As any woman will confess the first port of call in any city is the boutiques and shops on offer and Newcastle doesn't disappoint. The fantastic nightlife in Newcastle provides the perfect excuse to search for an outfit to dazzle in and the shops are so fantastic that you don't really
need an excuse to explore on your Newcastle holiday.
What makes Newcastle stand out are the wide range of boutiques and shops. They really do cater for every taste and budget. From street cool to classic and chic, budget to blow out, you will be amazed at the variety on offer. For those on a budget, the array of bric-a-brac shops will give you plenty to feast your eyes on. If money is no object, the high quality luxury boutiques offer original and bespoke garments to ensure you stand out from the crowd.
For a rainy day, or even just to spend the money you've been saving for one, Newcastle has several malls housing a great assortment of shops. Elden Square is one of Europe's premier shopping centres, featuring over 140 stores and located right in the city centre. Connected to this is the modern Eldon Garden. Here you will find an extensive number of designer boutiques in a contemporary environment, complimented with beauty and hair salons and elegant eateries for the ultimate indulgence. For more designer boutiques and shops go to Princess Square for everything from Gucci to Prada.
Monument Mall, named after its close proximity to Grey's Monument is a four-storey shopping experience. It is conveniently located above the Monument Metro Station, so you won't have to walk far, with all those bags! The architecture of this modern structure is themed 'o compliment old Newcastle, highlighting that it is not just the shopping that brings people to the Newcastle boutiques and shops, but also the beautiful buildings that arouse architectural attention. Grainger's Market is also of interest as a grade II listed building
The jewel in the shopping crown of Newcastle is the Metro Centre. It is the largest shopping and leisure complex in Europe. With everything you could possibly want under one roof, it is the ultimate shopping experience and you may find you spend all of your Newcastle holiday here.
Head to the Royal Quays for discounted retail. With a picturesque backdrop you will find Newcastle boutiques and shops offering up to 50% off everyday, which is always a treat.
If you prefer al fresco shopping, Northumberland Street is Newcastle's equivalent to London's Oxford Street. It is a paved area, fully reserved for pedestrians so you are free to shop from traffic interference. This shop-lined street is a real delight at seasonal times, displaying
magnificent shop windows. There are also a whole host of markets to take your fancy including the Farmer's and County Market and the Quayside Market.
Newcastle doesn't just offer modern boutiques and shops but is also an ideal place to purchase rare antiques, upmarket vintage clothing and original art. The vintage shops offer those on a stricter budget the opportunity to obtain classic designer pieces of both clothing and jewellery. New galleries where you can view and buy art are materializing all over the city. These shops are excellent for window-shopping alone, as they are sure to contain unusual pieces.
For any self confessed shop-a-holic, Newcastle is a must and it's easy to see why the residents of the surrounding areas flock there on a regular basis to cure their shopping cravings and why it is a popular location for hen weekends. If you are on holiday, you will probably find yourself
extending your stay just to cover the boutiques and shops alone.
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