- Christmas
- 16th Dec 2025
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7 cosy Christmas pub walks a short stroll from Metro stations
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Riding the Metro through the North East’s fairy-lit streets, there’s nothing better than a winter walk finished off with a well-earned pint.
And honestly? Skipping the car, avoiding the Christmas parking faff and letting the Metro take you straight to the festive action feels like a Christmas gift in itself.
So, whether you’re meeting mates, planning a festive date night or just fancy a December de-stress, here are some of our fave cosy Christmas pub walks – all just a short, easy stroll from Metro stations across Newcastle, Gateshead, Sunderland, South Shields and Tynemouth.
Newcastle Grey Street & Quayside Pub Festive Walk
Nearest Metro station: Monument
Step off the Metro at Monument, and you’re right into the heart of Grey Street (AKA Christmas central in Newcastle), with its Georgian curve lit up like a festive film set. After a wander through Newcastle Christmas Market at Grey’s Monument, it serves mulled wine, local crafts and street food galore. Very easy, very festive and literally steps from the Metro.
A gentle 10-minute wander downhill through the Christmas market brings you to the Quayside, where the River Tyne reflects all the Christmas lights.
The perfect way to end your stroll? A pint and proper comfort food at The Broad Chare – think hearty pub classics, warming ale and a very cosy atmosphere.
Gateshead & Saltwell Park Lights Stroll
Nearest Metro station: Gateshead
Hop off at Gateshead for a peaceful half an hour walk towards Saltwell Park. The surrounding streets are surprisingly atmospheric at this time of year – soft lights in windows, crisp air and that unmistakable festive feel.
Don’t miss the Christmas singalong at Saltwell Park on Sunday 21st December, for carols around the bandstand with free hot drinks to keep you warm.
After you’ve taken in the twinkling displays, head back to the Metro and stop at The Tynesider. Expect pints and proper pub comfort that’ll warm you up after your refreshing winter walk.
Sunderland Park Lane, Museum Quarter & Riverside Wander
Nearest Metro station: Park Lane
Park Lane Metro station drops you right into Sunderland’s lively cultural quarter. Wander past indie shops, glowing street fronts and the newly revived The Fire Station building. In winter, Sunderland’s streets feel so festive.
While you’re there, make sure to check out Winter in Sunderland, Keel Square delivers ice sculptures, fairground fun and festive food. Perfect pre-or post-pub grub. And why not go see Jack and the Beanstalk panto at The Sunderland Empire (travel free on the Metro if you show your ticket)
Your cosy stop-off on the way back to the Metro should be Port of Call — stylish interiors, soft lighting, and a delicious menu of food to tuck into.
South Shields Ocean Road Lights & Sea Breeze Stroll
Nearest Metro station: Chichester
If you love the seaside in winter (and honestly, who doesn’t?), hop off at Chichester and stroll down Ocean Road. It’s a fun, food-filled route that is filled with Christmas lights and colour this time of year.
And while you’re in the area, why not go to Customs House for a classic Christmas film from Elf, It’s a Wonderful Life and Home Alone. A perfect chance to warm up after your walk.
End your wander at The Marine, where you’ll find cosy pub vibes, sea views and spot-on seasonal pints.
Tynemouth Priory & Market Wander
Nearest Metro station: Tynemouth
Tynemouth basically is Christmas spirit. Step off the Metro straight into festive bustle, then wander towards the Priory for dramatic seaside views and that dreamy Tyneside twilight.
While you’re there, The Tynemouth Station Market is right under your feet — artisan gifts, festive bakes and spiced cider to take the edge off the coastal chill.
Warm up inside The Turk’s Head — leafy plants, cosy corners and a cracking pint list. Or, if you fancy something different, pop into The Cove for wreath-making workshops or Christmas cocktails that taste like holiday cheer in a glass. Plus don’t miss Davanti Classico actually inside the beautiful Metro station itself, this Italian spot is perfect for a pre- or post-walk bite.
Festive Ouseburn Valley Walk
Nearest Metro station: Byker
From Byker Metro station, wander down into the Ouseburn Valley, where bridges twinkle with fairy lights and cosy pubs nestle under old brick arches. The Cluny dishes up live music, hearty bowls and craft beers that taste like winter evenings done right.
Make sure to do your Christmas shopping vibrant, quirky from Flaura Rose, The Find and The Biscuit Factory lets you pick up handmade gifts directly from local artists – the ultimate feel-good shopping.
Seaburn Coast Lighthouse Stroll
Nearest Metro station: Seaburn
If you’re craving a bracing winter walk, this is the Metro-friendly route. Wander the illuminated promenade from Seaburn to Roker, soak up the sea air, then cosy up with a festive cocktail at Poetic License Bar.
While you’re there, make sure to pop into STACK Seaburn for some street food and don’t miss their mini elves Christmas parties on Sunday 21st and Tuesday 23rd December.
The Train Line inside Seaburn Metro station serves epic cakes, stuffed cookies, hot drinks and croissant creations. Grab something warm before or after your beach wander.
Rachael Ellis
Head of Content
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers. She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
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