The catering and hospitality sector in Newcastle
The Staffordshire market town of Newcastle-under-Lyme may not be the most obvious choice for catering and hospitality professionals looking to relocate to pastures new. However, a community feel, charming surrounding countryside and a host of entertainment and dining pursuits make it a great place to live.
Home to 75,000 residents, the town is part of the Potteries Urban Area that encompasses the city of Stoke-on-Trent, the Staffordshire Moorlands and Kidsgrove. Intriguingly, Newcastle-under-Lyme actually takes its name from the new castle erected around 1145 by Ranulf de Gernon, 4th Earl of Chester, in the proximity of the Lyme Forest.
There are four markets in Newcastle-under-Lyme: a general market (on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays) the antique market (every Tuesday), the flea market (every Thursday), and the farmers’ market (held on the third Friday of the month). Whether you’re after an artisanal Staffordshire oatcake or some handy knick-knacks, the town’s markets will please even the pickiest visitor.
Keele University is located about 3 miles (5km) west of Newcastle-under-Lyme, meaning there’s a vibrant student presence in and around town. The town is also home to the New Vic Theatre, which became the first purpose-built theatre-in-the-round in Europe when it opened its doors in 1983. And with a range of restaurants, pubs and eateries across town, there’s also plenty to explore in Newcastle’s small but eclectic food and drink scene.
For catering and hospitality professionals looking to up their game, the Potteries has many opportunities for training and development.
