53, Newcastle to Gateshead and back to Newcastle

Journey Overview

Fog on the Tyne is all mine all mine and with two trips over this iconic River, you never know, you may be shrouded in fog on this barnstorming bus ride! If you’re not, there’s plenty to see from the window of the bus as it leaves behind the pulsating, beating heart of Newcastle, winding its way downwards from the City Centre, past  neo-classical architecture, vibrant shopping and nightlife, across the swing bridge with breathtaking fog-free views (on a good day 🙂 ) of the Tyne Bridge and the ever so atmospheric River. Listen and watch out for the trundling clickety clack of trains traversing the Tyne, the red, white and blue of LNER and maybe some Lumo, CrossCountry and Northern train company liveries too as they make their steady and slightly cautious progress in and out of the famous Newcastle Railway Station.

Straddling the Tyne, the bus goes, with views over towards trendy Quayside with its plush bars and restaurants, then it’s up Mill Road, towards the giddy heights of Gateshead and its famous shops. It’s party night most of the week here in Newcastle and this is the place to be for nocturnal lovers down below as the bus navigates its way in and out of Gateshead. Off to Bensham with views of Newcastle left behind, the bus goes, but it’s soon a magnetising, gradual turn back towards the iconic Geordie City, this time over the Tyne on the sleek, modern-looking Redheugh Bridge and then up St. James Boulevard, with its contrasts of the past and present, through Grainger Town before completing a fascinating circular scenic sojourn back at Monument.

Newcastle has its hold on folk and little wonder this shortish bus journey manages to escape the whirring din but very quickly gets drawn back in, but sufficiently long enough for a memorable trip that gives a perfect glimpse of culture, history and modern day life either side of the River Tyne! Not for the faint-hearted and not to be missed!

A Fab Day Out!

Rise early in Newcastle, and begin with a stroll from Central Station toward Grey Street. Admire the sweeping Georgian architecture and make your way down to Grey’s Monument—a fitting tribute to classic northern grandeur. Wander toward the Quayside, where iconic bridges like the Tyne and Millennium create a striking riverside panorama. Browse the weekend Quayside Market (if it’s Sunday) for street food and local crafts .

By mid‑morning, get on-board the bus over to Gateshead and a visit to the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art—a converted flour mill showcasing rotating multimedia exhibitions; don’t miss the rooftop viewing deck overlooking the Tyne.

Next, just downstream is The Glasshouse International Centre for Music (formerly Sage Gateshead). Even if you’re not seeing a performance, its futuristic architecture and riverside terraces are worth a look. For lunch, choose one of the cafés along the Quayside—many offer laid-back riverside dining with scenic views.

Pop into the expansive Metrocentre for retail therapy or a quick coffee break. Alternatively, if you prefer greenery, consider a gentle stroll through Windy Nook sculpture park, combining art and nature on a former slag-heap.

Finally, get back on the bus and ease into the late afternoon at a cosy riverside pub under the Tyne Bridge—locals love the Free Trade or Tyne Bar or at the many fab places in Quayside, followed maybe by a taste of the famous, barnstorming Newcastle nightlife. which is legendary, buzzing with energy and variety. Start at the Bigg Market for classic pub vibes, then head to Collingwood Street—nicknamed the “Diamond Strip”—for trendy bars like House of Smith, Florita’s, and Madame Koo. For something alternative, The Cluny in Ouseburn offers live music and craft beers. Dance the night away at Digital, a huge club with top DJs, or try Cosmic Ballroom for underground beats. Rooftop bars like Above at the Vermont Hotel provide glamour and views. Whether you’re after cocktails, indie gigs, or all-night clubbing, Newcastle has something for every kind of night owl.

Check out further down this page, some of the great attractions on this route and also be sure to go onto this link to find out more about fares and inspiration…

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