Attending a Lecture
Before you arrive
Registering for tickets
All our events are free and open to all, but pre-booking is required. Bookings for lectures will open at 10:00 one week before the event. Bookings for some events, such as Newcastle Debates, opens a few weeks before the event, please check the event listing for further details.
To reserve your place visit the Public Lecture event listing and click on 'Book your place'. This will take you to the Eventbrite page to complete your booking. If you have previously registered for tickets, you can log in to your account on the Eventbrite website. You can also sign up as a new user.
If you're unable to use the online booking system please email public.lectures@ncl.ac.uk. Include your full name, contact information and the details of the lecture you would like to book tickets for. Or leave a message on our booking voicemail line 0191 208 6136.
For school or group bookings, please email the Public Lectures Team.
When you arrive
Venue
All INSIGHTS Public Lectures take place in the Curtis Auditorium, Herschel Building, NE1 7RY. It is conveniently located close to Haymarket Metro station and the Bus Station.
The Herschel Building was built in 1962. It's named in honour of Alexander Stuart Herschel, the first Professor of Physics and grandson of the astronomer and composer Frederick William Herschel.
Arrival time
To avoid crowding, please arrive for events no earlier than 17:15. If you arrive before this time, you may be asked to wait outside the building.
Check in
Our event stewards will greet you on arrival. We operate a paperless ticketing system and if you have pre-booked your ticket your name will be on our attendee list at the door.
Watching lectures online
Although it is not possible to watch INSIGHTS Public Lectures live, a recording of most events will be available to watch on the past lectures page. Pending permission from the speaker, recordings are usually available within one week of the event. They will remain on our website for you to enjoy at your leisure.
Accessibility and facilities
If you are planning to attend one of our events and have specific access requirements, please email public.lectures@ncl.ac.uk or telephone 0191 208 6093.
The Curtis Auditorium is a tiered lecture theatre and has eight designated spaces for wheelchair users, with flat level access.
There is also a hearing loop system and an accessible toilet nearby.
Please contact us if you or a guest will be accompanied by an assistance dog. We’ll make sure the dog can sit with you comfortably.
There are no catering outlets at the Herschel Building, however there are cafes on nearby Northumberland Street.
Directions
The Herschel Building is located a 3-5 minute walk from Haymarket Metro Station and Bus Station, and is easily accessible by Public Transport.
From Haymarket Metro Station:
With your back to the Metro Station, cross over Percy Street and enter George Place (with the INTO Building on your right). The Main Entrance Herschel Building is up the set of stairs in front of you, or via the ramp to your right.
From Haymarket Bus Station:
Walk past The Junction Pub in the direction of Haymarket Metro Station. With your back to the Metro Station, cross over Percy Street and enter George Place (with the INTO Building on your right). The Main Entrance Herschel Building is up the set of stairs in front of you, or via the ramp to your right.
Car parking
Limited car parking is available at Newcastle University from 16:00 onwards at a cost of £1 per hour. Access to the Herschel Building car park is via King's Road via St Thomas Street. Payment must be made using the Pay by Phone app (car park reference: 806752).
There are two accessible blue badge holder bays outside the Herschel Building. They are available on a first-come first-served basis, with payment via the app.