By Jahni, 17

Newcastle’s high street isn’t what it used to be. Walk through the streets or down into Eldon Square, and you’ll see more food spots and entertainment venues than actual shops. Big names like Debenhams and Topshop have vanished, while restaurants, Bubble Tea shops and gaming arcades are taking their place. 

One of the biggest examples of this shift is the Grainger Market, a place once known for its butchers, greengrocers and bargain stalls, now home to some of the city’s best street food.

The Grainger Market is at the centre of this change. While you can still find a few traditional traders, food is now the main attraction. Slice serves up massive New York-style pizza and Acropolis is packed with people grabbing Greek gyros. The market is becoming a social space somewhere to meet up with friends rather than just a place to shop.

“Everywhere’s about eating out now,” says 16-year-old Sam from Heaton. “Shops are closing, but there’s a new café or burger place opening every week. It’s cool, but not everyone can afford to eat out all the time.”

“I barely buy stuff in town anymore,” says Aisha, 17. “If I go, it’s for food or to hang out. We used to go shopping for fun, but now we just go for bubble tea.”

It’s not just Grainger Market. Entertainment venues are popping up everywhere. From the bowling alley in Eldon Square to the new mini-golf bars, the city centre is turning into an experience-based destination.

“I love how there’s more to do,” says 18-year-old Kai. “But I also miss when town had more independent clothes shops. Now, if you want to shop, you just go online.”

The shift towards food and entertainment isn’t necessarily bad. Newcastle’s city centre feels more vibrant than ever. But as high streets become more about eating and experiences, one big question remains: where does that leave the people who just want to shop?

This story was written by a young person as part of the Headliners Young Journalist programme. This project was made possible by the Million Hours Fund.