Exploring the Tyne & Wear Metro. My Bargain Day Out in Newcastle and Beyond!

[@jimmycrosby]

The late night metro from Whitley Bay to Newcastle is an interesting experience !!!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Haha, yes I bet it is. Like the last train back from Birmingham to Telford! Actually it’s probably worse than that tbf 😂

[@vinceturner3863]

Thanks for posting. Reminds me of the couple of times I've done pretty much the same. Once in very cold weather! The ticket really is a bargain and for me the ferry is a highlight, as is going over the Tyne.

[@davidwil58]

The was a good value ticket, but there’s also an Explorer ticket which is £13.20 covering all that you did but also buses all the way between Scarborough and Berwick. A massive area to go travelling around.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yes and not a bad price for that one either 👍

[@jackwatsonepic626]

I always get the family Explorer £21 brilliant value 👌 you can then use stagecoach " go Northeast & arriva buses 🚌 from like you say Berwick to Scarborough & Carlisle (West ) and Richmond north Yorkshire (south) it covers the whole north east 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@carolineslater1731]

We get this service to whitby. Bus from he worth interchange to boro, change at boro to whitby. Was £10.50 last time we did it. Beautiful scenery too.. Once you get out of boro..! 😂😍

[@brianmorrison9168]

I laughed when you mentioned people getting shouted at for filming. A couple of years ago, I made a few videos on the Metro system and during one of my earlier ones, the driver changed at South Gosforth, near the Metro offices. He noticed me filming, from his little cab, opened his door and said I wasn't allowed to film . “Why” I asked, “I've seen plenty of folk taking pictures or filming” “That’s the rules .. if you don’t like them, then get off the train” Anyway I got out at the next station, Regent Centre and heard over the tannoy 'FILMING IS NOT ALLOWED ON THE METRO SYSTEM' .. the driver had obviously told somebody else. I returned to the previous station, walked 20m to the Metro HQ and asked for a permit to film. Within about 10 minutes I was kindly given permission, on a typed A4 letter by a very understanding and helpful customer services member. I got the next train and finished my filming. In hindsight, I should have waited to see that same driver again, but at that moment, never thought about that. I always got a permit to film for my next journeys, but was never asked for it ... obviously just one jobsworth driver, full of his own importance.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Brian, loved reading that. I did wonder if that would happen to me but I must say, hardly saw any staff all day. Maybe the Sunday thing was a factor? Anyway, it’s good promotional stuff for them. I’ll never hear anything but I enjoyed the day out regardless. 👍

[@gdwnet]

@@LetsMakeaTrip I've never understood why a permit would be required for anything other than paid for work - i.e. if someone is paying for some footage or paying a fee to watch or movie then sure - permits make sense. For a youtuber or just someone who is a train geek, why would they need a permit? Very strange!

[@GeordieGames]

@@gdwnet it's like a rod license for fishing.

[@gdwnet]

@@GeordieGames What if I go fishing without a rod and bring a brian instead?! :D

[@AlexDoddsVideos]

@@brianmorrison9168 I try not to video on the metro now a days, not just the staff but also im wary of a lot of photo sensitive people on that system, thankfully the camera on me phone is small enough.

[@ZLDSmogless]

The speeds are in kilometres because the metro uses a different signalling system to the conventional National Rail trains. It's a version of the system used in Germany & Austria which uses kilometres for It's speeds. It's called InduSi if anyone wants to do any further reading

[@fiveYqueue]

Electric railway services from Newcastle to the coast started in 1904 and were progressively electrified until 1938 I think. All on the third-rail. By the mid-sixties "electricity was out" as far as transport in and around Newcastle was concerned. Between 1963 and 1967 the electric suburban system was converted to diesel multiple-unit trains and the once-extensive trolleybus system was finally knocked on the head in 1966. A little over twenty years later it was "all change" and I remember using the Metro in its embryo stage in about 1980 when instead of getting a bus all the way from Gallowgate Bus Station in Newcastle City Centre to The Galleries in Washington New Town (where I had friends) it was possible to take the brand new Metro as far as Heworth and change there onto a bus. Your journey was fascinating and interesting (as usual). And what magnificent weather you had for your trip!

[@TheWandererRemixes]

Come back next year when the new trains are (hopefully) running and the Northern extension to Ashington (hopefully) opens.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks mate. It certainly was an interesting day (helped by the weather). I’ll definitely be back 👍

[@martinstilton1535]

Discovered this ticket when we were down in Newcastle earlier this year! Tried the Tyne Ferry and the trip via Whitley Bay back to the city. Great value and a great day! The Metro is a real asset to Newcastle.

[@Trond_travels]

Beautiful video, thanks 😊 Lucky with the weather that. Hope you enjoyed that day 😊

[@danielgibson9870]

The front seat is back in use but they havent took stickers down. They closed them for covid. Your going to have to come back when the new ones come into service too

[@aaronsmith9209]

Explored most of this metro and what really impressed me was the bus interchanges at the major stations, notably at South Shields and Gateshead. I wish they existed everywhere, it really added to the high quality of the trains, which are showing their age a bit but comfortable. When the Tyne and Wear Metro first opened, the council also directly ran the buses which allowed for a ticket known as a Transfare to exist combining trains and buses. It was really ahead of its time as most areas still don't offer such tickets and despite bus degulation of the 80s, the integration is still my favourite feature of the metro. Thankfully it looks deregulation of buses is coming to an end soon. Also not really a football fan but my favourite station has to be St James's Park, it captures the spirit of the game so well! Hopefully the metro will expand soon and other city regions gets a system like this.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks for the comment, I’m not a Newcastle UTD fan but their stadium is impressive. It’s changed a bit since the 80’s and I’d love to go to a game sometime. The Metro I was quite impressed with too, my first time on it and combined with being in a great city, it won’t be my last!

[@sg5881sg]

Just behind you at the South Shields ferry jetty is the Library which has fantastic views of the river from its roof. There is also a large interactive display showing live river traffic. The Customs House is worth a visit. The best use of your ticket is to do Sunderland to Whitley Bay by bus along the coast and over the ferry then back through Gosforth and over the bridge to Gateshead. The walk down from Gateshead, past the Baltic art gallery and Sage theatre, and over the Eye bridge to the Quayside is definitely worth it.

[@markstramtrainbuscapades1729]

The Metro was the brianchild of Tyne & Wear PTE, as a way to revitalise the down at heel railways in the county. As you say, the first two sections opened in 1980, from Haymarket-Tynemouth & Bankfoot, and I would travel on them in 1981, with a friend who's Grandparents lived in Gateshead, doing both lines on the afternoon of Charles & Diana's wedding day! The only time I've been back since is in 2009 when, on holiday in keswick, I had a day in Newcastle using Stagecoach X4 to Penrith, train to Carlisle and the Tyne Valley Line I used a Day Ticket to get all the other lines in the book, other than the extension to the Airport, which was then flooded, and the short St James section. KMs are used on all our light rail/tram systems, it's an EEC/EU thing! And yes, new Stadlet units are on the way, these being very similar to the Class 777s in use on Merseyrail.

[@djburland]

It was fun when we rode the Metro, I especially enjoyed the use of old stations and the way they are used.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I really enjoyed it! Definitely be back 👍

[@kevinbrewis6014]

got my first Tattoo in Whitley Bay on the bank holiday monday, 31st of May1976, great video of my area, thanks

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Kevin, glad it brought back good memories 😊👍

[@smogontheline]

I've done the Metro/Bus/Ferry trip a couple of times and enjoyed it. It's great value as you can spend the day on all services. My son and I sit right at the front to film the Metro journey, although they are introducing new Metro trains that don't have this seating. A real shame. If I'd known you were heading up to my neck of the woods, I would have popped up to meet you. Hope you're well. Andy.

[@ozgirl45]

A great video! You managed to do so much. I was surprised by how few passengers there were - some of the stations were deserted. I wonder what the locals do on a Sunday

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks! The shops were quite busy I suppose!

[@craig.bryant]

Never thought I'd see you at Blaydon bus station in a million years!! I grew up nearby and that was my local McDonalds. I love the Metro but it needs to be expanded to the west side of Gateshead and Newcastle, as well as to Durham. We're getting the Northumberland line which is being integrated into the Metro zonal system later this year which takes you to Blyth and Ashington.

[@hunty1970]

Just returned from a weekend in Newcastle & South Sheilds for the great north run(sept 2024). We used the metro on the Saturday with the metro pass, excellent value for money. We then treated ourself’s to a dfds mini break to Amsterdam on the King Seaways, and was impressed with the standard of service, buffet and cabins. We’ll certainly be treating ourself’s again. Thanks for another great video.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers, I’m heading down to Amsterdam on that ferry myself soon. 😊👍

[@hunty1970]

@@LetsMakeaTripyou’ll have a great trip.

[@kevinbrewis6014]

we treated ourselves a trip to Amsterdam too, it was great

[@sandiandgregh]

Great video and definitely looks like a deal. Loved the little ferry. We spent today in Belfast on foot, train, bus and glider (aka bendy bus) and felt a little like we were on a Let’s Make A Trip adventure. :)

[@andyburbidge4938]

You have 2 options nowadays £6 Nexus Day Rover which covers Tyne & Wear only (Buses, Metro, Ferry & NR Sunderland-Blaydon) £6.80 TNE Day Rover which adds in buses in Northumberland & County Durham as well

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

So I could’ve done the same for 80p cheaper by the looks of it 👍

[@KevinParnacott]

Yes the £6 ticket doesn't appear to be publicised as much for Tyne and Wear - buses display the day ticket for £6.80! Great value though but confusing for the casual traveller.

[@sarahillingworth2718]

Ive stayed in Whitley bay a few times, got the metro from Newcastle alot 👍

[@D_B_Cooper]

I’m enjoying the video pet

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers pet 😊

[@simon11235]

Excellent video - nice to hear positive things about our region from visitors like yourself. As far as I know, the whole system is in metric rather than the National Rail imperial measurements. Some of my favourite things about the metro that you didn't cover include: Wallsend station having bilingual signage, in English and in Latin - for the Roman soldiers visiting the fort at the end of Hadrian's Wall! The views from the concrete viaduct over the Ouseburn between Manors and Byker. The interesting junction & track layout where the Green & Yellow lines diverge and the Green line joins onto the National Rail line, around Heworth & Pelaw. The rest of the Yellow loop from South Gosforth to Whitley Bay is worth traveling on too. Tynemouth Station & Weekend Market - well worth a wander through if you're there in the daytime. The town is lovely as are the beaches. I also like walking along the pier if it's open, and along the north bank of the Tyne towards the fish quay passing under the gaze of the Collingwood Monument (he was Nelson's second in command and led the attack at the battle of Trafalgar.) The Stephenson Railway Museum is a lovely little museum in North Tyneside - entry is free although you have to pay to ride on the heritage railway - it's the former metro test track along route of one of the many old waggonways. Check opening days/times carefully though - it's closed in November, and only open for special events in the winter - summer opening is usually at weekends with the odd day during the week at busy times like school holidays.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Simon, I’ve done a screenshot of your comment so I can use it next time I’m up there. Much appreciated, thanks 👍

[@Sim0nTrains]

Great video, Tyne and Wear Metro is a quirky area in the North East. I've been on it many times and never got told off for filming. There was one time that I did message them to get permission a while back but heard nothing so decided to go ahead and never had any issues, only found out that recently that they did respond to my email from years ago lol

[@JohnFoxton-p7j]

I remember the days before the Metro centre the train from Newcastle to Carlisle would stop at Blaydon. Coming from the area I didn't think any train stopped there now. Because it now goes to metro centre then onto Prudhoe or Wylam

[@eddieoliver5840]

Instead of the train back to Blaydon from Sunderland, another option to consider might have been a bus from Sunderland along the coast to South Shields and the ferry over to North Shields and then the metro to take in Tynemouth, Cullercoats and Whitley Bay … perhaps using the train from Newcastle later in the day to go for something to eat at the metro centre or Blaydon

[@peterosullivan9942]

This is a great shout and he has missed out on some great footage along that coastline. I would have done that for a youtube video as the beaches in Sunderland may as well be under the official secrets act considering how many people seem to know about them. He could have seen those beaches at Roker and Seaburn in Sunderland on the way which 100% would have changed his opinion of Sunderland massively. Who knew Sunderland had two beaches that good? I suppose its all about doing your research and he got this one badly wrong and missed some classic views. Hey Ho.... Additionally you can get a day rover in what used to be Tyne and Wear for £6 now. He paid the extra 80p for the use of buses in Northumberland and Durham counties and then never visited either county. Thats an easy mistake to make given the unclear instructions on the machines at the metro stations where he bought the ticket. The sooner the North East adopts tap in tap out like London, the better. Good video nethertheless and enjoyed it. I enjoyed watching a stranger travelling on trains and buses I use personally regularly. I only use them on Sunderland match days as I drive the rest of the time but I have a few beers with a social group for the home games.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Tbh Eddie, that sounds like a much better plan than what I ended up doing!

[@richardhughes515]

Good job Mark. Another really interesting video. I'm going to give Newcastle a visit I think.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Richard. I love Newcastle, one of my favourite cities 😊👍

[@dusa334]

Gorgeous views of bridge and train!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks mate 👍

[@The89jc]

Makes me feel all home sick! The Tyne and wear metro is amazing and this was a great video. For reference the monument was lord earl grey and was erected for the passing of the great reform act. You missed out Tynemouth probably my favourite seaside town, with the priory and a lovely square it's somewhere I love and think you would love. There is talk of extending the network firstly to Washington then onwards to Durham

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks mate. Quite a few people have said Tynemouth so it’s definitely somewhere to go next time. Cheers 😊👍

[@sheilam4525]

Not a bad journey, Mark👍 Always love a ferry😊

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks Sheila, you can’t do the metro without doing the ferry I don’t think. Highlight of the day!

[@simplygregsterev]

We are in the UK for nearly 3 weeks at the end of month(annual visit). Newcastle area is actually on our list for 2 nights. Great video as usual

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I definitely recommend the Metro (and Newcastle as a whole). Enjoy your trip 👍

[@OofBerry1]

Another enjoyable video. The "front seat out of use" sticker is just a remnant from the covid era (I say the "covid era", but the front seats were blocked off well into 2023).

[@colinphillipson4830]

The do not sit signs are old from the COVID era. Some still have them some don't. I did the same as you then people just sat in them anyway. I live near Kingston Park station (3rd from the Airport). I'm a pensioner with the Concessionary bus pass and buy the Metro Gold card pass for only £12 a year that's added to your bus pass card allowing unlimited metro/ferry/train travel every day, with a restriction only after 9.30am Monday to Friday but allowed earlier if going to hospital with NHS letter. All other times unlimited.

[@garybrien3062]

You encountered the scourge of north east public transport that is Go North East. They’ve got such a monopoly in most areas of Gateshead, like Blaydon, but are so badly run since Covid that it’s pointless relying on them. They’ve gone from being the founding company of the go ahead group to the unloved step child Glad you enjoyed the trip. The metro, when it works, is a marvel of 20th century urban planning

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Arriva buses are like that down in Shrewsbury. Absolutely crap!

[@andywillis2650]

Great value for money Mark, shame about your delays !

[@Timstravels01]

That’s an interestingly worded Tweet alright but I’m glad you didn’t get any hassle. That looked like a tremendous day out.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yep, hardly saw any staff at all tbh. It might be easier to film on a Sunday but overall a decent day out and good advertising for them really 👍

[@BoB4jjjjs]

If I am in Newcastle, I spend a day riding on the Metro, brilliant service.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Can’t go wrong for the price. 👍

[@ShaneLee-dy4cz]

Good video I enjoyed it! however I feel when people come to the north east they tend too forget about Sunderland and the coastline

[@baseballfan99]

I do love visiting Newcastle as there is always something interesting to see. Next time you are in the City a walk across The Town Moor is very interesting and I walked all the way to The Angel of the North though some of it was on the main road out of the city. The Metro does very well for what was a cheap option back in 1980 and I agree the price is excellent. I have not taken the ferry yet, maybe next time. Looking forward to your trip to Amsterdam, I have taken that ferry several times including during the back end of Storm Ciara in Feb 2020 which was fun. Hope you enjoy the trip.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers mate, you are right, always something to see and do in Newcastle - one of my favourite cities and the people are decent too! M6 first time with DFDS so it should make for an interesting video 👍

[@improperrunner]

Great video as ever, and it looks like one of the best day rover tickets you can buy too.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks, I think it’s similar to the Merseyrail Saveaway. I may well have a look at doing that one too.

[@ianjames9166]

Great video, Mark, nice to see you in my native north east again. I love the Metro and it's going to be much improved with the new trains in 2025 (no riding at the front though, unfortunately, I will really miss that). I'll get back there at that stage to film that for my own channel. You must return and explore Tynemouth properly, one of the best towns in the country, never mind the region. Keep up the great work mate. 🙂👍

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Ian, yes a few people have said Tynemouth so it’s definitely one for next time. So much left to explore yet, I’ll definitely be back 😊👍

[@jackmaher9296]

Class video mark, can’t beat Newcastle for a good time

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I agree Jack, great city!

[@enricomonti156]

I have been with some friends to Newcastle in July 2019 and we visited also the castle as our accommodation was just opposite it. We did use the Tyne and Wear Metro to go to Sunderland and we alighted at Stadium of Light and then walked to the city centre. The whole platform concept at Sunderland Station was confusing to say the least. We did enjoy Newcastle, which is lovely itself, but also went on day trip to Hexham, Haltwhistle and Berwick-upon-Tweed using local buses, respectively the 685 (which runs until Carlisle), the AD122 (which goes towards Haltwhistle and the main sights along the Hadrian's Wall; I would recommend a trip onto it), and the X15.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

There is certainly plenty to do up there mate. And that AD122 bus is definitely on the list for me! 👍

[@cottonbuds1836]

The lines for the metro were originally run by British Rail and their forerunners so are quite old. E.G. Tynemouth Station opened in 1882. I know the line to South Shields was 3rd rail electric but replaced by diesel units in the 40s or 50s.. When the Metro came about it was converted to overhead electric. I used the metro service to go to the match because if you were quick you'd get back in the house , have your tea and be ready to for a night down the club in less time than it takes to get out of the car park at many other football clubs grounds.

[@adamanthony7465]

Thinking of going for our fifth anniversary. Top tip truly thanks to you👍

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks for the comment mate, I hope you have a great time if you do!

[@adamanthony7465]

We are here, wonderful day we've had with thanks to you. Newcastle was quite a surprise .great!!

[@davidbirch9108]

8:13 One of the new trains can just be glimpsed between the bushes, it's the nearest one to your train going past

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Ah yes, just watched it back. Good spot! 👍

[@spbracey7]

Well done Hawkeye, excellent spot....

[@TheWorldsWorstMan]

We visited in Feb and stayed at the Premier Inn next to Callerton Parkway. £6 for an all day ticket (I think). We went into town, out to the coast, a great way to get around and they’re every 10 mins or so. Nice not having to worry about parking or rush hour traffic

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I’ll have to remember that Premierinn, cheers 👍

[@horsehollerer]

Cracking watch, cheers.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers HH 😊👍

[@telemachus53]

A great vid, It looks like you did a fair bit of walking in addition to travelling on the Metro! The only time I was in the metro was visiting my grandpa's house in Sunderland on a "roots" trip. I sat next to the driver and he never said a word!

[@russellwynn9790]

@@telemachus53 when I was 5, one of the drivers who my Dad knew at the football was sat with his cab open. He recognised me and let me stand in the cab and push the buttons to open and close the doors until we got off. I used to see him when I got the metro home from work in 2010’s but he’s likely retired now.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Replying to you both I also remember getting cab rides at Shrewsbury station off the shunters (08’s). Can’t imagine it now with all the H&S around sadly!

[@rugbygame8972]

The front seats remind me of the old first generation DMUs that BR used. Get a seat at the front for a view from behind the full width drivers cab!

[@lawriedavidson6351]

I did one of those recently on the Dean Forest railway. Stayed all day in that rather than the steam train, always loved the view out the front

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yeh, if they had the blind up of course. Takes me back to my train spotting days that! 👍

[@calebmumby5803]

Splendid video Mark In the north east thank you

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks mate 😊👍

[@stephenmcculley7]

Tynemouth is interesting as there was (and possibly still is) a massive market on the station during the day on a Sunday.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

The one place Stephen I regret not having the time to visit. Next time though 👍

[@VisitingPiddlyStations]

Another great video Mark

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers mate, i can see you driving one of these! 😊

[@russellwynn9790]

Great video Mark. When you are back up, let me know and I will show you some of the secrets of the place. Also it’s only Haymarket to Jesmond that was built in 1980. From Jesmond round to Tynemouth was part of the old Tyne loop. Trains would leave from Central Stn where there care park is now, head to Manors and either take the left or right line and return back the other way. The old manors station was huge, but is now just a shell of its former self. The old Jesmond station which was above ground is now a pub and curry house. Lastly, my wife says it’s pronounced Gos-futh not Gos-forth. 😂

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Russell, I’ll try and remember as with most of these places they are great to look around and present a video from a visitors perspective. But it would be good to get a more detailed understanding of some of the city and history. 😊👍

[@russellwynn9790]

@@LetsMakeaTrip Yeah I get that. And it's great to see what outsiders think of what we have. It gives a new perspective. Keep up the great work.

[@davidsharpe7869]

Tyne mouth station has a relay good market in the station sat sun 9 am till 3 ish

[@hellfiregrowler]

The front seat was only out of use during COVID however as per usual in the UK many of the signs have been forgotten to ha e been removed

[@johnmullin1188]

😮 wow Mark what a lovely cheap day I didn't catch how much was the room damage Pal I think there going for £45 per day at the minute well my friend thinks for the 📷 absolutely wonderful all the best John 😊

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yes John the premier inn vid was for the one I stayed in. £45 is about right atm 👍

[@CarolWhite-il7ki]

Thankyou take care

[@TheWacoKid1963]

I remember when the system first opened, there was a new type of ticket issued called a Transfare ticket, you could travel on a multitude of bus journeys and one metro journey, This allowed to travel from Chopwell in the far west of Tyne & Wear to Whitley Bay for a single ticket price of 70p, the distance was around 22 miles Before the buses were deregulated in late 1986, Tyne & Wear had the best integrated transport system in Europe, public transport has never been the same since then, I refuse to use public transport whenever I can, it's too unreliable

[@richardprivate5568]

Love Newcastle. Whitley Bay and hope you went to Sun City. Awesome

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I was running out of time at Whitley Bay unfortunately but I’ll make a note for next time. So much to do! 😊👍

[@roslynlock9205]

Hi i wass in newcastle from the 31st of August for 6 nights ur unfortunately the airport to wallsend was bus replacment so im going to have to do another trip next year i did manage to get the front seat on almost every one

[@alexfirth]

The front seat out of use sign is hangover from COVID where they blocked it off to protect the driver. Of course, with the introduction of the new trains shortly, this front seat view will go away. Glad you were able to enjoy it while you can!

[@stephen4912]

I'm from Newcastle and sometimes I get a day rover 6 pounds use to be 9 pounds but changed all the tickets and pricing good value though basically u can use the metro sunderland to blaydon line ferry stagecoach arriva G0 northeast in the tyne and wear zone plus the metros haven't got a good reputation lol enjoyed the video 😊

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Stephen - thought it was excellent value and I’d definitely do it again 👍

[@Fcutdlady]

Come to Dublin and do the luas tram system . I can help you with advice if needed

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks. I’ve just been brought Dublin again recently. Took the train up to Sligo. I’ve tried the trams but don’t know that much about them tbh. Love Dublin though accommodation is really expensive these days so I tend to get there and move on a lot of the time. 😊

[@MichaelCampin]

You missed the Tyne Foot Tunnel between North and South Shields

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Something for next time 😊👍

[@simon11235]

@@LetsMakeaTrip The foot tunnel is a great experience, although not the easiest to get to. It's all tiled inside and I reckon it looks like an old-fashioned victorian public loo!

[@peterosullivan9942]

Subscriber to your channel. I live 2 miles from Blaydon and use the trains to Sunderland for the football every home game. I use the metro only when the trains have issues as the train is far faster. The 10 bus service from Hexham/Ryton/Blaydon to Newcastle is actually really good. It runs every 20 mins and I use that to get back home from Blaydon. Its a very good service these days. You tried it on Great North Run day which is probably the worst ever time to do it. There would have been thousands using the metro to get back from South Shields after the run and buses all all over the area get delayed due to the run and the congestion in central Newcastle and they re allocate metros and buses to deal with that. Try it on another day.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Hi Peter, many thanks for the sub! I think I must’ve been just unlucky with the bus. It was a few weeks before the Great North Run because yes, I agree, the network I’m sure would’ve been rammed that day. Overall though, pretty good and I will be back.

[@paulmark63]

Hi mark Paul from Kent hope you are well great video something I need to do on my bucket list

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Hi Paul, cheers mate. Definitely worth the money this. I’d do it differently next time but still a bargain 👍

[@kevanhubbard9673]

There are 2 rover type tickets 🎫.The one you had which is only valid in the PTE area the other is Explorer North East which allows for travel on what you did plus many buses between Berwick upon Tweed and Scarborough and across to Carlisle.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

And I think if I was staying longer the latter would’ve been really useful 👍

[@scott567100]

Love all of your content Mark, you’re definitely my favourite KZbinr to watch. What kind of camera / device do you use for your videos may I ask? Do you use any editing software to put them together?

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks Scott. I use a DJI Osmo Action4 with Magix Vegas 21 Pro.

[@scott567100]

@@LetsMakeaTrip Thanks Mark. I know some people use Go Pros for their channels, I currently use my iPhone 11 Pro for mine but wondering if I would be better off with something like a Go Pro or DJI Osmo instead. I’m not really a vlogger though, more just record travel content. Keep up the good work though, you’ve been great inspiration to me for my new upcoming channel

[@mickgriffiths9982]

You’ll have to come back next year as the new metro trains will be in use

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yes, from December by the sounds of it.

[@mickgriffiths9982]

@@LetsMakeaTrip they should have been out earlier this year but the dates got put back

[@kevinbrewis6014]

and, the last time I was on the Metro with my then girlfriend was on an August Bank Holiday there was a huge fight on the platform, not been on it since 2002

[@paulgibsonphotography]

Great Video Mark

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Paul 😊👍

[@TravelJackJourneys158]

Fantastic video I don't know why the KPH Speed limits could be something to do with Trams.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

There’s a couple of theories in the comments. Basically sounds like they’re continental trains and set up to display km/h (from what I’ve read anyway).

[@otisreed8799]

1:03... last time I walked along here was to catch a 6 am flight in Jan 2023... it was freeeezing!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I bet! I try to avoid those early morning flights these days if I can!

[@TheJamster2006]

The front seat out of use sticker no longer applies as it was a measure implemented during covid to allow the driver to access the cab while social distancing. There are a few trains where the stickers haven't been removed yet but as you saw, there was no issue with you sitting there. Obviously if the driver requests you to vacate the area for any reason then you would

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers mate, yes reading the comments on here it’s all to do with covid. Shame the new trains won’t have the front seat views though.

[@alanmedows2624]

What Sunday did you travel on? Great North Run was on 8 Sept so there would have been delays.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

It was 2-3 weeks before that Alan tbh.

[@Wayne814]

Surprised the metro didn't break down or have lines closed and replacement busses on. Haven't used the metro since May and to be honest rarely had problems with it myself.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yep didn’t experience any issues at all tbf and on a Sunday too.

[@greensidemags]

Shouldn't have bothered with Blaydon . should have got off the Northern train 1 stop earlier at the metrocentre with its big bus station. As for the metro trains the front seats were out of use during covid maybe an old sticker. You filmed a new metro train at 8.13 unfortunately no front seat view for passengers on them .

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yes next time I would do things a little differently 👍

[@jonathanm2690]

This might seem like a silly question, where are the drivers of the trains located, I noticed you were able to get a view from the front.

[@0191Marko]

@6:27 in the vid will give you the answer to your question, I was going to say they were seated at the back but I’m in a charitable mood today.

[@Kirkee7]

I shall look forward to your DFDS ferry to Amsterdam. My interest is to find out about a bus transfer from Amsterdam ferry terminal to Amsterdam Central station. Is it inclusive with the ferry ticket or does one have to book through some bus travel agency or, can you buy a bust ticket when you get off the ferry ?

[@QuietManUK]

The speeds are in kilometers because the Metro rolling stock is the same as the Singapore Metro and to save costs bought the identical trains.

[@MichaelCampin]

The front seats were out of use during Covid lockdown but are in use these days

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Nice one, thanks 👍

[@jamessmith6402]

Thanks Marc that was a super interesting video I knew absolutely nothing about the Newcastle Metro 👍

[@robertmorris5214]

Great video

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Robert 😊👍

[@Gregdotgreg]

Newcastle Castle. Reminds me of Battersea Power Station Station 😂

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Not the biggest castle in the world!

[@kevinbrewis6014]

you can get to Whitby from Blaydon

[@richardfurness7556]

You seem to have missed Wallsend, which as far as I know is the only station in England where the signage is in two languages: English and Latin.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I did miss Wallsend yes. One for next time 👍

[@stephenvarty191]

The first half dozen or so out of 46 trains have arrived and are currently undergoing testing around the network without passengers. Unfortunately there will be no drivers view seats.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Stephen, I’m sure I’ll try them out at some point though something tells me they won’t be as exciting as the old ones!

[@leestravels7079]

It's ok, Blaydon is a let down for most visitors 😂 £6.80 is great value though for getting around the north-east, thanks for showcasing how accessible the place is

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Lee, I’ll definitely do it again at some point 👍

[@philipsutton5652]

The seat out of use at the front was a hangover from covid i believe. The drivers wanted their distance despite being in an enclosed cab.

[@TransportGeekery]

It was more to do with the fact that the drivers enter and exit their cab via the passenger area

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yes this seems to be the general consensus

[@MIKECHENDERSON1]

If I knew you were stranded in Blaydon I would have popped down and said hello, I just live behind the church, St Cuthbert's that you showed in the video. The buses aren't usually that bad but it only takes a few issues in Newcastle or the Metrocentre to disrupt the timetable especially on limited timetable that runs on a Sunday. Although it was nice to see Blaydon in your video there is not much in Blaydon to interest the visitor. The church dates from 1845 and that's about it. I totally agree with the previous comment that suggested you should have jumped off the train a stop earlier at the Metrocentre . Again not a lot to interest the visitor. When it first opened the shopping centre was the biggest in Europe. Metrocentre does boast a lot more buses so you may have had less of a wait to get back to Newcastle.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Mike, I did go and have a quick look at the church. Honestly I must’ve been wandering around the bus station for an hour so there was always a chance you’d have seen me! Agree though I would try the Metrocentre next time. All good experience 👍

[@ferryhilltrainspotter]

27:00 the new trains are due to start entering service in December time and unfortunately they won’t have the front seat views unfortunately

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers, yep sadly not by the looks of it. Well I’m glad I got to ride them before the change I guess 😊👍

[@alanlake5220]

Interesting that the Metro speed signs trackside are in KMH ?

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

They are yes 👍

[@Soundwave685]

Good to see youve experinced the authentic North East public transport experience.....Go North East ruining your day trip

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Haha, it was a blip but I’ll live with it.

[@charlesduncan3194]

Make the most of the old tram cars mate you can't look out of the front window in the new cars that are coming

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yep, I hear it’s just lateral seating on them all. Shame really.

[@stephenmcculley7]

I've read reports of the Class 555's being on test. Sadly no, you won't be able to get a front facing view and even worse, I believe all seats are facing inwards from the windows (like London Overground and some tube stock).

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yes that seems to concur with other people’s comments unfortunately

[@northeastpyro8796]

I believe the train crossing was broken for absolutely hours. The busses had to use the bridge bypass

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Interesting, I never did find out the cause of the delays.

[@northeastpyro8796]

@@LetsMakeaTrip I ain't a clue either I can only assume a fault. Or some poor soul on the tracks. It's quite common to be honest

[@jonny68s52]

Nice vid

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Jonny 😊👍

[@richardkennedy7104]

The front seat was out of use during COVID, social distancing for the driver, they removed the barrier but haven't got round to taking the stickers off

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yes I believe so thanks to these comments. 😊👍

[@-DC-]

Got your money worth out of a sub 7 quid ticket lol Totally agree far superior to driving I'd never be off it if i lived locally 👍

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Certainly did mate. I’m with you, much better using this than the car.

[@davidspear9790]

What an absolute bargain for all those modes of transport! A day ticket in my city costs £6.20 which only includes zone 1 and 2 bus services and nothing else!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

It is - the other place I can think of for a similar price is Merseyside with the Saveaway ticket (of course they have the ferries as well).