My Top 10 Places

By Shay Given, Newcastle United Goalkeeper

10. Bamburgh
The North East coastline has many beautiful attractions but Bamburgh is possibly the jewel in the crown. The Castle sits impressively on the horizon as you drive in from the A1, whilst the village itself is quaint and dreamy. Budle Bay ‘next door’ is an outstanding beach whilst it boasts a magnificent golf course too.

9. Alnwick Garden
There are some places it’s difficult to find the right words and the Alnwick Gardens is one of those places. It’s got the lot really and makes for an absolutely fantastic day out for all the family.

8. Angel of the North
You can’t help but like the Angel. The iconic landmark of Tyneside and it really is an awesome sight. Quite how it was built I don’t know and I well remember the time that a huge black and white football shirt was seen draped around its shoulders!

7. The Discovery Museum
Set in the heart of Newcastle, this museum has something for everyone. Modern and well laid out, the Play Tyne area is ideal for children, the Science Maze has numerous educational attractions, you can walk through 100 years of local history, and there’s much much more as well.

6. The Tyne Bridges
It’s amazing to think there are seven bridges in such a small area, all with their unique character. Whether it be the older bridges which used to carry the great steam trains in and out of the central station, or the splendid blinking eye Gateshead Millennium Bridge, there’s a favourite for everyone I’m sure.

5. Jesmond Dene
A fantastic little hideaway situated really close to the city centre. Some delightful walks through leafy shrub land, old mills, plenty of running water and falls and what’s more Pets Corner, which is a haven of interesting birds and animals you don’t often get a chance to see.

4. Tynemouth Priory and Beach
As I’ve said, we are blessed with a magnificent coastline. The Priory is a terrific attraction and from there it’s just a short walk down on to Longsands which is a super walk any time of the year.

3. St. Mary’s Lighthouse
I particularly like visiting the Lighthouse, that’s if you time your arrival right on the causeway. It’s a great walk over the cliffs, past the nature reserve, and then down to the Lighthouse itself. The rock pools are great too and round the back of the Lighthouse, there are a number of rocks it’s great fun clambering over.

2. Belsay Castle and Gardens
Maybe one of the less well known attractions but a fine
one at that. The walk through the gardens to the Castle is tremendous with the caved sections particularly appealing. Nearby Bolam Lake is also a favourite haunt where you can also enjoy many types of wildlife.

1. St. James’ Park
I’m finishing with my favourite! Our home ground is a magnificent stadium and when it’s rocking full of 52,000 Geordies in full voice, there’s no better place to be.

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.