NSW’s second-largest city, Newcastle, is just two hours north of Sydney and is home to amazing beaches, vibrant culture, a rich history and exciting year-round events, concerts, festivals and more.
EVENTS
Newcastle is known for its jam-packed events calendar. Whether it’s music, arts, culture, kids entertainment or sport that is of interest, there’s an event to suit everyone. From the international surf competition, Surfest, to the Newcastle Writers Festival and a consistent rotation of exhibitions and shows, there’s always something to see and do.
EXPLORE
Discover the spectacular coastline of Newcastle via the 6km Bathers Way walk, which hugs the coastline from Nobbys Beach to Merewether Beach. This scenic walk takes in ocean views and cliffs, King Edward Park, Newcastle and Merewether Ocean Baths as well as the iconic Bogey Hole and ANZAC Memorial Walk.
A delicious range of waterside bars, cafes and restaurants await you along Honeysuckle and the Newcastle Foreshore promenade, which is also within an easy stroll of city attractions such as the Newcastle Museum, Art Gallery and historic Civic Theatre.
Find out about the city’s intriguing history at the Newcastle Museum, or on a guided walking tour with Newcastle Afoot or fun-filled cycling tour with Pineapple Pedals. There are regular tunnel tours of the unique Fort Scratchley, which was responsible for what are still the only shots fired at an enemy vessel from the Australian mainland. It took aim at a Japanese submarine in June 1942.
For more outdoor adventure, soar on ziplines at the Treetop Adventure Park, visit the local animals such as koalas and wombats at Blackbutt Reserve, or jump on a whale-watching adventure with CoastXP. For a truly birds-eye view of the city, opt for an aerial tour with Heli Services Newcastle.
ARTS & CULTURE
Newcastle Art Gallery houses the most important public art collection outside Sydney and is home to about 6,500 works and has a regular rotation of exhibitions and events to suit the whole family.
The Lock-Up, the city’s original Police Station, and now art space, is another popular destination, also hosting regular exhibitions and events.
Dating back to 1929, Civic Theatre is one of Australia’s great, traditional theatres right in the centre of Newcastle. The building’s exterior features a Georgian Revival style, with a flourish of Italian Renaissance, while inside you’ll find a Spanish Baroque theme – and that’s just the building. The theatre program is constant and varied throughout the year. The Newcastle Conservatorium of Music also offers a great line-up of local, national and international live music performances throughout the year.
EAT & DRINK
From waterfront bars, cafés and restaurants to bustling eat streets like Darby and Beaumont streets, craft breweries and delicious tours, there’s a flavour to suit all tastes in Newcastle. Here’s a small sample.
Cafés
Baked Uprising
From an assortment of bread and pastries to toasties, this café has it all. For those looking to learn the art of making homemade bread from the experts, they also host a range of workshops and events, including a Sourdough workshop and other workshops.
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Bolton Street Pantry
A modern café that not only offers a range of classic brunch choices, but is also open for dinner. The perfect place to visit with friends and family if you’re looking for a spot with plenty of share plates, wines, cocktails and good coffee.
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Goldbergs Coffee House
This popular bohemian spot is known for its relaxed atmosphere and hearty menu, with live music nights and a range of daily specials, there’s something for everyone at this café.
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Bars & Restaurants
The Basement on Market St
Located in the Newcastle CBD, this restaurant offers delicious Italian food, with an extensive cocktail, wine and craft beer list. They also currently have Family Night Fridays offer, where kids under 12 eat for free.
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Coal & Cedar
This bar is a hidden gem in the heart of Newcastle, with a retro-chic decor and a range of classic cocktails and Whisky options, it’s the perfect spot to wind down and grab a drink.
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The Signal Box
Located in Market Street Lawn, it’s a great spot to grab brunch or dinner with your friends, with an open-air courtyard and breathtaking harbour views, as well as a seasonal menu, this restaurant is worth visiting no matter when you go.
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Ginger Megs
From dumplings to curry, this restaurant offers a range of classic asian dishes and affordable cocktails. This is the perfect place to grab a hearty meal or try a little bit of everything with their $60pp set menu.
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Merewether Surfhouse
A modern restaurant located right by the sea, offering stunning ocean views from the rooftop bar, with plenty of fresh seafood dishes including oysters, fish and chips, as well as other classics that make it a great spot to visit.
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Markets & Shopping
Newcastle has plenty of shops and markets to buy gifts for yourself or your loved ones.
Visit Westfield Kotara, a vibrant hub packed with diverse shops, a range of eateries, speedy bite options and a lively game arcade for all ages. For more unique gift ideas, explore the array of independently owned boutiques on Darby Street, offering homewares, handmade chocolates, and a range of local and Australian fashion labels, among other treasures.
For those who love shopping at markets, the Hunt+ Gather Markets pop up quarterly, and feature over 150 vintage and antique curators, artists, handmade goods, as well as a bar, live music and gourmet food that will keep you entertained all day.
The Newcastle City Farmers Markets occur weekly on Sunday, with produce straight from farmers, a range of food vendors and live entertainment.
The Olive Tree Market occurs on the first Saturday of every month, and features over 130 emerging and established artists, designers, makers, gourmet artisan food producers and more.
