The Mermaid: A Historic Landmark on Newcastle's Quayside
Discover the Mermaid, a historic symbol of Newcastle’s maritime heritage, set amidst the vibrant and scenic Quayside waterfront.
The Mermaid is a captivating historical landmark located at 100 Quayside, Newcastle upon Tyne. Nestled along the vibrant River Tyne waterfront, it reflects the area's rich maritime heritage and industrial past. Surrounded by iconic bridges and lively cultural spots, the Mermaid offers visitors a glimpse into Newcastle's storied relationship with the river and its regeneration into a thriving arts and leisure district.
A brief summary to Mermaid
- 100 Quayside, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3DU, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the landmark's details and the panoramic views of the Tyne bridges.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Quayside to explore nearby cultural venues like the BALTIC Centre and Sage Gateshead.
- Check out the Quayside Market on Sundays for local crafts, street food, and lively entertainment.
- Bring a camera to capture the Mermaid with the iconic Tyne Bridge and Millennium Bridge in the background.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Quaylink bus service from Newcastle city center to Quayside, which runs every 10-15 minutes with a journey time of about 15 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2-£3. The service is frequent but may be less frequent late evenings.
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Walking
From Newcastle Central Station, enjoy a scenic 20-minute walk along the city streets and across the historic bridges to reach the Mermaid at Quayside. The route is mostly flat and accessible but can be busy during peak times.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Newcastle city center to the Quayside takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £5 to £10. Taxis are widely available but can be affected by peak hour congestion.
Mermaid 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
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Mermaid
Maritime Heritage Embodied
The Mermaid stands as a symbolic figure along Newcastle's Quayside, a historic stretch of the River Tyne once bustling with commercial dock activity. This landmark evokes the maritime traditions that shaped the city's identity, recalling the days when ships and coal barges were a common sight. Its presence is a tribute to the river’s central role in trade, industry, and community life, anchoring the Quayside’s narrative in its seafaring roots.Transformation of the Quayside
Once a hub for industrial commerce, including coal transport via the nearby Victoria Tunnels and flour milling at the Baltic Flour Mill, the Quayside has undergone a remarkable regeneration since the early 2000s. The Mermaid now resides within a revitalized riverside precinct that blends historical elements with modern culture. This area has blossomed into a vibrant center for arts, dining, and entertainment, attracting locals and visitors alike with its scenic promenades and cultural venues.Surrounded by Iconic Architecture and Culture
Positioned near seven famous bridges, including the historic Tyne Bridge and the innovative Gateshead Millennium Bridge, the Mermaid benefits from a stunning architectural backdrop. The area is rich with cultural landmarks such as the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art and Sage Gateshead, both renowned for their contemporary exhibitions and live performances. This blend of heritage and modernity enhances the landmark's appeal as a focal point on the Quayside.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
The Mermaid is part of a lively riverside environment where visitors can enjoy scenic walks, live music, and diverse dining options. The nearby Quayside Market, held regularly, adds to the vibrant atmosphere with local crafts, street food, and entertainment. Whether basking in the sunset views over the Tyne or exploring the artistic offerings nearby, the Mermaid's location invites a rich sensory experience steeped in Newcastle’s evolving story.Symbolism and Local Significance
More than just a landmark, the Mermaid represents the enduring connection between Newcastle and the River Tyne. It embodies the city’s resilience and capacity for reinvention, standing as a reminder of both its industrial past and its dynamic present. The figure of the mermaid, often associated with myth and allure, adds a layer of cultural symbolism that resonates with the maritime folklore of the region.Engagement with the Community
The Mermaid and its surroundings serve as a gathering place for community events, festivals, and cultural celebrations that highlight Newcastle’s heritage and contemporary creativity. Its presence enhances the Quayside’s role as a social and cultural hub, where history and modern life intersect along the riverbank, offering an enriching experience for all who visit.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mermaid
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Discover the Mermaid, a historic symbol of Newcastle’s maritime heritage, set amidst the vibrant and scenic Quayside waterfront.
River God
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An iconic statue on Newcastle’s Quayside embodying the city’s deep connection to the River Tyne and its maritime heritage.
Blacksmiths Needle
0.2 km
A captivating 7.6m steel sculpture on Newcastle Quayside, blending maritime themes with the five senses and a mysterious sixth sense.
The Custom House Plaque
0.3 km
A historic marker on Newcastle’s Quayside commemorating the 1766 Custom House and the city’s maritime trade heritage.
Quayside
0.4 km
Quayside is a dynamic riverside district where iconic bridges meet vibrant culture, blending industrial heritage with modern art and lively waterfront life.
The Guildhall
0.5 km
Discover Newcastle’s historic Guildhall, a stunning 17th-century civic landmark rich in architecture and medieval heritage.
Little Buildings
0.6 km
An intimate live music venue in Newcastle’s Ouseburn Valley, perfect for discovering new bands and enjoying craft beers in a laid-back, buzzing atmosphere.
Castle Wall Well
0.6 km
A medieval well marking Newcastle's 13th-century defensive walls and urban heritage.
Newcastle Keep
0.6 km
Climb 99 steps through four centuries of medieval power and emerge onto rooftop views that define Newcastle.
The High Level Bridge
0.6 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
The Black Gate
0.6 km
Medieval fortress gateway where Newcastle's story began, now fully accessible with rich exhibitions.
William Coulson Monument
0.7 km
A historic bronze tribute to William Coulson, Newcastle’s pioneering humanitarian and animal welfare advocate, with unique drinking troughs for animals.
Grey St
0.7 km
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.
Newcastle city walls
0.9 km
Medieval stone fortifications protecting a border town from Scottish invasion, now a historic monument woven into Newcastle's urban landscape.
Unmissable attractions to see
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.
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.
Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art
0.2 km
A striking riverside hub for cutting-edge contemporary art in a converted flour mill with panoramic Tyne views.
Trinity House
0.3 km
Discover Newcastle’s maritime heritage and medieval charm at Trinity House, a historic gem on the quayside with centuries of seafaring stories.
The Glasshouse International Centre for Music
0.3 km
A world-class music venue and education centre on Gateshead Quayside where music lives, grows, and inspires all ages.
All Saints Church
0.4 km
Discover Newcastle's All Saints Church, a unique Georgian landmark with England’s only elliptical nave and a vibrant Presbyterian heritage.
Tyne Bridge
0.4 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.
Side Photographic Gallery
0.5 km
Discover powerful documentary photography in a historic, intimate gallery space beneath Newcastle’s Tyne Bridge.
John Grundy Local Heroes Plaque
0.5 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.
Historic England North East & Yorkshire
0.5 km
Explore Newcastle’s finest Jacobean merchants’ houses, famed for Bessie Surtees’ romantic 1772 elopement and richly preserved period interiors.
Castle Garth & The Black Gate
0.6 km
Explore Newcastle’s medieval gateway, The Black Gate, a historic fortress entrance turned vibrant urban hub steeped in centuries of history.
Newcastle Ghost Walks - Haunted City Tours
0.6 km
Explore Newcastle’s haunted streets and historic landmarks on immersive ghost tours filled with chilling tales and authentic paranormal encounters.
Newcastle Castle
0.6 km
A Norman fortress at the heart of Newcastle, where royal power, rebellion, and city history converge above the River Tyne.
Castle Garth
0.6 km
Explore the medieval heart of Newcastle with panoramic views from the iconic Castle Keep and historic Black Gate at Castle Garth.
Site of Anglo-Saxon Church
0.6 km
Explore Newcastle’s ancient heart where Roman roots, Anglo-Saxon heritage, and medieval stone keep converge in Castle Garth’s historic site.
Essential places to dine
Malmaison Bar & Grill Newcastle
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Stylish modern British dining and boutique hotel luxury on Newcastle’s scenic Quayside with riverside views and exclusive private rooms.
Tomahawk Steakhouse - Newcastle
0.1 km
Premium steakhouse on Newcastle’s Quayside offering expertly cooked tomahawk steaks and a vibrant riverside dining experience.
Victors Newcastle
0.1 km
Experience modern Asian-inspired cuisine and vibrant cocktails under the wisteria on Newcastle’s iconic Quayside waterfront.
Gusto Italian
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist on Newcastle’s scenic Quayside at Gusto Italian.
21
0.2 km
Elegant British dining with seasonal flair and French influences in Newcastle’s stylish Trinity Gardens setting.
The Broad Chare
0.2 km
A lively gastropub on Newcastle’s Quayside blending traditional British fare with seasonal, locally sourced excellence.
SIX Rooftop at BALTIC
0.2 km
Elegant rooftop dining atop the BALTIC Centre with stunning views, seasonal British cuisine, and a stylish bar in Gateshead’s cultural heart.
Dobson and Parnell
0.4 km
Elegant fine dining in Newcastle’s historic Victorian setting, blending classic charm with modern British cuisine and attentive service.
Aveika
0.4 km
Innovative Japanese cuisine and vibrant nightlife converge at Aveika, Newcastle's stylish Quayside hotspot for dining and entertainment.
Uno's Trattoria
0.4 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and generous portions in a lively, welcoming setting at Uno's Trattoria in Newcastle.
Zucchini Pasta Bar
0.5 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.
Babucho
0.5 km
Stylish Italian brasserie in Newcastle offering classic dishes, a lively atmosphere, and attentive service in a chic city-center setting.
Simla Restaurant
0.5 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
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality beneath Newcastle’s historic High Level Bridge at Prima Restaurant.
Native Cave Restaurant And Bar
0.6 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
37 Studios
0.3 km
Stylish accessories by the Tyne: Discover unique jewelry and bags at this Quayside boutique in Newcastle's creative heart.
Quayside News
0.5 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
0.6 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
0.6 km
Discover authentic Geordie treasures in Newcastle’s smallest independent souvenir shop nestled under a historic railway arch.
Corner Shop
0.7 km
Independent city-centre shop offering curated everyday essentials and gifts on historic Pilgrim Street.
Bibelot Nook
0.7 km
Discover timeless vintage furniture and unique homewares at Bibelot Nook, Newcastle’s hub for sustainable style and local artistry.
Retro , Vintage Clothing Newcastle.
0.7 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
0.8 km
Quirky treasures and artisan delights await in this hidden gem of Newcastle's Grainger Town, where every find tells a story.
Jay's Boutique & Gifts
0.8 km
Discover bespoke tailoring and unique gifts combined in a charming boutique at Newcastle’s Upper Princess Square.
Waceland
0.8 km
Discover unique vintage and streetwear treasures in Newcastle’s iconic Central Arcade, where style meets sustainability and family values.
Cath Kidston
0.8 km
Floral fantasies and vintage vibes on Newcastle's Grainger Street—where British charm meets everyday elegance in bags, clothes, and home treasures.
Urban Outfitters
0.9 km
Discover stylish fashion and eclectic homewares at Urban Outfitters Newcastle, a vibrant hub of creativity and contemporary lifestyle on Grainger Street.
Soul Rebel (Newcastle)
0.9 km
Discover a unique fusion of stylish apparel and holistic wellness at Soul Rebel, Newcastle's premier destination for fashion and self-care.
Garms Newcastle
0.9 km
Small, curated vintage clothing shop on Grainger Street, blending durable classics with street-ready retro finds.
The Yesterday Society Vintage Boutique
0.9 km
Discover vintage treasures and retro style at The Yesterday Society, a charming boutique nestled in Newcastle’s historic Grainger Market.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Urban Garden Newcastle
0.1 km
A relaxed container-style beer garden on Newcastle’s Quayside—festoon lights, craft taps and riverside atmosphere for groups and sunset drinks.
Pitcher & Piano Newcastle
0.1 km
A stylish riverside bar on Newcastle’s Quayside, blending modern design with classic pub charm and vibrant social energy.
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.
Colonel Porter's Emporium
0.6 km
Newcastle's 1920s explorer's paradise: botanical gardens, vintage cocktails, live music, and hidden discos in historic Milburn House.
Alvinos Bar
0.6 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
0.6 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.
Lady Greys
0.7 km
Cozy, classic Newcastle pub with excellent real ales, friendly staff, and a lively late-night atmosphere on Shakespeare 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.
Billy Bootleggers
0.7 km
Step into Billy Bootleggers for authentic Americana vibes, live rockabilly tunes, and legendary bourbon brews in Newcastle’s lively Ouseburn district.
Blackie Boy
0.7 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.
0.8 km
Discover Newcastle's speakeasy secret: art deco cocktails behind a hidden door on Groat Market, blending historic intrigue with masterful mixology.
Mother Mercy
0.8 km
Newcastle's speakeasy secret: inventive cocktails via roulette wheel in a historic Cloth Market hideaway, blending mixology mastery with intimate Mediterranean chic.
ChachaBuchi
0.8 km
Rustic glamour meets vibrant nightlife in Newcastle’s chic cocktail bar with alpine-inspired cuisine and lively entertainment.
Revolution Newcastle Upon Tyne
0.8 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and handcrafted cocktails in Newcastle’s stunning former bank with soaring ceilings and marble pillars.
The Tyne Bar
0.8 km
A vibrant hub for craft beer, live music, and community spirit nestled in Newcastle’s creative Ouseburn Valley.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
0.6 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
0.7 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
0.7 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.
Tup Tup Palace
0.7 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
0.7 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious 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.
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.
Bohemia Newcastle
0.8 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
0.8 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
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.
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
1.2 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
1.3 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
1.4 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
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
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly