4 ways to celebrate the Summer Solstice in the toon

Outdoor dining

Nothing says ‘summer’ like enjoying some belter bait and people watching in the sunshine, right? Shades on, good music playing, and a tasty cocktail in each hand? Sounds like a plan — and here are the best places in Newcastle to do it.

By The River Brew Co

If you haven’t heard of By The River Brew Co., then you’re definitely missing out.

This iconic brewery, restaurant, and market sits on the Gateshead side of The Tyne Bridge, and serves up a bit of everything — from Flat Iron Steak at Träkol, and martinis at Mother Mercy, to cappuccino at Backyard Bike Shop.

On weekends, By The River hosts the Hawker Market, which is a real treat for your tastebuds. Home to the ‘toon’s best-loved vendors like pizza pros Fire & dough, and LA-inspired Good Times Tacos, Hawker Market is the perfect place to kick off your night, or finish up a day out in the city.

The best part? You can enjoy all this and more either out in the sunshine, or under cover (depending on the changeable Newcastle weather). Pretty perfect, right?

You can find out more about By The River, and check out what’s on by visiting their website.

Horticulture

As aesthetic as it is tasty, Horticulture Newcastle’s grub is some of Newcastle’s best. Treat yourself to their brand-new summer menu in their Insta-worthy outdoor terrace, perfect for watching the ‘toon go by.

We’re here for Horticulture’s sustainable approach to making great seasonal food and drink, and what better way to celebrate the new season by supporting an environmentally conscious, organic company?

As Horticulture say, ‘whatever your poison, you can drink it with a clear conscience’. You can take a look at Horticulture’s menu and book your spot over on their website.

Events

If you’re looking for something a little different, but still want to make the most of the new season, one of the ‘toon’s outdoor events might be perfect for you. Every summer, Newcastle’s outdoor spaces come alive with a busy calendar of activities for you to try — and here’s one of our favourites.

Outdoor Cinemas

Throughout summer, outdoor spaces in Newcastle transform into outdoor cinemas, showcasing iconic movies like Dirty Dancing, Elvis and The Greatest Showman.

Perfect for meeting up as a couple, bigger group, or flying solo, this is one of our favourite ways to spend a summer evening in the open air. Top tip: grab some canny scran to go from one of the city centre’s restaurants to enjoy with your film!

Last year’s Screen on the Green was a roaring success and is due to be back this year, so keep an eye on their website to see if there are any of your favourites coming up this summer.

Walks

Looking for a more low-key way to make the most of the longer days and warmer weather? Why not take a moment to appreciate nature by heading out on a stroll in one of NCL’s stunning parks? Here’s one of our favourites to get you started.

Leazes Park

This traditional Victorian park sits right in the shadow of St James’, and is home to one of Newcastle’s most peaceful walks.

The park officially opened in 1873, and its well-kept green spaces are interwoven with the city’s history. With six tennis courts open for play at all times, plenty of quiet benches to sit and watch the world go by, and tree-lined paths to get your steps in, there’s something for everyone here.

Find out more about Leazes Park and plan your visit here.

How are you planning to usher in the Summer Solstice? Let us know over on our socials at @ncapartments_.