Top January Events 2026

January in Newcastle is anything but quiet.

From cultural exhibitions and historic tours to fitness sessions, live music, and city-wide challenges, the new year kicks off with plenty of reasons to get out and explore. 

Whether you’re easing into 2026 or diving headfirst, here are some of the top events happening in Newcastle this January. 

Heartwood, Great North Museum: Hancock (until 18 January)

Step into Heartwood, a thoughtful and immersive exhibition exploring humanity’s relationship with trees and nature.

Hosted at one of Newcastle’s most loved museums, this is a calm and reflective way to start the year—perfect for a slow winter afternoon. 

More information is available on the Great North Museum: Hancock website. 

Sweaty Betty Pilates, John Lewis (6 and 20 January)

New year, new movement. Join a Sweaty Betty Pilates session inside John Lewis and reset your body and mind after the holidays.

A great option if you want to stay active without committing to a full gym routine. 

Book on the John Lewis website. 

History Tours, Newcastle Cathedral (10 and 24 January)

Discover the stories hidden in the heart of the city.

These guided history tours take you inside Newcastle Cathedral, offering fascinating insights into the city’s past and its role through the centuries. 

Sign up on the Newcastle Cathedral website. 

Quiz night, The Golden Flake (Tuesdays 6-27 January)

Gather your friends and test your general knowledge at this classic quiz night inside Fenwick.

A relaxed midweek plan that combines friendly competition with a cosy pub atmosphere. 

Sign up on Eventbrite. 

Newcastle 10k (17 January) 

Looking for a challenge to kick off the year? The Newcastle 10K is a brilliant way to set a fitness goal for January.

Whether you’re running for a personal best or just for fun, the city-centre route makes it a memorable experience. 

Sign up on the Run Through website.

Newcastle True Crime Tour (Friday 23 and 30 January)

Explore Newcastle after dark with this gripping true crime walking tour.

Hear real stories, uncover hidden corners of the city, and see Newcastle from a darker—but fascinating—perspective. 

Sign up on the Newcastle Tour Company website.

Edinburgh trip with Lundgren Tours (Saturday 24 January)

Take a break from studies and join this student-friendly trip to Edinburgh.

From historic streets to iconic views, it’s a perfect January escape—and an easy way to explore another UK city with friends. 

Saturday 24 January, from 07:25, £49.

More information is available on the Newcastle University Students' Union website.

VUKOVI (30 January)

Start the year loud. Catch VUKOVI live and experience their high-energy performance alongside fellow students. 

A great way to break the winter routine and enjoy Newcastle’s vibrant live music scene. 

Grab your tickets on the NUSU website.

January is all about new beginnings—and Newcastle offers plenty of ways to make yours exciting.

Whether you’re into culture, fitness, history, or simply trying something new, there’s something happening every week to keep the city feeling alive. 

By Yumeka, a PGT Marketing student and Student Content Creator