How to Spend a Rainy Day in Newcastle
Escape the North East drizzle with these indoor activities perfect for a rainy day in the Toon
We’re no strangers to a bit of inclement weather here in Newcastle and we’re not going to let a bit of rain get us down, are we?
There’s plenty to do in the city when it’s pouring down outside, from taking refuge in a cosy café or catching a film. So, grab your brolly and indulge in one of our top rainy day Newcastle activities – weather be damned!
Warm up with a cuppa in a cosy cafe
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warming cup of coffee or tea when it’s bucketing down outside, so taking shelter in a cosy Newcastle café makes perfect sense.
Swing by local favourite Tiny Tiny at Carliol Square and take a seat under the warm glow of its festoon lights to sip on expertly brewed coffee and perhaps a sweet treat from its bakery counter.
Nearby, tucked away on Pilgrim Street, you’ll find the hidden gem that is Flat Six Coffee Roasters. It’s a super snug spot that blends the owner’s love of coffee and cars (they’ve even got a Porsche Hot Wheels collection!) and is perfect for drying off from the rain with a cup of their in-house roasted coffee.
Or, if you’re following a vegan diet, Sunday Coffee & Kitchen is a great shout. Its menu is 100% vegan so you can get comfy in its homely, pink-themed space and enjoy its signature brunch dishes with a cup of tea, chai and both classic and speciality coffees worry free.
Shop ‘til you drop without braving the elements
A bit of rain is no excuse to deny yourself a shopping spree and Newcastle has you covered – quite literally – with some fantastic indoor shopping options.
Our iconic Grainger Market is lovely for a wander around its maze-like alleyways when it’s pouring down outside. And, no matter what you’re shopping for – clothes, gifts and pet supplies or fresh fruit, veg, seafood and meat – there’s a stall to suit.
Over at Eldon Square, you could make a day of it while sheltering from the rain with over 100 stores to shop at. Refresh your wardrobe with the latest trends at the likes of Next, New Look and Fenwick, pick up beauty products at shops including Sephora and PURESEOUL or treat your trotters to some new shoes at Foot Looker, Charles Clinkard and Office. That’s just scratching the surface of what Eldon Square’s stores have to offer – there’s everything from jewellery and tech to gifts and homeware too.
Explore an art gallery
Why not indulge your inner culture vulture next time you find yourself in a Newcastle downpour with a trip to one of the city’s art galleries?
While it’s got a big reputation as an art destination, Laing Art Gallery has a cosy and compact feel that’s sure to provide respite from the rain as you peruse its collection of fine art including works by Paul Gaugin and Lawrence Alma-Tadema. Its permanent collection and many core exhibitions are free to view too.
Over in the upper reaches of the city centre, you’ll find an even cosier art spot at Hancock Gallery. Located in a gorgeous Georgian townhouse, its oozes intimate vibes and is perfect if your tastes swing more contemporary with past exhibitions featuring works by Banksy, Mark Demsteader and local artist Mul Draws.
Catch a film at one of the Toon’s cinemas
Let’s be honest: sometimes the best way to handle a classic Tyneside downpour is to ignore it completely in favour of a massive bucket of popcorn. And, whether you’re looking for independent art-house charm or luxury sofa service, Newcastle has a cinema to suit the occasion.
Head to Tyneside Cinema, the North East’s leading independent cinema, and settle in to see an indie flick or cult classic in The Classic screen. Deck out with plush red seats and art-deco features, it’s got nostalgic cinema vibes in droves.
If you’ve yet to experience the boutique cinema experience that Everyman offers, then your next rainy day in the city is the perfect opportunity. Here, you’re seated in comfy sofas and armchairs and can order food and drink to be delivered directly to your seat from its Spielburger Kitchen as you catch the latest releases in pure luxury.
Come rain or shine, there’s always something to do in Newcastle so next time the skies turn grey don’t let a downpour ruin your plans and embark on a rainy day adventure in the city instead.
Main Image: Tiny Tiny
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