Originally known as Post Halt Two on the journey between Port Natal-Durban and the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek (Transvaal), the town was referred to as Viljoensdorp by the Boers during their brief occupation in 1899. At the junction of three provinces, this 'natural' destination and departure point for travellers is now the largest town in northern KwaZulu- Natal.

Not only is Newcastle named after the mother of all Newcastles northern England's Newcastle-upon-Tyne but it also has links with 27 sister Newcastles worldwide.

Chelmsford Nature Reserve outside town, is renowned for carp and bass fishing. A 1000 ha game park, with rhino, wildebeest, zebra, blesbok and springbok. Bird species include Egyptian and spur winged goose and spoonbill. Sailing, power boating and water-skiing can be done.

Battles sites outside town on the N11 from Volksrust to Newcastle include Laing's Nek, Majuba and Schuinshoogte. Newcastle offers a variety of historical attractions:

Monuments and Memorials
Hilldrop House - once the home of author Rider Haggard, whose novel Jess, published in 1887, was based on his experiences at Hilldrop House.

Kestrels and Quaffers: Victoria Street. Housed in an historic turn of the century Manor House. Features Adams fireplaces, original sash windows and Oregon pine floors.

O'Neils Cottage:
This cottage the original home of Eugene O'Neil was used as a makeshift hospital for British soldiers during the Battle of Majuba and many of their graves are here.

St Dominic's Pavilion: A national monument, this elegant building dating from 1916 was designed as a skating rink and used for social events.

Town Hall: A national monument built in 1897 to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria.

Museums
Fort Amiel: Attractive historical complex overlooking the town. Houses a cultural/history museum. Nearby cemetery dates back to the First War of Independence. There is a monument to the officers and men of the Welsh 41st Regiment.

Buller's Headquarters: Used by General Buller as his headquarters. Now the business premises of the grandson of James Bruce, who built this quaint Victorian home in 1891.