ToursGaGa

Shopping in Newcastle is terrific, with everything from designer stores to high street names.

Key areas

Northumberland Street is a pedestrianised street in the heart of the city where most shoppers head. For independent retailers, vintage clothing, designer brands and niche music, head to the exclusive High Bridge Quarter, either side of Grey Street. Great shops in this area include RPM for music, Westwood named after iconic designed Vivienne Westwood and Attica for period clothing.

Markets

Just south of Grey's Monument is Grainger Market selling everything from locally produced fruit and veg to CDs and books; it's worth visiting if only to marvel at the building that first opened in 1835 and is now a Grade I listed building. Hidden within is the unique "Marks and Spencer Original Penny Bazaar", the world's smallest Marks and Spencer store. Close by Central Arcade, a small elegant Edwardian shopping arcade, is a gem. For something a little different, head out to Armstrong Bridge in Jesmond where each Sunday there's an art and craft market. Quayside Market is the place to go for quality crafts from local artists, designers and jewellers.

Shopping centres

The cavernous Eldon Square shopping centre and designer-led Eldon Garden is in the heart of Newcastle city centre on Northumberland Street, which is awash with high street names. Monument Mall is a four-storey mall in front of Grey’s Monument with standard High Street brands.

Nearby in Gateshead, the enormous MetroCentre is the largest shopping and leisure centre in Europe housing over 330 stores.

Opening hours

Standard shopping hours are Monday to Saturday 0930-1800, although some shops stay open as late as 2000. Many are also open Sunday 1200-1800. Late-night opening (usually until 2000) is on Thursday.