Looking for a family day out that mixes history, playgrounds, nature and epic views? Newcastle’s East End is the place to go.
This itinerary is part of our Family Day Out series, easy and mostly free adventures around Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Hunter, designed for making memories without blowing the budget.
This walkable route winds through Newcastle’s oldest streets, taking in beaches, Fort Scratchley, parks and stunning headland views. Pack a picnic or grab lunch along the way and take it at your own pace.
Start your day with a stroll along Nobbys Beach. Look for this oversized red sculpture.This is “Grounded” marks the anniversary of the grounding of the MV Pasha Bulker, a 225m bulk carrier which ran aground on Nobbys Beach during a severe storm in June 2007.
You can then head out to Nobbys Breakwall. The breakwall walk offers fresh sea air and a chance to spot dolphins and also the happenings of Newcastle harbour. Watch the coal ships glide in and out of the harbour under the watch of the hard-working tug boats
Keep an eye out for the sculpture that pays tribute to the Newcastle Lifeboat Service and Rocket Brigades.
If you’re visiting on a weekend, you can also walk up to Nobbys Lighthouse. Built in 1858, the lighthouse is still operational, having been converted to run automatically in 1935.
The Nobbys Headland site is open on weekends from 8am to 4pm and makes a fun excursion. Nobbys Headland is one of Newcastle’s best vantage points, with 360-degree views of the city, the working harbour and our stunning coastline.
From there, wander over to Fort Scratchley. It’s free to walk around (closed on Tuesdays), and kids love exploring the old army barracks and giant gun installations. The views from the top are fantastic, and it’s a great spot for spotting passing ships.
Head into the city’s heart for lunch – grab a takeaway from one of the many cafés and enjoy it at Pacific Park or along Newcastle Beach.
If the weather’s nice, let the kids dip their toes in the water at the Canoe Pool or Newcastle Ocean Baths.
If you’ve brought skateboards or scooters, head to South Newcastle Skate Park located at South Newcastle Beach. It features an inclusive skate bowl and also a terrain park for skaters, scooters and riders including wheelchair athletes of all skill levels.
If you have the time, walk or drive up to King Edward Park. The views here are unbeatable. Kids can enjoy the playground while you relax under the trees or in the rotunda.
Be sure to check out Garside Gardens, especially if it’s blooming season.
Don’t miss the short walk to the Bogey Hole, a convict-built ocean pool carved into the rocks – a fascinating piece of Newcastle history and a favourite photo spot. If you’re lucky, you might spot whales or dolphins from the cliffs above during migration season.
Next, head to The Obelisk, one of Newcastle’s oldest landmarks. It’s a quick walk up and offers sweeping views across the city and coastline. It’s also a great spot for a family photo.
Finish your day with a quiet wander around Christ Church Cathedral. This impressive building dominates the skyline and is open to visitors. Inside, you’ll find beautiful stained glass windows, religious artefacts, and a peaceful garden out the back where early settlers are buried.
Hot Tip: This itinerary is hilly in parts, so bring the pram if little legs tire easily – or break it into two shorter outings if that suits your family better.
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