When you think of Newcastle, your mind probably jumps straight to industry or football. But after a recent visit, I discovered there’s another side to the city. One that’s stylish and effortlessly cool.
Sitting proudly on the Quayside, Malmaison Newcastle projects this very vibe perfectly. The location couldn’t be better. With the Millennium Bridge stretching across the River Tyne and Newcastle’s iconic bridges framing the skyline, every walk outside feels cinematic. I totally lucked out with the weather as I arrived to sunny skies and managed to check out the local Sunday Market which was a little way down from the hotel.
Whether you’re wandering along the Quayside’s bars and restaurants or crossing into Gateshead for an evening stroll, you’re perfectly positioned to explore one of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.
Boutique Style with Character
Set inside a former warehouse, Malmaison beautifully blends Newcastle’s industrial heritage with a contemporary boutique feel. This 4-star hotel features 122 rooms and suites in total. As you step through the doors, the energy of the city gives way to rich colours, soft lighting and that unmistakable Malmaison atmosphere. It feels stylish without trying too hard, creating an inviting space that encourages you to switch off from the moment you arrive whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure.
My room carried that same sense of character. Think plush bedding, moody interiors and thoughtful little touches that make it easy to relax. The chilled bottle of bubbles was also highly appreciated! The real highlight for me though was the oversized bed, which delivered exactly what every city break calls for: a genuinely good night’s sleep.
Despite the hotel’s prime location, external noise was minimal, making it the perfect setting for a slow morning and a proper hotel-room ritual. If you’re lucky enough to book a bridge facing room, the views across the Tyne become part of the experience too.
Dining at Chez Mal
Chez Mal is the hotel’s onsite restaurant and it feels more like heading out to one of Newcastle’s chic dining spots. It’s perfect for cocktails which naturally lead into a leisurely dinner. The menu offers classic brasserie favourites with a modern twist making it just as popular with locals as it is with hotel guests. Breakfast the following morning struck the perfect balance too. Relaxed, generous and exactly what you need before setting off to explore the city.
There is a continental buffet selection with fresh pastries, fruits, yogurts and juices along with a choice of hot dish to order from the menu. Call me boring but any brekkie menu which has boiled eggs and soldiers is a winner for me.
Serene Spa
Ticking even more boxes, this Malmaison hotel also boasts a spa area. This helps for those stays which you want to be more restorative. It offers a welcome contrast to the busier parts of the hotel and general day to day life!
Guests have a full array of treatments to choose from so it’s easier than ever to spend time unwinding between plans or work, or simply taking a moment to reset after a full day out sightseeing. Day visitors are also welcomed with spa packages or treatments to suit everyone no matter what your pressure points or mood requires.
The fitness facilities also make it easy to keep up your pace during the stay. Having access to a dedicated workout area means guests can fit in a short morning session or a longer gym routine if not rushing or even just a light stretch before heading out for the day. This balance of spa relaxation and fitness helps the hotel feel well suited to both leisure and everyday wellbeing, which is something more and more guests are adding to their list of non-negotiables for their hotel stay.
Comfort Without the Fuss
One of the things I appreciated most about Malmaison Newcastle is its level of comfort. Thoughtful design, friendly service and spaces where you genuinely want to spend time all come together effortlessly. Whether you’re lingering with a coffee, unwinding with a spa treatment or simply watching life on the river from your room, it’s a hotel that encourages you to enjoy the moment and your surroundings.
Reflections on the Stay
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend break, catching up with friends or travelling for business, Malmaison Newcastle is an ideal base to experience the city. Perfectly placed on the vibrant Quayside, it puts the best of Newcastle within easy reach while offering a comfortable place to recharge at the end of the day.
It’s the kind of stay that lets you experience the city at its best—whether that’s exploring, dining or simply soaking up the atmosphere.
Review and Images by Zoe Laing @_zozogram_
Some images supplied
