The North East of England includes the areas of Northumberland, NewcastleGateshead, Durham and Tees Valley. Thanks to extensive transport links and the compact nature of this part of the UK, a range of attractions can be easily explored. From stately homes and gardens to galleries and steam trains, every day can be filled with something wonderful.
Tees Valley is an alluring tourist area. It boasts working museums that reveal the region`s proud railway and maritime heritage, acclaimed modern art, designer shopping and a thriving surfing scene.
Durham Market Place © Mrs Logic/flickr.com
Durham is a beautiful cathedral city that contrasts cosmopolitan galleries and cafes with an amazing history. The rural surroundings from the North Pennines to the Heritage Coast show off outstanding natural beauty.
NewcastleGateshead is a lively location with inspirational music and art, exceptional shopping and divine places to eat. This dazzling contemporary city offers everything within walking distance plus it`s just 20 minutes from the coast by Metro.
Northumberland is the place for exhilaration and relaxation. From the glorious coastline to the rolling Cheviot Hills to Hadrian`s Wall Country, it`s all simply breathtaking. The region is dotted with historic castles and traditional market towns.
For those that like to sample fine ales, the North East of England is the place to visit! Durham has a long tradition of brewing and visitors can explore many pubs and breweries, including The Staples Pub and Micro Brewery near Beamish and the Surtees Arms, voted Durham Pub of the Year. Breweries explain their taste techniques with opportunities to sample local produce.
Coquet Island © Jim Donelly/flickr.com
North East England`s stunning landscapes have been inspiring artists over many centuries. For those interested in exploring some awe-inspiring artwork, there are a host of exciting places to visit in this region. From prehistoric rock carvings at Simonside Hills in Northumberland National Park, to the LS Lowry Trail in Berwick upon Tweed, to the iconic Angel of the North modern sculpture by Anthony Hopkins, the area is brimming with creativity and flare. Newcastle is home to many impressive art galleries and museums, including the Laing Art Gallery and the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art.
There are many guided tours on offer across the region, including boats trips, city tours and countryside tours. Cruises run along the River Tyne and Tees and tour boats sail around Coquet Island to see puffins, seals and rare seabirds and to Farne Island, taking in grey seal colonies.
There is a wonderful range of accommodation to suite everyone in North East England. B&Bs and guest houses range from old farmhouses to cosy seaside cottages while hotels come in the form of boutique city buildings, grand country houses and even castles, steeped in a wealth of history. For those that prefer self-catering, visitors can choose from countryside or coastal cottages, packed with charm and character. There are also a range of caravan, camping and hostel options.
Wherever visitors choose to stay, accommodation can be easily arranged online, in advance or last minute and there is plenty of information available to make an informed choice. For those that like surprises, from North East England to London secret rooms can even be arranged, adding that extra twist to the holiday! Secret hotel rooms are usually offered at discount prices, due to the location being revealed after booking.
