Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Newcastle upon Tyne is a vibrant city on the River Tyne in North East England, famous for its industrial heritage, a lively culture, and a friendly welcome. While the cruise port is located a few miles from the city center, it is an excellent gateway to explore a city that seamlessly blends a rich history with a modern, cosmopolitan energy. From its iconic bridges to its charming streets and world-class museums, Newcastle offers a truly authentic and exciting experience for cruisers.
⛵ Port Introduction
Your ship will dock at the Port of Tyne's International Passenger Terminal in North Shields, which is located on the North Bank of the Tyne River about 9 miles east of the city center of Newcastle. This is a commercial port, and for safety reasons, you are not permitted to walk off the ship and into the town. A complimentary shuttle bus service will be provided by the port, which will take you from the gangway to the cruise terminal building.
⚓ Terminal Information
The International Passenger Terminal is a modern facility with a large passenger lounge. It is designed to handle a large number of passengers efficiently. The walk from the ship to the terminal is on a flat surface. Once you are in the terminal, you can get a taxi or take public transportation to get to the city center.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
The terminal has a variety of amenities for your comfort. You'll find a small shop, a bistro cafe, and a tourist information desk with friendly staff who can provide maps and directions. There are restrooms, ATMs, and a free Wi-Fi connection. A shuttle bus service is available for a small fee, which takes you to Newcastle Central Station. Tour pickups and a taxi stand are located just outside the terminal.
🗣️ Language
The local language is English. While you'll encounter a distinct "Geordie" accent, it is easy to understand. You will have no problem navigating or communicating.
💰 Money
The currency is the British Pound (£), just as it is in the rest of the United Kingdom. Be aware that Scottish banknotes, issued by several different banks in Scotland, may look different from the banknotes you would find in England. They are legal tender throughout the UK, but some shops outside Northern England may be less familiar with them. Credit cards are widely accepted everywhere, and ATMs are easy to find at the port and throughout the city.
🚗 Transportation
To get from the cruise port to the main city of Newcastle, you have a few options:
· Shuttle Bus: Many cruise lines offer a shuttle bus service to Newcastle Central Station, which is a convenient way to get to the city center. This may be free or for a small fee. Check with your cruise line for specific details.
· Taxis: Taxis are available at the cruise terminal. The ride to the city center takes about 20-30 minutes and will cost around £25-£30.
· Public Metro: The closest Metro station, Percy Main, is a 20-25 minute walk from the cruise terminal. From there, you can take a metro to Newcastle Central Station. This is an affordable option, but the walk to the station is not recommended if you have mobility issues.
♿ Accessibility
Newcastle upon Tyne has an accessibility rating of 5 out of 10. While the cruise terminal is modern and accessible, and a shuttle bus from the ship to the terminal is available, the walk to the Metro station is a bit long. The city center is generally flat, but some of the historic areas, with their cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces, can be a challenge to navigate.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get to the city center from the cruise port is to take a taxi or the shuttle bus provided by your cruise line. The ride is short and efficient, and it will drop you off in the heart of the city, where you can then explore on foot.
🚽 Toilet
Public toilets are available in Newcastle, especially at major tourist attractions, shopping centers, and museums. They are generally clean and free to use.
💊 Drugstore
· Boots Pharmacy: 40-46 Donegall Place, Newcastle, BT1 5BB. This is a short taxi ride from the cruise terminal.
· Superdrug: 32-36 Castle St, Newcastle, BT1 1GH.
✨ Authentic Experience
1. Walk the Quayside and See the Bridges: For a taste of the city's unique industrial heritage, take a walk along the Quayside. You can see the seven bridges that span the River Tyne, including the famous Gateshead Millennium Bridge and the Tyne Bridge. It's a great place to people-watch, grab a coffee at a local cafe, and get a feel for the local atmosphere.
2. Dine on a Stottie Cake or a Pasty: For a truly authentic Geordie (local) meal, find a local bakery and try a stottie cake, a round, flatbread that is used for sandwiches. You can also try a pasty, a traditional meat or vegetable-filled pastry. It's a delicious and affordable way to experience the local culinary scene.
3. Visit the Victoria Tunnel: For a unique and fascinating experience, take a tour of the Victoria Tunnel, a 19th-century wagonway that runs under the city. The tours are led by local guides who are a wealth of knowledge about the city's industrial history. It is a great way to learn about the city's past.
