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Newcastle City Tour

Mihail Pandrea Out and about

United by seven bridges across a spectacular riverscape, Newcastle (a city on the north bank of the River Tyne) and Gateshead (a town on the south bank) form a single, diverse and extremely vibrant visitor destination.

With so many different areas each offering new sights, sounds and experiences, you'll be amazed at how much is on offer whatever your tastes. World-class culture, vibrant nightlife, award-winning dining, Inspiring heritage, fantastic shopping and acclaimed architecture are linked here, as nowhere else, by the famous Geordie spirit.

As a first year student In Newcastle I must confess I haven't been aware of the wonders that this city offers. This Is why, when I arrived, first thing that I wanted to check on my 'To do as a student' was to discover the city. After a good night sleep I woke up so curious about the wonders of the north-east so I dressed up and went out with a single thought In my mind. To get lost.

Leaving my accommodation, I took a straight path and popped Into the Civic Centre, a wonderful quiet green square, surrounded by two tiny water canals that serve as a constant habitat for various types of birds. Further on, this place became one of my favourite relaxation venues, a perfect place to be alone and contemplative ln.

Continuing my pursuit, being led by nothing else but the random steps of mine, a bunch of constant noise hit me when I reached the commercial heart of the city, Northumberland Street, a perfect place to empty your wallet in as a student, being able to find anything on the side-shops, from clothes to groceries.

Taking the descendent path of Northumberland Street I have taken a short turn to the right and saw a huge doric (architectural column style) with the statue of Earl Grey on the top. Being curious why everybody was waiting something or someone standing on the base of this vestige, I started throwing questions and found out that this Is also known as 'The Monument' and almost everyone chooses this place as a meeting point In Newcastle central area.

My journey took me all-round this nucleus of the city and mode me discover the only Georgian and Victorian (architectural styles) street left Intact in the UK, Grey's Street.

If you decide to take this path, I guarantee that you will be amazed by the most Impressive building on Grey's street, the Theatre Royal.

On the other side, seemingly amazing was also Grainger Street and the famous Grainger Market.

Not being able to decide which way to follow next, I asked for some references and everybody told me about the Quayside, so I asked for directions and found some truly amazing venues, starting with Clayton Sr. and continuing with St. Nicholas Cathedral, a pure example of gothic architecture.

After twenty minutes of daydreaming while walking, I reached the Quayside, and a first clue was seeing the most famous bridge of the seven crossing the Tyne river, the Mlllenium Bridge.

Taking my time for a coffee at Pitcher & Plano, I have crossed the bridge to discover the Baltic Flour Mill. On the 5 '11 floor you will find a viewing box, from where you can have an aerial perspective of the city.

Also serving as an art gallery, The Baltic Flour Mill took 2 hours from my trip.

Returning home as night came, I have discovered places like Eldon Square and Market Street.

Every little part of Newcastle Is amazing and this Is why the favourite way of spending my time Is getting to know the city more and more, sincerely saying that 4 months In the city were not enough to discover even half of the city.

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