Newcastle is around a two-hour drive by car from Sydney and is next to the coastline with amazing beaches. It is home to Australia’s largest salt water lake; Barrington Tops, a stunning place for pictures and hikes. Newcastle’s city centre is surrounded by eight beaches so you can take your pick or just visit all of them.
Places to visit
Stockton Sand Dunes are the largest in the Southern Hemisphere – over 30 kilometres long, and over 2 kilometres in width. Race over them on a quad bike, sand board, take a camel ride or trek! Head down to Nobby’s Beach to find over a kilometre of white sand. You don’t want to miss a visit to the lighthouse for great views of the seaside city.
If you are an animal lover, you can get to Nelson Bay and visit the dolphins. They are so friendly that they will come to the boat to say hello. It’s just 20 minutes’ drive from Newcastle, and you will be also able to shop and eat. For a cultural activity outdoors take a stroll to the unique and expressive artwork which covers Newcastle’s street walls. Street Art Walking organises tours that will take you on a 90-minute walk through the streets and you will find out about the artists and their pieces.
Social Events
The Civic Theatre Newcastle is one of Newcastle’s prestigious and popular venues where you can go and enjoy one of the many shows that run throughout the year.
Popular with students, Darby Steet is a great part of town. Stroll along this busy main street from morning to midnight, and you’ll always find something to do. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashions; dining in one of over thirty restaurants and bars; seeing the latest exhibition at the Newcastle Regional Art Gallery; or relaxing by the fountain in Civic Park – Darby Street is where the buzz is.
Shopping
There are many markets around Newcastle that are worth a visit including Hunt and Gather Markets that showcase Newcastle’s culture every third Saturday of the month. The markets offer a range of people including musicians, designers, artists, chefs and collectors showcasing their creativity.
There is always plenty of choice in Newcastle. Darby Street Precint has over twenty-five cafes, outdoor dining, galleries, boutiques, jewellery shops and more!
Transport
Newcastle has many walking tracks all over the city which make really easy to take a stroll or a cycle. You can also go out for a run and enjoy the surroundings. Take a bus around Newcastle’s central business district (CBD) for free with State Transit operated bus services. If you are more adventurous you can always take the ferry from Newcastle to Stockton and explore more areas.
Did you know…
You can progress from an NCUK qualification to study an Australian degree in Newcastle? The University of Newcastle accepts students who have studied an NCUK qualification, so start your journey with NCUK today!
Click the button below to apply with NCUK now!