Summer is upon us and there's nothing we love more than dining al fresco. Here are five of the best spots in NE1 to kick back with a picnic:
What would a day out in Newcastle be without a pitstop at the city’s namesake? The Castle is one of many spots in Newcastle which blend urban life with enough leafy greenery to trick you into thinking you’re in the countryside for a moment or two! Rising high above the rooftops, the views across the city from the Castle’s tower are simply breathtaking. After you’ve explored the historic site, head down to the grassy banks which surround it and enjoy some al fresco lunch in the sun. Bang in the city centre and with the Tyne Bridge providing the backdrop to your picnic, you’ll know you’ve arrived in the toon!
The Ouseburn Valley is Newcastle’s best-kept secret, full of hidden gems including locally-loved pubs, the historical Ouseburn tunnel and Ouseburn City Farm, a miniature farmyard and community hub. You can easily spend hours exploring the area, and a leisurely al fresco lunch is sure to complete the day. Check the weather forecast, charge your camera and get that picnic packed up!
If you like to be beside the seaside but don’t want to sacrifice the hubbub of summer in the city, NE1's brilliant Quayside Seaside is the one for you. The Costa del Tyneside comes complete with sand and deckchairs - all the spot is missing is you, a picnic basket and a handful of pals. Why not head over to Quayside favourite The Pitcher and Piano for a cocktail or two once you’ve lined your stomachs with a sarnie?
www.getintonewcastle.co.uk/ne1-events/quayside-seaside
An ideal stop-off mid-shopping trip or museum-hopping, the green oasis outside St Thomas Church at Haymarket lends itself to picnics and sunbathing in the summer months. Pack a basket of goodies or wander down Northumberland Street and grab something to-go, pull out your picnic blanket and off you go. With no lengthy walks to get back into the city centre, the area feels just right for a quick recharge and refuel on a summer day out with family or friends.
Blackfriars is a quiet and peaceful pocket of history in the city centre. Swap the crowds for a picnic in the sunny, sheltered ruins of Blackfriars Friary. And take in some of Newcastle’s most interesting old buildings as you snack. If you’re bringing the family, let the kids burn off some energy in the area’s open spaces – if it’s a more grown-up day out, enjoy an hour or two basking in the warm weather, meandering through the spot’s nooks and crannies and stumbling on its well-established craft shops. If you fancy a drink before heading home, why not pop in and see our friends at Blackfriars Restaurant?
