In the Park Festival Newcastle

Newcastle is very easy to reach from across the UK and abroad. The closest airport is Newcastle International Airport (about 6 miles northwest of the city center), which offers flights from many major cities. From the airport, visitors can take the Tyne & Wear Metro city line straight into central Newcastle (stopping at Monument or Haymarket stations), or use the dedicated airport shuttle bus (the Airlink service) to reach downtown. Many train services also arrive at Newcastle Central Station in the heart of the city. From there you can catch the Metro or a quick taxi ride to Exhibition Park to begin your festival weekend.

Once in Newcastle, public transport is plentiful and convenient. The Tyne & Wear Metro system and local buses cover most parts of the city. In fact, Exhibition Park is only about a 15-minute walk from the Haymarket Metro and bus station in central Newcastle ([newcastlemela.co.uk](https://newcastlemela.co.uk/getting-here/#:~:text=Exhibition%20Park%2C%20Claremont%20Road%2C%20Newcastle,bicycle%2C%20public%20transport%20or%20car)). Visitors can use Metro trains or buses (for example, Stagecoach's buses running along Claremont Road) to reach the park. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also widely available if you prefer a direct route. Many travelers find it easiest to get around using the local Pop travel card or simply tapping to pay on any Metro train or bus using contactless payment.

If you plan to drive, Newcastle is accessible via major routes like the A1, A19, and A69. Be aware that parking near Exhibition Park can be limited during big events. Paid parking is available on Newcastle’s Town Moor, which is just a short drive away (currently about £5 per day, postcode NE2 3NH) ([newcastlemela.co.uk](https://newcastlemela.co.uk/getting-here/#:~:text=There%20is%20parking%20available%20on,for%20parking%20is%20NE2%203NH)). This lot has a no return policy once you leave. Alternatively, there are public parking garages and street parking around the city center, but these may fill up quickly on festival weekends. Many drivers choose to park a bit farther out and use the Metro or buses to get to the festival to avoid traffic congestion.

Newcastle offers a wide range of accommodation to suit different needs. Most visitors stay in the city centre (areas like Haymarket, Northumberland Street or the Quayside) for easy access to restaurants and transport. You’ll find chain hotels, boutique inns, budget guesthouses, and serviced apartment rentals all within a couple of miles of the park. Other popular neighborhoods include Jesmond (upbeat with cafes and bars) and Gosforth (a bit quieter). Since summer weekends and events can sell out local hotels, it’s a good idea to book your lodging well in advance. If you prefer a quieter stay, nearby Northumberland towns and villages also offer charming B&Bs and country hotels within an hour’s drive of Newcastle.