Newcastle Cathedral

The Cathedral Church of St Nicholas is Newcastle's handsome Anglican cathedral, famous for its distinctive crown spire lantern tower. Dating from the 14th century, it serves as the seat of the Bishop of Newcastle and features beautiful medieval architecture and stained glass windows. It sits in Newcastle upon Tyne's City Centre, close to the other main sights. It sits below the headline sights but earns its place on a longer visit to Newcastle upon Tyne, especially paired with nearby Newcastle Castle Keep. Entry is free and 45 minutes - 1 hour gives you a thorough visit.

Priority: Medium - include with 2+ days Time needed: 45 minutes - 1 hour Best for: one of the finest examples of medieval church Skip if: You're not interested in religious buildings or Gothic architecture Cost: Free

You'll enter through heavy wooden doors into a soaring Gothic interior with intricate stonework. The unique lantern tower above creates dramatic lighting effects throughout the nave.

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible via main entrance, accessible toilet facilities available

One of the finest examples of medieval church architecture in the North East. It is not the first thing you should see in Newcastle upon Tyne, but with two or more days it fills a gap the major sights leave. It pairs naturally with Newcastle Castle Keep and Grey Street And Grainger Town - together they fill a solid half-day. Mornings are quieter if you want to take your time. Free entry makes the decision easy - walk in, see if it holds your attention, and leave when you have had enough.

Skip if: You're not interested in religious buildings or Gothic architecture

• Look up at the unique crown spire lantern.
• Visit during weekdays to avoid wedding parties.
• Check for concert schedules.

Insider tip: The crown spire is one of only three of its kind in the world

Interior photography allowed but no flash, exterior crown spire best photographed from Castle Keep