A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Newcastle upon Tyne vs. Howth for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Newcastle upon Tyne and Howth can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a vibrant, high energy, and livable port city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Howth

Howth is a coastal, beautiful, and picturesque fishing village. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and museums.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Howth: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne. Although Newcastle upon Tyne and Howth are both popular with visitors, Newcastle upon Tyne has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Newcastle upon Tyne is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Howth is known for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Howth is more touristy than Newcastle upon Tyne and is popular for its scenic coastline, charming character, and its accessibility to Dublin. Newcastle upon Tyne is popular for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene. It is also home to The Tyne Bridge.

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Howth?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Howth and Newcastle upon Tyne. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Howth

Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Newcastle upon Tyne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Howth. The surrounding coastline is the main draw to this picturesque town but there is also a nice harbor, pier, and lighthouse that you can visit.


Is the Food Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Howth

Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Newcastle upon Tyne. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around town.

Howth is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are seafood restaurants and a few pubs where you can enjoy some fresh food and the local ambiance.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth Better for Nightlife?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Howth

Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for nightlife and partying. However, Howth is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

Howth doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a few pubs around town but if you're looking for a real nightlife scene then your best bet is to head into Dublin.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth Better for Beaches?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Howth

Howth is a very popular place for the beach. However, Newcastle upon Tyne is not a beach destination.

Howth is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Many people head to this coastal town specifically to hang out on the beach. There's also the Howth Cliff Path which is fun to explore. Some of the top beaches in the area include Red Rock Beach, Claremont Beach, and Balscadden Bay Beach. The beaches can be rocky and rough so make sure you understand the water conditions before heading to the beach.

Newcastle upon Tyne is not a beach destination.


Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Howth

Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its old town. However, Howth does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Newcastle upon Tyne. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

Howth does not have a historic old town.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth Better for Hiking?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Howth

Howth is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Newcastle upon Tyne is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Howth. The best way to experience Howth is to explore the The Howth Cliff Walk. There are several versions of the hike that cater to different experience and skill levels.

Newcastle upon Tyne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Howth

Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger Market.

Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth Better for Families?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Howth

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a family-friendly port city. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Howth. It has a beach where kids can run around. There are also playgrounds, a lighthouse, and a pier to explore.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth Better for Couples?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Howth

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Howth are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a good port city for couples to visit. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.

Howth is a nice destination for couples. The small fishing village has some great seafood restaurants and a beach where couples can pass the time.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Howth

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular place for backpackers. However, Howth is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Newcastle upon Tyne. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

Howth is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It a small village outside of Dublin so most backpackers don't make it this way.


Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth Better for Students?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Howth

Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for students. However, Howth is not popular with students.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

Howth is not popular with students.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Howth

Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its public transit. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Newcastle upon Tyne can get you to some places easily. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

While Howth offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. It's easy to reach the town from Dublin by DART.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Howth

Newcastle upon Tyne is an amazing port city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Newcastle upon Tyne on foot is easy. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

Howth is a very walkable destination. It's a small town that's easy to explore on foot. There are also many walks through the cliffs.


For even more information, also check out Is Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting? and Is Howth Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Howth or Newcastle upon Tyne?

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Howth because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Newcastle upon Tyne, and 1-2 days is enough time in Howth.

Families should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Howth. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Newcastle upon Tyne, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Howth. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Newcastle upon Tyne that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Howth if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Newcastle upon Tyne.


  • How many days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth? Ideal Length of Stay
    Newcastle upon Tyne 2-3 
    Howth 1-2

One day in Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth?

In Newcastle upon Tyne, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Howth, many people enjoy the food and museums that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newcastle upon Tyne. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people visit Howth for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Howth, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The destination of Howth offers food and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth?

You'll find food and shopping around the high energy destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Howth. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This fishing village offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Howth or Newcastle upon Tyne?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Newcastle upon Tyne is £130, while the average daily cost in Howth is £115. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Newcastle upon Tyne and Howth in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Newcastle upon Tyne £51
    Howth £55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Newcastle upon Tyne £102
    Howth £110
Compare Hotels in Newcastle upon Tyne and Howth

Looking for a hotel in Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Newcastle upon Tyne


Hotels in Howth


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Newcastle upon Tyne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Newcastle upon Tyne £12
    Howth £35
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Newcastle upon Tyne

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Newcastle upon Tyne:


  • Parking
    £1.70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newcastle upon Tyne

Also for Newcastle upon Tyne, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Newcastle Airport to Lake District Ski Resort Arrival Transfer: $33
  • Newcastle Airport to Newcastle Hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $104
  • Private Newcastle Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $55

Is it cheaper to fly into Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth?

Prices for flights to both Howth and Newcastle upon Tyne change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Newcastle upon Tyne £68
    Howth £38
Typical Food Prices in Newcastle upon Tyne

For Newcastle upon Tyne, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Coffee (2)
    £4.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newcastle upon Tyne

For Newcastle upon Tyne, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • The Ultimate Cheese & Wine Food Tour: $83
  • Newcastle Street Food Tour: $88
  • A Taste Of Newcastle Food Tour: $89
  • Northumbrian Coastline Food Tour: $191

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Newcastle upon Tyne £17
    Howth £21

Tours and Activities in Newcastle upon Tyne

For Newcastle upon Tyne, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Hadrian's Wall: A Self-Guided Audio Tour along the Ruins: $5.20
  • Annual Admission Newcastle Castle Ticket: $16
  • Private Bike Tour of Berwick: $19
  • Newcastle Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Sunderland by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Newcastle True Crime Walking Tour: $23
  • 1.5 Hour Explore Newcastle Walking Tour: $23
  • 1-Hour and a Half Walking Guided Tour in Medieval Newcastle: $25
  • Guided Walks and Tours, Seahouses, Beadnell & Bamburgh: $29
  • Northumberland Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • Halloween Special: Newcastle's Dark Side Walking Tour: $32
  • 3 Hour Walking Tour through Newcastle upon Tyne: $38

Tours and Activities in Howth

Here are a few actual costs in Howth for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Dublin: Full-Day Howth and Malahide Castle Tour: $52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Newcastle upon Tyne £9.43
    Howth £18

Sample the Local Flavors in Newcastle upon Tyne

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Newcastle upon Tyne:

  • Private Newcastle Pub Tour: $191
  • Newcastle Private Historic Pub Tour: $203


When comparing the travel costs between Newcastle upon Tyne and Howth, we can see that Newcastle upon Tyne is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Newcastle upon Tyne Expensive? and Is Howth Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth in the Summer?

Both Howth and Newcastle upon Tyne during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Howth because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally around the same temperature as Howth. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 15°C (59°F), and Howth fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the summer, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Howth. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Howth receives 166 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in July than Howth. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Howth receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Newcastle upon Tyne 15°C (59°F) 
    Howth 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Howth. The autumn months attract visitors to Newcastle upon Tyne because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Howth this time of year.

Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Howth in the autumn. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Howth fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Howth during autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Howth receives 97 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Newcastle upon Tyne gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Howth. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Howth receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Newcastle upon Tyne 10°C (49°F) 
    Howth 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Howth. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Newcastle upon Tyne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Howth for the museums and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Newcastle upon Tyne in the winter. In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne is much colder than Howth. Typically, the winter temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Howth averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Howth. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Howth receives 56 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne receives a lot of rain in the winter. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in January than Howth. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Howth receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Newcastle upon Tyne 3°C (38°F) 
    Howth 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Howth in the Spring?

Both Howth and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Howth in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm.

In April, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally cooler than Howth. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 7°C (45°F), and Howth fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Howth during spring. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Howth receives 157 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Howth. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Howth receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Newcastle upon Tyne 7°C (45°F) 
    Howth 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Howth and Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne Howth
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 15°C (60°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 6°C (44°F) 76 mm (3 in)