From the city’s magnificent Georgian architecture to the iconic bridges and friendly locals, there’s plenty going on in Newcastle. Read Daniel Footwear’s guide to find out how to make the most of your time in this majestic city.
Eat
You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to dining out in Newcastle. Take a look at our hand-picked selection of the very best eateries the city has to offer below:
The Herb Garden
If it’s Italian food you’re looking for, you can’t miss The Herb Garden. Located on Westgate Road, the restaurant offers authentic pizzas and calzones, as well as tasty salads. The sides are incredible too — we recommend the crispy Mediterranean potatoes.
To make your experience extra special, book the private dining experience. Situated on a mezzanine overlooking the restaurant and complete with ambient lighting, it’s the perfect place for celebrations for groups of up to 14.
Find out more at www.theherbgardenuk.com/.
Miller & Carter Steakhouse
Located in the imposing building of a former bank, Miller & Carter Steakhouse offers a high-quality dining experience with a similarly impressive menu to boot. Think juicy 30-day aged British fillet steaks cooked exactly the way you like it, generous burgers bursting with flavour and perfectly prepared seafood.
An exceptional fixed price lunchtime menu is also on offer and is well worth checking out.
Find out more at http://www.millerandcarter.co.uk/restaurants/north-west/millerandcarternewcastle.
Dabbawal
Dabbawal is arguably one of the best Indian restaurants in Newcastle. Offering a street food-inspired twist on popular Indian cuisine, diners can enjoy tapas-style food in colourful surroundings that is almost as vibrant as the food.
The selection of classic curries will satisfy traditional diners, while the more adventurous should try the chef’s surprise menu. Featuring a combination of grills, curries and street food classics, it’s perfect for introducing new flavours.
Find out more at http://www.dabbawal.com.
Drink
It’s no secret that Northerners enjoy a drink or two. The following bars are perfect for enjoying your favourite tipple as you soak up everything the city has to offer.
The Botanist
If you’re looking for a unique place to enjoy a cocktail, you can’t miss The Botanist. Situated in the former Monument Mall, the bar overlooks Grey Street — once described as the most beautiful street in England —and boasts an impressive glass domed roof.
The bar is characterised by quirky features, such as the impressive tree which sits in the centre of the bar and watering can cocktail pitchers. Perfect for sharing, treat your sweet tooth to the raspberry and sage watering can.
Find out more at www.thebotanist.uk.com/location/newcastle.
The Forth Hotel
Refresh with a beverage at Newcastle’s quirkiest pub, The Forth Hotel. There, you can enjoy superb craft beers and real ales on cosy couches, as well as tasty cocktails and an excellent selection of wine.
Don’t forget to enjoy the pub’s rooftop terrace. Featuring work by local artists and cute seating areas, it’s ideal for enjoying a drink outdoors.
Find out more at www.theforthnewcastle.co.uk.
Harry’s Bar
Harry’s Bar is a city centre hotspot. With welcoming décor and a fit-to-burst drinks menu, it’s perfect for starting off your night out or enjoying a tipple at the end of a busy shopping day.
The bar offers an extensive cocktail menu, including everything from old favourites to their signature blends. And, if you can’t find what you’re looking for, just ask — the super-friendly bar staff will tailor a cocktail to your specific tastes.
Find out more at http://www.harrysbarnewcastle.com.
The Glass House
For a more indulgent experience, take a trip to Glass House to enjoy luxury as standard. We’re talking attentive waiter service, outstanding décor and an extensive menu of fine wines, champagne and whiskeys.
If the latter is your tipple of choice, Glass House’s whiskey lounge is for you. Due to open soon, it promises to be a haven for all whiskey-lovers, showcasing the world’s finest drinks.
Find out more at http://glasshousenewcastle.co.uk.
Sip
Replenish your caffeine levels at this city centre delights.
Pink Lane Coffee
Since 2012, Pink Lane Coffee has been serving up exceptional quality hot drinks using the finest local ingredients. With a selection of pastries and cakes available and a homely city centre location, it’s the perfect place to pop in for your caffeine fix.
Find out more at www.pinklanecoffee.co.uk.
Dance
Slip on your dancing shoes and pay a visit to these Newcastle nightlife hotspots.
Hoochie Coochie
With a name like Hoochie Coochie, you know this bar is going to be good! It’s the perfect place for movers and shakers to enjoy the very best of funk, soul, disco, jazz and more!
It’s not just killer DJ sets though: the bar regularly plays host to live music acts. Previous performers include Alexander O’Neal, Soul II Soul and the legendary Chaka Khan! As you can see, it’s not to be missed.
Find out more at www.hoochiecoochie.co.uk.
Florita’s
Described as a Miami bar and tropical garden, Florita’s boasts bohemian décor and an extensive drinks menu. The party mood is complete with DJs playing infectious tunes that you just have to dance too.
We’re huge fans of Florita’s cocktails. Our particular favourite is Zombie Nation — a flaming concoction of Bacardi, Havana Club, Woods 100 rum, apricot brandy and pineapple juice — it’s not for the feint-hearted.
Find out more at www.floritasbar.com.
Shop
From independent boutiques to department stores, Newcastle is a haven for shopaholics. Find out more about the main districts below…
intu Eldon Square
Located in the centre of Newcastle, intu Eldon Square is home to a fantastic selection of high street outlets and leading department stores. Daniel Footwear is located in Eldon Gardens, a sophisticated shopping destination featuring laidback cafes.
Find out more at www.intu.co.uk/eldonsquare.
Newcastle city centre
Venture outside of intu Eldon Square to discover a number of independent boutiques and designer outlets. In the newly renovated Monument Mall, you’ll find luxury jeweller Rox, lifestyle store The White Company and designer offerings from the Michal Kors boutique.
Located on Northumberland Street, you’ll find Newcastle’s premier department store, Fenwicks. With an extensive range of designer clothing and homeware brands, the store even offers a dedicated personal shopping service to deliver an extra special touch.
A little further afield, you’ll find a number of smaller boutiques, like the Vivienne Westwood store located on Hood Street. There’s a number of cute vintage shops too — our favourite is Rose and Alice Vintage Boutique.
Dress codes
During the day, women tend to adopt a laidback style. Jeans paired with block heeled boots and casual blouses are the go-to ensemble. Make sure you take a coat with you, even on clear days — you never know when the Newcastle weather can change!
However, while coats are acceptable during the day, they are shunned during the evening. Geordies are renowned for their tolerance to the cold, so — come rain or shine — expect to see the ladies of Newcastle teetering around town in thigh-skimming outfits minus coats or jackets.
Newcastle ladies like to look glamourous on an evening — think high heels, pencil skirts and bodycon dresses. Heels are usually the shoe of choice, although flats are sometimes worn for more casual occasions. The city centre has many cobbled streets, so a block heel is a more practical choice than stilettos.
Evening wear for men tends to be a smart casual blend. Jeans are worn with smart brogues, crisp white shirts and blazers.
