Attractions around Newcastle

One of the North's finest landscapes, much of which is SSSI and home to red squirrels, kingfishers and other wildlife. Gibside is a 'forest garden' currently under restoration, embracing many miles of walks through woodland and beside the River Derwent. There are several outstanding buildings, including a Palladian chapel with a three-tiered pulpit, Column to Liberty, greenhouse and stables. The estate is the former home of the Bowes-Lyon family. Guided tours including refreshments are available and maps of various trails for country walks are also available. Location: near Rowlands Gill, Burnopfield, Newcastle Upon Tyne

Souter Lighthouse
Located in Sunderland, this striking Victorian Lighthouse was built in 1871 and is heralded as the first electric lighthouse. It boasts fantastic views over Marsden Bay and the notorious currents of 'Whitburn Steel'. Visitors are also offered the unique opportunity to see seabirds nesting on the surrounding cliffs. Visitors can make their way round the lighthouse as the engine room, light tower, keeper's living quarters and compass room are all open for viewing. There are also exhibits demonstrating communication from shore to ship, lighting the seas, shipwrecks and storms to mention a few. The Souter Lighthouse also has a tea room with delicious treats and is close to Whitburn Coastal Park and Whitburn Point Local Nature Reserve. 

Location: Coast Road, Whitburn, Sunderland, Newcastle Upon Tyne

Washington Old Hall
The ancestral home of George Washington, the Washington Old Hall boasts an impressive hall and an authentic 17th century kitchen. It contains many mementoes of the American was of Independence and its surrounding gardens are over flowing with traditional English garden flowers.

Location: The Avenue, Washington Village, Washington, Tyne and Wear 

Holy Jesus Hospital
The Holy Jesus Hospital reflects all the changes that took place around it during its 700 year existence. It shows remains of the 14th century Augustinian friary, 16th century fortifications connected with the Council of the North, a 17th century almshouse built for the freemen of the city and a 19th century soup kitchen. It is the also one of the only two surviving 17th century brick buildings in Newcastle Upon Tyne.

Location: City Road, Newcastle Upon Tyne

Durham
Durham's origins can be traced back to 995 AD and was founded by monks. The Durham Cathedral is one of the most spectacular buildings of its kind and has a shrine to Saint Cuthbert. Durham Castle was built by the Normans in 1071 and has since withstood many a battle. During the 19th Century the city became the centre of the coal mining industry. The first Durham Miners' Gala was held in 1871, and although the mines have been closed, the Gala still remains a popular event. Other attractions include the Durham Town Hall, the Durham Heritage Centre, Crook Hall and the University of Durham Botanic Garden. Durham University is the third oldest in the UK and also worth a visit.

Hexham
Hexham is a large market town that was founded by Saint Wilfrid in 674. The Town suffered from the border wars with the Scottish. The town was burnt by William Wallace in 1297. The town overlooks the Tyne Valley and it's narrow streets are lined by various medieval buildings. Some of the many attractions include Hexham Abbey, which dates from 674AD, the town market and many museums and parks that reflect the town's beauty.Hexham also has a race course that makes for an exciting family day out.

Holy Island
Holy Island was originally known as Lindesfarne, is often described as "the jewel of the northumberland coast" and is only accessible across a causeway at low tide. Large parts of the island are protected as Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve to safeguard the migrating birds. The island is home to the monastery of Lindisfarne that was founded by Saint Aidan, as well as a Tudor fort called Lindisfarne Castle.

Sunderland
Sunderland is located in close proximity to Newcastle and has a long tradition as an
industrial city. The first settlements have been traced as far back as AD 674. The Port of Sunderland has a heritage dating back  over 800 years. Visitors are treated to the city's important industrial history of ship building and glassmaking. The city is also famous for its football team who play at the Stadium of Light. Sunderland can be reached
by metro, rail or bus from Newcastle city centre.

Bamburgh Castle
Bamburgh Castle can be found perched on a basalt outcrop on the very edge of the North
Sea at Bamburgh, Northumberland. The castle is still used as a residence but is open to visitors between March and October. Enjoy the stunning views of the Northumberland coastline and islands, as well as the Armstrong museum and the Aviation Artefacts museum.

Alnwick
Alnwick Castle is the second largest inhabited castle in England, after Windsor Castle. The Percy family has resided there since 1309. The castle has a lively and varied history and has witnessed some of the most gruesome battles between the English and Scots. The Castle is open between the 2nd of April and the 28th October and has attractions to suit all ages. From guided tours of the grounds and castle to theatre, there is even a Knight school where young children can learn about life as a knight or a Lady, learn how to sword fight and much more.

Seahouses
Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Seahouses is just 48 miles from Newcastle and the ideal place to escape to. There are plenty of outdoor activities to take part in, including horse riding, golf, diving and angling. Or you could enjoy a boat trip around thecoast and islands. Seahouses has an intriguing history to accompany its natural beauty and Heritage walks with a guide are organized daily and take visitors round many of the historical sites.

Tynemouth
Tynemouth dates back to the Iron Age and is known today for its festivals and water sports, as well as its historic attractions. The village is situated at the mouth of the River Tyne between North Shields and Whitley Bay and was the preferred destination of the queens of Edward I and Edward II, while their husbands were at war with Scotland. Today it is enjoyed more for its relaxing environment and beaches and various festivals, including the Fish Quay Festival and the Tynemouth Pageant.It is also exceptionally popular with surfers.