Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle schloss

Newcastle-upon-Tyne from New Chatham engraving by William Miller after T Allom

Victoria Tunnel (Newcastle) near Ouse Street 2010-02-19

The Quayside, Newcastle upon Tyne, 1961 (15657916212)

Newcastle City Centre 17.9.1917

Newcastle upon Tyne, commonly known as Newcastle, is a city in the North East of England. It is situated on the northern bank of the River Tyne, and was historically a part of the county of Northumberland. Newcastle is one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in England, known for its rich industrial heritage, cultural landmarks, and educational institutions. The city's history is deeply intertwined with the coal mining industry and the development of the railways, which were instrumental in the city's growth during the Industrial Revolution.

History

The history of Newcastle dates back to Roman times when it was known as Pons Aelius, owing to a bridge (pons) over the River Tyne and the family name of the Roman Emperor Hadrian who built Hadrian's Wall, a significant historical landmark that runs close to the city. The name Newcastle upon Tyne came into use in the Middle Ages after the Norman conquest of England, when a new castle was built by the son of William the Conqueror, Robert Curthose, in 1080.

Economy

Historically, Newcastle's economy was heavily dependent on coal mining and the shipbuilding industries. The phrase "carrying coals to Newcastle" was an idiomatic expression that denoted a pointless activity, due to the abundance of coal in the area. However, the city has undergone significant transformation and diversification of its economy. Today, it is a centre for business, arts, and sciences, hosting several major corporations, a thriving digital technology sector, and renowned institutions such as the University of Newcastle upon Tyne.

Culture

Newcastle is famous for its vibrant cultural scene. The city hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the Newcastle International Film Festival and Newcastle Science Festival. Iconic venues such as the Sage Gateshead, a concert venue and center for musical education located on the south bank of the River Tyne, and the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, contribute to the city's cultural landscape. The nightlife in Newcastle is also highly regarded, with the city having one of the most lively and diverse scenes in the UK.

Education

The University of Newcastle upon Tyne, also known as Newcastle University, is a public research university which has its origins in the School of Medicine and Surgery, established in 1834, and Armstrong College, founded in 1871 for the sciences. It became fully independent from Durham University in 1963 and is now one of the UK's leading universities, known for its research output and quality of education.

Transport

Newcastle is well connected by transport links, including the Newcastle International Airport, one of the largest airports in the North East, providing both domestic and international flights. The city's railway station, Newcastle Central Station, is a key stop on the East Coast Main Line, offering connections to major cities across the UK. Additionally, the Tyne and Wear Metro provides comprehensive public transport coverage within the city and the surrounding areas.

Architecture

The city's architecture is a mix of classical Victorian and Georgian buildings alongside modern structures. Notable buildings include the Newcastle Castle, which gave the city its name, and the Tyne Bridge, an iconic symbol of Newcastle and the North East. The city's commitment to preserving its historical architecture while integrating modern design is evident in its urban landscape.

Sports

Newcastle has a strong sporting tradition, with Newcastle United F.C., a Premier League football team, being the most famous. The city also hosts the Great North Run, the world's largest half marathon, which attracts runners from all over the globe.