Car Rental Newcastle Airport

The road networks around Newcastle Airport are easy to navigate as they are well maintained and signposted.

It is only around 10km from the airport to Newcastle upon Tyne via the A696, heading south-east. This will take you into the city, where you can begin to explore the fascinating museums and attractions.

In many ways, Newcastle Airport is the gateway to the north-east of England. Heading north along the A696 will take you into the rolling hills of the Northumberland National Park, where you can even cross into Scotland at Carter Bar.

Heading east out of the airport from the A19 meanwhile will point you towards the stunning coastline. Visit the Northumberland Coast, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, for cliffside walks and wild, rugged beaches. 

Less than an hour away, along the A1 south, you’ll find the historic university city of Durham. With an impressive cathedral, an 11th-century castle and scenic photo-ready spots to explore, this is another great place for a day trip. 

Navigating the area is relatively straightforward, but remember that driving in the UK is on the left-hand side. Speed limits will vary depending on what roads you’re driving along, and will usually be well-signed in miles per hour (mph).

When you’re driving through Newcastle upon Tyne and other towns and cities, the speed limit will usually be 30mph (48km/h), though some residential zones may be 20mph. On main roads and highways, the limits can vary but are often 60mph (96km/h) on rural roads and 70mph (112km/h) on motorways and many dual-carriageways, unless otherwise indicated.

With both vibrant cities and relaxing countryside close by, there’s a lot you can experience when you rent a car from Newcastle Airport.

Whether you’re flying in for business or for leisure, knowing where to find the local attractions can help you tailor your trip to your needs.

Quayside culture

The Quayside district of Newcastle and the neighbouring city of Gateshead straddles the River Tyne, and is joined together by the iconic Millennium Bridge. This lively neighbourhood has its own unique culture. With an impressive array of international chain and local restaurants, there’s plenty of places to unwind after a busy day.

As well as vibrant nightlife, there’s a wealth of art, design and museums to explore too.

The BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art overlooks the riverside and offers a wide-breadth of art, sculpture, film and fashion design – this converted flour mill hosts a touring program of exhibits from international artists.

Outside the gallery is the impressive Millennium Bridge, which claims to be the only ‘tilting’ bridge in the world and is said by locals to look like an eye blinking when it rises to let boats pass through.

Visit to see this amazing sight against the river and the curving design of the Sage Gateshead too. This impressive music and performance venue is a landmark in itself, with its gleaming stainless-steel and glass panels. With three concert halls housed inside, reserve your tickets in advance to see something spectacular.

Adventures in the national parks

The area plays host to several notable national parks and scenic points of interest. With the North York Moors National Park to the south, the North Pennines in the west and the Kilderhead National Nature Reserve to the north, there’s a lot to explore.

With birdlife, country walks and around 2,000 square kilometres of undisturbed nature, explore the North Pennines, which was granted Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty status in 1988. One of the most spectacular areas to visit is where the sprawling wild heather moors are in full flourish near Blanchland, covering the landscape in a sea of purple.

You can also visit the Kielderhead Nature Reserve for salmon filled lakes, osprey nests and adventure in the wilderness. The reserve is a Dark Sky Park which means you can experience its fantastic stargazing opportunities too.

Discover castles in the countryside

Among rolling hills steeped in history, drive into the region’s past to explore castles on the coast and forts amid the green landscape.

Dunstanburgh Castle in picturesque Northumberland played a significant role during the Wars of the Roses. Explore the ruins to see what’s left of the menacing gatehouse, and to take in the rugged setting.

Durham castle is also well worth a visit if you reserve a guided tour, with a history that goes back all the way to William the Conqueror. 

Edlingham Castle and the Edlingham Railway Viaduct meanwhile make for stunning sights – the stone, curved arches of the latter creating an interesting backdrop for any keen photographer or painter who wants to admire the landscape. Edlingham Castle’s once prestigious manor was built in medieval times with defensive walls and octagonal turrets.

Car rental at Newcastle Airport opens up all the possibilities of this magnificent corner of England. Reserve direct today and plan your adventure.