Six things to do in the North East if you’re visiting for an event
We worked with the team at NIC-A to support with full logistics planning from invites, venue sourcing, liaison, speaker and delegate travel bookings, stage management, and onsite delivery and the event ended with a reception and dinner at Blackfriars restaurant which allowed our international delegation to experience a taste of Newcastle’s medieval past. This got us thinking – what are the things you can’t miss in North East if you’re visiting for a conference this year?
BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art
Take a short walk across the Millennium Bridge to the Gateshead side of the River Tyne and you’ll find the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art. This world-class gallery stretches over five floors and is free entry so it’s the perfect way to spend a few hours in the city, even on one of the drizzlier days. Head to the west-facing windows of the old flour mill for a dramatic view up the river and across the city, taking in the iconic Tyne Bridge.
Entry is from 10 am. Visit the website for further details on events and exhibitions taking place during your visit: https://baltic.art/
Newcastle Castle and Keep
Steeped in history, this imposing Norman fortress is a rugged reminder of northern England’s turbulent past. Just a stone’s throw away from Newcastle Central Station, the castle is where the story of Newcastle began and the reason the city got its name – now it welcomes visitors seven days a week where you can explore and enjoy hidden stories of the keep and its former inhabitants. Used in many films, serials, and other video shorts to set the scene that you are in Newcastle, it is the quintessential view over the River Tyne!
Opening times, events, and further information can be found at https://www.newcastlecastle.co.uk/
Visit the North East coast
Hop on the Metro from Newcastle City Centre and in 20 minutes you’ll be soaking in the beauty of the stunning North East coastline. Boasting white sandy beaches, dramatic views, and some of the best fish and chips in the region, no trip to the North East is complete without a trip to the seaside. The Metro underground train will take you right from Central Station to Tynemouth where you can get your fix of fresh air before all the hard work begins. The Metro system can also take you directly from the city centre to the airport, so you don’t have to worry about getting stuck in traffic when you’re heading home.
Find out the latest travel news, maps, and prices for the Metro at https://www.nexus.org.uk/metro
A stroll along the Quayside
Conferences and events can be overwhelming, so get out and stretch your legs with a walk along the scenic River Tyne which runs through the heart of the city. A 15-minute stroll along the river will bring you to the bustling Ouseburn Valley which is paced with independent eateries, a thriving city farm, pubs serving local suppliers, and street art celebrating the city’s shipbuilding past. Today the Ouseburn Valley is made up of social and cultural venues, nestled alongside reminders of the area’s industrial heritage, including the old flax chimney outside the famous Cluny bar and music venue and the recently refurbished Ouseburn Railway viaduct.
Traditional North East dishes
If you fancy a bite to eat after a busy day, you’ll find traditional North East food, friendly company, and good cheer – with a fresh, modern touch at Broad Chare, which is listed in the Top 50 Gastro Pubs, the go-to place to find the best pubs to dine in in the UK. Nothing fancy, nothing fussy, just genuine warmth and an open-hearted welcome which is sometimes just what you need after a day of networking and inspiration.
Mocktails with a difference
In 1898, with Queen Victoria still on the throne and the North booming with newfound industry, a water closet was installed for the people of Newcastle. Nowadays W.C bar is housed in that same Victorian public toilet beneath the well-known Bigg Market, but don’t let that put you off! Its extensive drinks menus have added to the appeal, especially the remarkably lengthy list of cocktails which can mostly be served alcohol-free if you ask. They have a wide range of interesting soft drinks and it is worth a visit for the quirky venue alone.
We always encourage our delegates to get out and see our city in the most sustainable ways possible, and visitors to Newcastle will notice the abundance of Neuron scooters that are available for you to hop on and start exploring. Download the app and see more of the North East in a way that doesn’t cost the Earth.
To find out more about creating an experience that your delegates will remember, right in the North East contact info@beaconhouse-events.co.uk
Posted on August 11, 2023