The 2015 Rugby World Cup kicks off mid-September and 11 cities across the United Kingdom are set to host matches, including Newcastle on October 3, 9, and 10. Newcastle is home to St. James Park, the second largest sports stadium in the U.K. that’s outside of London. Why watch the game from a sports bar at home when you can just as easily see it in person by booking corporate jet services? Have your private plane take you to Newcastle International Airport and hire a luxury car service, such as Little’s, to take you to the hotel, match venue or to meet up with friends.
Sleep
Jesmond Dene House
The only independently owned boutique hotel in Newcastle, the Jesmond Dene House is a historic Arts and Crafts building formerly owned by Lord William Armstrong. Along with its rich, varied past, most of the artwork throughout the hotel is for sale. The Jesmond Dene House is in a quaint rural setting that’s only 10 minutes from Newcastle’s city center, making it simple to reach the stadium come game time. You’ll find the modern Apartment Suite or Noble Suite most fitting.
Crowne Plaza Newcastle—Stephenson Quarter
The Crowne Plaza in Newcastle opened July 2015 along with the highly anticipated Stephenson Quarter, which features restored buildings and contemporary architecture in one of the area’s most desirable urban locations. St. James Park is just 1 mile away from the hotel, making it within walking distance if you want to easily navigate around traffic. For the best experience, book the Junior Suite.
The Vermont Hotel—Newcastle
The 1930s-style posh Vermont Hotel is conveniently located in the city center, near the historic Moot Hall and Castle Keep. Inside, you’ll find a blend of old world grandeur with contemporary elegance, as well as the opulent bar, restaurant and Sky Lounge. Book a City Suite if traveling alone or an aparthotel if visiting with your family.
Eat
When you don’t have box seats for every minute of the rugby matches, check out the games in one of these local favorites:
Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill
Just a four-minute walk from St. James Park, the MPW Steakhouse Bar & Grill at the Hotel Indigo is Chef Marco’s only restaurant in the northeast region. Enjoy locally sourced produce in the ultra-modern dining room or catch highlights from the matches in the lively cosmopolitan bar.
Browns Bar & Brasserie
Browns Newcastle is a 6-minute walk from St. James Park and features European brasserie dishes and comfort food in a timeless, elegant setting. The informal yet sophisticated setting will help you unwind after a match. Enjoy live music on Sunday afternoons and Thursday evenings.
The Bodega
About a two blocks from St. James Park, the Bodega is the CAMRA Tyneside 2015 Real Ale Pub of the Year. With its Victorian stained glass dome, long bar, elaborate tile work and rich history, the pub has everything you need to get in the spirit before a match or relax afterward.
Fun
Rugby World Cup Fanzone
Located at Science Central during early October, the Newcastle Fanzone will feature three different areas for fans to participate in the festivities.
Conversion Festival
Kick off the Rugby World Cup with live music, street food, art and performances courtesy of the Arts Council England and NewcastleGateshead Initiative. Match days will feature street entertainment around the city center from countries such as Tonga, Samoa, Scotland, South Africa and New Zealand.
Jonah Lomu Unstoppable UK & Ireland Tour 2015
Spend an evening at the Hilton Newcastle on October 8 with Commonwealth Gold Medalist Jonah Lomu, the youngest rugby player to wear a black jersey. Lomu will share about his personal and professional life during a three-course meal. The best seats are at the Gold Tables.
