My Top 10 Places

By Jonny Wilkinson and Matthew Tait - Newcastle Falcons and England

1. High Force Waterfall
“I really love waterfalls and the sound of water and many of my walks or visits involve water somehow. I think High Force is a beautiful place. The waterfall is set in such a dramatic backdrop and the sound of the waterfall is amazingly powerful. If you have a chance, visit it in Middleton in Teesdale.” Matthew Tait

2. Tynemouth Longsands
“Longsands is the most beautiful beach with fine golden sand and a great place to walk and peoplewatch; there is always something going on. As a team we often train there charging up and down the steps and then running along the sands before the compulsory dip into the sea – thankfully only thigh-high but there is always someone who takes that extra step!” Jonny Wilkinson

3. Kingston Park
“How could Kingston Park not be a favourite place of mine? It’s a great place to go, loads of entertainment – and you get to watch great rugby! The North East is such a football orientated area but up at Kingston Park we get some amazing support from our fans and it’s great to be out on the field in front of them.” Matthew Tait

4. Yo! Sushi, Fenwick
“Food! I have to mention it. I love sushi and this is one of my favourite places to eat after a hard day’s training, I can’t help but visit it.” Matthew Tait

5. Hanahana Japanese restaurant
“Not that I think about sushi a lot! This is another of my favourite restaurants in the city. I love Japanese food. Did I mention I love sushi?” Matthew Tait

6. Jesmond Dene
“Jesmond Dene is pretty near where I live so it’s a great spot for taking a stroll and getting some fresh air. There’s also plenty of nature to see when I’m walking by.” Matthew Tait

7. Holy Island
“Holy Island is a great place to go and explore and the walk is always guaranteed to create a healthy appetite.” Jonny Wilkinson

8. North East golf courses
“There are some wonderful golf courses in the North East but perhaps my favourites are Matfen Hall and Slaley Hall.” Jonny Wilkinson

9. The Sage Gateshead
“The Sage Gateshead brings such unique character to the Quayside. It really stands out for me and architecturally looks so amazing especially when it glints in the evening light. It’s also home to some amazing music and really makes the North East
a great home for culture.” Matthew Tait

10. The Angel of the North
“I’m sure this is a firm favourite with everyone but to me, it means I’m home, in the North East and since signing another contract with Newcastle Falcons, it’s where I intend on staying for the time being.” Matthew Tait
“The Angel of the North is fantastic; I have been up the hill and stood at his feet in absolute awe of his size and presence. I feel the sight of his open arms as one approaches on the A1 is a real ‘Welcome Home”. Jonny Wilkinson

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.