Top 10 Sober Activities to do in Newcastle!
Student life can place a huge importance on clubbing, bar crawling and pub hopping and for some that sounds like an ideal Friday night, but for others, not so much. It’s important to know that you can have fun without wine or beer and you are not alone in wanting to be social but sober.
Take a look at some activities you and your friends can enjoy that do not involve the rough morning after!
Junkyard Golf

Located on Newgate Street in the city centre, this activity offers three separate fun nine-hole courses that you and your friends can experience. Although Junkyard does serve alcoholic drinks, it is completely possible and enjoyable to do this activity sober. With its large selection of cocktails ranging from ‘Cherry Bomb’ to ‘Bubblegum Fizz’, there are plenty to choose from. Prices vary depending on off and on peak, however, Junkyard does offer a discount to students!
See more details here: https://www.junkyardgolfclub.co.uk/newcastle/
Catpawcino Cafe
This adorable cafe is tucked away just next to Tyne Bridge overlooking the River Tyne. The garden themed space offers a light, calming environment that you can relax in while also spending time with some furry felines! This cafe requires an entry fee of £5 plus whatever light bite you decide to indulge in. The menu, although on the smaller side, offers purr-fect paninis and sweet treats to tuck into.
See more details here: https://catpawcinocatcafe.com/
Whitley Bay

Whitley Bay is a gorgeous seaside town located in the North Tyneside borough, just a short thirty minute metro ride from Haymarket. It offers a place more tranquil and relaxing if you are craving a break from the bustling city centre. Whether it’s a stroll along the beach, some fish and chips or a win at the arcade, Whitley Bay is the perfect place to visit if you are tired of Northumberland Street but still want to explore Newcastle and have fun, without breaking the bank.
Escape Newcastle
You can find Escape Newcastle in the heart of Newcastle city centre. Escape Newcastle is an escape room that offers a variety of challenging mysteries that are designed to be solved by you and your friends. This walk-through puzzle can cater to you and one other or maybe, if you are looking to conquer a quest with many players, it can accommodate parties of up to forty. Not only does this require brain power, it is also fun and exciting earning a five star review on TripAdvisor.
See more details here: https://www.escape.game/escape-newcastle
Leazes Park
Located on Richardson Road, just outside Park View Student Village, Leazes is a breath of fresh air for students. An activity as simple, cheap and easy as a walk may be perfect for a student who is bored yet broke! As the winter festivities draw closer, the Leazes Light display will begin on the 22nd November to 31 December, making a winter walk that little bit more enjoyable! Something as simple as a stroll in the park may be the perfect solution to de-stress and remain alcohol free!
See more details for the Light Show here: https://northernlightsnewcastle.com/
Ice Skating
I bet Ice Skating is an activity you would have never considered but as soon as you hit the rink you’ll realise what fun you have been missing out on! If you take a short metro ride into Whitley Bay, you can find Whitley Bay Ice Rink. Whether you are a beginner or professional, this is available to all. For those who use wheelchairs, this rink offers an accessible skate too!
See more details here: https://whitleybayicerink.co.uk/ice-skating/
Pottery Painting

If you have never pottery painted, you should definitely give it a go. Not only is it relaxing but it also allows for your creative side to shine through too. Located on Ferne Avenue, Jesmond, the Pottery Experience is local and affordable to students. Whether its a plate, mug or bowl you wish to brighten up, the choice is yours! Be quick though, as you only have an hour to paint away!
See more details here: https://www.thepotteryexperience.co.uk/
Christmas Markets
If you are feeling festive already, a nosey around the Christmas Markets is a perfect winter evening out. Swap the mulled wine for hot chocolate and truly immerse yourself into Newcastle’s very own winter wonderland. This will take place from November 16th to December 22nd so make the most of it while its still here! Why not treat yourself to a festive treat while you wander!
See more details here: https://christmasmarkets.io/uk/newcastle-christmas-market/
Stay Active!
Why not keep fit, active and healthy by joining up to Newcastle’s student gym! Located just next Park View Student Village, this Sports Centre is home to a gym with many facilities including state of the art equipment, a pool and access to many classes. Classes range from Pilates, cycling and Zumba and are away to keep social and fit all at the same time!
See more details here: https://www.ncl.ac.uk/sport/membership/
Join Sober Society
Sober Society is a society created specifically to provide a safe social space for those who wish to be sober but active! This society will have all the fun events planned, all you have to do is show up! Sober society offers regular activities and meet ups such as ‘sobrietea’ where members can meet up, chat and just have fun! Here, all the hard work of thinking what to do and when is done for you! Sober socials are also organised so you can still experience the fun out of a night out without the alcohol.
See more details here: https://nusu.co.uk/activities/view-society/425