Two hours to spare for those who want history in a nutshell...
Start by exploring Newcastle’s Castle Keep (allow 45 minutes) and enjoy a bird’s eye view (and well earned breather!) of the city and River Tyne from the top. The medieval Keep occupies the position of the earlier Roman fort of Pons Aelius.
From Castle Keep walk along Collingwood Street and Neville Street passing Newcastle Central Station on your left and the Centre for Life until you reach the Discovery Museum in Blandford Square. (15 mins walk). The ground floor walk-through exhibition gives a fascinating glimpse into Newcastle’s past (allow 1 hour).
Why this route…?
Because Newcastle’s Castle Keep area is where the story begins. Find out about the early Norman fortification which gave the settlement its name. And then discover the even more ancient history which lies beneath the foundations of the Norman stone tower.
The Discovery Museum allows you to do just that – discover Newcastle’s history at your own pace with a walk-through exhibition on the ground floor. And, if you have just a bit more time, it’s also the place to learn about the fantastic scientific and technological achievements of Tyneside’s industrial past including the world famous “Turbinia” boat.