Viator Rating : 5 (547 reviews)
Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Newcastle Walking Tour: Uncover City's Hidden History
Overview
The Guided City Walking Tour of Newcastle unveils the secrets of this vibrant city, taking guests on a journey from its Iron Age origins to the modern era. This walking tour explores the most captivating sights and introduces participants to the city's intriguing characters.
Expect to discover Newcastle's historical heart with stops at iconic landmarks like Grainger Town, famed for its stunning architecture, and the bustling Grainger Market, a Victorian-era marketplace. The tour also includes visits to Blackfriars, Newcastle Town Walls, Newcastle Cathedral, and Newcastle Castle, each offering a unique glimpse into the city's past. The tour guide shares the stories and historical context behind each location.
This experience includes an English-speaking tour guide. It excludes food, drinks, and personal expenses. Please note that the tour covers approximately 3.5km (2.2 miles) and involves some steps, road crossings, and uneven pavement. Travelers should check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. In the rare event of bad weather, contact the tour operator to confirm if the tour will proceed. 
Highlights
Explore Newcastle's History: Walk through time from the Iron Age to today.
See Iconic Landmarks: Visit Grainger Town, Newcastle Castle, and more.
Hear Captivating Stories: Learn about the city's famous people and events.
Enjoy a Guided Walk: Let an expert show you the best of Newcastle.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers really liked the tour guide because he knew a lot about the city and shared interesting stories.
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Many people said the tour was a great way to see the main parts of Newcastle.
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Some customers enjoyed learning about the history of Newcastle.
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Customers felt the tour guide was friendly and helpful.
Some customers thought the tour could have been longer or included more places.
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A few people had trouble hearing the guide in busy areas.
The Journey
Grainger Town
Step into Grainger Town, Newcastle's neoclassical heart, a testament to the vision of Richard Grainger and the architectural prowess of John Dobson. Wander through streets lined with grand buildings, a symbol of 19th-century ambition and civic pride. Marvel at Grey's Monument, a towering tribute to Earl Grey, the Prime Minister behind the Great Reform Act of 1832, and delve into the history of this meticulously planned urban masterpiece.
Grainger Market
Explore Grainger Market, a historic covered market that stands as a vibrant hub of commerce and community. Built to replace markets demolished to make way for Grainger Town, it showcases stunning Victorian architecture and offers a diverse array of goods, from fresh produce to artisanal crafts. Experience the bustling atmosphere and discover a slice of Newcastle's everyday life, preserved through the ages.
Blackfriars
Uncover the secrets of Blackfriars, a beautifully preserved medieval friary offering a glimpse into Newcastle's religious past. Explore the ancient cloisters, refectory, and workshops, and learn about the Dominican friars who once called this place home. Discover the mark they left on the city, from their charitable works to their contributions to education and scholarship, in this tranquil oasis amidst the urban bustle.
Newcastle Town Walls
Walk along the remnants of Newcastle's historic Town Walls, a powerful reminder of the city's strategic importance throughout history. Imagine the sieges and battles fought within these walls, particularly the intense siege of 1644 during the English Civil War. Discover the stories behind the towers and gates, and learn about industries such as the Gallowgate leadworks that thrived within the city's defenses. Experience the resilience and strength that defined Newcastle's past.
Newcastle Cathedral
Visit Newcastle Cathedral, a majestic landmark with a rich history, though not the city's oldest ecclesiastical site. Explore its stunning architecture, from its medieval origins to its Victorian renovations, and learn about the evolution of religious life in Newcastle. Discover the stories behind the stained glass windows, the intricate carvings, and the soaring nave, and experience the spiritual heart of the city.
Newcastle Castle
Journey back in time at Newcastle Castle, the imposing fortress that gave the city its name. Explore the ancient ruins, from the remnants of the Roman fort to the Norman keep, and uncover the layers of history that have shaped this iconic landmark. Climb to the top of the castle for panoramic views of the city, and imagine the sieges, battles, and royal visits that have unfolded within its walls. Experience the power and drama of Newcastle's past in this formidable stronghold.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes an English-speaking tour guide who will lead the group through Newcastle's historical sites. It does not include personal expenses like food and drinks. Please be aware that the tour involves walking approximately 2.2 miles (3.5km) with some steps, road crossings, and uneven pavement. It's crucial to check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for the conditions. Meetup location is at [object Object]
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes because you will be walking for a few hours. Also, bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated, especially on warm days.
Review Summary
Customers generally say the Guided City Walking Tour of Newcastle is an engaging and informative experience that thoroughly covers the city's history from ancient to modern times. Positive reviews frequently mention the knowledgeable and personable guides, as well as the manageable walking pace and intimate group size capped at 15 participants. Some travelers note minor challenges with uneven pavements and steps, but overall the accessibility features are appreciated. Negative feedback is rare but occasionally refers to occasional weather-related concerns or logistical adjustments. The tour's start and end points are convenient, and the ability to see iconic sights such as the Newcastle Castle and the High Level Bridge is a highlighted benefit.
Frequently Asked Questions
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