Newcastle upon Tyne Best Family-Friendly Hotels: A Personal Guide

Planning a family trip to Newcastle upon Tyne can be both exciting and slightly overwhelming. The city is vibrant, steeped in history, and full of attractions that appeal to all ages—from the iconic Tyne Bridge and Quayside to interactive museums and sprawling parks. But when it comes to staying with children, the choice of accommodation becomes even more critical. Comfort, safety, accessibility, and family-oriented amenities can make or break a family holiday. Over several visits to Newcastle, I’ve had the chance to experience a variety of hotels, and through trial and observation, I’ve identified some of the best family-friendly hotels in the city.

In this guide, I will walk you through my personal experiences at these hotels, sharing insights on their locations, room layouts, kid-friendly facilities, guest reviews, cost, and booking strategies. I’ve also included some practical tips on how to maximize your stay and find the best rates using UK travel booking platforms.

1. Hotel Indigo Newcastle

Location: Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SG
Overview: Hotel Indigo is ideally situated in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne, combining contemporary design with historic charm that reflects the city’s rich heritage. Its location is perfect for families, as it is within walking distance of the Quayside, Newcastle Castle, Grey Street, and numerous cafés and shops. The hotel itself balances style and practicality, offering spacious family suites, flexible room arrangements, and thoughtful amenities that make a stay with children both comfortable and convenient.

Walking into Hotel Indigo, I immediately noticed the welcoming atmosphere. The lobby is airy and bright, with cozy seating areas where children can unwind after a morning of sightseeing or a walk along the Tyne River. There’s a subtle blend of modern décor and artistic touches that make the hotel feel warm rather than impersonal. Our family suite was well-appointed, with a large bed for the adults and a comfortable sofa bed for the children. The room included a small fridge, a coffee machine, and ample storage space—perfect for keeping snacks, drinks, and travel essentials organized. I particularly appreciated the soft lighting and quiet ambiance, which made it easier for the kids to nap in the afternoon while we relaxed.

Facilities & Advantages:

• Spacious family suites with sofa beds
• Complimentary breakfast featuring a dedicated children’s menu
• 24-hour reception and concierge service ready to assist with local tips
• Prime location near Tyne Bridge, Quayside, Grey Street, and major attractions

Guest Reviews: Families frequently highlight the hotel’s attentive staff and cleanliness. One reviewer wrote, “Our kids loved the cozy family room, and the breakfast buffet had something for everyone—pancakes, cereals, and fresh fruit were all perfect for a busy morning.”

Price & Booking: Family room rates typically range from £150–£220 per night in November. Booking in advance via Booking.com or Expedia.co.uk often provides free cancellation and early booking discounts.

Booking Tips: Pairing your stay with activities booked through GetYourGuide.co.uk, such as family tickets to the Discovery Museum or interactive city tours, can sometimes result in additional package savings while making planning simpler for families.

2. Jesmond Dene House

Location: Jesmond Dene Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 2EY
Overview: Nestled next to the picturesque Jesmond Dene Park, this boutique hotel offers a quiet, nature-filled retreat for families who want to balance city sightseeing with peaceful walks. The historic Victorian architecture gives it a charming feel, while the rooms are fully modernized for comfort.

I particularly enjoyed the walk through Jesmond Dene, which starts right from the hotel’s doorstep. The children loved spotting ducks along the stream, while adults appreciated the serene atmosphere. Rooms are equipped with king-size beds, optional extra beds, and en-suite bathrooms with family-friendly amenities.

Facilities & Advantages:

• Garden views and access to park trails
• Complimentary breakfast and afternoon tea
• In-room entertainment and Wi-Fi
• Close to the Great North Museum and city center (5–10 min by car)

Guest Reviews: Many families praised the quiet location and the ability to balance urban exploration with outdoor play. A recent review stated, “Perfect for a family getaway—our kids loved running through the gardens, and we loved the cozy, well-kept rooms.”

Price & Booking: Family rooms typically cost £140–£200 per night in November. Booking early via Hotels.com or Booking.com ensures flexible cancellation and best rate guarantees.

Booking Tips: Request a room overlooking the park for the children to enjoy natural scenery from the window. Weekday stays are usually cheaper and less crowded.

3. Jesmond Metro Hotel

Location: Osborne Road, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 2AY
Overview: This modern, contemporary hotel is perfect for families seeking both comfort and convenience. Its location in Jesmond ensures quieter surroundings while still being a short metro ride from central Newcastle attractions.

The hotel’s design is sleek and minimalistic, but practical features like family suites and play areas for children make it welcoming. On my visit, the kids were thrilled with the complimentary welcome treats, while the adults appreciated the quick access to nearby cafés and restaurants.

Facilities & Advantages:

• Family rooms and suites
• Free Wi-Fi and breakfast buffet with children’s options
• Easy access to public transport (Tyne & Wear Metro)
• Private parking for families traveling by car

Guest Reviews: Reviewers often highlight the hotel’s clean rooms, helpful staff, and convenience for families. “We loved that the kids could enjoy their space while we relaxed—it’s easy to reach city attractions by metro,” one family shared.

Price & Booking: Rates range from £120–£180 per night for family rooms. Expedia.co.uk frequently offers promotional deals including breakfast, and Booking.com allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before arrival.

Booking Tips: Combine metro travel cards with your hotel stay to save on daily transport costs. Booking directly via hotel websites sometimes offers loyalty points or complimentary upgrades.

4. Crowne Plaza Newcastle

Location: Newcastle Quayside, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3DX
Overview: Crowne Plaza is a well-known international brand offering spacious, family-oriented accommodations. Its location right on the Quayside makes it perfect for families wanting to explore the riverfront, Millennium Bridge, and Sage Gateshead.

I remember arriving in the late afternoon and watching the sunset from the hotel terrace while the children explored the safe indoor play area. Rooms are large, with flexible bedding arrangements and plenty of space for luggage. The hotel also offers an indoor pool—a definite highlight for families traveling with energetic kids.

Facilities & Advantages:

• Indoor swimming pool and play area
• Family rooms with sofa beds
• On-site restaurant with children’s menu
• Quayside location with walking access to major attractions

Guest Reviews: Guests praise the convenience, cleanliness, and family amenities. One review noted, “We could walk everywhere from the hotel, and the kids adored the pool. Breakfast was fantastic for all ages.”

Price & Booking: Family rooms start from £160 per night, often including breakfast. Booking through Hotels.com, Expedia.co.uk, or Booking.com can offer discounted rates or loyalty points.

Booking Tips: For families, request rooms on higher floors for better views of the Tyne and Millennium Bridge. Booking early for weekends ensures availability, especially during holiday seasons.

5. Malmaison Newcastle

Location: Cathedral Square, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1HH
Overview: Malmaison combines boutique style with family-friendly amenities. Located in the historic city center, it provides easy access to museums, shops, and Newcastle Cathedral.

The hotel’s modern interior design and spacious suites make it comfortable for families. I particularly enjoyed the family suite with separate sleeping areas for children, allowing parents a bit of privacy after a long day of sightseeing. The on-site bistro serves meals suitable for all ages, and the staff are highly accommodating with children’s requests.

Facilities & Advantages:

• Family suites with separate sleeping spaces
• Central city location near shopping and attractions
• On-site dining with children’s menu
• Flexible check-in/check-out policies

Guest Reviews: Families frequently mention the stylish rooms and central location as major advantages. “We loved being in the heart of Newcastle and having room for everyone to sleep comfortably,” wrote a reviewer.

Price & Booking: Rates typically range from £150–£210 per night. Booking through Booking.com, Expedia.co.uk, or directly on Malmaison.com often allows free cancellation and occasional room upgrades.

Booking Tips: Book during weekdays to avoid weekend surcharges, and ask for adjoining or larger suites if traveling with multiple children.

Practical Tips for Booking Family-Friendly Hotels in Newcastle

1. Book Early: Especially for holidays or school breaks, family rooms sell out quickly. Platforms like Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Expedia.co.uk are reliable for early reservations.
2. Check for Family Packages: Some hotels offer packages including breakfast, early check-in, or attraction tickets.
3. Room Type Matters: Always confirm sofa beds or extra beds are available for children.
4. Consider Location: Staying near the Quayside or city center minimizes walking and transport hassle.
5. Use Flexible Cancellation: Weather or plans can change; free cancellation provides peace of mind.

Staying in Newcastle upon Tyne with family is a truly enjoyable experience when you pick hotels that prioritize comfort, space, and convenience. From riverside views at Crowne Plaza to quiet park-side retreats at Jesmond Dene House, each hotel offers unique advantages that make family travel smoother and more memorable. Booking through trusted UK platforms like Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Expedia.co.uk ensures the best rates, flexible policies, and access to reviews from other families.

Exploring Newcastle’s cultural landmarks, parks, and riverside paths becomes effortless when your accommodation supports your family’s needs. A well-chosen hotel can turn a busy city trip into a relaxing, enjoyable holiday where both children and adults feel comfortable, entertained, and cared for.