NE1’s festive advent calendar to return giving the gift of history

As Christmas is fast approaching, we are looking forward to the various festive activities set to take place in Newcastle. 

The joyful season will also see the return of NE1’s unique advent calendar, which provides access to some of the city’s most iconic properties. 

The calendar, which is named NE1’s 24 Doors of Christmas, will give the gift of rare access and behind the scenes tours, to historic landmarks in the city, as well as brand-new buildings. 

Behind the ‘doors’ to open on the festive calendar, will be a tour of the brand-new HMRC building on Pilgrim Street which is set to be complete in 2027, as well as Newcastle’s Theatre Royal, the Lit and Phil library and The Assembly House, both located on Westgate Road. 

While the brand-new HMRC building will showcase the modern work which has taken place, the Theatre Royal, Lit and Phil library and The Assembly House will give visitors an insight into Newcastle’s rich history.

The Assembly House which was once a mansion house used by the King’s appointee who once ruled Newcastle in the 1600’s is currently closed to the public but will open exclusively for one day.

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The Grainger Market will also welcome visitors to see the newly refurbished barrelled glass roof, and hear about the history of the market which originally opened in 1835.

In addition to the tours of Newcastle’s finest buildings, there will also be several experience days on offer, where visitors will be given the opportunity to make and taste some of the daily offerings at venues across the city. 

Bealim House on Gallowgate is one of the venues participating in an experience day, giving visitors a tour of its mini gin distillery, with a gin tasting session also taking place.

NE1’s 24 Doors of Christmas will be booked in two stages, with bookings for December 1 to 12, taking place on Wednesday, November 15, and the second release taking place on Wednesday, November 22.

Rachel Barlow, Marketing and Events Manager at NE1 Ltd said: “NE1’s 24 Doors of Christmas is one of the city’s much-loved festive events – it gives people the chance to step inside some of the city’s most famous, most historic and unusual buildings to learn more about some of Newcastle’s architectural gems and the city’s rich history and heritage. 

“We’re delighted to have added some exciting opportunities for people to get involved with this year, with new venues joining the event, as well as expanding into more experiential activities at some fabulous places in the city.”

For more information or to book please visit the NE1 24 Doors of Christmas website.