Newcastle is a city full of character, history, and lively modern culture. It’s the kind of place where you can walk along the Quayside, explore historic streets, or sample some of the best street food and craft beers in the UK. What makes Newcastle especially appealing for touring are its walkable neighborhoods, friendly locals, and a range of experiences that cater to different interests. For food lovers, the Grainger Town & Quayside Street Food Tour offers a flavorful dive into Newcastle’s culinary scene, while history buffs will enjoy the History and Highlights Guided Walking Tour. Whether you like sampling local brews, discovering hidden city corners, or cruising on a pedal-powered beer bike, Newcastle’s tours have something for all.
We love the mix of food, history, and fun tours here—each providing a different window into the city. The Blackfriars History Tour combines historic insights with a delicious meal and sparkling wine, making it a great choice for history and food fans alike. Meanwhile, the Brewery Tours highlight Newcastle’s thriving craft beer scene, and the Beer Bike Tour adds a lively, social spin on city exploration. For a more personalized experience, the Private Walking Tour lets you tailor your walk to your interests. With such a diverse lineup, you’re sure to find tours that match your style and pace.
1. Newcastle: Grainger Town & Quayside Street Food Tour
At number 1, the Newcastle: Grainger Town & Quayside Street Food Tour scores a solid 4.3 out of 5, based on four reviews. This 3-hour walking tour offers a delicious journey into Newcastle’s vibrant street food scene, making it perfect for foodies wanting to taste the local flavor. The tour begins in Old Newcastle, wandering through Grainger Market, where you’ll sample British cheeses and sausages. You’ll also explore one of the region’s best Food Halls and the lively High Bridge Street Quarter. The tour continues along Dean Street and the historic Quayside, with tastings at at least five different food locations—including Asian and international stalls—giving you a taste of global influences in local cuisine.
What makes this tour stand out is its intimate group size—only a handful of people—and a knowledgeable guide who shares insights into Newcastle’s food culture and history. Reviewers mention that tasting Lindisfarne oysters and local cheeses was a highlight, along with learning about the city’s past. The tour’s combination of historic sights and culinary delights makes it a well-rounded experience, especially for those who want a relaxed, tasty introduction to Newcastle.
Bottom line: If you’re into food, local markets, and discovering the city through your palate, this tour offers great value and a personal touch.
2. Best of Newcastle: Private Walking Tour with a Local
Next up, the Best of Newcastle: Private Walking Tour with a Local is flexible in length, from 2 to 6 hours, and rated 4.2 out of 5. This is your chance to explore Newcastle’s neighborhoods with a local guide who customizes the route based on your interests. Whether you’re into historic buildings, hidden alleyways, or cultural hotspots, your guide will show you spots travelers often miss. The tour is ideal if you prefer a personalized experience, and it’s perfect for groups who want to ask questions and go at their own pace.
What makes this tour special is its adaptability. The guide can focus on history, architecture, or local life—whatever sparks your curiosity. It’s also great for those who want to explore beyond the usual sights, with insider tips about restaurants, shops, and secret corners. The relaxed setting allows for spontaneous stops and in-depth stories, making it ideal for those who want a more authentic feel of Newcastle.
Bottom line: For travelers who want a tailored experience with a friendly local, this private tour is a flexible, personal way to see the city.
3. Brinkburn St. Brewery: Brewery Tour and Beer Tasting
At number 3, the Brinkburn St. Brewery: Brewery Tour and Beer Tasting offers a 2-hour glimpse into the art of craft brewing. This tour takes you inside a true working brewery, where you’ll see the brewing process firsthand and learn what makes Brinkburn St’s beers unique—ranging from session ales to bold IPAs. The guide shares insights into the brewery’s history and brewing techniques, making it a hit for beer enthusiasts.
Guests rave about the diversity of beers tasted, and the tour is praised for its friendly, informative atmosphere. It’s a great option if you’re interested in micro-brewing or want to understand the craftsmanship behind your favorite pint. The tour is relatively short but packed with flavor—both figuratively and literally—and includes tastings at multiple stages of brewing.
Bottom line: Perfect for beer lovers who want an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at a local brewery, coupled with tasting a variety of craft beers.
4. Newcastle: Beer Bike Tour with Music and Drinks Included
If you’re looking for a lively, social experience, the Newcastle: Beer Bike Tour with Music and Drinks is a one-hour party on wheels. This group activity features pedal-powered bikes, complete with music, drinks, and plenty of laughs. With prices around $472 for up to 15 people, it’s best suited for groups celebrating birthdays, stag or hen parties, or just a fun day out with friends.
You’ll pedal through the city center, sipping on beers, ciders, cocktails, or prosecco, while enjoying the sights and sounds of Newcastle. The guide cranks up the tunes, and everyone gets involved in the fun. It’s not a sightseeing tour in the traditional sense but offers a memorable, energetic way to explore while socializing.
Bottom line: Best for groups seeking a high-energy, memorable experience with drinks, music, and good company—perfect for special occasions.
5. Newcastle: Guided Ouseburn Food and History Tour
Number 5 on the list, the Guided Ouseburn Food and History Tour is a 3.5-hour experience combining food tasting with cultural discovery. Starting in the trendy Ouseburn Valley, the tour includes a private look into the Victoria Tunnel, a 19th-century relic. The guide shares stories of the area’s past and its transformation into a lively arts and food district.
You’ll sample dishes at popular spots, from casual bites to more refined options, all while exploring the vibrant streets of Ouseburn. The tour emphasizes the area’s cultural scene and its role as Newcastle’s creative hub. Guests appreciate the variety of foods and the in-depth background provided about the area’s history and evolution.
Bottom line: If you want to combine culinary delights with cultural insights in a lively neighborhood, this tour offers a balanced and engaging experience.
6. Newcastle: History and Highlights Guided Walking Tour
Topping our list with a perfect 5-star rating, the History and Highlights Guided Walking Tour is a classic 2.5-hour stroll through Newcastle’s most famous sights. Your guide, known for their warmth and humor, walks you from the High Level Bridge to the historic market and old city walls.
This tour is packed with stories about Newcastle’s development from Iron Age roots to the modern city. Highlights include stunning river views and the chance to see iconic landmarks up close. The guide’s breadth of knowledge ensures you’ll learn about the city’s past, architecture, and people in an engaging, approachable way.
Guests love this tour for its entertaining guide and comprehensive coverage. It’s ideal for first-timers wanting an overview of Newcastle’s history in a friendly setting.
Bottom line: A walk that balances storytelling with sightseeing, perfect for those who appreciate a good narrative and a leisurely pace.
7. Newcastle Revealed Tour: History, Bridges and Secrets in Spanish
The Newcastle Revealed Tour ranks highly with a 4.8-star rating. It covers the city’s noteworthy landmarks, including the modern Quayside, historic bridges, and hidden stories behind Newcastle’s well-known sites. The 2.5-hour tour is filled with anecdotes that bring the city’s landmarks to life, making it especially appealing for Spanish-speaking travelers or those seeking a different perspective.
The itinerary includes stops at Grey’s Monument, Blackfriars Friary, Chinatown, and St James Park, along with photo breaks and visits to the old Newcastle Castle. The tour ends along the River Tyne, with plenty of chances to snap photos and absorb the city’s sights.
Bottom line: This tour offers a lively, story-rich way to discover Newcastle’s iconic sites, especially suited for Spanish speakers or those interested in engaging narratives.
8. Newcastle: Brewery Tour, Lunch, and Beer Tasting
Number 8 is the Brewery Tour, Lunch, and Beer Tasting, a 3-hour experience combining a guided brewery tour at St. Dominics with a 3-course meal and a flight of three beers. You’ll learn about the brewery’s history, dating back to 1239, and get to taste fresh, locally brewed beers.
The meal features seasonal, local ingredients, and the beer flight offers a chance to compare flavors directly from the source. Guests appreciate the pairing of food and drink, as well as the opportunity to take home a Beer Gift Pack of three 500ml bottles. The tour offers good value for those interested in both beer and local culinary traditions.
Bottom line: Ideal for beer lovers wanting a comprehensive experience that combines history, tasting, and a nice meal.
9. Newcastle: Blackfriars History Tour, Lunch & Sparkling Wine
Finally, the Blackfriars History Tour is a 3-hour deep dive into the 13th-century Dominican friary. It includes a guided tour of the site, a 3-course meal at an award-winning restaurant, and a shared bottle of sparkling wine. You’ll learn how the friars lived, their expulsion by King Henry VIII, and explore the medieval dining room, the oldest in the UK.
The tour balances history and gastronomy, making it perfect for those interested in medieval architecture and local cuisine. The meal is made from seasonal ingredients, and the atmosphere is refined but welcoming.
Bottom line: A wonderful choice for history buffs who want a hearty meal combined with learning about one of Newcastle’s oldest religious sites.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing between these Newcastle tours depends on your interests, budget, and time constraints. Food lovers might prioritize the Street Food Tour, while history enthusiasts could opt for the History and Highlights Walking Tour. Those traveling with friends or family looking for fun might enjoy the Beer Bike Tour, whereas craft beer fans should consider the Brewery Tour. For a personalized experience, the Private Walking Tour offers flexibility and local insights.
Think about your time availability—most tours are 2-3 hours, but some, like the Private Tour, can be longer. Budget-wise, tours range from around $67 to $472 for groups. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot.
In summary, Newcastle’s diverse tour options allow you to experience the city’s flavors, stories, and spirits in a way that suits your style. For a quick taste of local cuisine, the street food tour is ideal, while history lovers will find the guided walks compelling. Beer and brewery tours appeal to the craft enthusiasts, and if you want a lively day with friends, the beer bike is hard to beat. Whatever your choice, Newcastle’s tour scene promises memorable moments—just book ahead and enjoy your adventure.