Newcastle: True Crime Guided Tour

If you’re curious about the shadowy side of Newcastle, this True Crime Guided Tour promises a peek into its darker chapters, from hangmen to notorious court cases. It’s a neat way to explore a city’s hidden stories while getting a bit of local color. We’ve looked into what makes this tour tick and what travelers are saying, so you can decide if it’s a good fit for your trip.

What really appeals is the way the tour combines historic crime stories with visits to hidden streets and atmospheric spots. Plus, the guides seem to bring a lively energy that turns history into a compelling story. On the flip side, it’s only an hour and a half — so if you’re after a deep historical dive or a more leisurely exploration, this might feel a little brisk. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of history, storytelling, and a bit of intrigue.

Overall, if you’re a history buff, a fan of true crime, or just someone looking for a different way to see Newcastle, this tour might be just the ticket. It’s friendly for most adult travelers and offers a unique glimpse into the city’s darker moments. Now, let’s unpack what this experience is really about.

Key Points

• Engaging Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and make stories come alive.
• Concise Duration: Just 1.5 hours, making it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule.
• Historic Spots: Explores jailhouses, courtrooms, and crime scenes with interesting backstories.
• Atmospheric Walks: Includes hidden stairs and streets in medieval Newcastle, especially atmospheric at dusk.
• Rich Stories: Covers a wide range of topics — witchcraft, executions, body snatching, and more.
• Affordable with Perks: Includes a 20% discount on drinks at the meeting bar, adding a social element.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Detail

The Newcastle: True Crime Guided Tour is designed to take you beyond the usual tourist spots, revealing a grittier, more intriguing side of the city. Starting inside the Tickets Bar near Newcastle Central Station, it’s easy to find — just look for the “meet here” sign. The tour lasts about an hour and a half, which is a good length for those who want a taste of local legends without feeling overwhelmed.

What You’ll See and Hear

The tour is packed with stories of murder, intrigue, and public spectacles from Newcastle’s past. The guides are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling. As one reviewer put it, Anna was “so engaging and funny,” making even the grisliest stories enjoyable. Expect to visit hidden stairs and narrow streets, which add a medieval, slightly mysterious vibe, especially if you go at dusk or later.

Among the highlights are visits to Bigg Market and Castle Keep areas, where the stories of crime and punishment unfolded. The tour also explores the riverside, uncovering secrets and tales of local misdeeds. Some stops include former jails, places of execution, and historic courtrooms, where you’ll learn about some of the most infamous cases in Newcastle’s history.

The Atmosphere and Group Experience

The atmosphere is lively, with guides sharing stories that blend historical facts, local legends, and ghostly tales. Several reviews mention how enthusiastic and friendly guides like Fran or Amanda make the experience memorable. The group size tends to be manageable, fostering interaction and questions.

The Value

For the price, the tour offers a solid mix of entertainment and education. It’s particularly good for travelers who appreciate stories of crime and punishment and enjoy walking through the city’s less glamorous sides. The inclusion of discounted drinks at the meeting point adds a casual social touch, making the start of your evening a bit more relaxed.

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Potential Drawbacks

While many loved the tour, some might find the 1.5-hour duration a bit short if they’re expecting an in-depth historical investigation. Also, because stories may contain grisly details, it’s not ideal for sensitive travelers or those under 16. If you’re looking for a leisurely explore of Newcastle’s history or family-friendly content, this may not be the best choice.

The Experience for Different Travelers

If you’re into true crime, history, or storytelling, you’ll likely find this tour captivating. The guides’ enthusiasm and the stories’ vividness seem to make the past come alive. It’s especially good if you enjoy walking tours that explore lesser-known parts of the city, offering a different perspective from traditional sightseeing.

Those traveling solo, couples, or groups of friends will probably get the most out of the experience. It’s not a tour aimed at children or families, given the nature of some stories, but mature travelers who like a bit of mystery and a touch of the macabre will find plenty to enjoy.

Practical Details

• Meeting Point: Inside Tickets Bar near Newcastle Central Station, at the coordinates 54.969154357910156, -1.6158314943313599.
• Start Time: 19:00h, so come early to enjoy the 20% discount on drinks.
• Duration: 1.5 hours, which makes it manageable without feeling rushed.
• Language: Guides operate in English.
• Cost: You can reserve your spot without paying upfront, and cancel if plans change (up to 24 hours beforehand).

Final Thoughts

If you’re someone who loves a good story, appreciates history with a bit of a darker twist, or just wants to see Newcastle from a different angle, this tour ticks a lot of boxes. Its enthusiastic guides and well-chosen locations make for an engaging experience. It’s not overly long, which means it’s perfect for an evening activity, especially if you combine it with dinner or drinks afterward.

The price feels reasonable considering the quality of storytelling and the insights you gain. Plus, the chance to learn about Newcastle’s criminal past while strolling through its atmospheric streets offers a memorable twist to your visit.

For those who aren’t squeamish and want a lively, story-driven tour that offers a glimpse into the city’s most notorious moments, this is a good pick. Just be prepared for stories that can be quite grisly and check if your guide is as engaging as many previous travelers found.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for adults, as some stories include grisly details about executions and crime. Not designed for young children or sensitive audiences.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a quick but packed experience.

Where do I meet the guide?
Inside Tickets Bar near Newcastle Central Station, look for the “meet here” sign.

Can I cancel if I change my plans?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is the tour at night?
Yes, it starts at 19:00h, and the atmosphere is especially atmospheric at dusk or later.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, but you get a 20% discount at the meeting bar if you arrive early.

What’s the group size?
While not explicitly stated, reviews suggest a manageable size that encourages interaction.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, many reviews mention enjoying the company and engaging stories, making it a friendly experience for solo visitors.

In all, the Newcastle: True Crime Guided Tour offers a lively, story-rich way to explore the city’s darker past. Whether you’re a history lover, a fan of true crime stories, or simply want a different perspective on Newcastle, it’s worth considering. Just remember to go with an open mind and a taste for the macabre.

You can check availability for your dates here: