Long Stairs, Newcastle upon Tyne
Historic medieval stairway linking Newcastle’s Quayside and city centre, rich with heritage and ghostly legends.
Long Stairs is a historic medieval stairway in Newcastle upon Tyne, connecting the Quayside with the city centre. Dating back to between the 13th and 15th centuries, it offers a tangible link to the city's past with surviving medieval walls and nearby historic buildings. Known for its atmospheric character and local ghost stories, Long Stairs provides visitors with scenic views and a unique glimpse into Newcastle’s rich heritage.
A brief summary to Long Stairs
- Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3RF, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as the stairs are steep and uneven in places.
- Visit during daylight for the best views and safer footing.
- Explore nearby historic sites like Newcastle Castle and The Cooperage for a fuller experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the atmospheric medieval architecture and city views.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Metro and Walking
Take the Tyne and Wear Metro to Central Station, then walk approximately 10 minutes through city centre streets to reach Long Stairs. The walk involves some cobbled and uneven surfaces; allow 15–20 minutes total. Metro tickets cost around £3–£5 depending on journey length.
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Bus and Walking
Several bus routes serve the city centre, including numbers 1, 12, and 38. Disembark near Grey Street or the Quayside and walk 5–10 minutes to Long Stairs. Buses run frequently during the day, with single fares around £2–£3.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Newcastle city centre to Long Stairs takes about 5 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £5–£8. This option is convenient if mobility is a concern or if travelling with luggage.
Long Stairs 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 Long Stairs
A Medieval Passage Through Time
Long Stairs is a remarkable medieval stairway in Newcastle upon Tyne, historically known as "via Hoge" in the late 13th century and "Langstare" by the 15th century. It served as a crucial pedestrian link between the lower Quayside area and the upper medieval town, including important sites such as Bailiff Gate, Castle Garth, and The Side. The stairway is flanked by walls of various ages, some possibly dating back to medieval times, preserving the authentic atmosphere of the city’s early urban fabric.Architectural and Historical Significance
The stairway is nestled between notable historic buildings, including the 15th-century Cooperage and the 16th-century Buttress merchant’s house at its base. These structures enhance the sense of stepping back into Newcastle’s past. The proximity to Newcastle Castle and other heritage sites underscores its importance in the city's medieval layout. The Long Stairs are a designated local heritage asset, reflecting the city's commitment to preserving its architectural history.Legends and Local Lore
Adding to its mystique, Long Stairs is reputedly haunted by the spirit of Henry Hardwick, a man who was allegedly thrown down the stairs by a press gang in the 16th century after refusing to serve on their ships. This ghost story is part of Newcastle’s rich tapestry of folklore, giving the stairs a unique cultural dimension that intrigues visitors and locals alike.Scenic Views and Urban Connection
Aside from its historical and cultural significance, Long Stairs offers visitors scenic views of the Quayside and the surrounding cityscape. The stairway’s steep incline provides a physical and visual connection between the vibrant riverfront and the historic heart of Newcastle. It is a favorite spot for photographers and history enthusiasts who appreciate its blend of urban charm and medieval character.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Walking Long Stairs is more than just a transit route; it is an immersive experience that combines physical activity with cultural discovery. The stone steps, the aged walls, and the nearby historic buildings create an evocative setting that feels both timeless and alive. The area is lively yet retains a tranquil quality, especially in quieter hours, making it a memorable part of exploring Newcastle’s city centre.Preservation and Community Value
The Long Stairs remain a valued part of Newcastle’s heritage and urban landscape. Efforts to maintain and protect the site ensure that it continues to be accessible and appreciated by future generations. Its location near other historic landmarks and cultural attractions makes it an integral piece of the city’s story and a must-see for visitors interested in the medieval origins of Newcastle upon Tyne.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Newcastle Keep
0.1 km
Climb 99 steps through four centuries of medieval power and emerge onto rooftop views that define Newcastle.
Castle Wall Well
0.1 km
A medieval well marking Newcastle's 13th-century defensive walls and urban heritage.
The High Level Bridge
0.1 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
The Black Gate
0.2 km
Medieval fortress gateway where Newcastle's story began, now fully accessible with rich exhibitions.
Newcastle city walls
0.2 km
Medieval stone fortifications protecting a border town from Scottish invasion, now a historic monument woven into Newcastle's urban landscape.
The Guildhall
0.2 km
Discover Newcastle’s historic Guildhall, a stunning 17th-century civic landmark rich in architecture and medieval heritage.
Quayside
0.3 km
Quayside is a dynamic riverside district where iconic bridges meet vibrant culture, blending industrial heritage with modern art and lively waterfront life.
The Custom House Plaque
0.4 km
A historic marker on Newcastle’s Quayside commemorating the 1766 Custom House and the city’s maritime trade heritage.
St John the Baptist Church
0.4 km
Medieval sanctuary with eight centuries of history, treasured stained glass, and architectural gems hidden in Newcastle's city centre.
Grey St
0.5 km
Newcastle's finest street—a sweeping curve of neoclassical elegance and cultural heritage.
Mermaid
0.7 km
Discover the Mermaid, a historic symbol of Newcastle’s maritime heritage, set amidst the vibrant and scenic Quayside waterfront.
Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)
0.7 km
Explore Newcastle upon Tyne with Iles Tours, where expert guides unveil the city's rich history and culture through unforgettable experiences.
River God
0.7 km
An iconic statue on Newcastle’s Quayside embodying the city’s deep connection to the River Tyne and its maritime heritage.
Richard Grainger Memorial Fountain
0.7 km
Historic granite fountain honoring Richard Grainger’s transformative 19th-century urban vision in Newcastle’s iconic Grainger Town.
Blackfriars Medieval Friary
0.7 km
Medieval Dominican friary where kings once stayed, now a living centre of craft, culture, and cuisine.
Unmissable attractions to see
Castle Garth
0.1 km
Explore the medieval heart of Newcastle with panoramic views from the iconic Castle Keep and historic Black Gate at Castle Garth.
Newcastle Ghost Walks - Haunted City Tours
0.1 km
Explore Newcastle’s haunted streets and historic landmarks on immersive ghost tours filled with chilling tales and authentic paranormal encounters.
Castle Garth & The Black Gate
0.1 km
Explore Newcastle’s medieval gateway, The Black Gate, a historic fortress entrance turned vibrant urban hub steeped in centuries of history.
Newcastle Castle
0.1 km
A Norman fortress at the heart of Newcastle, where royal power, rebellion, and city history converge above the River Tyne.
Historic England North East & Yorkshire
0.1 km
Explore Newcastle’s finest Jacobean merchants’ houses, famed for Bessie Surtees’ romantic 1772 elopement and richly preserved period interiors.
Site of Anglo-Saxon Church
0.2 km
Explore Newcastle’s ancient heart where Roman roots, Anglo-Saxon heritage, and medieval stone keep converge in Castle Garth’s historic site.
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.
Side Photographic Gallery
0.2 km
Discover powerful documentary photography in a historic, intimate gallery space beneath Newcastle’s Tyne Bridge.
Newcastle Cathedral
0.2 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.
Lit & Phil Library
0.3 km
Discover Newcastle’s historic Lit & Phil Library, a grand neoclassical haven with over 200,000 books and a vibrant cultural scene.
Tyne Bridge
0.3 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.
All Saints Church
0.3 km
Discover Newcastle's All Saints Church, a unique Georgian landmark with England’s only elliptical nave and a vibrant Presbyterian heritage.
The Glamorous Owl
0.4 km
Discover Newcastle’s artisan jewellery boutique and creative workshop hub nestled in the historic Old George Yard.
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.
Trinity House
0.4 km
Discover Newcastle’s maritime heritage and medieval charm at Trinity House, a historic gem on the quayside with centuries of seafaring stories.
Essential places to dine
House of Tides
0.0 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.
The Quayside - JD Wetherspoon
0.1 km
Historic riverside pub in Dove’s Warehouse serving good-value breakfasts, meals and a broad drinks list in a roomy, accessible setting on Newcastle’s Quayside.
Gino D'Acampo Restaurant Quayside Newcastle
0.1 km
Authentic Italian dining with stunning River Tyne views in a bright, stylish riverside setting on Newcastle’s vibrant Quayside.
The French Quarter
0.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine and an exceptional wine selection in a chic bistro nestled within Newcastle’s historic Westgate Road arches.
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.
Prima Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality beneath Newcastle’s historic High Level Bridge at Prima Restaurant.
Babucho
0.2 km
Stylish Italian brasserie in Newcastle offering classic dishes, a lively atmosphere, and attentive service in a chic city-center setting.
Quay 7 Restaurant & Bar
0.2 km
Classic British dining with stunning river views on Newcastle’s vibrant Quayside, perfect for relaxed meals and scenic drinks.
Uno's Trattoria
0.2 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and generous portions in a lively, welcoming setting at Uno's Trattoria in Newcastle.
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.
Aveika
0.2 km
Innovative Japanese cuisine and vibrant nightlife converge at Aveika, Newcastle's stylish Quayside hotspot for dining and entertainment.
Miller & Carter Newcastle
0.3 km
Savor expertly aged British steaks in a stylish, welcoming setting at Miller & Carter Newcastle on Mosley Street.
Dobson and Parnell
0.3 km
Elegant fine dining in Newcastle’s historic Victorian setting, blending classic charm with modern British cuisine and attentive service.
Portofino Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in a stunning Victorian setting with warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere in Newcastle.
Native Cave Restaurant And Bar
0.3 km
A cozy Newcastle seafood haven famed for its irresistible seafood boil and authentic, flavorful dishes in a casual setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
Quayside News
0.2 km
Discover Quayside News, your charming convenience store in Newcastle, perfect for grabbing snacks, drinks, and local treats while exploring the Quayside.
Newcastle Gifts
0.4 km
Discover authentic Geordie souvenirs, local art, and NUFC treasures at this charming Neville Street gem opposite Central Station—your perfect Toon memento stop.
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.
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.
Living Essential
0.4 km
Grainger Street's go-to for stylish, affordable homewares that make city living cozy and practical in Newcastle's heart.
Corner Shop
0.5 km
Independent city-centre shop offering curated everyday essentials and gifts on historic Pilgrim Street.
Phillips & Wilde
0.5 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.
Garms Newcastle
0.5 km
Small, curated vintage clothing shop on Grainger Street, blending durable classics with street-ready retro finds.
Soul Rebel (Newcastle)
0.6 km
Discover a unique fusion of stylish apparel and holistic wellness at Soul Rebel, Newcastle's premier destination for fashion and self-care.
Analog
0.6 km
Curated vintage and second‑hand clothing tucked into Alley 3 of Newcastle’s Grainger Market — small stall, big finds.
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.
Tian's Gifts
0.6 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and charming treasures at Tian's Gifts, nestled in Newcastle’s historic Grainger Market.
Cath Kidston
0.6 km
Floral fantasies and vintage vibes on Newcastle's Grainger Street—where British charm meets everyday elegance in bags, clothes, and home treasures.
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.
ChachaBuchi
0.3 km
Rustic glamour meets vibrant nightlife in Newcastle’s chic cocktail bar with alpine-inspired cuisine and lively entertainment.
Blackie Boy
0.3 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.
0.3 km
Discover Newcastle's speakeasy secret: art deco cocktails behind a hidden door on Groat Market, blending historic intrigue with masterful mixology.
Revolution Newcastle Upon Tyne
0.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and handcrafted cocktails in Newcastle’s stunning former bank with soaring ceilings and marble pillars.
Jalou
0.3 km
Experience Newcastle’s chic cocktail haven where Parisian glamour meets hip hop beats and creative mixology.
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.
Slug & Lettuce - Central Newcastle
0.4 km
Newcastle's go-to for endless cocktails, bottomless brunches, and non-stop party vibes on Grainger Street – where every hour is happy hour.
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.
Alvinos Bar
0.4 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 Head of Steam Quayside
0.4 km
Riverside pub haven pouring world-class craft beers, vegan feasts, and games beside Newcastle's Tyne Bridge and cultural gems.
The Market Lane
0.5 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.
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.
Lady Greys
0.5 km
Cozy, classic Newcastle pub with excellent real ales, friendly staff, and a lively late-night atmosphere on Shakespeare Street.
Urban Garden Newcastle
0.6 km
A relaxed container-style beer garden on Newcastle’s Quayside—festoon lights, craft taps and riverside atmosphere for groups and sunset drinks.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
TheCUT Newcastle
0.2 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Tup Tup Palace
0.2 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.
The Social Club
0.3 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Bohemia Newcastle
0.3 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
0.3 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
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.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
0.3 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
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
0.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
Popworld - Newcastle
0.4 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
World HQ
0.5 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.
Sinners
0.6 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.
Digital
0.6 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
0.8 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
Cosmic Ballroom
0.8 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly