Newcastle: Blackfriars History Tour, Lunch & Sparkling Wine

If you’re planning to explore Newcastle and want a mix of culture, history, and good food, the Blackfriars History Tour offers a charming experience. This guided walk through one of the city’s oldest sites combines storytelling, a taste of medieval architecture, and a delicious meal—all wrapped into one accessible package.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you get to explore Blackfriars, a 13th-century Dominican friary that has seen centuries of change and upheaval. Second, the 3-course meal at an award-winning restaurant promises to delight your palate with locally sourced, seasonal dishes. And third, sharing a bottle of sparkling wine enhances the celebratory feel of the day. The one possible drawback? It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, so accessibility might be limited. Still, if you’re interested in history combined with culinary pleasures, this tour could be a perfect fit.

This experience works best for those with a curiosity about Newcastle’s past, lovers of authentic local food, or those wanting a relaxed, guided outing that balances education and leisure. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a memorable way to spend a few hours, this tour offers a lot of value in a compact package.

Key Points

• Historic Site Exploration: Discover the 13th-century Dominican friary, Blackfriars, and learn about the friars’ daily lives and their expulsion.
• Medieval Dining Room: Experience the oldest dining room in the UK, a stunning relic of Newcastle’s medieval past.
• Tasty Food & Drink: Enjoy a 3-course lunch made from fresh, local ingredients, paired with a shared bottle of sparkling wine.
• Educational & Entertaining Guides: Knowledgeable guides bring Blackfriars’ history vividly to life.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Ideal for History & Food Lovers: Geared towards those who appreciate authentic experiences and cultural storytelling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Blackfriars Experience

The Historic Blackfriars Site

The tour begins at the Parlour Bar, where your guide awaits to escort you into the story of Blackfriars. Dating back to 1239, this site isn’t just a pretty ruin; it’s a testament to Newcastle’s medieval roots. As you walk through the grounds, your guide will share insights into the friars’ daily routines, their role in the community, and the dramatic expulsion ordered by King Henry VIII in 1536.

What makes Blackfriars unique is its status as a Grade I Scheduled Ancient Monument. That’s a fancy way of saying it’s a protected, historically significant site, and a genuine window into the past. You’ll walk through the oldest dining room in the UK, a surprisingly well-preserved medieval space that sparks curiosity about the lives of the friars who once gathered here for meals and discussions.

According to reviews, the guides are knowledgeable and engaging, often sharing little details that bring the history to life. One reviewer noted, “Our guide, Sarah, had a way of making medieval history feel relevant and interesting, peppering her stories with fun facts about the architecture and the friars’ daily routines.”

Exploring the Oldest Dining Room in the UK

The medieval dining room is a highlight, offering a rare glimpse of 13th-century architecture. It’s a quiet, evocative space that transports visitors back in time. The walls, stonework, and remaining features give you a sense of the monks’ simple yet communal lifestyle.

Many past visitors comment on how special it is to stand in a place that has remained largely unchanged for over 700 years. One person said, “You can really imagine the friars gathered here, sharing meals and discussing scripture—it’s a tangible connection to history.”

The 3-Course Meal at an Award-Winning Restaurant

After your historical exploration, it’s time for a well-earned meal. The restaurant, affiliated with Blackfriars, boasts a reputation for delivering traditional dishes crafted from local, seasonal ingredients. The menu varies, but you can expect hearty, comforting fare with a modern twist—think locally sourced meats, fresh vegetables, and homemade sauces.

The three-course meal is served in a welcoming, elegant setting, with attention to detail that makes dining here a pleasure. Past diners have appreciated the attention to seasonal produce and the care taken in presentation. One reviewer mentioned, “The food was beautifully cooked, and the portions felt just right—filling but not overwhelming.”

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Toasting with Sparkling Wine

Adding a celebratory note, every guest shares a bottle of sparkling wine—enough for two people to toast their experience. It’s a relaxed, convivial moment that complements both the history and the meal, creating a sense of occasion without fuss.

Practical Details and Considerations

• The tour involves walking around the historic site, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
• The group size is typically small, ensuring a more intimate experience and better interaction with guides.
• The activity starts at the Parlour Bar, with the guide meeting guests on arrival. The tour ends back at the starting point, making it easy to plan your day around it.
• It takes place in a historical site dating back to the 13th century, so some spaces might be uneven or atmospheric rather than modernly accessible.
• The experience is offered in English only.
• You can reserve and pay later, giving flexibility to your travel plans.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users due to the historic site’s layout.
• You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easier to adapt if your plans change.

How the Experience Comes Together

This tour strikes a good balance between fact and fun. The guided element means you’ll learn about the friars’ daily routines, their influence on Newcastle, and the dramatic history that led to their expulsion. The guide’s storytelling style, combined with visual cues and the physical setting, makes the history tangible and engaging.

The meal, meanwhile, offers more than just sustenance. It’s a chance to taste locally crafted dishes that reflect the region’s culinary traditions. Coupled with the sparkling wine, it feels like a small celebration of Newcastle’s heritage—both cultural and gastronomic.

Past visitors have appreciated the value for money. At $67 per person, the experience is not only educational and delicious but also provides a sense of connection to the city’s medieval roots. For those who love authentic historical sites and local cuisine, it offers a memorable, well-rounded outing.

Additional Insights

Some reviews mention that the guides are passionate and knowledgeable, making the history accessible even for those unfamiliar with medieval England. The medieval dining room is described as “a true treasure”, with many visitors surprised at how well-preserved the space is. The combination of history, architecture, and food creates a layered experience that appeals to all senses.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history lovers keen to see a real medieval site and learn about Newcastle’s past firsthand. It’s equally suited to foodies looking for a local culinary experience paired with cultural insights. The size of the group tends to be small, offering a personal touch, and the relaxed pace makes it accessible to most visitors—excluding wheelchair users.

It’s a smart choice if you want a low-stress, informative day that combines storytelling with a delicious meal. Perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers wanting a taste of Newcastle’s heritage in a convivial setting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on history and a sit-down meal suggests it’s best for older children or teenagers. Check with the provider if you’re considering bringing kids.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration isn’t specified, but it involves a guided walk, a meal, and wine sharing—so expect around 2-3 hours in total.

Can I book this experience last-minute?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is the site accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the site is not suitable for wheelchair users, likely due to the historic layout.

Where do we meet for the tour?
Guests meet at the Parlour Bar at the start of the experience.

Will the meal menu be the same every time?
Menus vary based on seasonal ingredients, but you can expect traditional, hearty dishes made from local produce.

Is the sparkling wine shared between two guests?
Yes, the bottle is meant for sharing between two people, adding a social touch to the experience.

Can I customize the experience or request dietary restrictions?
This isn’t specified; it’s best to contact Blackfriars Restaurant directly for special requests.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The experience is offered in English only.

In summary, the Blackfriars History Tour with Lunch and Sparkling Wine offers a rare chance to walk through Newcastle’s medieval past while enjoying a delicious meal in an atmospheric setting. It’s a well-balanced experience for those who want to combine education, local culture, and a touch of celebration—all at a reasonable price point. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a curious traveler, this tour could just become a highlight of your visit to Newcastle.

You can check availability for your dates here: