Newcastle has undergone something of a transformation in the last decade and it is now the leading center for tourism as well as business in the north east of England. Millions of pounds of investment have rejuvenated the city centre turning it into a desirable place to live and work and also helped to generate thousands of new jobs. Newcastle has been voted the United kingdom’s best city break for four years consecutively in the Guardian travel awards and it is easy to see why. There are many reasons why you should visit Newcastle and one of the very most popular is the sporting events there. With Newcastle United back again in the Premier League again thousands of football fans will be journeying to Newcastle to watch their clubs play at St James’s Park. Another event which attracts 1000′s of people from all over the nation is the Great North Run. It is held each year and raises millions of pounds for many different charities. Shopping in Newcastle is something of a leisure activity for its residents and it is not hard to see why. The MetroCentre has the biggest shopping centre and complex in Europe with a host of top name brands in one location. With the Newcastle Quayside Market opening up in July 2010 as well as the already established Grainger market, Jesmond market and the Farmers & Country market you’ll be hard pressed not to get a bargain somewhere. One of the biggest attractions for many people is needless to say the Newcastle nightlife. The Quayside and the Bigg market attract a vibrant, youthful crowd and for the slightly more mature you will find dozens of traditional pubs, theatres and good quality places to eat. And needless to say no visit to Newcastle would be complete with out trying the famous Newcastle Brown Ale at least once. When you are planning your trip you will discover a range of good quality hotels in Newcastle to stay in. From B&B’s to 5 star hotels there’s accommodation to match every pocket and I can personally highly recommend the Rosebery Hotel in Jesmond as a fantastic place to stay.