Great North Museum: Hancock
Discover natural history, ancient cultures, and Hadrian’s Wall at Newcastle’s free, family-friendly Great North Museum: Hancock.
The Great North Museum: Hancock in Newcastle upon Tyne is a free, award-winning museum showcasing natural history, archaeology, and world cultures. Highlights include a life-size T. rex skeleton, Hadrian’s Wall exhibits, Ancient Egyptian artifacts, and a dedicated children’s play area. Open daily with engaging galleries and interactive displays, it offers a rich educational experience for all ages.
A brief summary to Great North Museum: Hancock
- Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4PT, GB
- +441912086765
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3.5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit after 2:30pm on weekdays or on Sundays for a quieter experience.
- Check out the Mouse House play area if visiting with children under five.
- Allow around 2-3 hours to explore the museum fully, plus extra time for planetarium shows.
- Donations are welcome to support the museum’s ongoing work and exhibitions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Lockers
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Bus
Multiple frequent bus routes serve stops near Barras Bridge in central Newcastle, with journeys from Newcastle Central Station taking approximately 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost around £2-£3. Buses run daily but check schedules for evening and weekend variations.
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Train and Walk
Newcastle Central Station is about a 15-minute walk from the museum. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most travelers. No parking is available at the museum itself, but city center car parks are nearby.
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Car
Several public car parks are within walking distance of the museum in Newcastle city center. Parking fees vary but typically range from £1.50 to £3 per hour. Traffic congestion can occur during peak times, so plan accordingly.
Great North Museum: Hancock location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Great North Museum: Hancock
A Treasure Trove of Natural History and Archaeology
The Great North Museum: Hancock is a premier cultural institution in Newcastle upon Tyne, housing extensive collections that span natural history, archaeology, and world cultures. Its natural history galleries feature spectacular displays of animals, fossils, and habitats, including a striking life-size Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton that captures the imagination. The museum’s archaeological collections include significant artifacts from Ancient Egypt, Greece, and the Roman Empire, notably the Shefton collection of Greek and Etruscan objects. Visitors can explore the detailed history of Hadrian’s Wall through an immersive gallery that presents the Wall’s construction, operation, and the lives of people who lived along it, enriched by a scale model and interactive computer hotspots.Engaging Experiences for Families and Children
Designed to be family friendly, the museum offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that engage visitors of all ages. The Mouse House, a dedicated play area near the entrance, caters specifically to children under five, providing a safe and stimulating environment. Regular educational programs and activities are held to inspire curiosity and learning. The museum’s planetarium offers captivating shows about the cosmos, adding another dimension to the visitor experience. Throughout the galleries, interactive displays and digital elements invite exploration and discovery, making the museum an ideal destination for both casual visitors and enthusiasts.Architectural and Cultural Significance
Housed in a historic Victorian building, the Great North Museum: Hancock blends heritage architecture with modern museum design. The renovation completed in 2009 allowed for a comprehensive presentation of its diverse collections under one roof. The museum is managed by North East Museums on behalf of Newcastle University, reflecting a strong academic foundation. Its collections belong to several learned societies, including the Natural History Society of Northumbria and the Society of Antiquaries of Newcastle upon Tyne, underscoring its cultural importance. The museum’s location in the city center on Barras Bridge makes it a landmark attraction within Newcastle’s vibrant cultural scene.Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
Visitors benefit from free admission, making the museum an accessible cultural resource. A café and gift shop are available on-site for refreshments and souvenirs. Facilities include restrooms, lockers, and baby changing areas, enhancing comfort for families. The museum is wheelchair accessible and welcomes guide dogs, ensuring inclusivity. It is open daily with hours from 10am to 5pm on weekdays, shorter hours on weekends, and last entry 15 minutes before closing. Relaxed early openings are available on Tuesdays during school holidays for visitors seeking a quieter experience.Exploring the Museum’s Diverse Collections
The museum’s galleries are thoughtfully curated to showcase the diversity of life and human history. The Living Planet gallery explores wildlife and habitats across the globe, while the Fossil Stories gallery reveals changes in Earth’s landscape and prehistoric life. The World Cultures gallery displays artifacts from Africa, Asia, the Pacific Islands, and the Americas, broadening visitors’ understanding of global heritage. The Ancient Worlds section features Egyptian mummies and Greek art, providing insight into ancient civilizations. Together, these collections offer a comprehensive narrative of natural and human history that is both educational and inspiring.Community Engagement and Educational Outreach
As a hub for cultural learning, the Great North Museum: Hancock actively engages with the local community through exhibitions, talks, and special events. It supports school groups and offers tailored programs during holidays. The museum encourages donations to help sustain its mission of preserving art, culture, and heritage in the North East. Its role as a center for research and education is strengthened by its affiliation with Newcastle University, making it a vital institution for both public enjoyment and academic study.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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
0.1 km
Modernist landmark housing humanities scholarship at Newcastle's academic heart.
King's Gate
0.2 km
Newcastle University's contemporary student services hub with striking glazed architecture on Barras Bridge.
Old Library Building
0.2 km
A historic university building at the heart of Newcastle’s campus, now home to the School of Modern Languages and academic events.
The Response - Renwick War Memorial
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A powerful and historic war memorial honoring the Northumberland Fusiliers’ spirit and sacrifice in World War I, set in serene Newcastle gardens.
1914 Monument
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A stirring World War I memorial in Newcastle honoring local Fusiliers with evocative bronze sculpture and historic military symbolism.
W.D.Stephens Memorial
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Historic memorial fountain honoring Newcastle’s civic leader W.D. Stephens, symbolizing philanthropy and maritime heritage in Jesmond.
The Tower Cafe Ltd
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Charming café in Newcastle’s Leazes Park, famed for vegan pizzas and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere amid scenic greenery.
Newcastle and District War Memorial
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A Portland stone tribute to courage, unveiled in 1923 and crowned by a bronze Saint George.
Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)
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Explore Newcastle upon Tyne with Iles Tours, where expert guides unveil the city's rich history and culture through unforgettable experiences.
Grey St
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Newcastle's finest street—a sweeping curve of neoclassical elegance and cultural heritage.
Jess moore memorial wall 23/6/17 - 7/11/19
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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.
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.
Blackfriars Medieval Friary
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Medieval Dominican friary where kings once stayed, now a living centre of craft, culture, and cuisine.
Oriental Garden
1.1 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.
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.
Civic Centre Gardens
0.2 km
A peaceful urban oasis blending nature, art, and heritage in the heart of Newcastle’s Civic Centre.
Campus Cat
0.4 km
Historic Grade II listed church in Newcastle with rich non-conformist roots and stunning Victorian architecture.
Book stack
0.5 km
A striking Gothic Revival landmark blending Newcastle’s religious heritage with modern academic life on Northumberland Road.
Exhibition Park
0.5 km
A historic green oasis in Newcastle city centre blending Victorian charm, active recreation, and vibrant cultural events.
The Seeing Stone
0.5 km
Discover The Seeing Stone, a tranquil and intriguing outdoor attraction nestled in the lush parks of Newcastle upon Tyne.
Eldon Square
0.6 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
0.6 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
0.6 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
0.7 km
Discover unbeatable deals on designer fashion and homeware at TK Maxx, Monument Mall’s vibrant department store in Newcastle.
Leazes Park
0.7 km
Newcastle’s oldest Victorian park, a tranquil green retreat with a scenic lake and rich heritage in the city centre.
Old Eldon Square
0.7 km
Newcastle’s premier indoor shopping centre blending rich heritage with modern retail and vibrant dining under one roof.
Freemen's Clock
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Historic clock tower in Exhibition Park commemorating Queen Elizabeth II's coronation and Newcastle’s Freemen legacy.
Newcastle upon Tyne - City Centre
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Discover Newcastle upon Tyne City Centre: where rich history meets vibrant urban life along the scenic River Tyne.
Essential places to dine
As You Like It
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Eclectic dining and creative cocktails in Jesmond’s stylish hotspot, perfect for family meals and lively late nights.
Fuego
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Experience authentic Mediterranean tapas, Napoli-style pizzas, and vibrant cocktails in the heart of Newcastle at Fuego by Fenwick.
Red Mezze
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A lively Turkish mezze restaurant in Newcastle, perfect for sharing bold flavours, grilled dishes, and a relaxed meal with friends or family.
El Coto
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Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm rustic charm in the heart of Newcastle at El Coto.
The Botanist Newcastle
0.7 km
Discover The Botanist Newcastle: a lush botanical bar and restaurant blending inventive cocktails, seasonal food, and live music in a secret garden setting.
George's Fish Shack, Newcastle
0.7 km
Authentic British fish and chips in the heart of Newcastle’s lively Eldon Square shopping district.
Chaophraya
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Elegant Thai dining with rooftop views over Grey’s Monument, perfect for special occasions and vibrant city experiences.
Fratello's
0.8 km
Authentic Italian dining with warm hospitality and stonebaked pizzas in the heart of Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne.
No28
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Discover the vibrant nightlife at No28 in Newcastle – where tapas meets cocktails in an unforgettable bar and nightclub experience.
Gaucho Newcastle
0.8 km
Experience premium Argentinian steaks and vibrant South American flavors in a stylish, sophisticated Newcastle setting.
Lola Jeans
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Lola Jeans Newcastle offers award-winning American comfort food, signature cocktails, and a vibrant, art-filled atmosphere in the city centre.
Côte Newcastle
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Experience refined French cuisine and charming brasserie vibes in Newcastle’s vibrant city centre on historic Grainger Street.
Zaap Thai Street Food Newcastle
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Thai street food right in the heart of Newcastle’s city center.
Fat Hippo Newcastle
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Bold, creative burgers and inclusive menu options in Newcastle’s lively city centre hotspot.
Pani's Cafe
0.9 km
Experience authentic Sardinian and Italian cuisine in the heart of Newcastle at Pani's Cafe, where tradition meets innovation.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The One World Shop
0.2 km
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Time Antiques
0.3 km
Discover authentic antiques and collectibles with expert care at Time Antiques, a historic gem in Newcastle’s vibrant Antique Centre.
Elula
0.3 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
0.4 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures at The Vintage Scene Newcastle, a curated boutique for eclectic style lovers in the city center.
The Works
0.5 km
Affordable books, arts, crafts, and toys in the heart of Newcastle’s bustling Eldon Square Shopping Centre.
The Geordie Witch
0.6 km
Discover unique local gifts and mystical treasures at The Geordie Witch, a charming and welcoming shop in Newcastle’s Eldon Square.
Eldon Garden Shopping Centre.
0.6 km
Discover the bustling Eldon Garden Shopping Centre in Newcastle upon Tyne, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
Jay's Boutique & Gifts
0.6 km
Discover bespoke tailoring and unique gifts combined in a charming boutique at Newcastle’s Upper Princess Square.
Coast
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Contemporary feminine fashion and occasion wear in Newcastle's vibrant city centre shopping district.
Blush
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Discover designer elegance at Blush, Jesmond's go-to boutique for ladies' fashion and accessories on trendy Clayton Road.
JBC Signatures Gift Shop
0.6 km
A compact Jesmond boutique for thoughtful jewellery, home accessories and gift-ready treats tucked into Clayton Road’s village feel.
Menkind
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Discover quirky gifts and gadgets for men at Menkind, nestled in Newcastle’s iconic Eldon Square shopping centre.
Friday Vintage
0.7 km
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Be More Geek
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Waceland
0.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mean-Eyed Cat
0.4 km
A vibrant micropub in Newcastle offering an evolving selection of craft beers, ciders, and lively community events in a quirky, intimate setting.
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 Exchange
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The Collingwood Arms under new management
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A traditional Jesmond pub with long bar, local prints, lively evenings and a straightforward menu that suits regulars and visitors alike.
Bar Loco
0.6 km
A vibrant split-level bar in Newcastle with live music, quirky vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere for casual drinks and social nights.
The Wobbly Duck
0.7 km
A cozy, quirky micropub in Newcastle’s Old Eldon Square, famed for its eclectic ales and welcoming atmosphere.
The Alchemist Newcastle
0.7 km
Experience Newcastle’s premier cocktail laboratory with dramatic drinks, creative dining, and a captivating gothic atmosphere in Eldon Square.
Bealim House
0.8 km
Newcastle’s unique gin distillery, bar, and eatery blending industrial heritage with vibrant social dining and exceptional gin experiences.
Lady Greys
0.9 km
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Duke Of Northumberland (The Clock)
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A welcoming Geordie pub in Newcastle city center, offering traditional fare, seasonal ales, and lively weekend music nights in a cozy setting.
The Market Lane
0.9 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 WonderBar
0.9 km
A lively Newcastle venue combining interactive darts, live music, great food, and sports viewing under one vibrant roof.
Alvinos Bar
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All Bar One Newcastle
0.9 km
Stylish Grey Street bar serving coffee by day and cocktails by night, with tapas and wines in Newcastle's buzzing heart.
The Mushroom Bar
0.9 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
World HQ
0.9 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
1.0 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
1.0 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.
Popworld - Newcastle
1.0 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
Greys Club
1.0 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
1.1 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
1.1 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
1.1 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
1.1 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
1.1 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
1.2 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Tup Tup Palace
1.2 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.
TheCUT Newcastle
1.2 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Powerhouse
1.5 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
Digital
1.5 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
- Family Friendly
- Educational
- Relaxing
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Modern Designs
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
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
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
