Newcastle: Blackfriars History Tour, Lunch & Sparkling Wine

Discovering Newcastle’s Blackfriars: A Journey Through Time and Taste

This particular experience offers a charming blend of history and gastronomy, perfect for those who want more than just a quick sightseeing stop. It’s a three-hour window into Newcastle’s medieval past, paired with a delicious meal in a historic setting. This tour isn’t just about walking around ruins or reading plaques; it provides an intimate look at a centuries-old Dominican friary, along with a thoughtful, locally-sourced lunch that highlights the city’s culinary excellence.

One aspect we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on the oldest dining room in the UK, which gives the meal an extra layer of meaning. Sitting in a medieval room while enjoying a three-course meal feels like stepping back in time, with the added bonus of shared sparkling wine to toast the experience. A possible consideration is that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, which might limit some visitors. Still, for those who enjoy cultural history paired with good food, this experience hits many marks and would suit travelers looking for a curated, authentic day out in Newcastle.

If you’re someone who loves combining learning with leisure and enjoys discovering hidden gems in historic cities, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially appealing if you’re a fan of medieval architecture, local history, or simply want an engaging way to explore Newcastle beyond the usual tourist spots.

Key Points

• Historical Focus: Learn about Blackfriars, a 13th-century Dominican friary, and its role in medieval Newcastle.
• Authentic Dining: Enjoy a three-course meal at an award-winning restaurant with seasonal, locally-sourced dishes.
• Unique Setting: Dine in the UK’s oldest dining room, a medieval architectural gem.
• Shared Sparkling Wine: Toast the experience with a bottle of sparkling wine, shared between two guests, which adds a celebratory touch.
• Expert Guidance: A live English-speaking guide leads the tour, sharing insights and stories that bring the site to life.
• Time Efficient: At just three hours, it’s a compact experience that combines history and gastronomy without taking up your whole day.

An In-Depth Look at the Blackfriars Experience

Starting Point: A Meeting in the Parlour Bar

Your journey begins at the Parlour Bar, a cozy spot that sets a relaxed tone. Here, a friendly guide will greet you and lead the group to the tour’s highlight: the Blackfriars site itself. Being able to meet at a central, casual spot makes the start stress-free, especially for those arriving by foot or public transport.

The Blackfriars Tour: Stepping Back to the 13th Century

Once inside the site, the guide will take you through the ruins of the Dominican friary, which dates back to 1239. As you walk amongst these ancient walls, you’ll hear stories of the friars’ daily lives—whether they were reading, discussing, or performing community tasks. The guide will also cover the dramatic story of their expulsion in 1536 under King Henry VIII, providing context for the site’s decline and preservation.

One notable feature is the Grade I Scheduled Ancient Monument status of Blackfriars, which underlines its significance. The site is well-maintained, but visitors should be prepared for uneven surfaces and historic architecture that may lack modern accessibility features—hence the mention that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

The Oldest Dining Room in the UK

After the tour, you’ll head to the dining area, which is recognized as the oldest dining room in Britain. This space alone is worth the visit, with its medieval beams and stonework creating an atmosphere that transports you centuries back. Here, the focus is on traditional dishes made from fresh, seasonal ingredients, emphasizing local culinary traditions.

The Three-Course Meal and Sparkling Wine

The meal features a carefully curated menu, designed to showcase historic dishes with a contemporary twist. While specific menu items aren’t listed, you can expect hearty, flavorful fare that’s reflective of local ingredients and culinary heritage. The highlight is the bottle of sparkling wine shared between two guests, which adds a celebratory feel to the meal. Many reviewers mentioned how the wine pairing elevated the experience, making it feel more special than a typical lunch.

The Value in Experience

At $67 per person, this experience offers a lot of value—combining cultural enrichment with a quality meal in a historic setting. The guided tour ensures you gain insights you might not find on your own, and the meal complements the visit by allowing you to relax and reflect on what you’ve learned. The inclusion of seasonal dishes and locally-sourced ingredients also demonstrates a commitment to quality and authenticity.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Schedule

The entire experience lasts approximately three hours. You’ll meet in the Parlour Bar at a designated starting time, with available slots to suit different schedules. Since the tour is guided in English, it’s accessible for most visitors, though non-English speakers might wish to check if translation services are available.

Group Size and Atmosphere

While the exact group size isn’t specified, such tours tend to be intimate, allowing for meaningful interaction with the guide. The atmosphere is relaxed but educational, perfect for those who enjoy storytelling and historical context.

Accessibility and Limitations

It’s important to note that the site isn’t wheelchair accessible. The historic nature of Blackfriars means uneven floors and narrow passageways, which are typical for sites of this age. If mobility is a concern, it’s worth considering other options.

Price and Value

For the $67 fee, you get a comprehensive tour of a significant historic site, a three-course meal, and a bottle of sparkling wine—a package that combines learning, history, and culinary delight. Guests have praised the quality of the food, describing it as traditional yet made from fresh, local produce, and the wine as a lovely touch to toast the day.

What Reviewers Mentioned

One reviewer appreciated the detailed stories shared by the guide, who made the site come alive. Another noted that the medieval dining room’s ambiance added a special touch to the meal, making it more than just a lunch. However, some mentioned the lack of accessibility, so if that’s a concern, it’s worth considering.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, food lovers, and those curious about Newcastle’s medieval past. It works well for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who enjoy immersive cultural experiences without spending a full day. It’s also suitable for travelers who want a more authentic, less commercialized way to explore Newcastle’s history.

If you’re looking for a leisurely, educational, and delicious afternoon, this tour ticks all those boxes. It offers a unique glimpse into the city’s past, complemented by a memorable meal in a historic setting. It’s perfect for those who value storytelling, local cuisine, and authentic experiences.

The Sum Up: A Truly Unique Cultural and Culinary Adventure

This tour balances history and gastronomy beautifully, giving visitors a chance to walk through centuries of Newcastle’s past while enjoying a thoughtfully prepared meal. The combination of the Blackfriars site, the oldest dining room in the UK, and the shared sparkling wine creates a memorable, well-rounded experience. It’s well-suited for those who want to dive into local history in a relaxed, engaging way, combined with the pleasures of good food.

While accessibility may be a limitation, the overall value and authenticity make this a noteworthy addition to any Newcastle trip. It offers not just a look at a historic site but an opportunity to connect with the city’s medieval roots and culinary traditions in one satisfying outing.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible because of the historic site’s uneven surfaces and architecture.

What’s included in the price?
You get a guided tour of Blackfriars, a three-course meal, and a shared bottle of sparkling wine.

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

How long does the experience last?
Approximately three hours from start to finish.

Is the tour guided in English?
Yes, it’s led by a live English-speaking guide.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the dining room accessible?
No, as it is a medieval space, it lacks modern accessibility features.

What kind of dishes are served?
The menu features traditional historic dishes made from fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients.

Is sparkling wine included?
Yes, a bottle of sparkling wine is shared between two guests, adding a celebratory element.

Would this experience suit families?
It’s best suited for adults or older teenagers; younger children might not fully appreciate the historical context, and accessibility limitations could be a concern.

This experience offers a well-rounded glimpse into Newcastle’s medieval past, paired with a delightful meal—perfect for history enthusiasts and culinary adventurers alike.