All Saints Church, Newcastle upon Tyne
A stunning Georgian Presbyterian church with England’s only elliptical nave, rich history, and a commanding Newcastle skyline presence.
All Saints Church in Newcastle upon Tyne is a remarkable Georgian-era Presbyterian church built in the late 18th century on the site of a medieval predecessor. Known for its unique elliptical nave and grand Baroque tower, it stands as a historic and architectural landmark overlooking the city’s Quayside. The church combines rich history, elegant design, and a vibrant evangelical congregation, making it a significant cultural and spiritual site.
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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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Thursday 1 pm-4 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-12 pm
Local tips
- Visit during Sunday services to experience the church’s vibrant evangelical worship and hear its historic organ.
- Take time to admire the unique elliptical nave and the natural light streaming through its 27 windows.
- Explore the church’s Baroque tower from outside to appreciate its prominence on Newcastle’s skyline.
- Learn about the church’s rich maritime history, including the seamen’s porch from the original medieval building.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Metro and Bus
Take the Tyne and Wear Metro to Central Station, then walk approximately 15 minutes uphill to Akenside Hill where All Saints Church is located. Alternatively, several bus routes from the city center stop nearby. Metro tickets cost around £3-£5, and buses are similarly priced; services run frequently during the day.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Newcastle city center to All Saints Church takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares around £6-£10. This option is convenient for those with limited mobility or carrying luggage.
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Walking
From Newcastle city center, a walk to All Saints Church takes approximately 20-25 minutes. The route involves some uphill sections on Akenside Hill, so wear comfortable shoes. The path is accessible but may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
All Saints Church location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about All Saints Church
Historic Foundations and Medieval Origins
All Saints Church occupies a site with a Christian presence dating back to at least 1286, originally known as All Hallows. The medieval church served the Quayside community for centuries, featuring notable elements such as a seamen's porch and a gallery built by the Trinity House in 1618, adorned with maritime-themed painted panels. This earlier Gothic structure was a central spiritual hub until the late 18th century when it was deemed beyond restoration and subsequently demolished.Architectural Innovation of the Georgian Era
The current All Saints Church was constructed between 1786 and 1796, designed by architect David Stephenson. It is distinguished by its elliptical nave—the only one of its kind in England—flooded with light from 27 windows, creating a bright and airy interior. The Baroque tower, added in 1796, rises prominently above Newcastle’s skyline, making the church the third tallest religious structure in the city. The building’s elegant Georgian style contrasts with the typically austere Presbyterian tradition, reflecting a vibrant and cultured congregation.Spiritual and Cultural Significance
Originally an Anglican parish church, All Saints was consecrated in 1789 and served the community until its deconsecration in 1961. It was later leased to a Presbyterian congregation, which revitalized the building both spiritually and physically. The church is known for its evangelical and scripture-faithful worship, maintaining a tradition of reformed doctrine and reverence. It has been associated with notable figures such as Lord Armstrong, who was baptized here, and has been praised by poet laureate Sir John Betjeman for its exceptional Georgian interior.Community and Preservation Efforts
Throughout its history, All Saints Church has undergone restorations to preserve its fabric and heritage. In the late 19th century, public subscriptions funded repairs, and more recent efforts have ensured the church remains a vibrant place of worship and community gathering. The building’s maintenance reflects the commitment of its congregation and supporters to safeguard its architectural and historical legacy.Visual and Experiential Highlights
Visitors to All Saints Church can admire the harmonious blend of light and space within its elliptical nave, the intricate woodwork of its interior fittings, and the commanding views from its hilltop position. The church’s Baroque tower is an iconic feature of Newcastle’s cityscape. The atmosphere inside is one of reverence and tranquility, enhanced by the building’s elegant proportions and historic ambiance.Modern Role and Continuing Legacy
Today, All Saints Church remains an active Presbyterian place of worship, hosting a faithful evangelical congregation. It stands as a testament to Newcastle’s rich religious history and architectural heritage, bridging centuries of spiritual life from medieval times to the present. The church’s ongoing ministry and preservation underscore its importance as both a historic landmark and a living community institution.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
- Casual
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
- Panoramas
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
