United
by seven bridges across a spectacular riverscape, Newcastle (a city on the
north bank of the River Tyne) and Gateshead (a town on the south bank) form a
single, diverse and extremely vibrant visitor destination.
With
so many different areas each offering new sights, sounds and experiences,
you’ll be amazed at how much is on offer whatever your tastes. World-class
culture, vibrant nightlife, award-winning dining, inspiring heritage, fantastic
shopping and acclaimed architecture are linked here, as nowhere else, by the
famous Geordie spirit.
As a
first year student in Newcastle I must confess I haven’t been aware of the
wonders that this city offers. This is why, when I arrived, first thing that I
wanted to check on my “To do as a student” was to discover the city. After a
good night sleep I woke up so curious about the wonders of the north-east so I
dressed up and went out with a single thought in my mind. To get lost.
Leaving
my accommodation, I took a straight path and popped into the Civic Centre, a
wonderful quiet green square, surrounded by two tiny water canals that serve as
a constant habitat for various types of birds. Further on, this place became
one of my favourite relaxation venues, a perfect place to be alone and
contemplative in.
Continuing
my pursuit, being led by nothing else but the random steps of mine, a bunch of
constant noise hit me when I reached the commercial heart of the city,
Northumberland Street, a perfect place to empty your wallet in as a student,
being able to find anything on the side-shops, from clothes to groceries.
Taking
the descendent path of Northumberland street I have taken a short turn to the
right and saw a huge doric (architectural column style) with the statue of Earl
Grey on the top. Being curious why everybody was waiting something or someone
standing on the base of this vestige, I started throwing questions and found
out that this is also known as “The Monument” and almost everyone chooses this
place as a meeting point in Newcastle central area.
My
journey took me all-round this nucleus of the city and made me discover the
only Georgian and Victorian (architectural styles) street left intact in the UK, Grey’s Street.
If
you decide to take this path, I guarantee that you will be amazed by the most
impressive building on Grey’s street, the Theatre Royal.
On
the other side, seemingly amazing was also Grainger Street and the famous
Grainger Market.
Not
being able to decide which way to follow next, I asked for some references and
everybody told me about the Quayside, so I asked for directions and found some
truly amazing venues, starting with Clayton St. and continuing with St. Nicholas
Cathedral, a pure example of gothic architecture.
After
twenty minutes of daydreaming while walking, I reached the Quayside, and a
first clue was seeing the most famous bridge of the seven crossing the Tyne
river, the Millenium Bridge.
Taking
my time for a coffee at Pitcher & Piano, I have crossed the bridge to
discover the Baltic Flour Mill. On the 5th floor you will find a
viewing box, from where you can have an aerial perspective of the city.
Also
serving as an art gallery, The Baltic Flour Mill took 2 hours from my trip.
Returning
home as night came, I have discovered places like Eldon Square and Market
Street.
Every
little part of Newcastle is amazing and this is why the favourite way of
spending my time is getting to know the city more and more, sincerely saying
that 4 months in the city were not enough to discover even half of the city.
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