CPT has announced a new Coach Pilot Scheme – launching in conjunction with Newcastle Christmas Market 2025, NE1 Bid and Destination North East – which aims to showcase the city as a premium destination for coach travel, not just during the festive season but year-round.

Coach Pilot Scheme Dates…

• Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th November 2025

• Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th December 2025

How It Works…

As part of the pilot, coach operators are invited to participate in an exclusive trial designed to enhance the visitor experience and demonstrate Newcastle’s potential as a coach-friendly city.

Key Features Include…

• A reserved Central Coach Drop-Off & Pick-Up Point at College Street - Just a 2-minute walk to Northumberland Street, the city’s main shopping hub.  Staff will be on hand at this location to support pick-up/drop-offs, and ensure a warm Newcastle welcome before coaches proceed to the parking location.

• Longer Stay Coach Parking - Secure, up to 12-hour coach parking at City Campus East Car Park, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 2SU.  A member of staff will be on-site to welcome and assist drivers, guide them to their designated bays, and provide a professional, smooth parking experience and a 5-10 minute walk back into he City.

• Coach Driver Welcome Pack
  On arrival, each coach driver will receive a welcome pack including:

• • Two complimentary hot drinks vouchers (redeemable at a dedicated city-centre premises - venue TBC)

• • Exclusive discount cards for all adult passengers, unlocking deals across the city centre. Typically reserved for city workers, this is a unique incentive to make coach passengers feel extra welcome.

Newcastle Christmas Market 2025

Over recent years, Newcastle Christmas Market, delivered by Newcastle City Council and Newcastle NE1, has become one of the most anticipated festive events in the North East. In 2024, over 1.7 million people visited the markets in which over 75% of traders came from within a 20-mile radius, showcasing a city-wide ambition to support high-quality local produce and artisans. This commitment gives visitors not just a market, but a meaningful connection to the city’s culture, community, and craft.

Family-Friendly Attractions

Beyond its bustling retail stalls, the market offers a magical range of attractions as part of the markets in Old Eldon Square, including:

• Christmas Village - a hub of entertainment with family-focused activities at accessible price points

• Santa Stories – 60-minute interactive storytelling sessions with Santa himself

• Santa’s Workshop – a creative play space hosted by Santa’s delightfully mischievous elves

• Rockin' Reindeer Stage – Live performances from princesses, the Grinch, and more, bringing holiday favourites to life

• Traditional Carousel – A nostalgic treat for kids and grown-ups alike

Aside from family fun, The North Pole at Grey’s Monument provides market visitors an elevated viewing platform offering panoramic views of the market and stunning festive surroundings

More Reasons to Visit…

Newcastle has something for everyone:

• Eldon Square Shopping Centre with leading high-street and designer brands for festive retail therapy

• Five professional theatres offering beloved Christmas pantomimes (including the Theatre Royal and Tyne Theatre and Opera House)

• Grainger Market – One of the UK’s oldest indoor markets, steeped in history and bursting with character, perfect for foodies and curious shoppers

Why Get Involved?

This coach pilot offers a highly marketable festive day out with clear customer appeal. Operators will benefit from:

• A seamless, professionally supported arrival and departure process

• Value-added incentives for both drivers and passengers

• An fantastic city experience your customers will rave about

Bookings

If you'd like to hear more on the pilot, have any questions or would like to book a coach place on any of the four pilot days, email info@newcastlene1ltd.com

PHOTO: Barrie Taylor/Pixabay