The Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT), Newcastle NE1 and Experience North East England are bringing back Newcastle’s Christmas Market coach scheme for 2026, following its introduction last year.
The scheme will operate on:
- Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 November 2026
- Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 November 2026
- Friday 18, Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 December 2026
Coach operators taking part will benefit from a dedicated central drop-off and pick-up point just a two-minute walk from Northumberland Street, Newcastle’s main shopping area. Staff will be on hand to welcome coaches, support arrivals and departures and direct vehicles onwards.
Each coach driver will also receive a welcome pack, including a complimentary hot drink voucher, while adult passengers will receive exclusive discount cards offering deals at participating businesses across the city centre.
The scheme is designed to demonstrate the value of coach tourism to Newcastle, provide operators and passengers with a smooth and welcoming experience, and strengthen the case for further investment in coach-friendly infrastructure.
We are delighted to be bringing the Newcastle Christmas Market coach scheme back for a second year. Last year’s pilot demonstrated the enthusiasm among operators for bringing passengers into Newcastle and the importance of making those visits as straightforward and welcoming as possible. Coach tourism brings significant benefits to local shops, restaurants, attractions and other businesses, while giving people an affordable and sustainable way to enjoy a day out. We want to build on last year’s scheme and continue establishing Newcastle as a destination that actively welcomes coaches and their passengers, not just at Christmas but all year round.
Newcastle Christmas Market, delivered by Newcastle City Council and Newcastle NE1, has become one of the North East’s most popular festive attractions. More than 2.3 million visits were made to the markets in 2024, with over 85% of traders coming from within a 20-mile radius, helping visitors discover local produce, businesses and artisans.
Alongside its retail stalls, the Christmas Market offers a range of family attractions in Old Eldon Square, including the Christmas Village, Santa Stories, Santa’s Workshop, the Rockin’ Reindeer Stage and a traditional carousel. The North Pole at Grey’s Monument also provides an elevated viewing platform overlooking the market and Newcastle’s festive city centre.
Visitors arriving by coach can also make the most of Newcastle’s wider attractions, including Eldon Square, the historic Grainger Market, the city’s theatres and pantomimes, and ice skating at the Life Science Centre.
The scheme forms part of a wider ambition to position Newcastle as a leading destination for group and coach travel, showcasing the economic and visitor benefits that coaches can bring to the city.
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