Newcastle Castle

Creative Tourist

Last Updated 12 January 2021

Newcastle Castle, The Black Gate, Castle Garth, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1RQ – Visit Now

This is the castle that gave Newcastle its name. Many visitors to Newcastle never think twice about the name of the city. You’ve seen it on maps, you’ve heard it spoken out loud, but, as the Castle’s staff regularly tell people: Newcastle has a castle.

The castle is a must-see tourist attraction for any visitor to Newcastle. The current building is a 12th-century fortress that has been added to over the centuries. It’s been used as a prison, a pub, and a museum, and it’s steeped in history. Indeed, the 12th-century structure is built on history itself: the Roman fort of Pons Aelius, an Anglo-Saxon Church, and the Norman Wooden Castle are all underneath its foundations and can be explored through the artefacts in the museum.

The castle is a must-see tourist attraction for any visitor to Newcastle

During your visit, you will be able to enjoy the exhibitions inside the Castle, such as the Great Hall’s heraldic banners, each telling you the stories of the noble families of the North of England. These families often fought the Kings and Queens of England as often as they fought against the Scots north of the border. You can also discover the stories of various famous folk who have been imprisoned within the Castle – poor Robert the Bruce’s sister was kept as a prisoner within Newcastle Castle to try to force her brother to surrender; unfortunately for her, it did not work. From the top of the Castle Keep, the prime vantage point, you can enjoy some of the best views of Newcastle, Gateshead and the River Tyne.

The panoramic perspective is really quite something. You will be able to see many of the famous sites, from St. James Park football stadium, through to the iconic bridges that cross the River Tyne. The castle also has an audio tour which can be purchased and downloaded prior to your visit, adding even more flavour to your experience. The castle provides an entertaining visit for people of all ages, with each room telling you more about the place’s history, and if you have any questions, the knowledgeable staff are on hand to answer any questions gladly.