The Knight Frank Guide to Newcastle for Businesses

A city steeped in history and renowned for its warmth, Newcastle combines rich heritage with a thriving business community, making one of the UK’s northernmost outposts an exciting place to live, work, and grow.

Newcastle’s reputation as a leading business destination continues to grow, as the city evolves into a hub for sectors like digital technology, professional services, and life sciences. In 2023, Newcastle was placed first in a ‘Best cities to start a business in the UK’ list, beating off competitors all around the country.

Supportive business environment Newcastle City Council is actively committed to backing business growth in the city, offering a range of initiatives and programmes designed to help companies flourish. This active support for new local businesses has significant spillover effects.

Newcastle has evolved from its industrial roots to become a dynamic hub for technology, finance, and creative industries. With significant investment in infrastructure, an abundance of modern office spaces, and a vibrant cultural scene, Newcastle is a leading choice for businesses seeking a base in the North East.

Getting there

Newcastle’s excellent connectivity makes it a practical and attractive choice for businesses requiring easy access to the UK and beyond.

● Newcastle Central Station: The city’s central station offers direct rail services to London in under three hours, as well as frequent connections to major cities such as Edinburgh, Leeds, and Manchester. The station is also a key stop on the East Coast Main Line, linking the city to Scotland, and the rest of England, with ease.

For international travel, Newcastle International Airport provides flights to key European business destinations and beyond, just a 20-minute Metro ride from the city centre. Newcastle’s Metro system, one of the most efficient in the UK, connects the city centre to nearby suburbs, the airport, and the coast, ensuring seamless travel across the region.

Meet the Neighbours

Newcastle offers a diverse range of business districts to suit companies of all sizes and sectors, from established corporate hubs to emerging creative quarters.

● Quayside: This iconic riverside area has been transformed into a bustling business district, home to corporate headquarters, law firms, and financial services companies. Its striking modern office spaces and panoramic views of the River Tyne make it an inspiring location for any business.

● Ouseburn: Known as Newcastle’s cultural and creative quarter, Ouseburn is packed with independent agencies, digital startups, and co-working spaces. Its industrial heritage and vibrant atmosphere attract forward-thinking businesses and entrepreneurs.

● Newcastle Helix: A cutting-edge development focused on innovation, sustainability, and technology. Helix is home to a growing community of tech companies, research institutions, and ambitious startups.

● Gosforth: This affl uent suburb offers a more relaxed business environment, popular with SMEs and professionals seeking a balance between city access and suburban tranquillity.

On your doorstep

Newcastle’s hospitality scene is both diverse and exciting, offering options for every occasion, from high-end dining to casual meet-ups.

For fine dining, House of Tides, Newcastle’s Michelin-starred restaurant, is a standout, delivering exceptional seasonal menus in a beautifully restored 16th-century building. Other top venues include Dobson & Parnell on the Quayside, which specialises in refined British cuisine, and 21, a long-standing favourite for business lunches and client meetings.

For more informal dining, the city is brimming with independent cafes and restaurants. The Grainger Market, a historic indoor market, is home to a mix of street food vendors and artisanal shops, perfect for a quick bite or exploring local flavours. For after-work drinks, venues like The Botanist, Pleased to Meet You, and the rooftop bar at The Alchemist Newcastle provide stylish settings to unwind or entertain.

Newcastle’s retail scene is equally impressive, anchored by Eldon Square and Northumberland Street, which feature a mix of high-street brands and luxury retailers. For something unique, independent boutiques in the Ouseburn and Jesmond areas offer one-of-a-kind finds.

Places of Interest

Newcastle’s charm lies in its mix of historical landmarks, modern architecture, and green spaces, offering a unique environment for both work and leisure.

The Quayside, with its iconic Tyne Bridge and Millennium Bridge, is a focal point of the city, combining stunning views with vibrant cultural venues like the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art and the Sage Gateshead. Nearby, the historic Castle Keep provides a glimpse into the city’s medieval roots, while the surrounding streets are filled with atmospheric pubs and hidden gems.

For those seeking green spaces, Jesmond Dene offers a tranquil escape within walking distance of the city centre, with its picturesque wooded paths and cascading waterfalls. Meanwhile, Leazes Park, close to St. James’ Park stadium is a popular spot for lunchtime strolls or outdoor meetings.