Go North East has reported a 58.87% growth in passenger numbers in the first 31 days of the school summer holidays compared with last year
Go North East's Toon Tour bus parked up at the Glasshouse with the Tyne Bridge in the background
Go North East's Toon Tour bus parked up at the Glasshouse with the Tyne Bridge in the background
(Image: Go North East)
Newcastle's open top bus tour has seen a big jump in passengers during this year's summer holidays. Go North East has reported a 58.87% increase in passengers on the Toon Tour in the first 31 days of the school summer holidays, with roughly 5,000 riding this year in comparison to roughly 3,000 in the same period in 2024.
Since the sightseeing tour of Newcastle and Gateshead returned on May 3, approximately 10,000 passengers have been on board. Changes for the 2025 season included reduced ticket prices for its launch weekend, improvements to the route and commentary from local radio legends Steve and Karen.
In 2024, 8,000 passengers had been aboard by August 25, 2024, though the season started later on May 25. The 55-minute trip starts at Central Station and takes visitors past St James' Park, Ouseburn, Newcastle Castle and the Quayside.
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It was named the UK's favourite open top bus tour in 2023 after seeing off competition from its New Forest rival and crosses both the Tyne and Swing Bridges. Visitors can hop on and off the bus at 19 different stops to explore the city further.
Daniel Laird, head of commercial at Go North East, said: "Our Toon Tour has thrived this summer and we're thrilled to see such a big increase in passenger numbers. Newcastle is a fantastic city, from iconic landmarks like the Tyne Bridge to important cultural venues like the Glasshouse International Centre for Music.
"You'll have the chance to see all of this and more on our open top bus tour. The 2025 Toon Tour season ends on 28 September so we'd encourage anyone keen to explore the city from a new angle to get on board soon!"
Tickets for the Toon Tour cost £10 for adults and £8 for students, over 60s, Blue Light Card holders and those with a valid Go North East ticket.