Red January in Newcastle: Walk Your Way to Wellbeing
Explore the best of this city this Red January with our pick of the best walks and in Newcastle!
This Red January, take this as your opportunity to get out the office and capture the city like you’ve never seen it before!
And what exactly is Red January, we hear you cry? Well, it’s a fantastic initiative that encourages people to take part in physical activities that benefit their mental wellbeing – something we think we can all agree is much needed at this time of year!
This New Year, we’re teaming up with Red January, and local digital agency Bonded to encourage office workers to step away from their desks and explore the city on foot. The goal? To walk 10 inspiring city routes, discover hidden “Glimmer Shots” that spark joy, and capture them on camera.
These glimmers are uplifting moments – little sights or places you might have missed before – that are sure to make you smile and brighten your day. It’s all about finding light in the winter months and making movement part of your daily routine!
Whether you fancy a little stroll yourself or want to gather the team, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore the city and raise a smile this January.
#1 Glimmer Shot: Tyne Bridge from Side
Start Point: Newcastle University Arches
Route: No walk through Newcastle is complete without a stop at the stunning Tyne Bridge. It’s an iconic backdrop for the perfect photo and we all have those images where we’re stood on the Quayside looking upriver, but have you captured the photo as you just turn the corner of Side? It’s super impressive!
If you’re based north of the city, this journey begins at the historic Newcastle University Arches, a stunning landmark that sets the tone for the walk ahead.
From the Newcastle University Arches, head across the road at King's Gate and past St Thomas Church as you make your way down Northumberland Street. While you're there, why not pop into Mason + Rye at Fenwick Food Hall for a coffee to fuel your adventure
Continuing past Monument, stroll down the iconic Grey Street and onto Dean Street. Before reaching the Dean Street Arches, why not take a quick detour to Deep North for a sweet treat (a little birdie told us you can get 15% off with your NE1 Exclusive card...).
Whether you’re craving their classic “Homer Simpson” doughnut or the famous brown butter sugar doughnut, their freshly baked flavours are not to be missed. Your trail ends just outside of Solstice. Take a moment to soak in the beauty of Newcastle’s architecture before heading off to your next adventure.
End Point: Side – View of the Tyne Bridge
Time Estimate: Approximately 15 minutes
#2 Glimmer Shot: Millennium Bridge
Starting Point: The Swirle
Route: Begin at The Swirle… that’s the big circular installation that looks like a globe – a real charming spot to kick off your walk.
From The Swirle, head directly to the Millennium Bridge. This scenic path offers stunning views of the river and the cityscape. Be sure to stop halfway to capture a photo, creating a memorable moment to share.
Before continuing your adventure, make a quick pit stop at Cafe Mal inside the Malmaison hotel. Grab a takeaway tea to warm your hands as you continue exploring.
After stretching your legs, if hunger strikes, head into I Scream for Pizza for a delicious slice – or two or three! Enjoy your pizza indoors, take it on the go, or find a cozy spot to soak in the beautiful views before finishing your walk.
End Point: The Swirle
Time Estimate: Approximately 20 minutes
#3 Glimmer Shot: Dog Leap Stairs
Starting Point: Laing Art Gallery
Route: If you’re in and around the centre of Newcastle, start walking towards Northumberland Street, turning left down Pilgrim Street, then turning right at 55 degrees roundabout, and finally turning left down Dean Street.
It’s now time to get a pic at the Dog Leap Stairs which are just to the right of the Dean Street Arches. Head up the stairs (or walk up the hill) and finish at the top by the Black Gate.
While you're passing Pilgrim Street, make sure to grab a hot drink from the lovely team at Caffe Ginevra and maybe a cannoli or two if you're tempted! Or, a little bit further down, you'll pass Pure Knead - famous in town for their perfect pastries. So don't miss the opportunity while you're passing to pick one up!
End Point: The Black Gate
Time Estimate: Approximately 15 minutes
#4 Glimmer Shot: Vampire Rabbit
Starting Point: Newcastle Castle
Route: Start at Newcastle Castle, head towards the Cathedral, turning right at Amen Corner following the path around to the Vampire Rabbit. Time for a team pic or selfie!
Then head over to the Bigg Market walking towards Newgate Street. Keep following the road up to Percy Street. Carry on straight up to King's Gate and cross the road to your right and head over to St Thomas Church.
Towards the start of the walk, pop by Meat:Stack for a breakfast muffin, whether you want to take advantage of their breakfast box deal or if you're more in the mood for their loaded American pancakes, there's something for everyone (yes, even the veggies!).
Starting to feel a bit thirsty? You'll pass by Anyone for Coffee on your way up Percy Street, so feel free to stop for a coffee or pastry to end the walk with.
End Point: St. Thomas Church
Time Estimate: Approximately 20 minutes
#5 Glimmer Shot: NE1 Chinese Garden
Starting Point: Chinese Arch
Route: Start at the China Town Arches, head down Stowell Street to the Oriental Garden for a quick pic! Take in the peaceful vibes, then make your way down to the Tyne Theatre and Opera House and continue down Westgate Road towards The Mile Castle. Cross over at the lights towards Central Station and head left, making your way to St Nicholas' Cathedral.
Keep hydrated with a traditional Taiwanese Bubble Tea from Bubble Cha on your way over to the Oriental Gardens or, if you're feeling peckish during the walk, pop by Pink Lane Bakery for one of their famous breakfast treats.
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If you're saving yourself for the end of the walk and fancy a hot drink, make sure to stop by 5 Quarter to recoup or snack in the beautiful setting of the unique heritage site, The Common Room.
End Point: Newcastle Cathedral
Time Estimate: Approximately 15 minutes
#6 Glimmer Shot: High Level Bridge
Starting Point: St. James’ STACK
Route: If you are on your way to work and want to see a wonderful sunrise, or perhaps you’re working centrally, this one is for you!
Start at The Gate and head south along Newgate Street and take a left down Clayton Street, where you’ll find the brilliant team from Olive and Bean, who have been baking their brilliant cakes and scones for over 16 years!
At this point, be sure to head into the Grainger Market, enjoy the new renovations to the atrium and maybe grab a coffee from Pumphreys or North Shore before you head out onto Grainger Street.
Take a left at the crossroads to enjoy a stroll down the Bigg Market before continuing onto St Nicholas Street and take the pedestrian path to reach the High Level Bridge (this is just by The Bridge Hotel) where you can soak in the beautiful views of the Tyne.
End Point: High Level Bridge
Time Estimate: Approximately 15 minutes
#7 Glimmer Shot: Exhibition Park
Start Point: Great North Museum: Hancock
Route: Start at Great North Museum: Hancock and make your way up Claremont Road. Once at the roundabout, cross the road towards Exhibition Park. Head up the path, taking in the beautiful greenery.
Walk towards the pond, pose for a pic and take a nice little stroll around the water! There's plenty of benches if you want to have a sit down and take in the nature. Once you're ready, make your way back to the skatepark, hopefully feeling refreshed!
Before you head over to Great North Museum: Hancock, why not stop by Claremont Tea House to try one of their tasty teas, whether you want a traditional English breakfast tea or are looking to try something a bit different for the New Year, they have something for everyone.
If tea isn't your thing, take a stop on the walk to visit Urban Green Cafe. They've got a whole range of drinks for you to choose from - maybe even get yourself a little sweet treat for the road?
End Point: Exhibition Skate Park
Time Estimate: Approximately 20 minutes
#8 Glimmer Shot: Leazes Park
Starting Point: St. James’ STACK
Route: Is your office based over at The Helix? This walk is perfect as it starts over at St James' STACK. Once there, head up towards St James' Park, moving up Barrack Road. Enter Leazes Park on your right and head towards the bandstand.
Then take a nice stroll around the lake and once you're opposite The Tower Cafe, this is the perfect spot for a pic! With the lake and iconic St James’ Park situated behind you, snap a shot and carry on around the lake. Exit via Leazes Terrace and head back down towards Strawberry Place, then back to St James's Stack.
To start the journey, STACK has a whole host of businesses you can pop into, we'd recommend heading into YOLO Coffee & Kitchen and grabbing a takeaway drink (and maybe a snack) for the road!
Halfway around the route, you can stop back by The Tower Cafe near the lake at Leazes Park – it's the perfect place to sit and take in your surroundings and warm those cockles.
End Point: St. James’ STACK
Time Estimate: Approximately 25 minutes
#9 Glimmer Shot: Street Art Trail
Starting Point: Newcastle Civic Centre
Route: If your workplace is based north of the city, this one is for you! Start at Newcastle Civic Centre and head down John Dobson Street to the corner of Ridley Place where you'll find Peter Manning's mural on the wall of Zapatista at Ridley Place.
Continue down John Dobson Street where you'll find the Laing Art Gallery and will catch a glimpse of the murals on their walls. Then head across Market Street, down onto Grainger Street where eventually you'll turn left to hit the Bigg Market and Groat Market check out the mural on the side of the Cathedral Square building.
From there head to your final art spot. Continue down the road and turn right along Collingwood Street heading up to Forth Lane Urban Art Gallery to soak up the vibrant street art along this innovative space.
If you're out for an early morning walk, be sure to stop by Frankie & Tony's for one of the best breakfast baps in town. As you stop at the Laing Art Gallery, did you know behind there you'll find Magic Hat Cafe? And did you know their on a mission to tackle food waste? It's the perfect place to get warm and feel all the wholesome vibes with their pay-as-you-feel policy.
As you head along Collingwood Street be sure to check out the Camera Shop. Although it was a working camera shop in 1907, it’s now a foodie hotspot cooking up incredible breakfast, lunches and coffees – you name it they do it! The walk deserves a treat and what better way to end than a sweet treat from Pink Lane Bakery!
End Point: Pink Lane
Time Estimate: Approximately 20 minutes
#10 Glimmer Shot: Bridges Shot
Starting Point: Pilgrim Street
Route: Begin your walk from Pilgrim Street, located in the heart of the city. Starting at the intersection of Pilgrim Street and Newgate Street, head west along Pilgrim Street, passing landmarks like Northern Goldsmiths.
Turn left onto Grey Street and walk past the Theatre Royal until you reach the crossroads. Turn right onto Mosley Street, and when you arrive at Newcastle Cathedral and take a left.
Follow the road as it curves to the right, then take a left under the bridge onto Clavering Place. Before continuing, why not stop off at Sorcerer Coffee to recharge? Tucked neatly into one of the arches, it’s the perfect spot to grab a coffee before you reach the Roomzzz Hotel. From there, take the steps down towards the River Tyne.
Once at the bottom, cross over to the riverbank and enjoy the scenic views along the Quayside. Take a moment to soak in the beauty – you might need the rest before tackling the stairs on the way back!
End Point: River Tyne
Time Estimate: Approximately 20 minutes
There you have it – ten walks in Newcastle that we guarantee will leave you feeling better both mentally and physically, all while embracing the ethos of Red January and seeing the city in a whole new light! So, what are you waiting for? Get walking and get capturing those glimmer shots, and be sure to tag us in your images by sharing REDJanuaryNewcastle across your social platforms.
Main image: Newcastle upon Tyne Bridges and Skyline by JimmyGuano (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons
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