Spend Summer in Newcastle
Why Newcastle should be on your summer holiday shortlist
When people think of Newcastle, they likely think of the Tyne Bridge, the football club and perhaps the Brown Ale.
Newcastle is those things – but it’s so much more as well. It’s an ideal location for a Summer getaway, where there’s loads to explore not only in the city, but also in the surrounding area.
And where better to use as your base than Sandman Signature Newcastle Hotel? Situated slap-bang in the city centre, close to many of the key sights, its 4*, modern surroundings will have you feeling relaxed and in full holiday mode in no time.
Check out our top reasons to visit Newcastle this summer:
Entertainment
Of course, Newcastle is renowned for its passion for football. Sandman Signature Newcastle Hotel actually looks over the famous St James’ Park, so is a must for any fans, whether it’s match day or not! There are stadium tours to enjoy (including a very impressive rooftop one) and out of season there’s often big music concerts held there too.
Based at the hotel, you’ll also be conveniently located for the opulent Theatre Royal, which is a relatively rare Grade I listed theatre, dating from the 1830s. If you love a show, you’ll love the experience of watching it in this beautiful, historic building. From musicals to concerts, dramas to stand-up comedy, you can watch them all.
If you’re looking for big acts, including world class pop stars, comedians, shows, spectaculars and so much more, the Utilita Arena in Newcastle is where you’ll find them.
The Glasshouse International Centre for Music (which was known as the Sage) in Gateshead is also home to all kinds of music from classical to modern. It’s an iconic looking building and is brilliant to watch live music in – or take part in a workshop, if you’re musically minded!
Culture & The Arts
The hotel is very close to the amazing Centre for Life, which is an award-winning visitor attraction where you can discover everything you ever wanted to know about science (and a bit more). It’s family-friendly but there are also lots of adult only events, talks and activities too. It’s worth taking a look at their event calendar to see what’s coming up.
For art lovers, the Laing Art Gallery focuses on British oil paintings, watercolours and ceramics, and is well worth a visit. There are special activities and areas to keep younger visitors entertained too.
Another great place for families is the Discovery Museum, where you can learn all about the city’s history. There’s something to suit all ages, including a Play and Invent space for children.
The Great North Museum: Hancock is free to enter. It covers everything from the natural history of the local area to artefacts from Ancient Egypt and from other cultures around the world. Don’t miss the lifesize T-Rex replica skeleton (you’d struggle to miss it, to be honest!).
History
Where do you think Newcastle got its name from? That’s right – a new castle! Except this one is really old, in fact, the oldest building in Newcastle – originally built in the 1080s on the site of an abandoned Roman Fort and adapted and updated across the centuries. This Norman fortress has lots of passageways to explore and fantastic views of the city. There are often talks and events taking place too, suitable for visitors of all ages.
You may spot some remnants of the famous Hadrian’s Wall around the city – but to see it at its best, head into the local countryside. It is 73 miles in total, so there’s plenty to see- including some amazing forts such as Housesteads and Vindolanda. Originally built to guard the northern frontier of the Roman Empire, it’s fascinating to imagine what life must have been like for soldiers posted here.
Something else Newcastle is famous for is its bridges! There are seven within a mile stretch crossing the River Tyne. The most famous – the Tyne Bridge – is often compared to Sydney Harbour Bridge. Also worth a visit is the Millennium Bridge, which was the world’s first tilting bridge when it opened in 2001. Take a glimpse along the river from the walkway and see how many more you can spot!
Nature
If you like to stretch your legs (and especially if you have a four-legged friend with you) a 40-minute walk from the hotel will take you to the spectacular Jesmond Dene Park. It’s quite unexpected for a city - with its own waterfall, forested area, trails and plenty of perfect picnic spots.
Even closer by is Leazes Park, with its tranquil lake and memorial garden. The ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
If you’re staying for a few days be sure to explore the wider Northumbrian Coastline, for some of the most beautiful beaches and coastline in the country. Take in Bamburgh or Dunstanburgh Castle, both based on the coast. Holy Island is well worth a visit – but make sure you time the tides so you don’t get stranded! Tynemouth is a fantastic local beach too, with lots of watersports and some of the best fish restaurants around. Don’t forget Alnwick either – especially if you’re a fan of Harry Potter! Some of the early films feature Alnwick Castle and the Gardens are world-renowned.
Convenience
We’re easily accessible by all forms of transport. If you’re coming by car we can offer preferential rates at a nearby car park, just two minutes walk away.
If travelling by train is more convenient, we’re 10 minutes walk from the station. Newcastle International Airport is also not far away – just 20 minutes by car.
Value For Money
Sign up to our RSVP Rewards loyalty programme for the best possible prices. But we know we offer the best value stay in Newcastle: the ideal location, friendly staff and well designed, comfortable rooms with everything you could need – even including specially designed mattresses to ensure you have a restful night. No one wants to come back from holiday more tired than when they left!
Family suites with bunkbeds and kitchens are ideal for those travelling with children. All of our rooms prioritise comfort and style – and most have handy kitchen facilities too, to help make your life easier, and to save you a few pennies always having to eat out.
Rooms start at just £63 a night.
Location
Hotels don’t get much more conveniently located than Sandman Signature Newcastle. As well as all the destinations mentioned above, there’s yet more to do right outside your door.
If you enjoy shopping, there’s plenty of great places to go in Newcastle. Northumberland Street is just on the doorstep for all your favourite shops and the famous Fenwick department store. Eldon Square shopping centre and the lovely Edwardian Central Arcade are well worth a visit too. Grainger Town is great for independent and quirky shops galore.
There’s also plenty of places to eat close by too – none closer than the fantastic Shark Club within the hotel. From succulent wings to juicy burgers, and with a cocktail menu you’ll struggle to choose just one drink from, it’s a great place to hang out and chill. It also has some of the largest sports screens in the city, so you can catch up on all the latest top tier sporting events. The atmosphere on match day is second to none!
The Quayside is well worth a visit too, for a leisurely stroll and to have a drink or grab some food. It’s home to lots of little restaurants, a Sunday Market, and it’s also handy for the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art.
Amenities
We know free WiFi is a must and that’s what you’ll get at Sandman Signature Newcastle. Whether you’re doing a bit of business, wanting to stream a film or keeping the kids entertained, we want to make your stay as easy and pleasant as possible.
If you’re keen on keeping fit, our fitness centre is open daily for your enjoyment. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Shark Club to watch some professional sports over a bite to eat and your favourite drink.
Don’t forget that the hotel is pet friendly too! Bring your four-legged friend along to one of our pet-friendly rooms and we’ll make sure they’ve got everything they need for a comfortable stay.
Check out our curated visitor guides:
What's Nearby
To make your stay even more enjoyable, we’ve curated a comprehensive guide to the best local attractions, dining spots, and hidden gems around our hotel. Whether you're here for business or leisure, our guide will help you explore the vibrant city of Newcastle. Check out our guide and start planning your Newcastle adventure today.
Where To Eat
Discover the best of Newcastle's vibrant food scene, starting with our onsite restaurant, Shark Club Gastro Bar. Newcastle's city centre boasts over 30 fantastic restaurants for you to explore. Dive into our "Where to Eat" guide to uncover our top picks and make the most of your culinary adventure in Newcastle.
Dog Friendly Visits
Bringing your furry friend along for your stay at Sandman Signature Newcastle Hotel? We've got you covered! Check out our guide to the best places to explore with your dog in the North East. From scenic parks to stunning coastlines, discover all the top spots to enjoy with your four-legged family member.
Book your summer city break now
Start planning your unforgettable getaway to Newcastle
Book your stay at Sandman Signature Newcastle Hotel and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, rich history, and exciting attractions this dynamic city has to offer.