City guides
Search For Santa Trail: Newcastle
Christmas is shaping up to be special in Newcastle this year, with NE1 unveiling their programme of festive events, including the welcome return of much-loved favourite, NE1’s Search for Santa, which is always a hugely popular, family-focused event.
The event will return for its third year on Saturday, 4th December, and consists of a free, festive trail which takes participants on an adventure across the city. Starting at Eldon Square, groups of children and their parents and guardians will collect Santa hats and a map which will provide clues and a trail to lead them to Father Christmas. With stops along the way for children to enjoy Christmas craft activities, the Search for Santa will finish at Newcastle Cathedral where there will be another festive craft stop, hot chocolate and a chance to meet Santa, as well as receiving a festive gift.
Details of how to book can be found at www.newcastleschristmas.co.uk, NE1’s online directory for all things Christmassy in Newcastle city centre. Packed with festive things to see and do, if it’s happening in Newcastle, details will be available on the Newcastle’s Christmas website. Kids’ events, festive screenings, ice skating, as well as any new Christmas events and activities, and all the details of NE1’s own festive programme will feature on the site. Add the website to your watch-list to avoid missing out on any Christmas fun this year!
Ben Whitfield, Head of Marketing and Events at NE1 said: “The excitement is building at NE1 and we can’t wait to bring some festive cheer to the city centre with our Christmas events programme. We’ve brought back some festive favourites including the Search for Santa which is well-loved by children and adults alike. All of NE1’s Christmas activities are designed to play to the city’s strengths showcasing some of Newcastle’s most historic and iconic buildings and locations as well as creating a festive buzz in the city. We are really excited to be able to celebrate Christmas in the city again this year and are looking forward to a packed programme that will bring extra cheer and allow people to celebrate Christmas together in-person.”
All of NE1’s Christmas events are free to attend but booking is essential. In previous years when the Search for Santa event was held, the event was so popular that tickets were snapped up within hours of booking opening. This year, the ticket link will go live at 10.30am on Wednesday 17th November.
Newcastle upon Tyne, often simply called Newcastle, is a city bursting with history, culture, and a vibrant atmosphere. Situated in the northeast of England, this city on the River Tyne offers an array of activities and attractions that cater to every taste and interest. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or a nature lover, Newcastle has something special for you.
Discover Historic Landmarks
Newcastle boasts a rich history showcased through its iconic landmarks. The Newcastle Castle stands tall with its medieval architecture, offering stunning views of the city. Delve into the city’s past and learn about its intriguing history within the castle walls.
For art enthusiasts, the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art is a must-visit. This striking gallery hosts innovative exhibitions and showcases modern art, offering a unique perspective on creativity.
Enjoy the Urban Vibes
Explore the bustling Quayside, a vibrant hub brimming with restaurants, bars, and stunning views of the River Tyne. Take a leisurely stroll along the Millennium Bridge, an architectural marvel that illuminates the night sky, providing a picturesque backdrop for evening walks.
Indulge in Culinary Delights
Newcastle’s culinary scene is diverse and exciting. From traditional pubs serving hearty meals to chic restaurants offering global cuisines, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Don’t miss the chance to try the famous Newcastle Brown Ale or indulge in a traditional Geordie stottie for an authentic local experience.
Embrace Nature’s Beauty
Escape the city buzz and explore the tranquility of Jesmond Dene Park. This picturesque park offers serene walks, beautiful landscapes, and a chance to connect with nature without leaving the city.
Dive into Cultural Experiences
Immerse yourself in the city’s cultural offerings at the Theatre Royal. Catch a captivating performance, from classic plays to modern productions, showcasing the best of the performing arts.
Shopping and Nightlife Extravaganza
For those seeking retail therapy, Eldon Square and intu Metrocentre are shopper’s paradises, hosting a wide range of stores and boutiques. As night falls, Newcastle comes alive with its vibrant nightlife. The city is known for its energetic bars, clubs, and live music venues, ensuring an unforgettable evening.
Final Thoughts
Newcastle upon Tyne encapsulates a unique blend of history, modernity, and cultural diversity. Whether you’re exploring its historic landmarks, indulging in culinary delights, or embracing the city’s vibrant nightlife, Newcastle promises an enriching experience for every visitor.
Come and discover the charm of Newcastle upon Tyne, a city that never fails to captivate its visitors with its warmth, history, and boundless energy.
Plan your visit and embark on an unforgettable journey through this dynamic city!
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Newcastle City Council has confirmed payments using cash will be gradually phased out from all council-owned car parks and on-street parking locations as ticket machines are upgraded to accept cards and the PayByPhone service is expanded to cover all locations.
The council carried out consultation on proposals for cashless parking earlier this year, including seeking feedback from Newcastle Disability Forum and the Elders’ Council, to understand and respond to any concerns.
The changes are part of proposals to make the council’s parking service more efficient and cost-effective while better meeting the needs of customers.
Cllr Jane Byrne, cabinet member for a connected, clean city at Newcastle City Council, said: “The majority of our car park users already prefer cashless payments so we are keen to make this available at all of our parking locations.
Data shows that the majority of people already prefer to use cashless payments, with PayByPhone transactions increasing from 1.5m in 2018/19 to 2.9m in 2022/23 and card machine transactions increasing from 200,000 to 332,000 during the same period.
As part of the changes, the PayByPhone service will be expanded to cover all locations. This service enables people to add extra time to their parking if needed without having to go back to the ticket machine.
The option to pay by card will also be made available at all car parks and on-street bays, giving people a choice of payment methods at all locations.
At on-street parking areas, people will be able to use a card to pre-pay for parking when they arrive.
This pre-payment option will also be provided in every council-run car park – including those with no maximum stay restrictions, which is a slight change to the original proposals following the consultation.
A further card payment option – known as check in check out, which allows people to pay for the exact amount of time used when they leave – will also be available at car parks where there are no maximum stay restrictions.
People who don’t have bank cards, can use pre-paid cards which are widely available and can be topped up via a range of outlets.
Blue badge holders will still park for free in the on-street car parking bays.
Work will get underway in the coming months to begin upgrading ticket machines and rolling out the PayByPhone service to cover all locations.
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The Coronation of King Charles III on May 6 – and the Coronation Concert on May 7 – will be shown for free on big screens in Newcastle, Northumberland, Durham, and Sunderland.
Preparations are under way to erect big outdoor screens so that people can come together to watch the ceremony, as the country gets ready to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III.
The big day is Saturday, May 6 when His Majesty the King will be crowned in Westminster Abbey, alongside Camilla as Her Majesty The Queen Consort in a service set to attract a worldwide TV audience. And the grand event will be screened live at various locations across the region for those keen to get out of the house and mingle with others to feel part of the historic occasion.
The Government has made money available to install big screens in public places so that as many people as possible can come together at official sites to watch the coronation events live and for free. Below is our guide to where people in the North East can go to join in.
Newcastle, Northumberland, Sunderland, and Durham all have locations in which you can watch the special occasion.
Alnwick Castle – Northumberland
In collaboration with Northumberland County Council, the castle will be screening Saturday’s coronation as well as Sunday’s concert for free although spaces must be booked.
The event, with gates opening at 10am, is free but those tickets, which will be limited, must be pre-booked. Guests can take along a blanket or chair for the lawn and there will be a variety of food trucks on-site selling treats and drinks.
Northumberland County Council says up to 1,500 people are expected to attend on both days and, on the coronation day, it has invited 500 ‘community heroes’ – volunteers who have made a difference locally – to be among them.
Times Square – Newcastle
A screen in the city centre square will be broadcasting the day’s action for free on Saturday from 9.30am until 4pm, with the service itself due to start at 11am following the arrival of the royal procession from Buckingham Palace.
City and Fenham Libraries – Newcastle
Newcastle City Library has a royal link too, having been opened by the late Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh in 2009. Newcastle City Council says street parties and community events will be taking place across the city to mark the historic occasion and residents will receive ‘sweet treats’ as part of its Meals at Home service.
Sunderland
Keel Square in the city centre will be showing the event.
Hylton Castle in Castletown.
Rectory Park in Houghton.
Barnes Park.
Town Moor, East End.
The Galleries Shopping Centre, Washington.
Durham University – Durham
People are invited to come together to watch the coronation on a big screen being set up by the university in its marquee right next to Durham City Rugby Football Club. Arrival will be from 10am, with plans to have everyone seated in the marquee by 11am for the start of the service.
The event, running until 4pm, will also include family entertainment and, while no alcohol will be allowed, people can take along picnics and soft drinks. The screening will be free, but tickets are required. Note this event is now booked up.
Market Square – Darlington
In another of the free, public events, the town centre has been picked as one of the official screening sites and it will be live broadcasting the coronation ceremony.
The coronation also will be broadcast live from Westminster Abbey – where the late Queen was herself crowned 70 years ago – on BBC1 and iPlayer.
Do you plan on taking part in the celebrations for the coronation – let us know on our social media and follow us for latest North East Updates – https://linktr.ee/northeastupdates
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