Newcastle: Blackfriars History Tour, Lunch & Sparkling Wine

This review explores the Blackfriars History Tour, Lunch & Sparkling Wine experience in Newcastle—a fascinating blend of history, culture, and culinary delight. While we haven’t personally done this tour, the detailed information paints a vivid picture of what travelers can expect, making it an appealing choice for history buffs, food lovers, and anyone curious about Newcastle’s medieval past.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to explore a 13th-century Dominican friary that’s been part of Newcastle’s landscape for over 700 years. Second, the opportunity to enjoy a three-course meal at an award-winning restaurant, with locally sourced seasonal dishes that promise authentic flavors. Third, the inclusion of a bottle of sparkling wine shared between two adds a celebratory touch, perfect for toasting new discoveries.

One point to consider is that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, which might limit accessibility for some travelers. Still, this experience is excellent for those who appreciate history paired with good food in a beautifully preserved medieval setting. It’s ideal for small groups, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking to combine sightseeing with a relaxed meal in a historic atmosphere.

Good To Know

• Historical significance: Visit a Grade I Scheduled Ancient Monument dating back to 1239.
• Authentic dining: Enjoy a three-course meal made from fresh, seasonal, local produce.
• Cultural insight: Learn about the friars’ daily lives and their expulsion in 1536.
• Unique setting: Dine in the oldest dining room in the UK, a medieval gem.
• Shared toast: Celebrate with a bottle of sparkling wine (shared between two).
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with no penalty, ideal for flexible plans.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the History of Blackfriars

The Blackfriars site in Newcastle isn’t just a building; it’s a portal to the city’s medieval past. The tour, led by an engaging live guide, takes you through the story of the Dominican friars who inhabited this 13th-century monastery. The site, dating back to 1239, now stands as a Grade I Scheduled Ancient Monument, a designation that highlights both its age and its importance.

From the moment you arrive at the Parlour Bar, where your guide welcomes you, you’re set for a journey into history. The guide, whose knowledge is described as personable and informative, will walk you through the friars’ daily routines—reading, studying, community work—and how they contributed to the fabric of Newcastle. The most captivating part? Learning about their expulsion by King Henry VIII in 1536, a pivotal moment that changed the site forever.

The tour offers a chance to see the oldest dining room in the UK. This medieval space is a real highlight, with reviewers noting its stunning architecture and atmospheric ambiance. Walking into this room, you can almost hear the echoes of monks past gathering for meals and discussions centuries ago.

The Culinary Experience: A Meal in History

Following the engaging history tour, your taste buds are in for a treat. The three-course meal at the award-winning restaurant is designed to complement the historical theme—focusing on traditional dishes crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

While specific dishes aren’t listed, review comments suggest that the menu features hearty, authentic fare with a modern twist. Guests have enjoyed dishes that reflect the regional flavors and historic influences of Newcastle’s culinary scene. The atmosphere in the restaurant is welcoming and refined, yet relaxed enough to make dining feel special.

Included in the experience is a bottle of sparkling wine, shared between two guests, making for a cheerful toast. The wine’s quality is appreciated, adding a celebratory note to the meal without feeling overly luxurious or excessive—just enough to elevate your experience.

The Practicalities

The tour lasts around 3 hours, making it a manageable outing that balances sightseeing, learning, and dining. The meeting point is conveniently located at the Parlour Bar, where the tour guide will greet you, ensuring a smooth start.

Pricing at $67 per person offers good value considering the comprehensive experience—history, a three-course meal, and a shared bottle of sparkling wine. It’s perfect for those who want a cultural outing that’s both educational and indulgent.

Booking flexibility is a bonus—cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing peace of mind for spontaneous travelers or those with uncertain schedules.

Unique Aspects and Authentic Touches

What sets this tour apart is the combination of history and gastronomy in a single package. Dine in the oldest dining room in the UK, which has been part of Newcastle’s story for over 700 years. Guests often comment on the ambiance—historic, atmospheric, and inspiring—making the meal more than just a culinary event but an immersive experience.

The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the storytelling engaging and accessible. The tour’s small-group setting (implied by the shared wine) ensures that conversations are intimate and personalized, allowing visitors to ask questions and connect with the history on a deeper level.

Reviewers also note that the experience is not suitable for wheelchair users, primarily due to the historical site’s layout. This is an important consideration for those with mobility concerns.

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Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This experience is especially suitable for travelers who want to combine history with a relaxed meal, offering a taste of Newcastle’s medieval past alongside contemporary dining. It’s perfect for small groups, couples, or history buffs eager to learn about the city’s monastic roots in a convivial setting.

It’s also a nice option for those seeking a more authentic, less commercialized activity, as the focus remains on the preservation of the historic site and traditional cuisine. The inclusion of a shared sparkling wine toast adds a celebratory element that’s both fun and memorable.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For just $67, this tour offers a balanced mix of educational storytelling, culture, and culinary enjoyment. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of Newcastle’s past, a taste of its local flavors, and a memorable setting to enjoy both.

If you’re interested in history, love good food, or want a unique experience that’s away from typical sightseeing, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate authentic stories and historical ambiance wrapped in a relaxed dining atmosphere.

Who should consider this tour?

History enthusiasts curious about medieval Newcastle, couples seeking a romantic yet educational outing, or food lovers eager to explore local flavors in a historic setting. It’s less ideal for travelers with mobility issues, but otherwise offers an enriching experience worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
The specific menu options aren’t detailed, but since the dishes are made from fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients, it’s worth checking directly with the provider if you have dietary preferences.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including the history tour and meal.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in planning.

Where do I meet the guide?
The meeting point is at the Parlour Bar, where your guide will greet you and start the tour.

Is the experience suitable for children?
The information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the historical nature and potential for limited accessibility, it might be best suited for older children or adults.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the history tour of Blackfriars, the three-course meal, and a shared bottle of sparkling wine.

Is the dining experience formal or casual?
The atmosphere appears relaxed yet refined, within the historic dining room, providing a special but comfortable setting.

Is accessibility a concern?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the historical site’s layout.

Can I reserve my spot and pay later?
Yes, the booking allows you to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for planning.

In summary, the Blackfriars History Tour, Lunch & Sparkling Wine in Newcastle offers a rare chance to connect with the city’s medieval past while enjoying a delicious meal in an atmospheric setting. It’s a compelling choice for curious travelers who want to experience history with a modern, culinary twist—and all at a reasonable price for such a comprehensive outing.

You can check if your dates are available here: