Newcastle by car
Newcastle stands on the steep bank of the Tyne facing Gateshead, the two sides stitched together by a stack of bridges at different heights. Scotland is under an hour away by road, and Hadrian’s Wall country begins just upriver of the last suburb.
Driving in Newcastle
Newcastle is reached by A1, A1(M), A19, A69 and A167(M) Central Motorway. Newcastle has a low-emission zone: check the sticker rules before driving into the centre. Parking in the centre is paid and marked by zone. Streets in the old centre are narrow, a smaller car is easier.
Renting and driving in United Kingdom
Speed limits 30 / 60 / 70 mph. Alcohol limit 0.8 ‰. Some motorways charge at the barrier, others are free.
Within a day’s drive of Newcastle
- Durham — 23 km
- Hexham — 31 km
- Alnwick — 49 km
What kind of car do you need?
Typical capacity for the category — the exact model is confirmed by the rental company at booking.
Economy
4–5 seats · 1 large bag + 1 small
City streets and tight parking
Standard
5 seats · 2 large bags + 1 small
Long drives with full luggage
SUV
5 seats · 3 large bags
Mountain roads and winter trips
Estate
5 seats · 3 large bags
Families with a lot of luggage
People carrier
7 seats · 4 large bags
Groups of six or more
Luxury
5 seats · 2 large bags + 1 small
Business trips and long motorways
Convertible
4 seats · 2 small bags
Coastal roads in warm weather
Airports serving this city
Other cities in the United Kingdom
Frequently asked questions
Where can I pick up a car in Newcastle?
In the city and at the airport — Newcastle International Airport. Which desk, and whether it sits inside the terminal or a shuttle ride away, is shown by the rental company before you book.
United Kingdom: which side of the road do they drive on?
On the left. If you are used to the right, allow yourself a little time at the start — junctions and roundabouts catch people out, not the straight roads.
Which currency will I be charged in?
Prices are usually set in GBP. The rental company sets both the price and the deposit, and shows them before you book.
Can I drive the car into another country?
Sometimes, but only if the rental company allows it, and it often costs extra. Check the terms before you book.
Is there a low-emission zone in Newcastle?
Yes. Newcastle has a low-emission zone covering the centre, and cars have to meet its emission rules to drive in.
Where do I park in the centre of Newcastle?
Parking in the centre is paid and marked by zone.
Do I need an International Driving Permit?
An EU or EEA licence is enough.
What are the speed limits in United Kingdom?
30 mph in towns, 60 mph on open roads, 70 mph on motorways.
Are the motorways tolled?
Some motorways charge at the barrier, others are free.