My Top 10 Places
By Peter Beardsley, Ex Newcastle United and England Player
1. St. James’ Park
Top of my list, fantastic stadium supported by the indomitable “Toon Army” loyal fans. What tremendous memories I have of the times when I played here – unbelievable - it will always hold a special place in my heart - no-one can ever take those memories away.
2. Tyne Theatre & Opera House
Built and designed in 1867 by William B. Parnell it was here in 2000 that I made my debut as “King Pedro of Gallowgate” in Sleeping Beauty, fun packed from start to finish I had an absolute ball.
3. Greys Monument, Theatre
Royal & Grey Street Earl Grey regally overlooks the city as he has since 1838 watching it evolve right into the 21st century and has stood the test of time - with one exception having been struck by lightning in 1941. The Theatre Royal is exceptional. Where I have spent many happy hours with my family, it brings a wealth of great, new and varied talent to the city for us Northerners to enjoy, and blends in perfectly with the arc of Regency buildings of Grey Street.
4. The Angel of the North
The Angel continues to enthrall us all from her vantage point at the top of the A1. Whenever I see her she reminds me that I am home and it gives me a great buzz to be back in the city which I love.
5. Newcastle Central Station
Victorian elegance at its best; opened in 1850 and restored to its former glory over the last twenty years, its architecture is magnificent as is its huge clock when arriving from and departing to the South.
6. Plate Day at Newcastle Racecourse
Highlight of the summer and one of the best days in June, great fun bringing enormous pleasure to everyone in the
North especially peoplewatchers. It is an ideal stage on which to meet up with friends and business associates alike. Exceptional.
7. Newcastle International Airport
My favourite airport and a main gateway to the region if you pardon the pun. First opened in 1935, the new expansion which opened in 2000 brought an increase in carriers and took passenger numbers to almost 6 million in 2008.
8. Wallsend Boys Club
It was from here that I had the opportunity of being propelled into football. Its reputation is legend having produced many stars such as Steve Bruce, Alan Shearer, Lee Clark, Michael Carrick and me.
9. Longbenton
The area has seen many changes from when I grew up in the sixties with my parents and siblings, life was very different from today – sometimes it could be difficult but we learnt the true value of life, friendship and understanding. The community spirit in those days helped shape and mould me into the person I am today.
10. Slaley Hall
Football is my first sport – golf a close second, and if my schedule permits I participate in fundraising tournaments at Slaley which is double-sided really as I get great pleasure from the game and fundraising
for local charities.
Click here to read the Top 10 choices of award-winning local author David Almond
Click here to read the Top 10 choices of BBC Look North presenter Carol Malia
Click here to read the Top 10 choices of England rugby players Jonny Wilkinson and Matthew Tait
Click here to read the Top 10 choices of triple-jump world record holder Jonathan Edwards
Look out for more celebrity Top 10s in our quarterly What's On Guide, your essential guide to the events, performances and exhibitions in and around NewcastleGateshead.
