We headed to Newcastle, party capital of the North, our hotel didn’t disappoint

NEWCASTLE is without doubt a real party capital, with non-stop fun and music-filled venues attracting everyone from hen and stag parties, to groups of pals and families looking to reconnect.

And one thing’s for sure, there’s never a dull moment in the city if you are looking to make the most of your visit.

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But there’s another side to Newcastle which offers a more sedate way of life, with time to enjoy it’s top-class restaurants, parks, shopping districts and laid-back bars.

And the Great North Hotel is perfectly positioned to enjoy both, just a stone’s throw from the action but offering a sanctuary of calm away from the hustle and bustle.

The stylish accommodation boasts 64 spacious rooms superbly equipped with rainfall shower, luxury linens and high-end toiletries — perfect for families, urbanites, business trips and guests here for a night on the Toon.

It also boasts a traditional bar, restaurant and authentic pizza joint for those who don’t fancy going out to find somewhere to eat.

You most definitely will not go hungry here.

The hotel is close to the city centre and a quick taxi ride from the bus station, a bargain ticket cost us just £10 each from Glasgow — result.

But if you prefer to drive, the good news is the Great North Hotel has accessible onsite parking.

Within minutes of arriving, my mate Mikey and I were made to feel right at home.

Folk from Newcastle are renowned for their friendliness and the hotel staff didn’t let the side down, for sure.

After ditching our bags and checking out our home from home for the night, we made a bee-line for the hotel bar, which was reminiscent of a traditional local pub, with a sea of friendly faces and a bunch of chatty locals adding to the atmosphere.

The charming boozer served a generous selection of traditional beers and craft lagers as well as a vast selection of spirits and cocktails if they are more your thing.

But beer is king with Mikey and I and we got involved with a few local brews.

The hangout is ideal for sport fans, with numerous screens showing the weekend football and we settled in for a few hours, while drooling over the lunch menu.

The food was also out of this world. I’d highly recommend the calamari rings with a side of grilled halloumi and the welcoming waiting staff were happy to recommend a suitable tipple to accompany each delicious course.

It also offers old traditional favourites like steak pie, fish and chips and pasta. Choices, choices.

We’d heard all about Newcastle’s nightlife and set out to enjoy it all, starting with an ice cold pint in a cosy beer garden under the shadow of the iconic Tyne Bridge.

A few bars more, a nightclub, some late night eats and it was back to the hotel for the chance to sleep off the draft pints of Newcastle Brown Ale — yes, draft!

The following day we treated our hangovers to a handcrafted pizza from the onsite chic New York-style Pizza Dough Co restaurant.

With comfy booths and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to chill.

A roaring open flame in the state-of-the-art clay ovens only added to the authentic feel.

You even get to watch the chefs prepare the pizzas and bespoke food with a contemporary twist.

The menu incorporates all the classics, with a few unusual additions, including the Truffle Shuffle — pizza filled with mushrooms — and the Mickey Rourke with a rich BBQ base and a generous helping of pulled pork.

Recovering from our ‘night before’, we washed lunch down with a selection of boozy cocktails, the Royale Sangria was terrific!

From first-class rooms, to fabulous food and drink, friendly staff and warm surroundings — The Great North Hotel really has it all.

So party on down to Newcastle and indulge yourself.

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