CRUISES FROM NEWCASTLE
Port Location: The port of Newcastle, also known as the Port of Tyne, is the only cruise port on the eastern side of the UK and is situated between Harwich and Leih on the River Tyne. The port area is in North Shields.
Transport: Newcastle International Airport is about 9.7 kilometres from the Port of Newcastle. The city’s Metro runs from the airport to many parts of the city. Taxis and bus routes can get you anywhere you want to go in Newcastle, including the port. Large parts of the city of Newcastle are generally free of a lot of traffic, making it easy to explore on foot.
Description: The Port of Newcastle is considered to be the gateway to Northumbria. This is England’s most northern region and is know for the dramatic coastline and its many castles. Cruises from Newcastle are a great way to experience some the most beautiful views in England and appreciate the history of Northern England.
Sightseeing and Excursions: Before and after your cruise you can find plenty to do to keep you busy. Probably one of the most popular areas in Newcastle is the renewed downtown Quayside area. Set right along the banks of the River Tyne, this area is full of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. The beautiful backdrop of Quayside is made up of seven picturesque bridges that date from 1849. Probably the one that stands out the most is the Tyne Bridge.
In the North Shields area of the port is the Tynemouth Priory. This was at one time one of the biggest fortifications in the United Kingdom with battlements extending over the beaches to the North Sea.
There are excursions that offer tours to places like historic Durham. This tour includes a visit to a Norman castle and cathedral in ancient Durham. Another excursion is perfect for lovers of art. It goes to the Bowes Museum that has one of the most expansive collections of fine art found anywhere.
Beaches: If you want to experience the beaches here before departing on cruises from Newcastle, a short Metro ride or drive can get you from the Port of Newcastle to Whitley Bay, an old-fashioned English seaside resort. Only 20 minutes from the city you can find Tynemouth Long Sands, a golden beach with the cliffs as a backdrop. This beach is famous for surfing.
Shopping: There are plenty of large shopping centres in Newcastle. One of the biggest in the UK is the Eldon Square Shopping Centre. Besides the mall, there is more eclectic shopping opportunist down the many side streets in the area. The busiest street for shopping is Northumberland Street. The Newcastle side of Quayside also includes an array of interesting shops.