How to Travel Around Newcastle

Walking around the city

One of the best things about Newcastle is how walkable it is. Most student accommodations are located right in or near the city centre, meaning you can reach campus, shops, cafes, and nightlife spots easily on foot. Walking is not only great for your health and budget, but it also helps you get to know the city and spot your new favourite coffee spot or shortcut along the way!

If you’re walking home after dark, make sure to stick to well-lit pedestrian areas and take advantage of the Safe Walking Routes mapped out by ResLife and Campus Security, which have been proofed by the police liaison. You can find these routes and advice on our YouTube channel, which gives you a visual guide on how to get home safely. 

Jump on the Metro 

The Tyne and Wear Metro is Newcastle’s quick and convenient light rail system and a student favourite for getting around! You can use it to travel across the city and beyond, including: 

• Jesmond and West Jesmond (popular student areas) 
• Gosforth and Heaton 
• Tynemouth and Whitley Bay for a beach day 
• Sunderland and South Shields for day trips 

The closest Metro station to the main campus is Haymarket, just minutes from the Students’ Union. 

Tip: Look into discounted student travel passes to save money on frequent journeys. They’re available for weekly, monthly, or termly travel and make getting around much more affordable. This is important to remember when you live a little bit further out for second year onwards!

Take the bus across the North East

Newcastle also has a fantastic bus network, connecting the city centre with surrounding areas across Tyneside, Northumberland, County Durham, and beyond. Major operators like Stagecoach, Arriva, and Go North East run regular services, making it easy to travel to places like Gateshead, Washington, Morpeth, or even Durham.

Buses are great for reaching areas the Metro doesn’t cover and most routes accept contactless payment or offer discounted student tickets. 

Cycle with confidence 

Newcastle has made huge improvements to its bike infrastructure, creating safer and more connected cycling routes across the city. You’ll find dedicated cycle lanes, bike parking spots near campus, and scenic routes along the Quayside and Town Moor. 

Cycling is a brilliant way to save money, stay fit, and reduce your carbon footprint. Just make sure you use a D-lock and always secure your bike properly to prevent theft. If you’re new to cycling in the city, check out Newcastle City Council’s cycle maps for recommended safe routes. 

Rent an E-Scooter 

You’ll notice bright orange e-scooters dotted around Newcastle. These are part of an official rental scheme available to students and residents. They’re a fun and eco-friendly way to zip around, especially for short trips. To use them, download the relevant app, follow the in-app safety guidance, and make sure to park them responsibly when you’re done. 

Remember: e-scooters can only be used on roads and cycle paths; never on pavements. Always follow the safety rules to keep yourself and others safe. E-scooters are also banned from university accommodation due to fire safety regulations. 

Staying safe on nights out – use the safe taxi scheme

If you ever find yourself stranded late at night with no money to get home, don’t worry, Newcastle University has your back. Our Safe Taxi Scheme helps ensure students get home safely. Here’s how it works: 

• Call Budget Taxis on 0191 298 5050
• Quote reference NEW02
• Give your name and student number to book your taxi
• The driver won’t need to keep your student card

The scheme covers fares up to £8 and is available any time of day. The Students’ Union will follow up later to arrange payment and check you got home safely. It’s a great safety net to have, especially after nights out or if your phone battery dies and you can’t pay by card. 

Final thoughts 

Whether you’re walking, hopping on the Metro, or pedalling through Jesmond, Newcastle is a city that’s built for students; compact, well-connected, and full of ways to explore safely and sustainably. 
With so many travel options at your doorstep, you’ll have no problem discovering everything Newcastle (and the North East!) has to offer.