The Toon Tour

Journey Overview

Summer route only…

The Newcastle Toon Tour is the hop-on hop-off, open-top city tour bus that runs during the Spring and Summer. From shopping to history, the arts, culture, nightlife and sporting pedigree, this is a circuit that packs in so much and is easy on the feet, connecting all the great sights without having to walk up and down the steep roads of Newcastle and Gateshead to do so!

Visitors can hop on and hop off to their heart’s content as they explore the copious attractions and take in the city’s sights from the heights of this open top bus. This is a panoramic journey penetrating the heart of this dynamic, invigoratingly bustling city, with its fabulous sights and sounds.

Buses start from Central Station in Newcastle and then serve 17 stops on a circular route which takes in some of the finest sights around the city.

It’s a fabulous experience spotting all the bridges across the River Tyne and there’s no more dramatic an entry than being outside, upstairs as the bus crosses the Tyne Bridge. Famous sights including St James’ Park and the Quayside are featured and gems such as the street art near the Sage and the oft-overlooked Ouseburn within this eclectic City. There’s informative, commentary on-board too, regaling history and exciting titbits about the journey as well as savings on entry at several attractions.

A Fab Day Out!

The Toon Tour open top bus from Go North East is an excellent way to see and visit some of the top attractions in Newcastle upon Tyne. With a 24-hour ticket, you can hop on and off the bus at any of the stops along the route, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace. Here are some of the top places to see and visit on the journey:

1. Discovery Museum: The Discovery Museum is a fascinating museum that tells the story of Newcastle’s history and industrial heritage. It features interactive exhibits, displays, and artifacts that highlight the city’s past, including the famous Turbinia steamship.
2. St James’ Park: Home to Newcastle United Football Club, St James’ Park is one of the most iconic sporting venues in the UK and right in the heart of the City. Even if you’re not a football fan, the stadium is worth a visit for its impressive grandeur and maybe one of its fabulous stadium tours, which take you behind the scenes of this great venue and give a fab insight into the trials, tribulations and occasional glory of Newcastle United!
3. Great North Museum: The Great North Museum is another excellent museum that covers a wide range of topics, including natural history, archaeology, and ancient cultures. The museum is home to an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that are both educational and engaging.
4. Ouseburn: Located on the east side of the city, Ouseburn is a vibrant and creative area that’s home to numerous art galleries, music venues, and restaurants. It’s also a great place to take a walk along the river and explore the area’s industrial heritage.
5. Quayside: The Quayside is one of the most iconic areas of Newcastle, with its picturesque bridges, historic buildings, and bustling nightlife. The area is full of bars, restaurants, and shops, making it an excellent place to spend an afternoon or evening.
6. Millennium Bridge: The Millennium Bridge is a pedestrian and cyclist bridge that spans the River Tyne, connecting Newcastle to Gateshead. The bridge is a modern architectural marvel and is particularly impressive when lit up at night.
7. Tyne Bridge: The Tyne Bridge is another iconic landmark of Newcastle and is one of the most recognizable bridges in the UK. The bridge spans the River Tyne and is a great place to take a walk and enjoy the views of the city.
8. Baltic: The Baltic is a contemporary art museum that’s housed in a converted flour mill on the south bank of the River Tyne. The museum features a wide range of modern art exhibitions and installations and offers stunning views of the river and the city.
9. Sage Gateshead: The Sage Gateshead is a world-class music venue that hosts a wide range of concerts and performances throughout the year. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece and is worth a visit even if you’re not attending a show.
10. Grey’s Monument and Grey Street: Grey’s Monument is a Grade I listed monument that commemorates the achievements of Charles Grey, 2nd Earl Grey. The monument is located on Grey Street, which is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful streets in the UK. The street is lined with elegant Georgian buildings and is a must-see for architecture lovers.
11. Newcastle Castle: Newcastle Castle is a medieval castle that dates back to the 12th century. The castle is located in the heart of the city and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
12. Newcastle Cathedral: Newcastle Cathedral is a beautiful medieval church that’s located in the city centre. The cathedral is home to stunning stained-glass windows, intricate carvings, and a peaceful atmosphere.