Cresting the north sea coastline of north east England, Tyne and Wear offers a tantalising blend of historyand culture, coastal landscapes and urban vibrancy.
- Newcastle upon Tyne: Begin your adventure in this city known for its iconic Quayside, the majestic Grainger Town, Castle Keep, and the iconic Tyne Bridge. Don’t miss a visit to the Grainger Market, where you can sample local delicacies.
- Angel of the North: Towering over the landscape, Antony Gormley’s Angel of the North is an sight. Admire this colossal sculpture, symbolizing the industrial heritage of the region, as it greets you on your journey.
- Durham Cathedral and Castle: Just a short drive from Newcastle, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Durham Cathedral and Castle are architectural marvels. Explore the cathedral and immerse yourself in the city’s compelling history.
- Beamish: Step back in time at Beamish, an open-air museum that brings the history of Northeast England to life. Wander through reconstructed historic buildings, ride on vintage trams, and interact with actors portraying characters from the past.
- Tynemouth Priory and Castle: Admire the ruins of Tynemouth Priory, an imposing medieval fortress overlooking the North Sea. Take a walk along the coastline, relax on Longsands Beach, and explore the quirky shops in Tynemouth Village.
- BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art: Located on the Quayside, the BALTIC is an international contemporary art venue housed in a former flour mill. Immerse yourself in thought-provoking exhibitions and enjoy panoramic views from the rooftop restaurant.
- Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens: Discover the history of Sunderland at the Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens. Explore the extensive collection of artworks, artifacts, and the indoor botanical garden.
- Segedunum Roman Fort: Unearth the history of Roman Britain at Segedunum Roman Fort in Wallsend. Explore the reconstructed Roman bathhouse, walk along the original fort walls, and visit the interactive museum.
- Saltwell Park: Escape the city and head to Gateshead’s Saltwell Park. This beautifully landscaped park offers greenery, lakes, a Victorian bandstand, and hidden gardens waiting to be explored.
- Victoria Tunnel: Delve beneath the city on a guided tour of the Victoria Tunnel. Originally built to transport coal, this subterranean tunnel played a vital role during World War II as an air-raid shelter.
Off-the-Beaten-Track Gems:
- Roker and Seaburn Beaches: Venture beyond the popular beaches and discover the beauty of Roker and Seaburn. These sandy stretches offer a peaceful escape and fantastic views across the North Sea.
- Penshaw Monument: A short drive from Sunderland, Penshaw Monument is a distinctive landmark that offers panoramic views from its impressive location atop Penshaw Hill.
- Whitley Bay: Explore the coastal town of Whitley Bay and enjoy its sandy beaches, historical Spanish City, and views from St. Mary’s Lighthouse.
- Rising Sun Country Park: Embark on a nature-filled adventure at Rising Sun Country Park. This sprawling park hosts woodlands, ponds, and meadows, providing asetting for a peaceful stroll or a family picnic.
- Ouseburn Valley: Wander through the Ouseburn Valley, known for its independent art galleries, quirky cafes, and leafy nature trails. Don’t miss a visit to the Ouseburn Farm, a hidden gem in this area.
- Marsden Bay: Discover the beauty of Marsden Bay, located near South Shields. Admire dramatic cliff formations, explore the Marsden Grotto, and keep an eye out for nesting seabirds.
- National Glass Centre: Uncover the art of glassmaking at the National Glass Centre in Sunderland. Watch skilled artists at work, learn about the history of glass, and even try your hand at creating your own masterpiece.
- Souter Lighthouse and The Leas: Take a scenic coastal walk from South Shields to reach Souter Lighthouse. Explore the workings of this iconic structure and enjoy views of the North Sea from The Leas.
- Ryhope Engines Museum: Step into the industrial past at the Ryhope Engines Museum. This working steam pump house offers a insight into the history of water supply and drainage systems.
Gibside: Lose yourself in the beauty of Gibside, an 18th-century landscape garden near Gateshead.
