Top Newcastle-upon-Tyne Water Tours

Forget hours of independent research and explore Newcastle-upon-Tyne in an easier and more rewarding way: on a small-group guided walk. Follow a time-efficient route that reveals all the must-sees; admiring everything from the handsome Georgian architecture of Grainger Town to the China Garden, Castle Keep, and Quayside. As you walk and talk, learn history and personal insights into Newcastle’s past and present culture you’d likely miss if exploring alone.

A few miles (kilometers) offshore from Seahouses, the Farne Islands are home to shags, gulls, cormorants, and gray seals all year round, with puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and terns during the May-July season. See them from the water on this fully narrated cruise from Seahouses, which also includes a sail past Longstone Lighthouse, where the lighthouse keeper's daughter Grace Darling rescued nine sailors and became a local heroine.

Sail around the Farne Islands on this group tour, where you’ll have the chance to spot puffins, terns, razorbills, and loads more birds. You’ll land for an hour to visit the Inner Farne National Trust Bird Sanctuary, where your attendant will answer all your questions and tell you about the area’s history. You’ll also see seals, waterfalls, and much more.

Many English people grew up with the tale of Grace Darling, the young woman who helped her lighthouse keeper father save nine people from a shipwreck in 1838. On this unique tour, you'll join the current lighthouse attendant on a trip to Longstone Island. If conditions permit, there'll be the chance to see inside the lighthouse (donations required): along the way, expect to see gray seals and nesting seabirds.

The industrial Newcastle of old has turned into a vibrant metropolis that’s still deeply proud of its history. On this private walking tour, delve deeper into Newcastle and Gateshead—south of the Tyne—and their heritage with a guide for insight you’d miss out on if exploring alone. Pass St. James’ Park football stadium and Grey’s Monument; and admire the futuristic Sage, Baltic, and bridges overlooking the legendary Tyne River.

Save hours of research time and discover the secret parts of Newcastle that only locals know about with this self-guided tour and treasure hunt. Instead of being stuck on a tour bus, get out in the fresh air and explore the city’s highlights independently in your own time. No need to worry about sticking to a strict schedule; start the tour whenever you like.