When you study abroad in Newcastle, you get the ultimate university experience.  Newcastle is known for its thriving atmosphere and exciting buzz. So, it’s no surprise that the city is one of the most popular destinations for students.

Check out our comprehensive Newcastle city guide to get a feel for the city and find out the top places you need to check out during your time here (if the weather allows it). 

1. The Quayside

Newcastle’s riverside has  been subject to an ambitious renovation plan in the past few years, in which several bridges have been built to connect Newcastle with Gateshead, showing the coexistence between the industrial past of the city and the modernity of of the last decades, being the most illustrative example the Millenium Bridge. Moreover, it has been increasingly being turned into a cultural reference location for those who visit the capital of the North East, with key spots such as the SAGE,  a cultural centre built on the Gateshead side of the river that hosts the most important classical gigs and  shows on the region; or the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art. There are also several pubs across the river walk in which you can have a pint while observing the gorgeous view of the Tyne river: the Pitcher&Piano, the alternative Tyne Bar or a little bit further, the Merchants Tavern, a key spot for the sailors and traders of the Tyne during the old days. Moreover, you can also enjoy the Quayside experience by booking one of the boat trips that are offered in several spots of across the Quayside walk.

2. Grainger Market

If you are into organic and traditional ingredients, then Grainger Market is your place to shop for your weekly food shopping. It might even be the only place in Newcastle where you can buy rabbit meat, fresh fish from the coast, vintage cloths and products from all around the world, all in the same place! Moreover, you can have a break from your shopping by stopping in one of its several restaurants and cafes, where you can enjoy traditional Italian, Spanish, French, German or even Turkish gastronomy.

3. Ousebourn

Ousebourn is an area of Newcastle located next to the Tyne river, which has been recently become a key place of reunion for followers of non-mainstream cultures. It used to be an industrial location several decades ago, with well known potteries and manufacturing companies which have been turned into hipster locations and stunning cafes such as the Kiln, which still keeps the old pottery working. Ousebourn might even be the last place in the city where you can attend a gig by the newest britpop group and still see people walking their horses through the street to take them to the stable, or modest sailors fixing their boats in the canal. It is also next to the main student halls for the two universities in the city. If you love beer and traditional ales or simply want some nice pub comfort food, some key places are: The Ship Inn (great choice for vegans), The Cluny, The Cumberland Arms and the Ernest.

4. North Shields Fish Quay

North Shields in a sea town located in the mouth of the river Tyne, only 30 minutes away from the city centre by metro. Its proximity to the sea has turned it into a key location in the trade of fish and seafood, brought fresh every morning by local fishermen, and later transported to the city and other locations in the region. If you like fish on your diet but you are not happy with the reduced fish offer that supermarkets offer, this is your perfect saturday shopping plan. You can find more than 200 fish species in the several stalls of the quay. But also, you can enjoy the sea culinary delicacies in one the several pubs and restaurants along this small town, which offer more alternatives beyond the traditional fish and chips. 

5. Green areas

If there is something that Newcastle should feel proud about it is the number of parks, green spots and natural corners in the city, that contrast with the height and industrial aspect of many of its buildings. The numerous natural areas of the city are kept green along the year thanks to the wet weather that characterises the country. Some good spots to enjoy green and nature? Leazes Park just minutes away from Newcastle University; Exhibition Park, a really big green spot very close to the city centre where you can sometimes even spot cows or Jesmond Dene, perhaps the most stunning one located in the heart of the picturesque suburb of Jesmond. Another one, Heaton Park, connected within minutes to Jesmond Dene, has a beautiful lake as well as a high-class restaurant. From StudyFlats we challenge you to find the tree with the thousand shoes hanged in this last park…

One of the things that makes a city so great is the food it has to offer. With everything from burgers to sushi, Newcastle is a haven for foodies everywhere. There is a restaurant for all occasions and all tastes, no matter what you’re in the mood for.Here are 10 of the best places to eat in Newcastle upon Tyne that you must try while you’re here. Most of these aren’t far from your student accommodation so you won’t have to travel far to get some good eats!

1. The Fat Hippo

If a burger is what you’re looking for, you’ll find some of the best in town over at Fat Hippo. With a branch in Jesmond, Durham, Sunderland and Newcastle City Centre, it’s pretty easy to find. There’s nothing more comforting than a big juicy burger, and the restaurants are so cosy you’ll never want to leave! If you’re planning in coming here in the evening, try to book ahead or you might not be able to get a table. Their beef burgers are freshly made each and every day. They come served in a soft brioche bun and topped with goodies such as bacon, cheese and onion rings. They’re all served with tasty hand cut fries too. They have veggie and vegan options too which are delicious so everyone is welcome here.

2. Nancy’s Bordello

Tucked away near Manors Station, Nancy’s Bordello is a trendy bar known for awesome cocktails. But they also do some pretty great food here you must be sure to try out. With everything from light bites to big plates of hearty food, you definitely won’t go hungry here. Their pastas are delicious and affordable and make for the perfect comfort food. Their sharing plates are great if you’re coming with a group of people as they could feed an army!The best thing about Nancy’s is that it’s all very cheap so you don’t have to worry about blowing your student budget. Make sure to wash it all down with one of their delicious cocktails and you surely won’t be disappointed.

3. By The River Brew Co.

Opened in the summer of 2018, By the River Brew Co.is very new to the city. It’s actually on the Gateshead side of the river and it offers stunning views over the Quayside. It is home to the Trakol restaurant which offers a fine dining experience for meaty dishes. On the weekends it hosts a street food market known as the HWKRMRKT where all tastes are catered for. There are regular traders as well as guest vendors who serve up unique and delicious dishes.

4. Naked Deli

As a student you can’t survive on noodles forever, and you need to make an effort to eat healthy. Luckily, that’s where Naked Deli comes in. Naked Deli have a branch in Gosforth and Heaton and they have recently opened a new one in the city centre. They make wholesome and healthy dishes to suit all diets and will take you from breakfast to dinner. They pride themselves on only serving organic food without any additives or hormones.  Their food is affordable and delicious and makes for a great lunch with friends or you can take out and eat as you work.

5. Harissa Kitchen

If you’re a fan of Mediterranean food, look no further than Harissa Kitchen. This Sandyford eatery isn’t far from the city and makes for a delightful lunchtime treat. The light decor will draw you in and the food here will make you stay. Their menu features classic components Mediterranean cuisine every time. This includes favourites such as tagines, flatbreads, mezze boards and colourful salads. You won’t have a chance to get bored though, as their menu is always changing to offer you new and exciting dishes. Their food is hearty and even the small dishes aren’t really that small. Come here with some friends and hungry stomachs and you’re sure to have a fantastic experience.

6. Meat: Stack

Newcastle is becoming the place to go if you love a good burger, and by far the best venue for is Meat:Stack. It has recently relocated to the Dog and Parrot pub, although it also has a stand in Grainger Market too. Their burgers use only local ingredients and they’ve even won the title of ‘Newcastle’s best burger’. Their burgers aren’t vegan friendly and they only have one veggie option though. But if you love a good, meaty burger, Meat:Stack is definitely the place to go.

7. Lola Jeans

If you love cocktails and dishes from all around the world, Lola Jeans is the place to be. They have a Tynemouth branch too, and their Newcastle branch is close to the Theatre Royal. The interior here is truly stunning and oozes class and elegance. However the food and drinks aren’t too expensive so they make for a great night without spending a fortune. They serve a diverse range of food, from sandwiches to tacos, sharers and burgers to cater for all diets. It’s the perfect comfort food to enjoy with friends and you’ll be sure to come back time and time again.

8. The Stack

Opened in the late summer of 2018, the Stack is new to Newcastle. It is shipping container village with boutiques, coffee shops, bars and eateries. It isn’t the most affordable spot in town so you’ll need to budget carefully if you want to go here. There’s something for everyone here, most notably Sushi Me Rollin’. This is a  new and delicious sushi spot that opened up recently and it’s making a big splash among students. Whether you’re a sushi novice or want to try it for the first time, you’ll find the right sushi dish here. With vegan options on the menu too, it’s inclusive of all diets.

9. Aveika

If drinking, dining and dancing is something you love, then you must be sure to visit Aveika. Aveika is a late night Japanese eatery / dance club which offers a unique experience. The food here is super good with a creative take on classic Asian dishes. Here, they affectionately refer to their food style as “‘authentic yet not traditional”. Once you’ve had your fill of tasty fish, wash it down with a yummy cocktail which also have a creative flair to them. It makes for a great night out with flatmates or for a date, so make sure to try it out at least once during your time here.

10. House of Tides

If you consider yourself to be a foodie or want to impress someone special, you must try out House of Tides. This is the only one star Michelin restaurant in Newcastle and of course, it ain’t cheap. This isn’t somewhere to go on a whim and you’ll definitely need to save up for it, but the food here is out of this world. It has won countless awards and has reviewers raving about it whenever they visit. Whatever dish you try here you’re sure to love it. It’s a once in a blue moon dining experience that you won’t forget in a hurry. There are a lot of amazing places to eat in Newcastle and here are only a few of them. Here we have options to suit a student budget as well as more luxurious options to treat yourself. Since these spots are all so close to Newcastle city centre, you can reach them easily from your student accommodation too.

As a student in Newcastle upon Tyne, you’re going to want to experience the nightlife here. Newcastle is famous for its incredible nightlife and whether you’re a clubber or a bar person, there’s something for you here. All these spots are in or close to the city centre so they’re easy to reach from your student accommodation. These spots are also pretty student friendly with their prices so you don’t have to worry too much about spending over budget!

Here are a few of the best nightlife spots in Newcastle upon Tyne you must visit as a student.

1. The Stand Comedy Club

If you’re looking for a night of laughter and good fun, there’s no better place to go than The Stand Comedy Club. This venue is tucked in an alley between Bigg Market and Grey Street and offers one of the best and cheapest nights in Newcastle. Every single night of the week they have a comedy act on, either from a well known comedian or up and coming Newcastle locals. The best night to go there is on a Wednesday for their Red Raw nights. It’s only £3.00 for a ticket here and you get to watch around 10 acts perform on stage. It’s a very popular venue for students and no matter how broke you are, it’s always a great evening. Some are new on the scene and some are well known professionals trying out new material. You never know what you’ll get here but it’s always a good laugh, so grab a beer and settle in for a night of side splitting laughter.

2. Wylam Brewery

Located at the back of Exhibition Park, Wylam Brewery sits in what used to be a military museum and has now become one of the best local breweries in Newcastle. It’s popular with students due to their affordable prices, trendy decor and regular events. They often have local food vendors who serve up a storm of great cuisines which are perfect on a summer day with a nice cold beer. It’s within walking distance of most student accommodation and is the ideal place to spend a late summer evening chatting with friends.

3. Tyne Bank Brewery

Another popular brewery is Tyne Bank Brewery, which sits along Walker Road. Here, they often host artisan markets, live music, DJ’s, and fun events unlike anywhere else in town. All of their beer is brewed right there in fresh batches so you know you’re drinking the good stuff. They also host food vendors of all different cuisines most nights which are perfect for when you’re feeling peckish. It’s a short journey from the city and easy to reach from most student accommodation. Keep an eye out for their events as they make for an amazing night out, so bring your friends and have some fun!

4. Alvinos

If you love good cocktails in a quirky venue, Alvinos is the place for you. Here you’ll find reasonably priced cocktails for whatever taste you fancy. It has 3 floors, 2 bars and an outdoor terrace so even when it gets busy, there’s plenty of room to sit. Their creative cocktail menu will intrigue you every time, but if cocktails aren’t your thing there are plenty of craft beers and ales to enjoy too as well as non-alcoholic mocktails.Located on Pilgrim Street, it’s easy to get to from your student accommodation and it makes the perfect spot to pre-drink before a big night out.

5. Tup Tup Palace

Once you’ve had enough of the bars, it’s time to move onto the nightclubs. Newcastle has plenty to choose from and Tup Tup Palace is popular among students. This venue has an Eastern-style interior which includes mosaic lamps, waterfalls and booths you can book if you want the VIP experience. Despite the decadence it’s not too pricey and makes for a great night out. Keep an eye out as celebrity sightings have been common here over the years.

7. Rusty’s

For a night full of cheese, drag and good fun, head on over to Rusty’s. Rusty’s is one of the best loved LGBT clubs in Newcastle who welcome everyone with open arms. If 00s and 90s pop is your thing, you’ll feel right at home here! The drinks are cheap, the music is good and everything is pink in this venue. If you enjoy drag, keep an eye out for the regular performances hosted here which make a great night on the town.

8. Colonel Porters

Colonel Porters is a 1920s style bar with trees growing inside and a quirky decor you’ll adore. Sitting at the very bottom of Grey Street, it’s the perfect bar to stop off in before a night on the Quayside. It’s the place to go for a range of tipsy teas, vintage cocktails and tasty rhums. It may not be the cheapest venue in town but it’s certainly one you’ll enjoy coming back to again.

10. Tokyo

Tokyo is a sleek and stylish addition to the Newcastle bar scene which makes you feel like a classier person just being there. This venue takes up 3 floors and has a style unlike anywhere else in the city. They serve a range of unique cocktails and delicious beers as well as Japanese whiskeys for the spirit enthusiast. Head upstairs to the rooftop terrace where from 8pm onwards on Wednesdays and Saturdays they host deep house music and nu-disco DJs. Grab a drink and dance the night away in Tokyo.

There are a lot more amazing nightlife venues to visit in Newcastle, and these are only a few to get you started. As a student in Newcastle, you’ll have plenty of chances to hit the town and experience the best nightlife the city has to offer. When it’s time to head home, you’ll always be in close range of your student accommodation in Newcastle.

When you come to study in Newcastle, you’re going to need to go shopping at some point. Whether it’s for food, clothes, furniture or anything else, there are plenty of places to go. Newcastle is home to many great shops and is in close proximity to other great shopping centres, supermarkets and department stores. You’ll find everything you need here, so here are some of the best shopping spots in Newcastle upon Tyne close to your student accommodation.

Eldon Square

Right in the city centre you’ll find Eldon Square, a large shopping centre with a huge range of stores from clothing to technology to beauty and more. It has mostly big name brands such as Dorothy Perkins, Hollister, Apple etc, so you’re never far from your favourite brands. With big department stores like John Lewis and Fenwick, there are lots of great options if you want to splash out a little. All that shopping works up an appetite, and the recently refurbished food hall has something for all tastes and budgets.

Metrocentre

Metro Centre is located on the Gateshead side of the Tyne and is the largest covered shopping centre in all of Europe. There are a lot of great transport link reaching it so no matter where your student accommodation in Newcastle is you’ll be able to get there. It’s easy to spend a whole day in this vast shopping centre and you’ll easily be able to find whatever it is you’re shopping for. With everything from designer brands to on budget shopping, there’s something here for everyone. Complete with an arcade, cinema, food court and more, there’s always something to do here.

Close to the Metro Centre is a huge IKEA store which is the perfect place to go to pick up some more furnishings or items to make your student accommodation feel more like home. There’s also an ASDA where you can grab some groceries with plenty of deals to suit your student budget.

Quayside Market

The Quayside Market comes to Newcastle every Sunday come rain or shine and it’s a great place to check out whenever you can. It takes place along the Quayside banks so it’s easy to reach from your student accommodation, and it makes for a great way to spend your Sunday morning. The vendors showcase the best of local food, drink and goods and you’ll often find high quality wares here. Some of the best known vendors here include North Shore Coffee, Pet Lamb Patisserie and Geordie Gifts. The goods here make great gifts for people or can be a great way to treat yourself too! You’re sure to feel like a local here and you’ll fit right in with the friendly faces.

Northumberland Street

Northumberland Street is pretty much the main street in Newcastle and is like a vein that runs through the city. All the way up you’ll see street performers and a huge range of shops to duck into and check out. It’s easy to find from your student accommodation and there’s something for everyone. From fast food vendors to department stores and pubs along the side streets, it’s the perfect place to come on a shopping trip. These are only a few of the best places to shop in Newcastle upon Tyne, and no matter which student accommodation you go for, you’ll never be far from these spots.

If you’re a coffee snob, or looking for places to study, Newcastle has plenty of coffee shops. Sure, we have Starbucks around town, but Newcastle has a lot of independent coffee shops you need to try out too. You don’t need to spend your time studying in the library or your student accommodation, try out these spots and get some work done in style!

1. Pink Lane Cafe

Right across the road from Central Train Station, Pink Lane Coffee is an Instagrammer’s dream. The neon lights and cute wooden tables make this the perfect spot for a mid-morning caffeine stop. With quality coffee and a great selection of delicious teas, you’ll be in heaven whatever your tipple. They also have some amazing locally-sourced cakes as well as lunches made fresh each day. Make sure to get here before the lunchtime rush though, this place fills up fast and you may struggle to grab a seat!

2. Flats Caps Coffee

Located around the corner from Monument Metro Station, Flat Caps is one of the best places to get down to some work. You’ll find plenty of other students and young professionals typing away on their laptops while sipping a flat white and eating avocado on toast. This place specialises in vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options so everyone’s catered for. Their coffee is some of the best in town and the decor is so good you’ll never want to leave. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick refuel or spending hours doing work, you’ll always feel welcome. Flat Caps is one of the few coffee shops in town open past 5pm and actually stays open till 7pm. So if you need to do some late evening work or want to get a coffee later in the day, this is the place to come.

3. Camber Coffee

Camber Coffee is a coffee spot that’s hidden away, but that only makes it feel more exclusive! It’s on the top floor of Start Fitness near Monument, and it’s a vegan friendly coffee spot you can’t miss. They serve up a lot of great coffees and teas as well as some fantastic vegan and veggie bites to keep you going. Their menu is very affordable so you don’t need to worry too much about spending all your student loans here! With plenty of tables and fast free WiFi, it’s a great place to get on with some work. It also has huge windows making it the perfect place to people watch as the day goes by!

4. Dog and Scone

We’ve all heard of the famous dog and cat cafes which have taken the world by storm. Of course, we have them in Newcastle too! If you miss your furry friends from home or want to experience the hype, come to Dog and Scone. You have to book ahead of time and it costs around £5.00 person. But here you’ll enjoy a coffee and sweet treat all while surrounded by adorable dogs! They’re all friendly pups and they’ll come up to you for a pat or a cuddle while you enjoy your coffee. The food and drinks here are great, but they aren’t the main attraction. If cats are more your thing, head next door to Mog on the Tyne to enjoy the fluffy felines instead.

5. Olive and Bean

If you’re looking for locally and ethically sourced food and drinks, Olive and Bean is the place to go. Near Grey’s Monument, this spot is a great place to meet friends for lunch or grab a big slice of cake between revision.  Among the cakes and sandwiches they also serve up a lot of healthy and hearty food to suit all tastes. This is especially needed in the North East where our temperatures get so cold you need some lovingly made food to warm your belly! The decor is beautiful but if you don’t have time to sit you can also grab a coffee or some food to take away with you instead.

6. The Journey

The Journey is a great spot to come and enjoy a great cup or tea or coffee and eat some yummy food at lunchtime too. Oh, it also doubles up as a bike repair shop, so if your two wheels need servicing, this is the place to go!

Located next to the Laing Art Gallery, The Journey is a great place to grab lunch or a coffee before checking out some local art. It’s a vegan and dog-friendly place with a pup of their own named Oscar who is more than happy for you to give him a pat! Whether you come for the breakfast or lunch options, you’ll be blown away by the delicious food at very affordable prices. We can pretty much guarantee you’ll be back for more!

7. The Garage

If you’re always on the lookout for quirky coffee spots you can tell your friends about, The Garage is one to check out. Near The Biscuit Factory, The Garage is an independent coffee shop in a building that used to be – you guessed it – a garage. It’s a small place but don’t let the size fool you. It has plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors and it’s a great spot to hang with friends. They have some great food here too making it a great place for a lunch date! Keep an eye out for the movie nights they sometimes host here too. It’s a cosy place with great service and it’s definitely quirky enough to keep you coming back again!

8. Settle Down Cafe

Sometimes you don’t need all the fancy extras many coffee shops have today. It doesn’t need to be a hipster’s paradise to be good, and Settle Down Cafe doesn’t try too hard. You’ll find it close to Central Station tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city so it offers a much needed reprieve some days. The Settle Down Cafe has some great food, great coffee and great staff – what more could you want? There are even lots of books and great music plays over the speakers so there’s something for everyone here. Whether you’re popping in for a quick coffee or meeting up with friends for lunch, this no-nonsense cafe will suit your needs perfectly.

9. Harvest Canteen

It’s not just the city centre that has the best coffee spots, Jesmond is famous for its great cafes and Harvest Canteen is one of the best around. Harvest Canteen is owned by Ouseburn Coffee Company, which is Newcastle’s first independent roastery. They serve up some of the best coffee in the North East so you must give them a try. All their coffee and food is made fresh to order and they offer plenty of healthy lunch options to help keep you going for the day. While you’re here, make sure to check out Jesmond as there is plenty to see and do in this area of Newcastle.

10. Fenwick Food Hall

For some of the best food and drinks in Newcastle (and we’re deliberately being vague here since they’ve got it all), come to Fenwicks’ Food Hall. Ouseburn Coffee Company also have a spot here where you can grab a coffee and sit in or take away as you go about your day.  Once you’ve finished your delicious coffee, make sure to peruse the rest of the food hall to see what else they offer. They have a delicatessen, wine bar, Mason & Rye bakery and so much more. You don’t even have to buy anything to enjoy the experience here. There’s so much good stuff here so make sure to check it out throughout your time in Newcastle upon Tyne.

Of course, there are plenty more amazing coffee shops we didn’t get round to mentioning in this guide, but these are just a few of our favourites. With so many of these great spots in easy reach of your Newcastle student accommodation, you’re never far from a much-needed caffeine fix.