My Top 10 Places

By Carol Malia - BBC Look North Presenter

1. The City Hall
I think this is one of the most intimate venues in the city. It holds lots of teenage memories for me; particularly of seeing Japan in the mid-eighties! They were the heart throbs of the day if you were cool; I was amazed to see them in the flesh. I also had a good dance around to The Waterboys.

2. The Tyne Bridge
This is still the classic. Even with the quayside’s regeneration which has created some new and impressive icons, the Tyne Bridge still holds its own. It is a testament to the design of the Tyne Bridge that after 80 years it is still the best.

3. Tynemouth Longsands Beach
Tynemouth is my hometown so I feel particularly proud of this beach. It is the best place for a breezy Sunday walk.

4. Jesmond Dene
I love walking here during my lunch hour. Of all the cities I have been to, I have never known another with a properly wooded, landscaped area. It’s not just a park; it’s a real destination that people flock to throughout the year.

5. Paradiso
Tasty light food, very friendly service and a great cocktail bar downstairs make Paradiso one of my favourite places to eat.

6. Fifiefofum Art Gallery
This gallery in Newton, near Stocksfield is a great place to buy local art. Its location also allows you to enjoy amazing views of the Tyne Valley.

7. World Headquarters
I’ve not been for years but out of all the bars and clubs in Newcastle this is the one I veer towards the most. It has great people, fabulous music and a great atmosphere.

8. Corbridge Village
Corbridge is a beautiful historic village that I frequently visit for its independent food shops. I especially love Corbridge Larder for cheeses and speciality biscuits – always great to spoil dinner guests with. The butchers is fantastic too, for weekend bacon sandwiches and fresh chicken for a Sunday roast.

9. Sunrise at Tynemouth Priory
Another one of Tynemouth’s assets, the sun coming up over Tynemouth Priory is my favourite view in the North East.

10. Luccia’s in Jesmond
I’m always in there picking up a huge takeaway salad or enjoying a cool glass in the summer - they even chill the glasses for your water!

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.