Civic Centre Gardens, Newcastle upon Tyne
A peaceful urban oasis blending nature, art, and heritage in the heart of Newcastle’s Civic Centre.
Civic Centre Gardens is a tranquil, beautifully landscaped green space nestled in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne near the iconic Civic Centre. This urban oasis offers visitors a peaceful retreat from the city bustle, featuring mature trees, manicured lawns, water features, and notable sculptures. It serves as a cultural and social hub, reflecting Newcastle’s rich heritage and modernist architectural spirit.
A brief summary to Civic Centre Gardens
- Unnamed Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7PN, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit on a sunny day to enjoy picnics and watch local wildlife in the tranquil water features.
- Explore the sculptures like the River God Tyne and the five Scandinavian swans to appreciate their cultural symbolism.
- Combine your visit with a tour of the nearby Newcastle Civic Centre to experience its unique modernist architecture.
- Bring a camera for scenic shots of the gardens framed by the iconic Civic Centre tower and its seahorse motifs.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Metro
Take the Tyne and Wear Metro to Haymarket Station, approximately a 10-minute walk from the gardens. The metro runs frequently with tickets costing around £2–£4 depending on the journey.
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Bus
Multiple local bus routes serve the Haymarket area, with stops within 5 minutes’ walk of the gardens. Bus fares typically range from £1.80 to £3.00. Service frequency varies but is generally every 10–20 minutes during the day.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Newcastle city centre. A trip from Newcastle Central Station to Civic Centre Gardens takes about 5–10 minutes, costing approximately £5–£8 depending on traffic.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to Civic Centre Gardens is pleasant and accessible, taking 10–20 minutes from central landmarks like Grey’s Monument. The terrain is flat and suitable for most mobility levels.
Civic Centre Gardens 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 Civic Centre Gardens
A Green Sanctuary in the Urban Core
Civic Centre Gardens provides a serene pause amid the vibrant city life of Newcastle upon Tyne. Located near Haymarket and Barras Bridge, this garden is a carefully maintained green space with expansive lawns, mature trees, and water features that invite relaxation and quiet reflection. The gardens offer a refreshing contrast to the surrounding urban environment, making it a favored spot for picnics, casual strolls, and peaceful moments.Architectural and Artistic Heritage
The gardens lie adjacent to the Newcastle Civic Centre, a Grade II* listed modernist building completed in 1967 and designed by George Kenyon. The Civic Centre itself is a symbol of post-war optimism and cultural ambition, featuring distinctive elements such as the twelve bronze seahorse heads atop its tower and the impressive River God Tyne sculpture by David Wynne. These artworks extend into the gardens, enriching the visitor experience with meaningful public art that reflects Newcastle’s maritime history and Nordic connections.Historical and Cultural Significance
The Civic Centre and its gardens stand on a site that was redeveloped during Newcastle’s post-war regeneration. The Civic Centre replaced the Victorian Town Hall and was officially opened by King Olav V of Norway in 1968, highlighting the city’s international links. The gardens complement the building’s social inclusiveness, inviting the public into a welcoming environment where history, culture, and community intersect.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to Civic Centre Gardens enjoy a tranquil atmosphere enhanced by the presence of water features where ducks often paddle, shaded seating areas, and open spaces perfect for relaxation or informal gatherings. The gardens are a backdrop to local life, where families picnic, teenagers skate, and city workers find respite. The blend of natural beauty with artistic and architectural elements creates a unique urban oasis.Artworks and Symbolism Within the Gardens
Among the notable sculptures is the bronze River God Tyne, whose flowing water and wise visage symbolize the life-giving river central to Newcastle’s development. Nearby, the five Scandinavian swans sculpture represents the cultural and historical ties between Newcastle and the Nordic countries. These pieces add layers of storytelling and artistic depth to the gardens, inviting contemplation and appreciation.Community and Events
The gardens and Civic Centre grounds often serve as venues for civic events, weddings, and cultural celebrations, reinforcing their role as a community focal point. The lighting of traditional flambeaux and the ringing of the Civic Centre’s carillon bells mark special occasions, blending heritage with contemporary city life. The gardens thus act as both a peaceful retreat and a stage for Newcastle’s vibrant civic identity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
1914 Monument
0.0 km
A stirring World War I memorial in Newcastle honoring local Fusiliers with evocative bronze sculpture and historic military symbolism.
The Response - Renwick War Memorial
0.0 km
A powerful and historic war memorial honoring the Northumberland Fusiliers’ spirit and sacrifice in World War I, set in serene Newcastle gardens.
King's Gate
0.1 km
Newcastle University's contemporary student services hub with striking glazed architecture on Barras Bridge.
Lord Armstrong Memorial
0.1 km
A striking bronze tribute at Barras Bridge honoring Lord Armstrong’s pioneering engineering and lasting legacy in Newcastle’s industrial history.
Claremont Tower
0.3 km
Modernist landmark housing humanities scholarship at Newcastle's academic heart.
Old Library Building
0.3 km
A historic university building at the heart of Newcastle’s campus, now home to the School of Modern Languages and academic events.
Newcastle and District War Memorial
0.5 km
A Portland stone tribute to courage, unveiled in 1923 and crowned by a bronze Saint George.
Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)
0.5 km
Explore Newcastle upon Tyne with Iles Tours, where expert guides unveil the city's rich history and culture through unforgettable experiences.
Grey St
0.7 km
Newcastle's finest street—a sweeping curve of neoclassical elegance and cultural heritage.
The Tower Cafe Ltd
0.7 km
Charming café in Newcastle’s Leazes Park, famed for vegan pizzas and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere amid scenic greenery.
W.D.Stephens Memorial
0.8 km
Historic memorial fountain honoring Newcastle’s civic leader W.D. Stephens, symbolizing philanthropy and maritime heritage in Jesmond.
Morden Tower
0.8 km
A medieval drum tower turned iconic poetry venue, Morden Tower blends Newcastle’s rich history with vibrant cultural legacy.
Blackfriars Medieval Friary
0.9 km
Medieval Dominican friary where kings once stayed, now a living centre of craft, culture, and cuisine.
Jess moore memorial wall 23/6/17 - 7/11/19
0.9 km
Explore the Jess Moore Memorial Wall in Newcastle upon Tyne, a heartfelt tribute to love and community resilience that reflects the spirit of the local culture.
Oriental Garden
0.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of the Oriental Garden in Newcastle upon Tyne, a peaceful escape filled with lush greenery and vibrant flora.
Unmissable attractions to see
Farrell Centre
0.1 km
Explore Newcastle’s architectural heritage and urban future at the vibrant, free-to-visit Farrell Centre.
Great North Museum: Hancock
0.2 km
Discover natural wonders, ancient civilizations, and local heritage at Newcastle’s free Great North Museum: Hancock.
Hatton Gallery
0.2 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant modern art scene at Hatton Gallery, where historic charm meets contemporary creativity on a university campus.
Campus Cat
0.2 km
Historic Grade II listed church in Newcastle with rich non-conformist roots and stunning Victorian architecture.
Book stack
0.3 km
A striking Gothic Revival landmark blending Newcastle’s religious heritage with modern academic life on Northumberland Road.
Eldon Square
0.4 km
Newcastle’s bustling city-centre shopping and dining hub with over 140 stores and 30+ eateries, welcoming all with style and inclusivity.
Fenwick Newcastle
0.4 km
Newcastle’s iconic five-floor department store blending historic charm, luxury shopping, and a renowned food hall in the city centre.
Laing Art Gallery
0.4 km
Discover Newcastle’s artistic heritage through historic and contemporary masterpieces at the Laing Art Gallery, a vibrant cultural hub in the city centre.
TK Maxx
0.4 km
Discover unbeatable deals on designer fashion and homeware at TK Maxx, Monument Mall’s vibrant department store in Newcastle.
Old Eldon Square
0.5 km
Newcastle’s premier indoor shopping centre blending rich heritage with modern retail and vibrant dining under one roof.
Newcastle upon Tyne - City Centre
0.5 km
Discover Newcastle upon Tyne City Centre: where rich history meets vibrant urban life along the scenic River Tyne.
Grey's Monument
0.5 km
Discover the historic Grey's Monument in Newcastle upon Tyne, a stunning tribute to the Duke of Grey amidst the vibrant city life.
Eldon Bowling
0.5 km
Eight-lane ten-pin bowling in Newcastle’s Eldon Leisure Centre, perfect for families, friends, and casual fun in the heart of the city.
The Strawberry
0.6 km
A vibrant traditional pub by St James' Park, offering great beers, hearty food, and a warm Newcastle welcome.
Central Arcade
0.6 km
Discover Newcastle’s Edwardian jewel with stunning tilework, a grand glass roof, and unique independent shops in the historic Central Arcade.
Essential places to dine
Fuego
0.4 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean tapas, Napoli-style pizzas, and vibrant cocktails in the heart of Newcastle at Fuego by Fenwick.
The Botanist Newcastle
0.5 km
Discover The Botanist Newcastle: a lush botanical bar and restaurant blending inventive cocktails, seasonal food, and live music in a secret garden setting.
Red Mezze
0.5 km
A lively Turkish mezze restaurant in Newcastle, perfect for sharing bold flavours, grilled dishes, and a relaxed meal with friends or family.
Chaophraya
0.5 km
Elegant Thai dining with rooftop views over Grey’s Monument, perfect for special occasions and vibrant city experiences.
George's Fish Shack, Newcastle
0.5 km
Authentic British fish and chips in the heart of Newcastle’s lively Eldon Square shopping district.
El Coto
0.5 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm rustic charm in the heart of Newcastle at El Coto.
As You Like It
0.5 km
Eclectic dining and creative cocktails in Jesmond’s stylish hotspot, perfect for family meals and lively late nights.
Gaucho Newcastle
0.6 km
Experience premium Argentinian steaks and vibrant South American flavors in a stylish, sophisticated Newcastle setting.
No28
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at No28 in Newcastle – where tapas meets cocktails in an unforgettable bar and nightclub experience.
Lola Jeans
0.6 km
Lola Jeans Newcastle offers award-winning American comfort food, signature cocktails, and a vibrant, art-filled atmosphere in the city centre.
Côte Newcastle
0.6 km
Experience refined French cuisine and charming brasserie vibes in Newcastle’s vibrant city centre on historic Grainger Street.
Fat Hippo Newcastle
0.7 km
Bold, creative burgers and inclusive menu options in Newcastle’s lively city centre hotspot.
Pani's Cafe
0.7 km
Experience authentic Sardinian and Italian cuisine in the heart of Newcastle at Pani's Cafe, where tradition meets innovation.
The Muddler
0.7 km
Stylish Pan-Asian small plates and inventive cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s vibrant Grey Street.
Zaap Thai Street Food Newcastle
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Thai street food right in the heart of Newcastle’s city center.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The One World Shop
0.1 km
Discover ethically sourced gifts and natural foods in a historic church setting, supporting fair trade and sustainability in Newcastle upon Tyne.
Elula
0.1 km
Discover Newcastle’s mystical gift shop offering unique jewellery, crystals, and spiritual treasures in a cozy, artistic setting with a welcoming café below.
The Vintage Scene Newcastle
0.1 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures at The Vintage Scene Newcastle, a curated boutique for eclectic style lovers in the city center.
Time Antiques
0.1 km
Discover authentic antiques and collectibles with expert care at Time Antiques, a historic gem in Newcastle’s vibrant Antique Centre.
The Works
0.3 km
Affordable books, arts, crafts, and toys in the heart of Newcastle’s bustling Eldon Square Shopping Centre.
Jay's Boutique & Gifts
0.4 km
Discover bespoke tailoring and unique gifts combined in a charming boutique at Newcastle’s Upper Princess Square.
The Geordie Witch
0.4 km
Discover unique local gifts and mystical treasures at The Geordie Witch, a charming and welcoming shop in Newcastle’s Eldon Square.
Coast
0.4 km
Contemporary feminine fashion and occasion wear in Newcastle's vibrant city centre shopping district.
Eldon Garden Shopping Centre.
0.4 km
Discover the bustling Eldon Garden Shopping Centre in Newcastle upon Tyne, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
Menkind
0.5 km
Discover quirky gifts and gadgets for men at Menkind, nestled in Newcastle’s iconic Eldon Square shopping centre.
Friday Vintage
0.5 km
Award-winning vintage boutique celebrating curated fashion from the 1940s to 2000s in historic Old Eldon Square.
Be More Geek
0.5 km
Explore a treasure trove of pop culture collectibles and geek merchandise in the heart of Newcastle’s Eldon Square shopping centre.
Waceland
0.6 km
Discover unique vintage and streetwear treasures in Newcastle’s iconic Central Arcade, where style meets sustainability and family values.
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.
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
Mean-Eyed Cat
0.3 km
A vibrant micropub in Newcastle offering an evolving selection of craft beers, ciders, and lively community events in a quirky, intimate setting.
The Exchange
0.3 km
Discover The Exchange, Newcastle’s speakeasy-style cocktail bar with a cozy alcove, lively atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks in the city center.
The Wobbly Duck
0.5 km
A cozy, quirky micropub in Newcastle’s Old Eldon Square, famed for its eclectic ales and welcoming atmosphere.
Bar Loco
0.5 km
A vibrant split-level bar in Newcastle with live music, quirky vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere for casual drinks and social nights.
Holy Hobo
0.5 km
Jesmond's bold bar for monster burgers, craft pours, bottomless brunches, and beats till 2am—where quirky comfort meets non-stop nightlife energy.
The Alchemist Newcastle
0.6 km
Experience Newcastle’s premier cocktail laboratory with dramatic drinks, creative dining, and a captivating gothic atmosphere in Eldon Square.
Bealim House
0.6 km
Newcastle’s unique gin distillery, bar, and eatery blending industrial heritage with vibrant social dining and exceptional gin experiences.
Lady Greys
0.7 km
Cozy, classic Newcastle pub with excellent real ales, friendly staff, and a lively late-night atmosphere on Shakespeare Street.
The Market Lane
0.7 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.
Duke Of Northumberland (The Clock)
0.7 km
A welcoming Geordie pub in Newcastle city center, offering traditional fare, seasonal ales, and lively weekend music nights in a cozy setting.
Alvinos Bar
0.7 km
A lively Italian-owned bar in Newcastle with creative cocktails, craft brews, live DJs, and a welcoming multi-floor setting on Pilgrim Street.
All Bar One Newcastle
0.7 km
Stylish Grey Street bar serving coffee by day and cocktails by night, with tapas and wines in Newcastle's buzzing heart.
The WonderBar
0.7 km
A lively Newcastle venue combining interactive darts, live music, great food, and sports viewing under one vibrant roof.
The Mushroom Bar
0.7 km
A compact, budget-friendly club-bar on Grainger Street that keeps late-night DJs, drink deals and a party crowd at its heart.
The Collingwood Arms under new management
0.8 km
A traditional Jesmond pub with long bar, local prints, lively evenings and a straightforward menu that suits regulars and visitors alike.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
World HQ
0.7 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
0.8 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.
Popworld - Newcastle
0.8 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
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.
Greys Club
0.8 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
0.9 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.
Flares - Newcastle
0.9 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
0.9 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
0.9 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Bohemia Newcastle
0.9 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
1.0 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Tup Tup Palace
1.0 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
1.0 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Powerhouse
1.3 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
Digital
1.3 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
