Go North East has announced the return of the award-winning Toon Tour open-top sightseeing bus later this month.

In 2023, the bus tour of Newcastle's top tourist attractions was crowned the UK's best in the Open Top Cup, organised by Great Scenic Journeys. It took 65% of a social media vote in the final two of the cup-style competition, leaving New Forest Tours in second place.

Toon Tour cast aside stiff competition from the Edinburgh City Tour, a scenic journey through the Peak District, and a trip along the Dorset and Cornwall coast. The Toon's returning hop-on, hop-off tour takes in attractions, museums, nightlife and industrial heritage in a circular route around the city.

The Tyne Bridge remains on the 55-minute jaunt, despite the Geordie icon's complicated four-year restoration being under way, and the route also takes in St James' Park, the Hancock Museum, Ouseburn, Grey's Monument and Newcastle Castle. For the upcoming season, buses have been refurbished and Hits Radio presenters Steve and Karen will lead the commentary which promises to be packed with "fascinating facts".

Alex Warner, chief executive of Great Scenic Journeys, said: "The Toon Tour really is a brilliant, fun-packed, invigorating adventure through this eclectic, iconic location where there’s always something great going on! Lovely customer service, fab views and a wonderful commentary were the recipe for success!

"Although it was a hotly contested competition, it’s clear there was no fog on the Tyne as Toon Tour, roared on by its passionate fans, sealed the trophy in style!"

Tickets to use on the Toon Tour cost £12.50 for adults and are valid on all Go North East services on that day, including the AD122 Hadrian's Wall Bus. The Toon Tour runs every 30 minutes from 10am - 5pm daily from Saturday, May 25 until September 1, and on weekends only from September 14 until October 6 (excluding the Great North Run weekend).

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