Planning a Football Weekend in Newcastle

With its history steeped in football and lively city centre, Newcastle is perfect for a weekend of Premier League football. From ticket advice to local pubs and unmissable sights, here's how to have a great football weekend in the North East.

Newcastle is exceptionally well served by rail, road and air transport. Trains from London King's Cross take under three hours and direct trains operate from such cities as Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh. Newcastle International Airport, located just six miles from town, provides domestic and overseas flights and easy Metro access into town.

Once here, the compact nature and effective Metro system ensure easy transportation. The famous St. James’ Park sits in the city centre, which means that the major spots—hotels, pubs and landmarks—are all within walking distance.

For drivers, a few city-centre car parks are within a 10-minute walk of the stadium, but matchdays are best accessed early, as spaces fill quickly. Good parking around Leazes Park or the Haymarket area provides good access to the stadium and its amenities.

Buying Your Match Tickets

Securing match tickets is the starting point for planning your football weekend. One of England's most intense grounds is St. James’ Park; demand for essential fixtures can be high. The official club sources are always the best bet, but third-party platforms may be an option if you leave your planning until later.

For those planning in advance, Newcastle in St James' Park tickets tend to be available from trustworthy sources specialising in catering for visiting fans and tourists alike. Such websites usually provide secured seats and additional services like customer assistance and e-delivery, which are best suited for those who fly in or stay for just a few days.

It's well worth mentioning that the Gallowgate End and Leazes Stand provide an exceptionally authentic experience with fervent home supporters. If views across the pitch and cityscape are what you're seeking, try the upper tier of the East Stand for one of Premier League football's finest views.

Where to Stay

Accommodation in Newcastle varies from low-cost hostels to high-end boutique hotels. To absorb a proper matchday buzz, being near the city centre or Quayside means you're never too far from all the action.

Premier Inn and Maldron Hotel provide dependable mid-range accommodation within a stroll of the stadium. For those needing something higher-end, Hotel du Vin or INNSiDE by Meliá brings a touch of sophistication without extending an inch from that Geordie feel.

Locating close to Grey Street or Dean Street will position you in the city's nightlife. At the same time, districts such as Jesmond provide quieter areas amidst many cafes and pubs, merely a few stops from the stadium via the Metro.

Pubs, Pints and Pre-Match Atmosphere

Few towns can compare to Newcastle's drinking scene, particularly on matchday. The city comes alive hours before kick-off and numerous pubs and bars cater to home and away supporters alike.

The Strawberry, across from St. James’ Park, is an institution. It's like a tavern filled with history and memorabilia from a bygone era. Many supporters go there before entering the ground. For a wider choice, walk along Percy Street or into Bigg Market for a blend of old and new pubs.

Amongst these are The Bodega, a gorgeously restored Victorian tavern and The Town Wall for hearty eats and a good choice of ales. For a riverside pint, pubs along the Quayside provide a picturesque pre-game experience.

What to Do Between Matches

If you are visiting for the weekend, there's much more than just the football to check out. The city has a wonderful blend of history, culture and nightlife, making for a well-rounded stay.

History enthusiasts will go to Newcastle Castle and Roman Fort Segedunum, which provide glimpses into the city's ancient history. Culture lovers will appreciate visiting the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art or the Laing Art Gallery. Go to Newcastle Keep or climb Grey's Monument to get a bird 's-eye view of the city and the Tyne Bridge.

Foodies will love exploring Grainger Market, an indoor food paradise filled with everything from Geordie favourites to craft coffee. Naturally, a walk along the Quayside at dusk, watching the sun set across the iconic Millennium Bridge, is an essential experience.

The Complete Experience

Try to get to the stadium around an hour before kick-off on match day. This provides time to absorb the pre-match atmosphere, get a programme and experience the pre-game buzz around the stadium. St. James’ Park's sloping stands and partisan crowd guarantee an unforgettable experience, whatever the outcome.

Inside concourses, you can find standard matchday foods such as pies, hot dogs and pints of lager. Singing areas are typically located in the Gallowgate End, so you will find the most vibrant atmosphere there if you wish to sing along.

Once off work for the day, the city centre comes alive again. Whether you're analysing the match over pints or out for a meal, there's plenty to choose from to round off your weekend. Grey Street restaurants, cocktails in Alvinos or a casual drink in the Ouseburn area are excellent ways to wind down.