The gateway to the mid-North coast of New South Wales, Newcastle is the up-and-coming destination you're probably missing out on. From five-star accomodation, theatres, buzzy restaurants and surreal coastlines, there are so many reasons this hotspot should be your next weekend trip.

Find below, our definitive guide of how to spend 48 hours exploring Newcastle.

Stay

The best choice is The Kingsley. It's a Crystalbrook hotel. Located right next to the Newcastle Civic Theatre, it's walking distance from all the major city-based sites.

It has a couple of on-site restaurants and a bar that has panoramic city views. It's no surprise this is Newcastle's first five star hotel.

Eat

There's absolutely no shortage of great places to eat in Newcastle.

For a finer experience, Roundhouse at The Kingsley has beautiful modern Australian food with a truly excellent wine list

You might be familiar with the name Light Years as there is a location in Byron Bay. I was delighted to find there is a serene and sultry iteration in Newcastle in the city centre.

For lunch, Ms Mary has a relaxed cafe vibe. It also serves high tea, ideal if you want to get a group together.

Hao Chi is perfect if you wish to consume your own weight in dumplings. It was delicious.

Of course, if you wish to venture out a little, eRemo and Botanica in the Hunter Valley are both excellent.

Do

My must-do for Newcastle is to grab a drink at Romberg's. This bar located at the top of the Kingsley has a view of the whole city. It's best at night when you can see the city all lit up.

Catch a show at Civic Theatre after your drink.

During the day be sure to head out to the newly renovated Newcastle Baths. Bring a swimsuit in summer or a coffee and sandwich in winter and just admire the quiet beauty of the new pools.

Take the short walk up to the top of Nobbys Beach Lighthouse for some great views of the coast. From April to November its a great spot to whale watch.

Of course you can also venture into the Hunter Valley and visit the world-class wineries. Try Hungerford Hill, Usher Tinkler, Vinden, Krinklewood, Margan and 1813.

Just out of Newcastle is a quaint town called Morpeth. If you want to see old stone buildings and browse through shops with handmade wares, this is the perfect location for that. There's also a cosy restaurant and cellar door there called Boydell's.

Take

For a winter time visit, make sure you take winter warmers so you can truly enjoy your hotel. I brought my Kindle, full Medik8 skincare routine include face masks and cosy Toorallie socks for the ultimate comfort.

If you're venturing into the wineries, a sturdy pair of boots is essential and  to keep warm and stack jewellery to accessorise. Also, if your car isn't up to the unfinished roads, you might want consider renting one. As a Volvo SUV driver, this will always be my recommendation.

In the summer time, stash a swimsuit, sunscreen and sarong into a beach bag for the Newcastle baths. A dress that can take you day-to-night is always a winner. Also, take a pair of easy heels.