Things to Do in Newcastle in Winter: A Local Guide to the Quieter Months
Winter in Newcastle begins with sparkle: Christmas is still in the air, with festive lights glowing across the city and seasonal markets in full swing.
What makes it even better is that Newcastle offers all that Christmas and New Year atmosphere without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds you might expect in London.
It is lively, welcoming, and far easier to enjoy at your own pace.
Once the festive buzz starts to soften, the city settles into its quieter season — and that is when it really comes into its own.
With fewer visitors, better-value stays, and plenty still happening, winter is an ideal time to explore.
If you are wondering what to do in Newcastle between December and February, this guide rounds up some of the best things to do in Newcastle in winter, whether you are visiting with children, travelling as a couple, or planning a relaxed city break.
December: Festive Markets and Christmas Traditions
Excited for this year’s Christmas events Newcastle is known for? December in the toon is all about atmosphere.
The Newcastle Christmas Market takes over Monument with festive food stalls, handmade gifts, mulled drinks, and live entertainment.
It is ideal for a slow festive stroll, soaking up the seasonal mood, and buying a couple of last-minute stocking fillers.
However, it is the next activity that’s a definite highlight — and one of the top things to do in Newcastle for families.
The famous Fenwick window display is a much-loved tradition, and this year it brings Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol to life. You can read more about the theme behind the display here.
Looking for more things to do this Christmas? Check our previous articles with detailed itineraries, most of which remain relevant in 2025: What to Do in Newcastle for Christmas? (2024 Guide), Uncover the Magic of Christmas 2023 in Newcastle.
January: Fresh Starts and Winter Warmers
January is quieter, but far from dull. If you enjoy being outdoors, Jesmond Dene is a great place to start the year.
Its woodland paths and river walks feel peaceful in winter and are suitable for all ages.
Prefer to keep things cosy? There is no shortage of fun activities in Newcastle for adults.
You can try axe throwing at Game of Throwing, head to Lane7 Newcastle for a night of bowling and cocktails, embrace the colourful chaos of Junkyard Golf Club with a date, or get lost in the arcade games at Yume World.
Ice skating is a strong winter favourite — and it doesn’t have to stay in December! The open-air rink at the Centre for Life lets you skate under the lights with seasonal music and hot drinks nearby up until late January.
It is one of the most popular things to do in Newcastle in winter for couples, families and groups alike.
For theatre lovers, the Theatre Royal hosts Weird, a bold reimagining of Macbeth told through the three witches, complete with pop hits.
Running on Friday 30th and Saturday 31st January 2026, it is a brilliant excuse for a fun winter outing.
February: Half-Term and Valentine’s
February may be short, but it is a popular month for winter getaways thanks to half-term and Valentine’s Day.
Families can enjoy something a little different at the Family Silent Disco at Newcastle Cathedral, a high-energy event set in one of the city’s most beautiful historic spaces.
For mature music lovers, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra performs Shostakovich and Tchaikovsky at The Glasshouse — an ideal choice for a cultured winter evening.
We will be sharing a dedicated Valentine’s guide closer to February, with tailored recommendations.
Where To Stay: Central, Comfortable, and Great Value
Enjoying all these things to do in Newcastle in winter is even easier when you stay centrally.
HNFC Stays offers a carefully curated collection of Airbnbs Newcastle visitors choose for comfort, convenience, and location.
Our apartments in Newcastle upon Tyne are based close to the city centre, major attractions, and transport links — perfect for winter breaks when it’s cold outside.
As local experts, we provide excellent customer support and thoughtfully managed stays designed for short visits and winter escapes.
To make the quiet season even more appealing, we are currently offering 25% off when you book your stay for dates up to 1 March. Simply use the promo code QUIETSEASON25 during checkout.
From Christmas events Newcastle is loved for, to cultural highlights, relaxed winter walks, and indoor entertainment, there is no shortage of memorable things to do in Newcastle in winter.
Add fewer crowds and great-value accommodation into the mix, and it becomes one of the best times to visit.
Book your winter stay with HNFC Stays and discover Newcastle at its most festive, calm, and welcoming.