We had an overnight stay on the Holiday Inn Express in between Xmas and New Year to hit the shops and have a nice meal and a few drinks. There’s a handy council owned car park next door, £6 for a full day and lift access. The hotel staff were friendly and welcoming and the room clean and quiet (we overlooked he courtyard which is probably the quietest location, as the hotel backs onto a road). The hotel is close to the Discovery Museum and the Life Centre, and close to the Railway Station. If you are travelling through the station, make sure you visit the bar which is the old First Class Waiting Room and is a Grade 1 listed building. It is stunning, covered in lovely old tiles. It looks nothing from the outside.
The hotel breakfast was included and was good and with plenty of choice. Tables were cleared by friendly staff.
Newcastle is a great city, lots of good shopping and plenty to see and do. Enjoy.
