Studded with listed buildings, famous for its vibrant nightlife, and industrious by day, Newcastle is one of Northern England’s most popular cities. The banks of the Tyne throb with places to go and things to do, from restaurants to cutting-edge galleries. Immerse yourself in the local culture, head out on a memorable day trip, and leave the ‘Toon’ with a tale to tell.
BALTIC wonders
One of several striking buildings on the Tyne quayside at Gateshead, the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art is a world-class gallery housed in a former grain store. This venue marries the area’s industrial past with its creative present, and hosts an ever-shifting array of modern art across every kind of form and discipline. Exhibitions regularly shift and change, making each visit different.
Approached at night via the Millennium Bridge, with its light reflected in the river below, the BALTIC makes for an inspiring sight. It also houses a cinema, bar, viewing deck and rooftop restaurant – where you’ll want to reserve a window seat for the best view in town. Nearby, you can visit the iconic glass building known as the Sage, which hosts regular music concerts – and is another great cultural destination in Gateshead.
The Roman north
When you’re this close to Hadrian’s Wall, you’re sure to encounter remnants of the Romans – who once used the North of England as a buttress against Scotland, and even ruled the Empire from the region at one time. Head into Wallsend – literally named – to find the remains of Segedunum fort, with its bathhouse, tower and museum.
Back in the city, the Great North Museum has plenty of Roman artefacts, and a lot more besides. Wander between ancient altar stones and old dinosaur remains, taking in a wonderful planetarium and a superb recreation of Hadrian’s Wall in the process. The museum is extremely kid-friendly, with plenty for them to interact with. They’ll also love the Life Science Centre too, which is very hands-on, while budding historians can delve into the Discovery Museum, mapping Tyneside history with aplomb.
Dazzling day trips
One of the real joys of Newcastle is how well-positioned it is to explore some of northern England’s greatest rural attractions.
Only an hour north on the Northumberland coast, you’ll find the impressive Bamburgh Castle, located in a prime position near the beach. Its history is rich and incredible, taking in Celts, Anglo-Saxons, Vikings and Normans. The astonishing fortress was bought by the Armstrong family in 1894, who helped restore its former glory. You can tour the impressive interior, which harks back to the past with its suits of armour. It’s no surprise that this castle has appeared in many TV shows and films.
The historic destinations of Alnwick and Durham, not to mention the beautiful nature reserve and Holy Island at Lindisfarne are also within easy reach, while those wishing to stick to the coast can also drive east to Whitley Bay, the archetypal British seaside resort. With soft, golden sand, a 19th century lighthouse and absolutely loads to do for children and families, head to the renovated Spanish City, originally built in 1910 and recently reopened with a restaurant and tearooms.
With car hire at Newcastle Airport, the wonders of Newcastle and the wider north-east are open to you – so start planning your adventure on the ‘Toon’.
