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Sport and Leisure

Newcastle United is the heart of the city, but it’s not the only sporting experience you can enjoy.

Newcastle is renowned for being a football city. Locals live and breathe Newcastle United. And while we strongly recommend experiencing the inimitable atmosphere of St James’ Park, the city has something for every sports lover.

Football: Newcastle United at St James’ Park

The Magpies rule the roost in the city, and St James’ Park is one of very few football stadiums that sits in the heart of its city centre. You can see it from almost anywhere in Newcastle, and even from neighbouring areas like Fenham.

The club is on the up at the moment, so tickets are scarce. But if you do get the chance to visit, you won’t be disappointed.

Basketball: Newcastle Eagles at Vertu Motors Arena

For a long time, the truly successful sporting team of the city has been the Newcastle Eagles. Until recent years, the regular league toppers didn’t have a designated home and would either play their matches at the arena or university sports courts.

The Eagles now have a purpose-built stadium that seats 3,000 basketball fans, just outside of the city centre on Scotswood Road.

Newcastle Eagles player with basketball

Rugby: Newcastle Falcons at Kingston Park and the Magic Weekend

Rugby fans can take in live matches at Kingston Park, the home of the Newcastle Falcons. The stadium is located nine miles outside of the city centre and is easily accessible by metro.

As well as its own team, Newcastle is the most regular host of the yearly Magic Weekend tournament and is confirmed once again as the host for the 2023 tournament. Rugby fans from across the country will once again flock to St James’ Park to see the Magic Weekend in action.

Rugby player kicking a ball

Great North Run

The biggest half-marathon in the world takes place from Newcastle to South Shields every year. The Great North Run showcases the region’s outstanding community spirit and is ran by, and attended by, thousands every year.

Professional and amateur athletes, as well as people with no athletic background, flock from all over the UK and beyond to take part in this traditional North East activity, including the likes of Mo Farah.

Great North Run starting point at Tyne Bridge