Life in Newcastle

Newcastle was once again voted the UK’s best city for students as Northumbria University received the best "City Life" award in this year's WhatUni Student Choice Awards in 2016 and still offers a fantastic experience today. The fast growing culture of Newcastle is one to witness. 

After reading about how great living in Newcastle can be, you'll most likely want to visit and discover it for yourself. Check out our upcoming Undergraduate and Postgraduate Open Days - we look forward to seeing you soon.

A world famous city that feels like home

Newcastle upon Tyne is regularly hailed as one of the best cities for student life. It’s partly due to the city’s compactness, which makes it large enough to be vibrant and exciting while small enough to feel like home. It’s also due to the sheer number of students: one in every six people in the city is a student.

Newcastle is packed with bars, restaurants, pubs and clubs, so it’s easy to see why Northumbria is rated among the best universities for nightlife in the UK by Which? University 2016. Northumbria has also been voted the top University in the North East for Student Experience, with the city of Newcastle playing a part. 

Northumbria University, Newcastle - Enjoy Every Minute from Northumbria University on Vimeo.

More than a great night out

Newcastle boasts a combination of friendly culture, rich history and sporting passion that can rival any city in the world. There is a thriving scene for those who enjoy theatre and cinema. Music lovers are well catered for with big names regularly appearing at the Metro Radio Arena and the O2 Academy. We are also fortunate to have The Sage Gateshead right on our doorstep; it hosts international jazz, folk, classical and pop artists as well as offering a wide range of learning and participation programmes.

The city’s arts and cultural scene has become one of its defining characteristics. The world-class BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art attracts people from far and wide. Northumbria University has partnered with BALTIC in opening a new cultural hub for art, called BALTIC 39. A number of other galleries in the city means that art-lovers will be spoilt for choice.

When it comes to shopping there is something for everyone. Outstanding shopping centres include Eldon Square, one of the UK’s largest city centre shopping complex, and intu Metrocentre, one of Europe’s largest indoor shopping and leisure complex. There is also a wide range of boutiques and quirky markets.

We also have lots to offer sports fanatics. If you like your football, there is St James’ Park stadium right at the centre of the city, with Sunderland’s Stadium of Light not far away. Beyond football, there are high-profile events such as the Great North Run and international athletics at Gateshead International Stadium.

Stunning countryside and beaches 

Well-preserved sections of the world-famous Hadrian’s Wall are close to the city, set in beautiful countryside that is dotted with castles and stately homes. With only a short ride by train or bus, you can be in something close to a hiker’s heaven or an explorer’s nirvana.

Further to the north you will discover Kielder Water and Forest Park, which includes the biggest man-made lake in northern Europe as well as the largest working forest in England. Like a giant playground; by day you can enjoy mountain biking, horse riding and water sports and at night you can star gaze in the fantastic Sky Den.

Discover more about our amazing city