from Newcastle’s city centre is the coast! Tynemouth is home to King Edward's Bay and Long Sands Beach, which are popular destinations for students on a sunny day – so get there early to bag a spot on the sand and set up camp for the day. Whether you enjoy cold water dips at dawn, tanning in the sun or simply strolling along the beach, Tynemouth is the place for you. With ice cream vans and fish and chip shops just a few minutes walk away, you have every excuse to spend the entire day there.

The evening brings with it new perks. Although it's open all day, Riley's Fish Shack creates a buzz at sunset, providing deck chairs, fire pits and locally sourced seafood that's freshly caught that day. It may be an expensive excursion, but it's certainly worthwhile – one for when the parents pay a visit!

Browse the stalls at independent markets

Newcastle is known for its marketplace culture, which takes place in various areas of the city. Ouseburn Market is held one weekend each month and showcases a rotating mix of local traders; Jesmond Dene Market takes place on the first and third Saturday of every month; Tynemouth Market runs every Saturday and Sunday; and Quayside Market is open every Sunday. Each market showcases a range of food, drink and retail stalls – sourced from local traders and independent businesses.

Activities galore at Exhibition Park

Create your own fun in Exhibition Park, a specific patch of Town Moor. This flat, grassy area is ideal for wholesome picnics with friends, a cheeky game of rounders (if you so happen to have a kit at your disposal), or you can book one of their tennis courts for an hour for just a few pounds. The Urban Green Café is also nearby, in case you get a craving for coffee or need a quick bite to eat.

Exhibition Park is brimming with activities this summer. Parkrun takes place on Town Moor every Saturday at 9am, welcoming both novice runners and seasoned athletes. On the edges of Town Moor, you’ll also find the Wylam Brewery – a grand building serving up a range of local ciders and craft beers to spruce up a sunny day. They also host regular food festivals and live music events throughout summer – check their website to keep up to date with their summer schedule.

On another exciting note, Town Moor will be home to Europe's largest travelling funfair from 20th–29th of June – in the same spot it first launched back in 1882. The Hoppings has over 400 attractions, including the classic teacups, helter skelter and ferris wheel. Entry is free, but individual rides only accept tokens.

Do the rounds at Ouseburn pubs

Ouseburn was made for warm evenings and drinks at dusk. This cosy quarter has a thriving community and is home to a handful of independent pubs and bars, drawing in a diverse crowd and creating a friendly atmosphere. Among many are Tyne Bar, where spending £7 can get you a free meal. The food may change weekly, but the chilled vibes remain consistent. The Cumberland Arms, The Lock Up and Ouseburn Garden should all be on your summer bucket list, too.

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