Introduction
Newcastle International Airport may be small by global standards, but that’s exactly what makes it a joy to use. With a well-organised layout and a typical pavement-to-departures time of under ten minutes, it’s one of the most stress-free gateways in the UK.
Once you’ve checked in and breezed through security, you’ll find yourself on the inevitable post-screening detour, the duty-free rat run, a winding path through fragrances, spirits, and giant Toblerone before you emerge into the main departures area.
This was the start of my trip to Düsseldorf on the way to Kosice, beginning with a glass of champagne at Aster & Thyme, followed by a visit to the Main Aspire Lounge, and ending with a short hop on Eurowings Economy.
Stop One: Aster & Thyme – Champagne at the Bar
After navigating the duty-free maze, I headed straight to Aster & Thyme, a stylish bar and restaurant in departures. The space has large windows offering excellent tarmac views, perfect for watching the comings and goings of aircraft before boarding.
I took a seat at the bar and ordered a chilled glass of champagne, the official start of my trip. Even better, my Priority Pass provided an £18 food & drink allowance, which neatly covered the cost. Even if you have lounge access, Aster & Thyme is worth visiting first for its views and atmosphere.
Stop Two: The Aspire Lounge
Newcastles Aspire-branded lounge has three offerings, each catering to different passenger types:
- Main Aspire Lounge Access via airline status, Priority Pass, DragonPass, or paid entry. Features a manned bar with beer, wine, and basic spirits, but no tarmac views.
- Luxe Lounge Business class, Status holders, or Paid, offers self serve free premium spirits and an elevated setting.
- The Suite Predominantly used by Emirates, offering à la carte dining and a more exclusive feel.
I was travelling on Economy with Lufthansa Senator status, which gave me access to the main Aspire Lounge . While it’s comfortable, its lack of runway views makes Aster & Thyme a better choice for avgeeks.
Inside the Main Aspire Lounge
The main lounge has a calm, comfortable atmosphere with a mix of armchairs, café tables, and buffet seating. The décor is modern enough, but without the panoramic glass or tarmac perspective, it’s more of a retreat than a viewing spot.
Food & Drink
The morning buffet offered:
- Scrambled eggs, bacon, baked beans
- Fresh pastries, cereals, toast
- Fruit, yoghurt
- Self-service coffee, tea, and the man bar for beer, wine, and spirits
It’s a standard spread for a regional UK airport lounge, not extravagant, but enough to get you flight-ready. At the time of my visit the food had clearly been out for a while and was pretty dry. There was a pasta dish with Garlic bread, a vegetarian curry with rice, and some basic salad/meat/cheese choices
Boarding the Eurowings Economy Flight
The gate was a short walk away. Boarding was quick and efficient, and the crew were welcoming as I stepped onboard.
In-Flight Experience
Cabin & Comfort
Eurowings’ Economy cabin is configured 3–3 with slimline seats. Legroom was fine for the 90-minute hop, and the cabin was clean and bright. The staff were pleasant and present in the cabin for most of the flight.
Service
As a low-cost carrier, Eurowings operates buy-on-board catering. I couldn’t resist the currywurst and fries, and these, along with a surprisingly decent coffee, kept me occupied for a good part of the flight. Reasonably priced for in flight food, surprisingly tasty, and the chips were crisp which came as a nice surprise.
Arrival
We touched down in Düsseldorf on schedule, leaving plenty of time for my onward connection as the next flight would be leaving from the same concourse.
Final Verdict
- Aster & Thyme: ★★★★☆ Stylish, with excellent tarmac views, ideal for a pre-flight champagne using Priority Pass allowance.
- Main Aspire Lounge: ★★★☆☆ Comfortable, decent buffet, but no runway views and nothing beyond the basics.
- Eurowings Economy: ★★★☆☆ On time, clean, and functional, exactly right for a short European sector.
Watch the Video Review
🎥 Coming soon to Spontaneous Horizons YouTube – full tour of the Newcastle Aspire Lounge and in-flight footage from this Eurowings hop to Düsseldorf.
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