Newcastle council has developed three new self-guided walking tours that showcase some of our city's lesser known but most fascinating treasures.

The tours have been developed at a moderate exertion level to be accessible to as many people as possible.

All three taking less than three hours (depending on walking speed), so each tour can be completed in the space of a free morning or leisurely afternoon.

They also take you by Newcastle's lovely cafes if you want to grab lunch or a quick cuppa.

The Artists' City: Moderate - 2.5hrs / 5.1km

Newcastle has nurtured, supported and inspired generations of artists. Explore the city through their eyes, visit galleries, and view examples of the extraordinary public art that populates our landscape.

Convict and Industry: Moderate - 2hrs 45mins / 5km

This walk explores the city's early years as a convict settlement as well as its economic dependence on coal and steel.

Newcastle at War: Moderate - 2.5hrs / 4.4km

Explore the conflicts that shaped our landscape and character and meet locals who left Newcastle to participate in some of the most devastating wars in history.

You may extend your journey to take in the magnificent Memorial Walk opened April 2015.

The walk commemorates the Anzac Centenary and those from Newcastle and the Hunter region who enlisted for service in WWI.

■ Downloadable tour brochures and maps are available online at visitnewcastle.com.au. Click on Newcastle Walking Tours in the main menu on the home page.