All Saints Church, Newcastle upon Tyne: An Elegant Georgian Landmark
Discover Newcastle's All Saints Church, a unique Georgian landmark with England’s only elliptical nave and a vibrant Presbyterian heritage.
All Saints Church in Newcastle upon Tyne is a striking late 18th-century Presbyterian church renowned for its unique elliptical nave and grand Baroque tower. Built between 1786 and 1796, it replaced a medieval Gothic church on the same site, retaining a prominent hilltop position overlooking the city. The church is celebrated for its architectural elegance, historical significance, and vibrant evangelical congregation.
A brief summary to All Saints Church
- Akenside Hill, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3UF, GB
- +447415812877
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Thursday 1 pm-4 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-12 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Sunday mornings to experience the church’s active Presbyterian worship services.
- Take time to admire the elliptical nave’s natural light and mahogany interior fittings.
- Explore the church’s Baroque tower silhouette from nearby viewpoints around the Quayside.
- Learn about the church’s rich history, including its medieval origins and 18th-century reconstruction.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus services 12 or 22 from Newcastle city center to the Akenside Hill stop, approximately 10-15 minutes travel time. Buses run frequently, but check schedules for weekend variations. A single ticket costs around £2.50.
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Metro and Walk
Use the Tyne and Wear Metro to Newcastle Central Station, then walk uphill about 15 minutes to Akenside Hill. The walk involves some inclines and is suitable for most visitors. Metro tickets start at £2.40.
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Taxi
A taxi from Newcastle city center to All Saints Church takes roughly 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £6-£10. Taxis are readily available but may have limited availability during peak hours.
All Saints Church location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about All Saints Church
Historic Foundations and Architectural Innovation
A Christian place of worship has stood at the site of All Saints Church since at least 1286, originally known as All Hallows. The medieval Gothic church featured notable elements such as a seamen's porch and gallery, reflecting Newcastle’s maritime heritage. However, by the late 18th century, the old structure had deteriorated, prompting a decision to demolish it and construct a new building. The current church, designed by architect David Stephenson, was built between 1786 and 1796. It is distinguished by its elliptical nave—the only one of its kind in England—and a grand Baroque tower added in 1796, which remains one of Newcastle’s tallest religious structures.Architectural Details and Interior Splendor
The church’s design is a masterpiece of Georgian architecture, featuring 27 windows that flood the elliptical nave with natural light throughout the day. The interior fittings were crafted from mahogany, a choice funded partly by local benefactors, which adds warmth and elegance to the space. The building’s layout and light-filled interior create a sense of openness and reverence, setting it apart from many other Presbyterian churches known for their simplicity. Its architectural significance has been praised by figures such as Sir John Betjeman, who regarded it as one of the finest Georgian church interiors in England.Religious and Cultural Significance
Originally an Anglican parish church, All Saints was consecrated in 1789 and served the local community until it was deconsecrated in 1961. Subsequently, it became home to a vibrant Presbyterian congregation, known for its evangelical and scripturally faithful worship style. This congregation maintains the church’s spiritual legacy, combining reverence with a commitment to education and culture. The church’s history reflects the broader religious shifts in Britain, including the persecution of Presbyterians in earlier centuries and their enduring presence in Newcastle.Community and Preservation Efforts
Throughout its history, All Saints Church has benefited from community support and restoration efforts. In the 1880s, public subscriptions funded necessary repairs, and more recently, the Presbyterian congregation has taken on the responsibility of maintaining the building’s fabric and message. The church remains a landmark overlooking Newcastle’s Quayside, symbolizing both the city’s rich history and ongoing spiritual life.Notable Associations and Legacy
All Saints Church is linked to notable local figures, including Lord Armstrong, the industrialist and inventor, who was baptized there. The Armstrong family contributed to the church’s upkeep, underscoring its importance in Newcastle’s social and cultural fabric. The church’s unique architecture and historical depth make it a key heritage site, celebrated in local listings and by architectural historians alike.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to All Saints Church can appreciate its elegant Georgian architecture, the play of light in the elliptical nave, and the serene atmosphere fostered by its active congregation. The church’s elevated position offers views over the city, enhancing its sense of place. Its blend of historical gravitas and lively worship creates a unique experience that connects visitors with Newcastle’s past and present.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Guildhall
0.2 km
Discover Newcastle’s historic Guildhall, a stunning 17th-century civic landmark rich in architecture and medieval heritage.
The Custom House Plaque
0.2 km
A historic marker on Newcastle’s Quayside commemorating the 1766 Custom House and the city’s maritime trade heritage.
Castle Wall Well
0.2 km
A medieval well marking Newcastle's 13th-century defensive walls and urban heritage.
Quayside
0.2 km
Quayside is a dynamic riverside district where iconic bridges meet vibrant culture, blending industrial heritage with modern art and lively waterfront life.
Newcastle Keep
0.3 km
Climb 99 steps through four centuries of medieval power and emerge onto rooftop views that define Newcastle.
The Black Gate
0.3 km
Medieval fortress gateway where Newcastle's story began, now fully accessible with rich exhibitions.
The High Level Bridge
0.3 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Mermaid
0.4 km
Discover the Mermaid, a historic symbol of Newcastle’s maritime heritage, set amidst the vibrant and scenic Quayside waterfront.
River God
0.4 km
An iconic statue on Newcastle’s Quayside embodying the city’s deep connection to the River Tyne and its maritime heritage.
Grey St
0.4 km
Newcastle's finest street—a sweeping curve of neoclassical elegance and cultural heritage.
Newcastle city walls
0.5 km
Medieval stone fortifications protecting a border town from Scottish invasion, now a historic monument woven into Newcastle's urban landscape.
St John the Baptist Church
0.6 km
Medieval sanctuary with eight centuries of history, treasured stained glass, and architectural gems hidden in Newcastle's city centre.
Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)
0.6 km
Explore Newcastle upon Tyne with Iles Tours, where expert guides unveil the city's rich history and culture through unforgettable experiences.
Blacksmiths Needle
0.6 km
A captivating 7.6m steel sculpture on Newcastle Quayside, blending maritime themes with the five senses and a mysterious sixth sense.
Newcastle and District War Memorial
0.7 km
A Portland stone tribute to courage, unveiled in 1923 and crowned by a bronze Saint George.
Unmissable attractions to see
Trinity House
0.1 km
Discover Newcastle’s maritime heritage and medieval charm at Trinity House, a historic gem on the quayside with centuries of seafaring stories.
Side Photographic Gallery
0.1 km
Discover powerful documentary photography in a historic, intimate gallery space beneath Newcastle’s Tyne Bridge.
Historic England North East & Yorkshire
0.2 km
Explore Newcastle’s finest Jacobean merchants’ houses, famed for Bessie Surtees’ romantic 1772 elopement and richly preserved period interiors.
John Grundy Local Heroes Plaque
0.2 km
Celebrate Newcastle’s rich heritage with the John Grundy Local Heroes Plaque along Hadrian’s Wall Path, honoring a beloved TV historian and cultural advocate.
Bonkers About Alice
0.2 km
A vibrant Sunday market along the River Tyne showcasing local crafts, food, and culture in Newcastle’s iconic Quayside setting.
Quayside Sunday Market
0.2 km
A lively riverside market blending historic charm, artisan crafts, and vibrant street food every Sunday along Newcastle’s iconic Quayside.
Castle Garth & The Black Gate
0.2 km
Explore Newcastle’s medieval gateway, The Black Gate, a historic fortress entrance turned vibrant urban hub steeped in centuries of history.
Tyne Bridge
0.2 km
Discover the iconic Tyne Bridge, a stunning feat of engineering and a symbol of Newcastle's rich heritage, offering breathtaking views and historical significance.
Newcastle Castle
0.3 km
A Norman fortress at the heart of Newcastle, where royal power, rebellion, and city history converge above the River Tyne.
Site of Anglo-Saxon Church
0.3 km
Explore Newcastle’s ancient heart where Roman roots, Anglo-Saxon heritage, and medieval stone keep converge in Castle Garth’s historic site.
Newcastle Ghost Walks - Haunted City Tours
0.3 km
Explore Newcastle’s haunted streets and historic landmarks on immersive ghost tours filled with chilling tales and authentic paranormal encounters.
Castle Garth
0.3 km
Explore the medieval heart of Newcastle with panoramic views from the iconic Castle Keep and historic Black Gate at Castle Garth.
Newcastle Cathedral
0.3 km
Discover over 900 years of history, stunning stained glass, and the iconic Lantern Tower at Newcastle Cathedral, a spiritual and cultural beacon in the city center.
Long Stairs
0.3 km
Historic medieval stairway linking Newcastle’s Quayside to the city centre, rich in legends and scenic views.
High Bridge
0.4 km
Walk Newcastle’s oldest route from the Castle Keep to the River Tyne along High Bridge, a historic street at the heart of the city’s medieval core.
Essential places to dine
Dobson and Parnell
0.1 km
Elegant fine dining in Newcastle’s historic Victorian setting, blending classic charm with modern British cuisine and attentive service.
Uno's Trattoria
0.1 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and generous portions in a lively, welcoming setting at Uno's Trattoria in Newcastle.
Babucho
0.1 km
Stylish Italian brasserie in Newcastle offering classic dishes, a lively atmosphere, and attentive service in a chic city-center setting.
Aveika
0.1 km
Innovative Japanese cuisine and vibrant nightlife converge at Aveika, Newcastle's stylish Quayside hotspot for dining and entertainment.
Prima Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality beneath Newcastle’s historic High Level Bridge at Prima Restaurant.
The Broad Chare
0.2 km
A lively gastropub on Newcastle’s Quayside blending traditional British fare with seasonal, locally sourced excellence.
Simla Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors with a modern touch in Newcastle’s warm and elegant Simla Restaurant, perfect for romantic and lively dining.
21
0.2 km
Elegant British dining with seasonal flair and French influences in Newcastle’s stylish Trinity Gardens setting.
Zucchini Pasta Bar
0.2 km
Newcastle’s only fresh pasta bar, serving hand-rolled egg pasta daily in a relaxed city-centre setting with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
Kaltur Wine Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and wine bar offering cozy, intimate dining with an open kitchen in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne.
Native Cave Restaurant And Bar
0.2 km
A cozy Newcastle seafood haven famed for its irresistible seafood boil and authentic, flavorful dishes in a casual setting.
Portofino Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in a stunning Victorian setting with warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere in Newcastle.
Miller & Carter Newcastle
0.2 km
Savor expertly aged British steaks in a stylish, welcoming setting at Miller & Carter Newcastle on Mosley Street.
Tomahawk Steakhouse - Newcastle
0.3 km
Premium steakhouse on Newcastle’s Quayside offering expertly cooked tomahawk steaks and a vibrant riverside dining experience.
House of Tides
0.3 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in a historic 16th-century merchant’s house on Newcastle’s scenic quayside, blending rustic charm with modern British cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Quayside News
0.1 km
Discover Quayside News, your charming convenience store in Newcastle, perfect for grabbing snacks, drinks, and local treats while exploring the Quayside.
UpSide Down Presents
0.2 km
A vibrant, independent gift shop under Newcastle’s railway arch, packed with Geordie souvenirs, original cards, and quirky presents for every occasion.
Souvenirs upon Tyne
0.2 km
Discover authentic Geordie treasures in Newcastle’s smallest independent souvenir shop nestled under a historic railway arch.
Corner Shop
0.4 km
Independent city-centre shop offering curated everyday essentials and gifts on historic Pilgrim Street.
Retro , Vintage Clothing Newcastle.
0.4 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage finds at Retro Newcastle, your go-to boutique for retro clothing in the heart of the city.
Earl and Coco
0.4 km
Quirky treasures and artisan delights await in this hidden gem of Newcastle's Grainger Town, where every find tells a story.
Cath Kidston
0.5 km
Floral fantasies and vintage vibes on Newcastle's Grainger Street—where British charm meets everyday elegance in bags, clothes, and home treasures.
Living Essential
0.5 km
Grainger Street's go-to for stylish, affordable homewares that make city living cozy and practical in Newcastle's heart.
Garms Newcastle
0.5 km
Small, curated vintage clothing shop on Grainger Street, blending durable classics with street-ready retro finds.
Waceland
0.5 km
Discover unique vintage and streetwear treasures in Newcastle’s iconic Central Arcade, where style meets sustainability and family values.
Soul Rebel (Newcastle)
0.5 km
Discover a unique fusion of stylish apparel and holistic wellness at Soul Rebel, Newcastle's premier destination for fashion and self-care.
Phillips & Wilde
0.6 km
Discover exquisite gift baskets and gourmet hampers in Newcastle's iconic Grainger Market – perfect for festive cheer, corporate gifts, or personal indulgences amid vibrant market buzz.
The Yesterday Society Vintage Boutique
0.6 km
Discover vintage treasures and retro style at The Yesterday Society, a charming boutique nestled in Newcastle’s historic Grainger Market.
Urban Outfitters
0.6 km
Discover stylish fashion and eclectic homewares at Urban Outfitters Newcastle, a vibrant hub of creativity and contemporary lifestyle on Grainger Street.
Analog
0.6 km
Curated vintage and second‑hand clothing tucked into Alley 3 of Newcastle’s Grainger Market — small stall, big finds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Colonel Porter's Emporium
0.2 km
Newcastle's 1920s explorer's paradise: botanical gardens, vintage cocktails, live music, and hidden discos in historic Milburn House.
The Head of Steam Quayside
0.2 km
Riverside pub haven pouring world-class craft beers, vegan feasts, and games beside Newcastle's Tyne Bridge and cultural gems.
Urban Garden Newcastle
0.3 km
A relaxed container-style beer garden on Newcastle’s Quayside—festoon lights, craft taps and riverside atmosphere for groups and sunset drinks.
Alvinos Bar
0.3 km
A lively Italian-owned bar in Newcastle with creative cocktails, craft brews, live DJs, and a welcoming multi-floor setting on Pilgrim Street.
The Market Lane
0.3 km
Affectionately the 'Monkey Bar,' this Pilgrim Street pub pours quality pints and fosters lively vibes with sports screens, live music, and classic British charm in Newcastle's heart.
Blackie Boy
0.4 km
Historic Newcastle bar with cosy vibes, free jukebox anthems, cheap drinks deals, and late-night energy in Groat Market's lively heart.
All Seeing Eye.
0.4 km
Discover Newcastle's speakeasy secret: art deco cocktails behind a hidden door on Groat Market, blending historic intrigue with masterful mixology.
All Bar One Newcastle
0.4 km
Stylish Grey Street bar serving coffee by day and cocktails by night, with tapas and wines in Newcastle's buzzing heart.
Lady Greys
0.4 km
Cozy, classic Newcastle pub with excellent real ales, friendly staff, and a lively late-night atmosphere on Shakespeare Street.
Mother Mercy
0.4 km
Newcastle's speakeasy secret: inventive cocktails via roulette wheel in a historic Cloth Market hideaway, blending mixology mastery with intimate Mediterranean chic.
ChachaBuchi
0.4 km
Rustic glamour meets vibrant nightlife in Newcastle’s chic cocktail bar with alpine-inspired cuisine and lively entertainment.
Revolution Newcastle Upon Tyne
0.5 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and handcrafted cocktails in Newcastle’s stunning former bank with soaring ceilings and marble pillars.
Pitcher & Piano Newcastle
0.5 km
A stylish riverside bar on Newcastle’s Quayside, blending modern design with classic pub charm and vibrant social energy.
Jalou
0.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s chic cocktail haven where Parisian glamour meets hip hop beats and creative mixology.
The Mushroom Bar
0.5 km
A compact, budget-friendly club-bar on Grainger Street that keeps late-night DJs, drink deals and a party crowd at its heart.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
0.3 km
Four floors of late‑night music and cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s city‑centre party district, favoured by students and night owls.
Greys Club
0.3 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
Flares - Newcastle
0.3 km
Newcastle's ultimate retro disco den: neon grooves, cheesy anthems, and non-stop dancing from 70s to 00s in the heart of the nightlife scene.
World HQ
0.3 km
A multi‑level warehouse club and arts hub in Curtis Mayfield House with a heavy sound, creative studios above and a grassroots nightlife spirit.
Tup Tup Palace
0.3 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
TheCUT Newcastle
0.3 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
0.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
0.4 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
Bohemia Newcastle
0.4 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
The Social Club
0.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Popworld - Newcastle
0.5 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
Sinners
0.7 km
Dive into sinfully themed nights at this affordable Newcastle nightclub, where red lights, bold art, and cheap drinks fuel the city's unbeatable party spirit.
Cosmic Ballroom
0.9 km
Newcastle's longest-running underground club: two floors of electronic beats, guest DJs, and non-stop dancing till dawn in an intimate Stowell Street hideaway.
Digital
0.9 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
1.0 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Historic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
