Things to do near Newcastle and Gateshead

Further Afield The Alnwick Garden Treehouse HERO

Treehouse Restaurant at The Alnwick Garden, Northumberland

Explore further afield...

NewcastleGateshead has plenty to see and do within the city, but there's also a world of experiences beyond in nearby Northumberland, County Durham and along the stunning North East coastline.

From the city to the stunning coast and rugged countryside, there are many ways to get outdoors and enjoy the wide-open space only a short drive outside of NewcastleGateshead. The North East is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK with miles of sandy coastline and scenic views; perfect for a day out with the kids, building sandcastles and splashing in the cool North Sea. The Northumberland countryside also provides a great day out thanks to its quaint English villages, National Trust sites like Wallington and Cragside and luscious green nature reserves as well as award-winning attractions like The Alnwick Garden and its spectacular Treehouse Restaurant.

Further Afield Auckland Castle HERO with the Chapel on the right image by Graeme Peacock

The Auckland Project

Northumberland is also home to many historic castles and stately homes hidden among the scenery and a great way to enjoy the countryside on NewcastleGateshead’s doorstep.

Visitors can even walk beside UNESCO World Heritage Site Hadrian's Wall and explore many of the English Heritage venues, Roman forts and properties along the route. Get active with a walk through Kielder forest and around the lake or stay late into the evening to marvel at the dark skies at Kielder Observatory.

County Durham to the south of Gateshead provides a great day out for visitors looking for things to do – from Beamish Museum to The Auckland Project with multiple, historic sites including Auckland Castle, to explore within easy reach of NewcastleGateshead. Nearby Sunderland is home to showstopping theatre at Sunderland Empire which hosts some of the West End’s biggest shows from Dreamgirls and School of Rock to Phantom of the Opera.