12 January 2024
We know conferences provide unmatched opportunities to meet with industry colleagues while attending insightful workshops and events, but in Newcastle and Gateshead we know it can be so much more. From unique networking opportunities to exploring new places, if you’re attending a conference here, you’re in for a treat.
The region offers a range of exciting social programmes to enhance your event and make sure your delegates have a truly memorable experience. Nature enthusiasts, foodies, adventure seekers, no matter the interest there is something for everyone. In this blog series, we’ll take you on a journey through some of our most exciting social programmes to enhance your event. This week, we’re talking about six amazing tours to help you discover the city and maximise your time here.
Triple A Food Tours
Shining a well-deserved spotlight on businesses that champion locally sourced foods, Triple A Food Tours are a great way to explore the culinary scenes of Newcastle, Northumberland or Durham on-foot whilst soaking in the sights. The tours offer a range of dining styles, from homey street food to Michelin Guide restaurants. Indulge in delightful dishes consisting of completely local, organic and sustainable foods from the region. Triple A offers private hire options, making it the perfect out-of-the-box social experience for your conference programme. Why settle for just one sit-down dinner when you can discover the vast array of flavours the region has to offer? Triple A Food Tours are also wheelchair friendly and accessible to individuals with access needs, older guests and families. Watch their 360-degree virtual reality tour here.
City Guides Highlights Walking Tour
Established in 1963, Newcastle City Guides offer a range of tours spanning across Newcastle, Gateshead, Jesmond, Gosforth and the Coast, with themes exploring history, culture, industrial heritage and more. Operated entirely by volunteers who are passionate about the city, there’s no-one better to show you around! Running daily between May and October, the City Highlights Walking Tour is an affordable way to see all the city’s key sites while also discovering the history behind (and underneath!) it. Starting at Central Arcade in the city centre and culminating on the Quayside, the tour weaves through the city at a leisurely pace and allows delegates to fully immerse themselves in its history. In case that wasn’t enough, City Guides also offer tours of Grey’s Monument which allows participants to ascend the 164 steps to the top, rewarded by the spectacular panoramic views.
Toon Tour Bus
Perfect for those looking to enjoy the city from a different perspective, Go North East’s open-top Toon Tour bus tours offer a brilliant alternative to walking tours. Hop on and off to your heart’s content, taking in some of the best sites on offer around the city including Discovery Museum, St James’ Park, Ouseburn, Tyne Bridge, Grey’s Monument, Newcastle Castle and Newcastle Cathedral. Running throughout the summer months and on weekends throughout September, the Toon Tour bus gives delegates control over which places they want to visit and provides seamless routes between them. With options for 1- or 3-day tickets, you can take it at your own pace and make sure you have time to fully enjoy your time up north.
Iles Tours
For those seeking a walking tour that exceeds all expectations, Iles Tours offer guided tours of varying lengths spanning across the region, including in Newcastle, Durham and Northumberland. Passionate about the outdoors and local history, Alex, founder and owner of the business, seeks to take his visitors on a journey using the stories that have shaped the history of our region. Iles Tours promises to deliver a unique experience and allows its participants to immerse themselves and see the North East like never before and expand their knowledge of the region while having a good time.
Northern Secrets
Specialising in personal guided tours of North England for international visitors, speaking both English and German, Northern Secrets are dedicated to providing you with knowledge of the highest quality while you visit Newcastle and the wider region. With the ability to fully personalise and tailor tours for your group, you can cater the tours depending on your delegates’ interests and make the experience truly special. Tours offered by Northern Secrets include the Best of Northumbria and Hadrian’s Wall & The Roman Frontier Tour.
St James’ Park Stadium Tour
Whether you’re a die-hard footy fan or a casual enjoyer, there’s no denying the impact that Newcastle United has had on our region – we’re football fanatics! Wow your delegates by giving them the opportunity to discover St James’ Park, home of the world-famous Magpies, through a stadium and rooftop tour! Experience St James’ Park like never before by adding this to your event, it’s sure to be spectacular whether you’re there for the football or just for the view.
So, what are you waiting for? Get in touch with us now to see what we can offer you and your delegates. Our experienced team is on-hand to make sure your event is unique and unforgettable.
Contact us now at conventionbureau@ngi.org.uk