Is Newcastle a Good Place to Live? Here’s What You Need to Know

Famous for its iconic Tyne bridges, rich history, and strong community culture, Newcastle stands as one of the most attractive locations in the UK, offering a dynamic lifestyle that blends modern city conveniences with a strong call of history at every turn.

From riverside walks and vibrant markets to live music and family-friendly parks, there’s something for everyone in this great city, whether you’re a student, professional, or raising a family.

But is Newcastle a nice place to live?

In this article, we cover everything you need to know about Newcastle. From history, culture, transport, schools, property market, and lifestyle, by the end of this article, you’ll know exactly if Newcastle is the right city for you to call home.

The History of Newcastle

Newcastle upon Tyne is a city with a story that stretches back nearly two thousand years. Originally known as Newcastle Pon Tyne, it began with the Romans and later grew around the “new castle” that was built in the 12th century. Fast forward a few centuries and the city developed into a hub of shipbuilding, coal, and trade, creating a legacy that can still be seen in its bridges, old town walls, and grand architecture.

Today, no mention of Newcastle’s is complete without a nod to the ever-present footballing spirit and community. In fact, the history of Newcastle United is legendary, with the roar of the Toon Army at St James’ Park echoing through the city on match days.

What makes Newcastle special is its unique city feel, blending its deep heritage with a more modern and innovative outlook. Its historic landmarks sit alongside new developments, lively riverside quarters, and a thriving cultural scene. In truth, the mix of old and new is what gives Newcastle its character and creates a proud community backing that helps foster a proactive and welcoming culture.

What is the Community and Culture Like in Newcastle?

The community and culture in Newcastle is best defined as warm, welcoming, and proudly Geordie. Residents are known for their friendliness and take unique pride in their heritage, local traditions, and of course footballing prowess.

While famous for its Geordie spirit, Newcastle City Council has also been praised for fostering a vibrant mix of cultures, arts, traditions, and social opportunities. From the lively Newcastle International Film Festival and vibrant music venues to street markets, arts exhibitions, and annual events like the Newcastle Science Festival – there’s always something happening that can draw the eye.

Neighbourhood life centers itself around community centres in Newcastle that offer a host of different activities, support services, and events that are purposed to bring people together.

For those looking to put down roots, Newcastle’s friendly residents, lively cultural events, and balance of tradition with modern living make it a city where newcomers quickly feel at home while still having plenty to discover.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, looking to move into your next home, or investing in property, working with a trusted whole-of-market mortgage broker in Newcastle can help you get the most suitable deal for your circumstances, making your move and property purchase simple and stress-free.

Things to See and Do in Newcastle

There are plenty of things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne, from cultural attractions and football community days out to vibrant nightlife and peaceful riverside walks. The city offers a wide variety of attractions and activities that caters to all walks of life, offering family fun, budget-friendly options, and a host of free things residents can enjoy in their day-to-day lives.

Here are some of the top attractions and activities that make Newcastle such an active place to live and visit.

Best Attractions and Activities

The best attractions and activities in Newcastle include riverside walks, world-class galleries, family-friendly museums, and the legendary St James’ Park. Whether you’re looking for fun activities in Newcastle or more relaxing retreats, the city truly offers a balanced list of activities for all to enjoy, including:

• Quayside: A lively riverside spot with restaurants, galleries, and stunning views of the Tyne and Millennium Bridges.
• BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art: A free contemporary art gallery with cutting-edge exhibitions and rooftop views.
• St James’ Park: The iconic home of Newcastle United and the famous Toon Army, offering tours and an unforgettable match-day atmosphere.
• Theatre Royal: A historic theatre that hosts West End shows, concerts, and live performances all-year-round.
• Discovery Museum: A hands-on museum that mixes science, technology, and local history – a perfect trip for families.
• Jesmond Dene: A peaceful green space that provides a wonderful backdrop for walks, picnics, and getting away from city life.

With so many activities in Newcastle, from football and nightlife to art and outdoor escapes, it doesn’t take long to realise why the city appeals to families, students, and professionals alike.

Top Restaurants and Pubs

The best restaurants and pubs in Newcastle are a big part of what makes the city’s bustling streets so appealing. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining, looking for street food on the move, or a cosy pub with live music, Newcastle’s food and nightlife scene is sprinkled throughout the city, with cuisines from around that would suit every taste.

• House of Tides: A Michelin-starred restaurant serving creative seasonal menus in a historic riverside building.
• Blackfriars Restaurant: Traditional British dining set inside a 13th-century friary.
• Grainger Market: A bustling hub of independent street food stalls and local produce.

When it comes to nightlife, you’ll find countless venues and pubs with live music in Newcastle. Some of the most popular spots include The Cluny, known for its intimate gigs and alternative acts, and The Head of Steam, which combines craft beer with regular live performances.

Additionally, the O2 City Hall famously hosts larger concerts for established acts, while the cosy bars like Little Buildings showcase the must see up-and-coming talents. Together, these venues give Newcastle its well-earned reputation as one of the UK’s best cities for live music.

How Good is Newcastle’s Transport System?

As one of the UK’s most popular cities, Newcastle offers a well-connected network, making it easy for residents to travel across the city and beyond. Whether you’re a professional planning your commute to work, a student attending university, or looking for easy travel to explore the surrounding region, public transport in Newcastle is simple and easy to navigate.

Below we have created an overview of the most common transport modes and average travel times between popular destinations:

As illustrated in the table above, there are a variety of transport options in Newcastle, including buses, the Metro, trains, and cycling routes. However, the city’s compact layout also encourages walking in the city centre, making daily travel straightforward for many residents.

For those who prefer private transport, it’s important to consider your destination and time of travel. Naturally, traffic can build up to be heavy during peak hours, and parking in the city centre is limited. As a result, many residents therefore combine walking, cycling, and public transport for a convenient and eco-friendly daily commute.

What Are the Schools and Universities Like in Newcastle?

Newcastle has a strong educational foundation that attracts both families and students. The city is home to a mix of high-achieving secondary schools and respected universities, including Newcastle University and Northumbria University, making it a place that supports learning at every stage of life.

For those who are considering moving to Newcastle, understanding the different types of schools and universities that are available can help guide you on where is best for you to live – especially if you’re a family looking to plan for your children’s education.

Here we have provided a list of key educational options, including:

Primary and Secondary Schools

• Newcastle High School for Girls

A leading independent day school that offers a comprehensive curriculum from early years all the way through to sixth form. Newcastle High School for Girls is proud to champion a strong emphasis on academic achievement, leadership, and personal development.

• Royal Grammar School Newcastle

One of the region’s most prestigious schools, renowned for its consistently high exam results, wide extracurricular opportunities, and a strong tradition in sports, music, and drama.

• Heaton Manor School

A large and inclusive secondary school providing a balanced curriculum, with particular strengths in the arts, sciences, and sports. Heaton Manor School focuses on promoting students to develop both academically and personally.

• St Cuthbert’s High School

A well-regarded Catholic boys’ school with a strong sense of community, offering excellent pastoral care, high academic standards, and active involvement in local cultural and charitable events.

• Central Newcastle Academy

Known for its supportive and inclusive environment, this academy offers a wide range of programmes and pathways, ensuring students of all backgrounds can thrive and progress to higher education or employment.

Further Education Centres (Universities and Colleges):

• Newcastle University

A prestigious institution, recognised both nationally and internationally, offering a wide variety of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Newcastle University is known for its research excellence and active campus lifestyle, students can join numerous Newcastle University societies, sports clubs, and cultural activities that enrich the student experience.

• Northumbria University

Highly regarded for its focus on employability and professional development, Northumbria combines modern facilities with strong industry links. Students benefit from hands-on learning opportunities, work placements, and a unique campus environment that focuses on preparing students for successful careers.

• Newcastle College

Newcastle College provides a broad spectrum of courses, apprenticeships, and adult learning programmes. The college specifically supports career progression and lifelong learning, offering practical skills and qualifications that cater to diverse learners and local industry needs.

Overall, Newcastle is home to a variety of quality schools and higher-achieving education institutions. Whether relocating with a family or moving to study, the city has a backbone of strong educational facilities that promote personal growth.

Are Property Prices in Newcastle Going Up?

Yes, property prices in Newcastle have seen a steady increase in the last couple of years. This growth is driven by the strong demand for both property for sale and property to rent in Newcastle.

While the city’s popularity is reflected in its rising costs, for example areas like Jesmond and Gosforth have experienced a marked price rise due to their popularity and local amenities, Newcastle still remains much more affordable than many of the UK’s main southern locations.

The Cost of Housing in Newcastle

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), property prices in Newcastle have steadily increased in recent years, with an 8.2% rise in annual costs, highlighting the strong and ongoing demand for property across the city.

It’s important to note that the exact cost of a property will largely depend on the type, condition, and location. However, to help provide you with a clear insight into the different property prices in Newcastle, here is an overview of average property prices by type in Newcastle, according to the latest ONS data:

Crucially, however, understanding the average property prices is just the first step in planning your ideal move. What is of equal importance is knowing your borrowing power – that is to say how much a lender is likely to offer you – in order to help you refine your property search and secure the right mortgage for your Newcastle home.

At Boon Brokers, our dedicated mortgage advisers can help you calculate your potential borrowing power across a whole range of lenders. With whole-of-market access, we will compare and find you the right mortgage that matches your needs.

Can a Mortgage Broker Find Me a Better Deal in Newcastle?

Yes, working with a trusted mortgage broker in Newcastle can help simplify the mortgage process, helping you identify realistic mortgage and property options that match both your finances and lifestyle requirements.

It’s no secret that securing a mortgage can often be the most challenging part of buying a home. With changing interest rates, a huge variety of lenders, and countless products available, finding the right mortgage can feel overwhelming… That’s where Boon Brokers can help.

At Boon Brokers, our dedicated mortgage experts provide you with personalised, fee-free mortgage advice that helps guide you through all of the options that are available to you. We’re here to make sure that you achieve a mortgage that aligns with your financial and personal needs.

Our advisers take the time to understand your goals, uncover the best deals, and guide you through every step of the application process. With access to over 100 lenders, we can help you compare rates, understand features, and secure a mortgage that fits your exact needs. From calculating borrowing potential to completing paperwork, our team makes the process clear, straightforward, and tailored to you.

Contact Boon Brokers today to explore your mortgage options and start your move to Newcastle with confidence.