NewcastleGateshead has it all, if we say so ourselves. But there are also many attractions to be enjoyed in the  surrounding areas of North East England. Explore history and heritage, coasts and countryside, and vibrant cities and towns.

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History and heritage.

For history and heritage, where better to start than Hadrian’s Wall? This iconic World Heritage Site has a host of fascinating forts and museums waiting to be discovered.

The spectacular Norman cathedral and castle at Durham are also World Heritage Sites. The cathedral is the last resting place of St Bede, St Cuthbert and the head of St Oswald.

For more Christian heritage visit Lindisfarne Priory, perched on the rocky Holy Island. Dating from the 7th century, this historic priory is considered a cradle of Christianity. For maritime history visit the Captain Cook Birthplace Museum in Middlesbrough or Hartlepool Maritime Experience, where you’ll find a faithful reproduction of an 18th century seaport and the HMS Trincomalee, Britain’s oldest warship.

Railway heritage is also in plentiful supply. Why not visit the Darlington Railway Centre and Museum and the fascinating Locomotion, the National Railway Museum at Shildon?

When it comes to castles, North East England comes up trumps once again. One of the largest and most impressive is medieval Raby Castle. Dunstanburgh Castle is another imposing site, perched on a cliff top. Bamburgh is a fine coastal castle overlooking the Farne Islands. Other castles worth visiting are Warkworth, Auckland, Barnard Castle, Lindisfarne, Tynemouth and Durham, mentioned above.

Finally, a great day out is to be had at Alnwick Castle. You may recognise this enchanting place from its starring role in the Harry Potter films.

Cities and towns.

In North East England we have more than our fair share of happening cities and bustling market towns. Alnwick, Durham, Yarm, Darlington, Corbridge and Hexham are just some of the fantastic places worth exploring. Each is crammed with unique shops, markets, arts and crafts, cafés and superb restaurants. If you’re looking for culture, you’ll find inspiring theatre at the Sunderland Empire and Durham Gala Theatre. There are also plenty of exciting events happening throughout the year across the entire region.


Coasts and countryside.

We’re blessed with some truly outstanding landscapes. But don’t just take our word for it. The North Pennines and the Northumberland Coast have both been officially designated as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Areas like the Northumberland National Park are ideal for walking and cycling. You’ll find trails catering for everyone from the serious athlete to the weekend stroller. Wildlife enthusiasts are also spoilt for choice. Our region is home to animal life ranging from black grouse to rare red squirrels.

The Farne Islands are one of the best places in the country for bird watching, with a multitude of puffins on show in breeding season. There are so many attractions to explore in North East England that you’re guaranteed a great day out wherever you go.

Alnwick Garden is set within the original 18th century garden, it mixes traditional garden design with strikingly modern ideas and has over 65,000 individual plants.  A new addition to the garden is the Treehouse - one of the largest wooden treehouses in the world.

Find out more at: www.visitnortheastengland.com (opens in a new window)