Geography

• Newcastle is located on the River Tyne on its north bank. The close proximity to the water adds another dimension of beauty to the intricate city. The geological history of the city revealed large deposits of coal in the land, and it immediately became a hub of the coal mining industry. There's even a popular saying that still exists, "taking coals to Newcastle." It is said when giving something to someone who doesn't need it, as Newcastle has such a plentiful amount of coal. In fact, beginning even before 1530, it owes much of its development as a city to the coal industry.
  
  It's very easy to get around in the city. Transportation is Newcastle is plentiful. The Newcastle International Airport is located in the northern outskirts of the city. The Newcastle Central railway station is also a popular stop. All can explore the city using the Tyne and Wear metro.
  
  

Identification

• Newcastle is a cultural center because of its two universities, Newcastle University and Northumbria University. It has been dubbed by some as having the best nightlife in all of England. It is a particular destination for celebration during the month of February. Newcastle's Chinatown comes alive in a vibrant celebratory succession of events in honor of the Chinese New Year. Newcastle Town Moor hosts a traveling carnival every June called the Hoppings. It's a very popular place for people to come from all neighboring cities to delight at the attractions and the local fun as well.
  
  

History

• Pons Aelius was the name of the original establishment that stood on what we now know as Newcastle. Although it is now, of course, a part of England, it was initially a Roman settlement. Newcastle has been a very important part of English history as a whole. It was the country's northern fortress in the Middle Ages. Newcastle supported the king during the English Civil War, and he was eventually imprisoned there. The name for Newcastle itself derived from a Norman castle that was built in 1080. Religion has also played a role in this city's history. Two historical cathedrals can be found in Newcastle. The Roman Catholic St. Mary's has been a beloved cathedral since 1850, and and Saint Nicholas' cathedral has stood since 1882.
  
  

Considerations

• People from Newcastle are generally called Geordies. Eldon Square and the Discovery Museum are where you will find much of the city thriving. Saint Mary's Lighthouse and the South Shields Museum are popular attractions while in Newcastle or the surrounding areas. Local papers include Evening Chronicle, Sunday Sun and The Journal.
  
  

Warning

• Newcastle still follows a medieval street plan in lots of areas of the city. That means that some streets are merely "paths" and must be taken by foot only. Cars do not fit down some roads. While that can create a fun adventure--and force you to see more than the city that car-bound travel allows--it can be irksome to those looking for a location of leisure.