Getting To Know Newcastle upon-Tyne – Cruise Port Guide
Our Newcastle cruise port guide offers a quick introduction to one of the most exciting destinations on a UK cruise itinerary, and the gateway to Northumberland.
Newcastle upon-Tyne (via Port of Tyne) is one of the most vibrant cities in the north of England and there’s so much to see and do. Take a step back in time and spend the day at Beamish open-air museum, delve deep into an ancient Roman history, shop until you drop or sit back and relax at the stunning Alnwick Gardens. If you have time, you may also consider heading further afield and exploring Durham city centre, Seahouses and Bamburgh, where you’ll find the magnificent Bamburgh Castle.
For passengers embarking in Port of Tyne, you’ll find it easy to get to and from the port by either car, bus or train. If arriving with substantial luggage, we’d advise you use a taxi service as local public transport services do not stop close to the terminal entrance.
A wide variety of cruise lines visit Port of Tyne.
Don’t forget to stop by our cruise blog for updates on Newcastle cruises.
Travel Tips:
If you’re visiting Newcastle as part of your cruise, you’ll often find a free shuttle bus is offered. This usually drops passengers between the ship, Royal Quays Shopping Outlet and Newcastle city centre.
A local taxi firm has a contract in place with Port of Tyne, so there’s no need to pre-book. You’ll often find a board on the dockside with pricing information.
Key highlights of Newcastle upon-Tyne
- Beamish Open-Air Museum
- The Quayside
- Discovery Museum
- Life Science Centre
- Hadrian’s Wall
- Segedunum Roman Fort
- Newcastle Keep
- Hancock Museum
- Grainger Market
- Alnwick Castle and Gardens
- Northumberland Street

Regular cruise line visitors
- Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
- Saga
- Seabourn
- Regent Seven Seas
Cruise Expert Insider 🔎 Newcastle upon-Tyne Port by Danielle Fear

If you’re exploring the city centre, then you must stop and take a walk through our famous Grainger Market, which was awarded the title of ‘Britain’s Favourite Market’ in the Great British Market Awards 2020. It’s been in operation for nearly 200 years and is home to around 100 local vendors. You’ll find everything from fine coffee beans and jewellery to fresh fruits, vegetables and meat – it’s got everything under one roof. In recent years, the Grainger market has also been the ideal stop for a range of street foods and I highly recommend you give some a try. Slice serves fresh hot pizza, you guessed it, by the slice and it’s a favourite with the locals. Fez Food brings a Middle Eastern fusion of flavours to Newcastle and is probably the most beautiful place in the entire market. Acropolis is your stop for Greek food; Meat:Stack for fresh and juicy burgers; Snack Wallah for vegan dishes; Felafel al Hana for Lebanese-inspired cuisine; and Dumpling & Bun for a range of Chinese steamed dumplings. These are just a few of the food options available to you and they’re all under one roof.
Sticking with the food theme, to a degree, The Old George Pub on High Bridge not only serves tasty food and ice-cold beers, but it’s reported to be one of the cities most haunted pubs. If you’re beginning your journey in Newcastle, why not spend a night in the city and embark on one of its famous ghost walks! They’re exciting and offer a deep insight into some of the city’s most historical sites.
If you want to explore on your own, then the Hidden Newcastle app could be your best friend. It is a free app that allows users to uncover the incredible stories from Newcastle’s hidden past. You can explore intriguing tales about the city and its people, unearthed from over 800 years of Newcastle’s history.