Discovery Museum, Newcastle upon Tyne
Explore Tyneside’s rich maritime and scientific heritage through interactive exhibits and the iconic Turbinia steam turbine ship.
The Discovery Museum in Newcastle upon Tyne is a vibrant, family-friendly museum celebrating the rich maritime, scientific, and cultural heritage of Tyneside. Located in Blandford Square, it features interactive exhibits including the iconic Turbinia steam turbine ship, immersive science displays, and engaging play areas for children. With free entry and a welcoming atmosphere, it offers a fascinating journey through Newcastle’s history across three floors of galleries.
A brief summary to Discovery Museum
- Blandford Square, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4JA, GB
- +441912326789
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Turbinia exhibit early to avoid crowds and fully appreciate this historic steam turbine ship.
- Children under seven should bring a change of clothes for the Play Tyne water play area.
- Enjoy refreshments at the Turbinia Café on the second floor, offering views of the iconic ship.
- Check the museum’s website for temporary exhibitions and special events during your visit.
- Use the 360 Virtual Reality Accessibility Tour online to plan your visit if you require mobility assistance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Picnic Areas
Getting There
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Metro
Take the Tyne & Wear Metro to Central Station, then enjoy an eight-minute walk to the museum. The Metro is frequent and affordable, with up to three children under 11 traveling free with a fare-paying adult.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near Neville Street and Westmorland Road, within a five to ten-minute walk of the museum. Services run regularly throughout the day, with single fares typically around £2-£3.
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Car
Visitors driving can use pay and display parking at the museum or nearby Grainger Town multi-storey car park. Note that the area is within the Clean Air Zone, but privately owned vehicles and motorbikes are not charged.
Discovery Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Discovery Museum
A Celebration of Tyneside’s Heritage
The Discovery Museum stands proudly in Blandford Square, Newcastle upon Tyne, as a beacon of the region’s rich history and innovation. It showcases Tyneside’s maritime legacy, scientific breakthroughs, and cultural evolution through immersive exhibits. Central to the museum is the Turbinia, a 35-metre steam turbine-powered ship that was once the fastest in the world, symbolizing the area’s pioneering spirit. The museum’s galleries span three floors, covering everything from Roman Newcastle to modern times, weaving together stories of industry, fashion, and military history.Interactive Learning and Family Engagement
Designed to be highly interactive, the museum invites visitors of all ages to engage hands-on with its displays. The Play Tyne area is a standout for younger visitors, offering water-based play that educates about the River Tyne’s workings. Older children and adults can explore the Science Maze, featuring activities like shadow puppetry and air hockey, making learning a playful experience. Temporary exhibitions regularly refresh the museum’s offerings, including displays of retro toys and historical artifacts like the Enigma machine.Facilities and Accessibility
The museum is fully accessible, featuring lifts, multiple baby changing facilities, and a buggy storage area. A 360 Virtual Reality Accessibility Tour highlights thoughtful design for wheelchair users and visitors with diverse needs. The Turbinia Café on the second floor offers refreshments with views of the iconic ship, while the gift shop provides quirky souvenirs and toys. Visitors can bring packed lunches and find designated spaces to enjoy them, ensuring a comfortable and convenient visit.Community and Educational Outreach
Managed by North East Museums, the Discovery Museum plays a vital role in regional cultural preservation and education. It offers a range of learning programs and virtual sessions for schools and community groups. The museum supports ongoing research and archives that delve into North East England’s heritage, including unique audio documentaries on local music history. It encourages donations to sustain its free admission policy and maintain its role as a cultural hub.Location and Visitor Experience
Situated just off St. James' Boulevard, the museum is easily accessible by public transport, including an eight-minute walk from Newcastle Central Metro station. It sits within Newcastle’s Clean Air Zone, with nearby parking options. The museum’s atmosphere is lively yet welcoming, blending historic architecture with modern design elements. Visitors can expect a day filled with discovery, learning, and inspiration amid the dynamic spirit of Newcastle.Seasonal and Practical Information
Open from 10am to 4pm Monday through Friday and 11am to 4pm on weekends, the museum closes on Bank Holidays and during the Christmas-New Year period. Entry is free, with donations encouraged. Special events and workshops may require tickets. The museum’s extensive photo archive and well-maintained galleries make it a prime destination for cultural enthusiasts and families alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
11 Waterloo St
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Historic industrial heritage meets contemporary urban design on Newcastle's transforming Waterloo Street.
New Bridge Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne
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Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of New Bridge Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, home to captivating museums and lively local attractions.
Richard Grainger Memorial Fountain
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Historic granite fountain honoring Richard Grainger’s transformative 19th-century urban vision in Newcastle’s iconic Grainger Town.
Durham Tower
0.3 km
Medieval stone sentinel guarding Newcastle's ancient western walls since the 13th century.
Herber Tower
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A well-preserved 13th-century drum tower from Newcastle’s medieval town walls, once a guild meeting place and now a quiet monument in the city centre.
Oriental Garden
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Experience the serene beauty of the Oriental Garden in Newcastle upon Tyne, a peaceful escape filled with lush greenery and vibrant flora.
Blackfriars Medieval Friary
0.4 km
Medieval Dominican friary where kings once stayed, now a living centre of craft, culture, and cuisine.
Morden Tower
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A medieval drum tower turned iconic poetry venue, Morden Tower blends Newcastle’s rich history with vibrant cultural legacy.
St John the Baptist Church
0.5 km
Medieval sanctuary with eight centuries of history, treasured stained glass, and architectural gems hidden in Newcastle's city centre.
Newcastle city walls
0.7 km
Medieval stone fortifications protecting a border town from Scottish invasion, now a historic monument woven into Newcastle's urban landscape.
Newcastle and District War Memorial
0.8 km
A Portland stone tribute to courage, unveiled in 1923 and crowned by a bronze Saint George.
Grey St
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Newcastle's finest street—a sweeping curve of neoclassical elegance and cultural heritage.
Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)
0.9 km
Explore Newcastle upon Tyne with Iles Tours, where expert guides unveil the city's rich history and culture through unforgettable experiences.
The Black Gate
0.9 km
Medieval fortress gateway where Newcastle's story began, now fully accessible with rich exhibitions.
Newcastle Keep
0.9 km
Climb 99 steps through four centuries of medieval power and emerge onto rooftop views that define Newcastle.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Bodega
0.2 km
Discover The Bodega in Newcastle upon Tyne, where lively ambiance, great food, and a wide selection of drinks create the ultimate pub experience.
Tyne Theatre & Opera House
0.3 km
Discover Newcastle’s Victorian treasure with rare stage machinery and vibrant performances in a beautifully preserved Grade I listed theatre.
W Walls
0.3 km
Explore the enduring medieval West Walls of Newcastle, a stone fortress section that reveals the city’s historic defenses and rich heritage.
St. Mary's Cathedral
0.3 km
A majestic neo-Gothic cathedral crowned by a soaring spire, embodying Newcastle’s rich Catholic heritage and architectural splendor.
St Aidan and St Cuthbert Stonework
0.4 km
Intricate stone carvings celebrating St Aidan and St Cuthbert’s enduring legacy in Newcastle’s rich Christian heritage.
Life Science Centre
0.4 km
Explore hands-on science, immersive planetarium shows, and family-friendly fun at Newcastle’s interactive Life Science Centre.
Black Friars Postern Gate Plaque
0.4 km
Explore the Black Friars Postern Gate Plaque in Newcastle upon Tyne, a historical landmark reflecting the city's rich medieval heritage and architectural beauty.
A Hadrian's Wall Milecastle Plaque
0.4 km
Discover the Roman frontier’s footprint in Newcastle at the Hadrian's Wall Milecastle Plaque on historic Westgate Road.
ISKCON Newcastle
0.4 km
A welcoming spiritual sanctuary where ancient Krishna Consciousness teachings come alive through chanting, philosophy, and free vegetarian feasts.
YuMe World
0.5 km
Step into a high-energy arcade world in Newcastle’s city centre, where cutting-edge games, VR thrills and prize challenges await players of all ages.
Ever Tower
0.5 km
Explore Ever Tower, a captivating medieval relic of Newcastle’s historic town walls, blending heritage and urban charm.
The Gate
0.5 km
Newcastle’s vibrant leisure complex blending dining, nightlife, cinema, and gaming under one roof in the city centre.
My freedom Tours
0.6 km
Discover Newcastle’s history and culture at your own pace with My Freedom Tours’ innovative self-guided video experiences.
Escape Key Newcastle
0.6 km
Newcastle's premier escape room destination with immersive themes, creative puzzles, and exceptional service overlooking historic grounds.
St Andrew's Church, Newcastle upon Tyne
0.6 km
Discover Newcastle’s oldest church with medieval Norman arches, historic burials, and echoes of a turbulent past in the heart of the city.
Essential places to dine
Rumba Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine and vibrant Latin nightlife in the heart of Newcastle at Rumba Casa Latina.
Fujiyama Teppanyaki Japanese Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience fresh Japanese teppanyaki cooked live with flair and flavor in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne.
Blackfriars Restaurant
0.4 km
Dine in a 13th-century friary refectory with modern British food, local brews, and a warm, bustling atmosphere in the heart of Newcastle.
Pinocchio Ristorante
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with handmade pasta and stone-baked pizzas in a lively, welcoming Newcastle setting.
Super Natural Newcastle
0.5 km
Discover vibrant vegan dining and creative cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s historic Grainger Street at Super Natural Newcastle.
Turtle Bay Newcastle
0.6 km
Experience bold Caribbean flavours, reggae vibes, and 2-for-1 cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s vibrant city centre.
Zaap Thai Street Food Newcastle
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Thai street food right in the heart of Newcastle’s city center.
Earl of Pitt Street
0.6 km
Discover a cozy gastropub in Newcastle blending British charm with Asian-inspired flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Kafeneon
0.7 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and warm Mediterranean hospitality in the vibrant heart of Newcastle’s Bigg Market.
Hibou Blanc
0.7 km
Elegant French-British cuisine and refined hospitality in Newcastle's historic Bigg Market.
El Coto
0.7 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm rustic charm in the heart of Newcastle at El Coto.
No28
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at No28 in Newcastle – where tapas meets cocktails in an unforgettable bar and nightclub experience.
Kaltur Wine Bar & Restaurant High Bridge
0.8 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and fine wines in a cozy, lively wine bar setting at Newcastle’s historic High Bridge.
George's Fish Shack, Newcastle
0.8 km
Authentic British fish and chips in the heart of Newcastle’s lively Eldon Square shopping district.
Côte Newcastle
0.8 km
Experience refined French cuisine and charming brasserie vibes in Newcastle’s vibrant city centre on historic Grainger Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Flip Vintage American Clothing
0.3 km
Newcastle’s premier vintage store since 1978, offering authentic American vintage clothing with quality, character, and style.
Newcastle Gifts
0.5 km
Discover authentic Geordie souvenirs, local art, and NUFC treasures at this charming Neville Street gem opposite Central Station—your perfect Toon memento stop.
Living Essential
0.6 km
Grainger Street's go-to for stylish, affordable homewares that make city living cozy and practical in Newcastle's heart.
Tian's Gifts
0.7 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and charming treasures at Tian's Gifts, nestled in Newcastle’s historic Grainger Market.
Phillips & Wilde
0.7 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.
Analog
0.7 km
Curated vintage and second‑hand clothing tucked into Alley 3 of Newcastle’s Grainger Market — small stall, big finds.
Vintagera.co.uk
0.7 km
Discover exquisite handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and bespoke framing in the heart of Newcastle’s vibrant Grainger Market.
Garms Newcastle
0.7 km
Small, curated vintage clothing shop on Grainger Street, blending durable classics with street-ready retro finds.
Little Bazaar
0.7 km
A cosy, hand-curated gift stall in Grainger Market for crystals, dreamcatchers and small bohemian keepsakes.
Geordie Gifts
0.7 km
Discover authentic Geordie culture through unique gifts in the heart of Newcastle’s historic Grainger Market.
Box it up gifts
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Discover unique souvenirs and locally crafted gifts at Box It Up Gifts in Newcastle upon Tyne, a must-visit for every traveler.
Soul Rebel (Newcastle)
0.7 km
Discover a unique fusion of stylish apparel and holistic wellness at Soul Rebel, Newcastle's premier destination for fashion and self-care.
The Yesterday Society Vintage Boutique
0.7 km
Discover vintage treasures and retro style at The Yesterday Society, a charming boutique nestled in Newcastle’s historic Grainger Market.
Be More Geek
0.8 km
Explore a treasure trove of pop culture collectibles and geek merchandise in the heart of Newcastle’s Eldon Square shopping centre.
Earl and Coco
0.8 km
Quirky treasures and artisan delights await in this hidden gem of Newcastle's Grainger Town, where every find tells a story.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dog & Parrot
0.3 km
A vibrant Newcastle pub where live music, punk vibes, and friendly faces create an unforgettable night out.
The Mad House
0.3 km
Dive into Newcastle’s quirkiest cocktail bar where mad creativity meets bold flavors and unforgettable fun at The Mad House.
MOJO
0.5 km
MOJO Newcastle: Rock 'n' roll cocktails, American comfort food, and lively entertainment in The Gate’s vibrant nightlife hub.
The WonderBar
0.5 km
A lively Newcastle venue combining interactive darts, live music, great food, and sports viewing under one vibrant roof.
Slug & Lettuce - Central Newcastle
0.6 km
Newcastle's go-to for endless cocktails, bottomless brunches, and non-stop party vibes on Grainger Street – where every hour is happy hour.
Jalou
0.6 km
Experience Newcastle’s chic cocktail haven where Parisian glamour meets hip hop beats and creative mixology.
Duke Of Northumberland (The Clock)
0.6 km
A welcoming Geordie pub in Newcastle city center, offering traditional fare, seasonal ales, and lively weekend music nights in a cozy setting.
Bealim House
0.6 km
Newcastle’s unique gin distillery, bar, and eatery blending industrial heritage with vibrant social dining and exceptional gin experiences.
Revolution Newcastle Upon Tyne
0.7 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and handcrafted cocktails in Newcastle’s stunning former bank with soaring ceilings and marble pillars.
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.
ChachaBuchi
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Rustic glamour meets vibrant nightlife in Newcastle’s chic cocktail bar with alpine-inspired cuisine and lively entertainment.
All Seeing Eye.
0.7 km
Discover Newcastle's speakeasy secret: art deco cocktails behind a hidden door on Groat Market, blending historic intrigue with masterful mixology.
Blackie Boy
0.8 km
Historic Newcastle bar with cosy vibes, free jukebox anthems, cheap drinks deals, and late-night energy in Groat Market's lively heart.
Mother Mercy
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Newcastle's speakeasy secret: inventive cocktails via roulette wheel in a historic Cloth Market hideaway, blending mixology mastery with intimate Mediterranean chic.
Bar Loco
0.8 km
A vibrant split-level bar in Newcastle with live music, quirky vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere for casual drinks and social nights.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Powerhouse
0.2 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
Warehouse Night Club(SR44)
0.3 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant underground gay nightclub scene at Warehouse Night Club (SR44), where eclectic music and lively parties come alive.
Digital
0.3 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Cosmic Ballroom
0.5 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.
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.
The Social Club
0.7 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Popworld - Newcastle
0.7 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
Bohemia Newcastle
0.7 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
0.7 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
0.7 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
TheCUT Newcastle
0.8 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Tup Tup Palace
0.8 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.
Flares - Newcastle
0.8 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.
Greys Club
0.9 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Fun-filled
- Educational
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
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
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
