north east england tourist attractions

Must-see attractions in Northeast England

Durham Cathedral

Northeast England

Monumental Durham Cathedral is the definitive structure of the Anglo-Norman Romanesque style, a resplendent monument to the country’s ecclesiastical…

Bowes Museum

A monumental chateau half a mile east of the centre contains the lavishly furnished Bowes Museum. Funded by 19th-century industrialist John Bowes, and…

Life Science Centre

Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Part of a sober-minded institute devoted to the study of genetic science, this centre lets you discover the secrets of life through a fascinating series…

Housesteads Roman Fort & Museum

The most dramatic site of Hadrian's Wall – and the best-preserved Roman fort in the whole country – is at Housesteads, 4 miles north of Bardon Mill on the…

Vindolanda Roman Fort & Museum

The extensive site of Vindolanda offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of a Roman garrison town. The time-capsule museum is just one part of…

Durham Castle

Built as a standard motte-and-bailey fort in 1072, Durham Castle was the prince bishops' home until 1837, when it became the University of Durham's first…

BALTIC – Centre for Contemporary Art

Once a huge mustard-coloured grain store, BALTIC is now a huge mustard-coloured art gallery rivalling London's Tate Modern. There are no permanent…

Alnwick Castle

Northumberland Coast

Set in parklands designed by Lancelot 'Capability' Brown, the imposing ancestral home of the Duke of Northumberland has changed little since the 14th…

Victoria Tunnel

Walking Newcastle's streets, you'd never know this extraordinary tunnel runs for 2.5 miles beneath your feet. Built between 1839 and 1842 as a coal-wagon…

Discovery Museum

Tyneside's rich history is explored at this unmissable museum. Exhibitions spread across three floors of the former Co-operative Wholesale Society…

Kielder Observatory

For the best views of the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, attend a stargazing session at this state-of-the-art, 2008-built observatory. Its…

Berwick Walls

You can walk almost the entire length of Berwick's hefty Elizabethan walls, begun in 1558 to reinforce an earlier set built during the reign of Edward II…

Great North Museum

The contents of Newcastle University's museums and the prestigious Hancock Museum's natural-history exhibits come together in the latter's neoclassical…

Bamburgh Castle

Northumberland's most dramatic castle was built around a powerful 11th-century Norman keep by Henry II. The castle played a key role in the border wars of…

Chillingham Castle

Steeped in history, warfare, torture and ghosts, 13th-century Chillingham is said to be one of the country's most haunted places, with spectres from a…

Farne Islands

During breeding season (roughly May to July), you can see feeding chicks of 20 seabird species (including puffin, kittiwake, Arctic tern, eider duck,…

Beamish Open-Air Museum

County Durham's living, breathing, working museum offers an unflinching glimpse into industrial life in the northeast during the 19th and 20th centuries…

Birdoswald Roman Fort

The remains of this once-formidable fort (known as Banna to the Romans) are on an escarpment overlooking the beautiful Irthing Gorge along a minor road…

Corbridge Roman Site & Museum

What's left of the Roman garrison town of Corstopitum lies about half a mile west of Market Pl on Dere St, once the main road from York to Scotland. It's…

Alnwick Garden

This 4.8-hectare walled garden incorporates a series of magnificent green spaces surrounding the breathtaking Grand Cascade – 120 separate jets spurting…

Raby Castle

Sprawling Raby Castle was a stronghold of the Catholic Neville family until it engaged in ill-judged plotting (the 'Rising of the North') against the…

Binchester Roman Fort

The ruins of Binchester Roman Fort, or Vinovia as it was originally called, lie 9.6 miles southwest of Durham. First built in wood around AD 80 and…

Escomb Church

The stones of the abandoned Binchester Roman Fort were often reused, and Roman inscriptions can be spotted in the walls of the hauntingly beautiful Escomb…

RNLI Grace Darling Museum

Born in Bamburgh, Grace Darling was the lighthouse keeper's daughter on Outer Farne who rowed out to the grounded, flailing SS Forfarshire in 1838 and…

Dunstanburgh Castle

The dramatic 1.5-mile walk along the coast from Craster (not accessible by car) is the most scenic path to this moody, weather-beaten castle. Its…

The last strong post of Hadrian's Wall was the fort of Segedunum, 5 miles east of Newcastle at the 'wall's end', now the Newcastle suburb of Wallsend…

Old Lifeboat House

From the 1820s to the 1960s, Holy Island was a launching point for hundreds of dramatic lifeboat rescues. The island's last remaining lifeboat station is…

Warkworth Castle

Looking like the ultimate sandcastle you'd see at the beach, this honey-stone edifice atop a hillock was built around 1200. From the 14th to 17th…

Cragside House, Garden & Woodland

Situated 1 mile northeast of Rothbury just off the B6341 is the astonishing country retreat of the first Lord Armstrong. In the 1880s the house had hot…

Lindisfarne Priory

The skeletal, red and grey ruins of the priory are an eerie sight and give a glimpse into the isolated life of the Lindisfarne monks. The later 13th…

Seven Stories – The Centre for Children's Books

A marvellous conversion of a handsome Victorian mill has resulted in Seven Stories, a very hands-on museum dedicated to the wondrous world of children's…

Roman Army Museum

On the site of the Carvoran Roman Fort a mile northeast of Greenhead, near Walltown Crags, this revamped museum has three galleries covering the Roman…

Chesters Roman Fort & Museum

This Roman cavalry fort's superbly preserved remains are set among idyllic green woods and meadows near the village of Chollerford. Originally constructed…

Heugh Gun Battery Museum

Atop the windswept Hartlepool Headland, about 2 miles west of the centre, you can visit the underground magazines, parade ground and panoramic observation…

Hexham Abbey

Dominating tiny Market Pl, Hexham's stately abbey is a marvellous example of Early English architecture. It cleverly escaped the Dissolution of 1537 by…

Biscuit Factory

No prizes for guessing what this commercial art gallery used to be. These days, it's the UK's biggest contemporary art, craft and design gallery/shop,…

Built in 2017 to blend in with the landscape, with grasses and wildflowers growing on the roof, this state-of-the-art visitor centre has a permanent…

Newcastle Castle

The stronghold that put both the 'new' and 'castle' into Newcastle has been largely swallowed up by the train station, leaving only a few remaining…

Warkworth Hermitage

Half-a-mile's walk west of Warkworth Castle (no car access), this tiny, magical 14th-century chapel is carved into the rock on the northern bank of the…

Angel of the North

Nicknamed the Gateshead Flasher, this extraordinary 200-tonne, rust-coloured, winged human frame has loomed over the A1 motorway some 6 miles south of…

More destinations you need to see

Top 10 things to do & places to visit in North East England

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 31, 2022

Discover the top 10 places to visit (and things to do) in the North East of England.

Are you planning to visit the North East of England? Or perhaps you live there and are seeking some inspiration and ideas for great days out and things to do in Northumberland and the North East?

In this article you will discover the top 10 things to do and places to visit in the North East of England. Throughout the post you will find lots of practical information as well as links and tips for visiting all these places and the North East in general.

I have included some of the top North East tourist attractions (such as Alnwick Castle and Beamish Museum) as well as free places to visit in North East England.

If you prefer to take a tour we recommend this 5 day ‘Best of Northern England’ tour from Edinburgh which includes popular destinations and landmarks such as Hadrian’s Wall, York and the Lake District. Alternatively, this 9-hour tour from Edinburgh includes Holy Island, Alnwick Castle & Northumbria.

• A little background information about the North East

The North East of England consists of Northumberland, County Durham Tyne and Wear and the area of the former county of Cleveland in North Yorkshire.

You may have heard that people from the North East are called Geordies. However this is NOT strictly true as Geordies are technically those people from Newcastle, Northumberland, North Tyneside, South Tyneside and Gateshead only!

The major cities in the North East are Newcastle upon Tyne, Sunderland and Durham.

Read on to discover some of the great things to do in North East England!

Take a drive along the Northumberland coast

• Visit Hadrian's Wall

Visit Barter Books in Alnwick

Visit bamburgh and alnwick castles, spot puffins on the farne islands, cross the causeway to the holy island of lindisfarne.

• Visit the historic city of Durham

Spot the Angel of the North

Visit beamish living museum, cragside house and gardens, quick guide – north east england, enjoy exploring and discovering the north east of england, top 10 things to do in the north east of england.

In my opinion one of the most beautiful drives you can take in the UK is the Northumberland coastal route . Meander along 30 miles of stunning coastline and picturesque villages north from Alnmouth to Lindisfarne and Alnwick.

The coastal scenery is truly spectacular and in summer the long sunny days are perfect for exploring the castles and beaches.

If you have an interest in history, and castles in particular, you may be interested to know that Northumberland has more castles than any other county in the UK.

Two of my favourites are Bamburgh Castle and Alnwick Castle . Alnwick Castle will be familiar to Harry Potter fans as it features in a couple of the movies as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry .

Many of the sights you will see as you drive along the Northumberland coastal route are also included in this article because they are great places to visit on a day trip or add to your Northumberland itinerary.

You will drive through some beautiful coastal villages and towns along this route – why not stop off for a few days? Read our location guide plus a selection of the best coastal cottages for your special stay in Northumberland.

Read more | Planning a drive along the Northumberland Coastal Route

Visit Hadrian’s Wall

The history of Hadrian’s Wall

Britain was invaded (and conquered) by the Romans in AD 43.

During their rule which lasted until 410 AD they had a significant impact on life in Britain. They built roads (many routes of which we still use today), brought their religion, ways of counting, their language, built towns (place-names with ‘chester’ ‘caster’ or ‘cester’ are of Roman origin) and established the city of Londinium (amongst many other things)

However one thing they couldn’t manage to sort were the Scots! (Or Caledonians as they were called then) The northern tribes were not welcoming to the Romans and in AD 122 Emperor Hadrian ordered his soldiers to build a wall to protect the Roman Empire from attacks.

That wall was Hadrian’s Wall which runs 80 miles from Wallsend in the North-East and ends west of the village of Bowness-on-Solway in Cumbria. It formed the north-west boundary of the mighty Roman Empire.

The Romans also built forts along the wall where soldiers were stationed to ward off attacks from the Caledonian tribes.

Hadrian’s Wall is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the North-East of England and a famous UK landmark .

What are the various ways to visit Hadrian’s Wall?

There are a number of different options for visitors wishing to see Hadrian’s Wall including the following:

• Walk the route along Hadrian’s Wall Path which runs for 84 miles from coast to coast past Roman settlements and forts. 
• Chesters Roman Fort and Museum
• Housesteads Roman Fort
• Birdoswald Roman Fort
• Corbridge Roman Town
• Roman Vindolanda and Roman Army Museum
• Segedunum Roman Fort and Museum
• Cycle the route along Hadrian’s Cycleway
• Take the AD 122 Hadrian’s Wall Country Bus which runs from March to October.
• You can also take a virtual tour of Hadrian’s Wall

If you love books then a visit to Barter Books in Alnwick is an absolute must!

Barter Books is the largest second hand book shop in the UK. Housed in a beautiful old train station Barter Books will keep any book lover happy for hours (if not days!)

Peruse the stock and enjoy the ambiance. There is a model railway that runs on an elevated track around the shop as well as some interesting murals to also check out.

Read more about visiting Barter Books.

You may also enjoy my selection of books set in (or about) Northumberland which includes fiction and non-fiction selections.

Read more | A visit to Barter Books in Northumberland

You really cannot spend any time in Northumberland without visiting a castle or two (it does have the most castles of any county in the UK – a fact of which I am proud!)

With so many castles to choose from I have picked my favourites.

Bamburgh Castle which you will come across if you are driving the coastal route was the Royal Seat of the Kings of Northumbria. It is one of the largest castles in England and is still inhabited today.

The castle sits on a rocky plateau and can be seen from miles around (the view from Lindisfarne is particularly beautiful) The castle is the perfect destination for history lovers.

Alnwick Castle may be more familiar to Harry Potter fans due to its appearance as Hogwarts in the first 3 films. (The castle also appears in Downton Abbey)

Built during the 11th century Alnwick Castle is home to the 12th Duke of Northumberland.

Along with the Alnwick Garden (formal gardens adjacent to the castle) it receives over 800,000 visitors a year (many are Harry Potter fans on day tours from Edinburgh )

There are lots more beautiful castles to visit all over England – you can read more in my guide to the top 21 (which features quite a few castles located in the North East)

Read more | Bamburgh Castle | Alnwick Castle

Another absolute must in the North East of England along the Northumberland coast is a trip out to the Farne Islands.

The islands (28 in total but visibility depends on the tides) are located off the Northumberland coastal town of Seahouses.

The largest of the islands is Inner Farne . It is here that St Cuthbert spent many years living in solitude.

Today the islands are a wildlife reserve and home to many species of birds including Puffin , Kittiwake, Guillemot and Eider.

The islands are also home to a large colony of grey seals.

The islands of Inner Farne are accessible by boat (weather permitting) from Seahouses – Inner Farne during the months of April to October and Staple Island from May to July.

A landing fee is payable for if you are not a member of the National Trust .

Read more | Boat trips to the Farne Islands

The Holy Island of Lindisfarne is a tidal island located off the coast of Northumberland in North East England.

The island is home to around 200 residents and is a popular tourist destination particularly in the summer. The island is separated from the mainland by a causeway which can only be safely crossed at certain times depending on tides.

The island is called ‘Holy’ because it was one of the centres of early English Christianity. It was the home of St Cuthbert whose remains are now interred at Durham Cathedral.

The famous Lindisfarne Gospels were created around 715 – 720 at the monastery by a monk called Eadfrith. They are a copy of the four Gospels in the form of an illuminated manuscript (a text which is supplemented with decorations and illustrations)

They are now kept at the British Library in London and can be found on display in the Sir John Ritblat Treasure Gallery.

If you plan to include a visit to Holy Island into your Northumberland itinerary make sure to check the tides and plan your trip around those times.

Once you arrive on the island visit the Lindisfarne Priory or take a stroll to the castle for views across to Bamburgh and the Farne Islands.

Read more | A guide to visiting the Holy Island of Lindisfarne

V isit the historic city of Durham

The historic city (and UNESCO World Heritage Site) of Durham with its famous Norman Cathedral and 11th century castle is situated in the county of Durham in the north east of England.

Major attractions in the city include Durham Castle (now occupied by Durham University), Durham University Botanic Garden, and the beautiful Durham Cathedral.

If you are taking a road trip around the UK and plan to visit the city of Durham please note that there is a park-and-ride facility. Parking can be very difficult in the city itself so I would recommend using the park-and-ride.

If you are visiting Durham by train it is a 45 minute walk from the station up the hill to the Cathedral.

Read more | Durham Travel Guide

To be honest you would be hard pressed to miss this huge statue if you are driving along the A1 towards Newcastle. The Angel is also easily seen from the train as you make your way from Durham to Newcastle train stations on the East Coast mainline.

Anthony Gormley’s statue the “Angel of the North” was completed in 1998. The 20 metre tall angel with a 54 metre wingspan dominates the landscape.

According to Gormley the statue “bears witness to the hundreds and thousands of colliery workers who had spent the last 300 years mining coal beneath the surface” (source – AnthonyGormley.com)

As the granddaughter of one of those coal miners I have to say I love the Angel and I always look forward to seeing it every time I visit my birthplace.

Read more | Visiting the Angel of the North

If you want to discover what life was like in the North of England during the 18th and early 19th centuries there really is nowhere better to visit than Beamish Living Museum.

Beamish is probably the best open air museum I have been to anywhere in the world. It tells the story of life in the North East of England during the 1820s, 1900s, 1940s and 1950s.

The 300 acre site features a 1900s town, 1900s pit village, and 1940s farm. A firm favourite for visitors is the town which has a bakery, sweet shop, bank, and garage amongst other shops.

There is a tramway which transports visitors around the site.

Read more  |   Beamish Living Museum

The National Trust property of Cragside House is a Grade 1 listed building located in Rothbury in Northumberland.

Often described as “the wonder of its age” and “the home where modern living began” this Victorian property was the first home in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity.

It was the home of William Armstrong the 1st Baron Armstrong and founder of the Armstrong Whitworth armaments firm. He was a scientist and inventor (hydraulic crane/Armstrong gun) who also turned his attention to home improvements! In a big way.

In addition to the house itself there are the wonderful gardens to explore at Cragside. These include the formal Victorian gardens, a pinetum and a rock garden. Cragside is one of my favourite gardens to visit in North East England.

Click to join the National Trust

 Read more  |  Cragside House and Gardens

• WHAT TO READ – Best books to read before you visit Northumberland

• 🏨 WHERE TO STAY : Click here to find the best accommodation in Northumberland
• 🚐 WHAT TOURS TO BOOK: Click here for recommended tours of the North East
• 🍲 WHAT TO EAT – Stotties, pease pudding, Craster kippers.

• 🚅 PRINCIPLE TRAIN STATIONS – Newcastle and Durham
• 👚 WHAT TO WEAR – The weather can be unpredictable along the coast even in summer so always carry a waterproof jacket (and I recommend an umbrella ☂ )

I am sure after reading this article you will have lots of ideas for day trips. You should also have lots of possibilities to include into an itinerary if you are planning a few days or more in the North East. It is the perfect UK staycation destination.

Check out these travel guides to specific areas of the North East and North of England for further information:

• Northumberland Travel Guide
• Durham Travel Guide
• Newcastle Travel Guide
• York Travel Guide
• Lake District Travel Guide
• Liverpool Travel Guide
• Chester Travel Guide

Want to explore some of England’s other regions ?

Head over to my other area guides to England which include the North West , East Midlands , West Midlands , Yorkshire , South West , South East and East of England .

• Visiting Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland?

Check out my top 19 places to visit in Scotland and top 10 choices to add to your travel itineraries for Wales and Northern Ireland.

If you are visiting the UK (or live in the UK and want to explore more of our beautiful nation) why not join my UK and London Travel Planning group on Facebook?

If you have specific questions about a destination in England why not join my UK and London Travel Planning Group on Facebook where you can chat to others planning their trip.

Find more inspiration for your travels in my England Travel Guide which includes information about what to see, where to stay, how to get around, travel tips, recommended reading and more to make the most of your trip.

• Places to Visit

North East England

Visit North East England to discover some of our country’s real gems – both hidden and sparkling in the spotlight. The counties of South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire and East Riding of Yorkshire all have their own delights to offer, including Leeds, York, Scarborough and Beverley. As you travel further north, you can discover majestic Durham and its famous Durham Cathedral, cosmopolitan yet historic Tyne and Wear with Newcastle and Gateshead, and picture-perfect Northumberland with its castle-lined coastline. Read all about the best things to do in North East England, no matter what type of visit you’re looking for.

In this section

Explore North East England

North East England is where the country’s true beauty shines – from historic York and Durham to culture-filled Newcastle and Leeds, via the family- and surfer-friendly beach towns of Scarborough and Tynemouth, discover the best things to do in north east England.

East Yorkshire

Vales of open farmland and estuaries lined with forts and suspension bridges are all hallmarks of this beautiful East Yorkshire county. Discover the best things to do in East Riding of Yorkshire.

Alive with the spirit of urban redevelopment and grandiose Victorian architecture, Leeds mixes the classic and contemporary like no other city, making it the perfect destination for a cultural fix.

Criss-cross illuminated footbridges between rejuvenated quaysides, get acquainted with Tyneside history at local museums and galleries and cheer on the much-loved Magpies football team.

North York Moors

Rights-of-way footpaths cut across heather coated heathland, ridges and North Sea cliff edges in the North York Moors. Follow dinosaur footprints to the Jurassic bays of the Heritage Coast.

North Yorkshire

Visit North Yorkshire to enjoy long, scenic walks across Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors to castles and abbey ruins that frame the landscape. Find things to do and places to visit in North Yorkshire.

South Yorkshire

You'll find jaw-dropping scenery, cities steeped in industrial heritage and hidden market towns in equal measures in South Yorkshire. Discover glasshouse gardens, art galleries and cathedral chapels.

West Yorkshire

The northern county of West Yorkshire offers vibrant cities, industrial heritage and pretty Pennine villages in equal doses. Here is our guide to the very best things to do in West Yorkshire.

Visit Yorkshire to explore industrial heritage cities, quaint medieval market towns and charming beaches, all surrounded by the jaw-dropping scenery of the Yorkshire Dales. Find things to do in Yorkshire.

Durham's fairy-tale, turreted castle and grand Norman cathedral have the words 'World Heritage Site' written all over them. Find out more about things to do in Durham and start planning your visit.

Northumberland

Historical sites to take you back through time, vast landscapes to explore and wildlife to make you go ‘aw’. Visit Northumberland to discover a truly special place! Here are the best things to do in Northumberland.

Scarborough

Take a boat trip off shore to meet seal colonies, surf in the North Sea or chug through the North York Moors on a traditional steam train. There's plenty to do in Scarborough.

Tyne and Wear

This north east county is brimming with cultural quayside cities and sandy North Sea beaches that bring surfers flocking. From Tynemouth to Sunderland, discover the most exciting things to do in Tyne and Wear.

A grand gothic cathedral, Viking heritage and Roman city walls. York is quite literally steeped in history. This North Yorkshire city can be seen from every angle.

Yorkshire Dales

With its patchwork green valleys, craggy cliff faces and farmland laced with limestone walls, it’s little wonder that the Yorkshire Dales National Park is a film star in its own right.

We've something we want to share

Want to receive travel tips and ideas by email?

VisitEngland would like to invite you to take part in a short survey about our website, it should take no more than a couple of minutes.

Go to the survey

To add items to favourites …

… you need to be logged in.

If you already have an account, log in.

Or register a new account

Access your account

11 Interesting & Beautiful Places to Visit in North East England

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure for more info.

From the city of Newcastle to the Scottish Borders, those looking for places to visit in North East England are spoiled for choice.

Along with its stunning natural beauty, North East England is most known for its history, with remnants of Roman and Viking influences still to be found today.

Since it’s located on the Scottish border, there have been times when the border shifted and the region fell to Scottish rule as well.

In this post, we’ll be sharing our top picks for places to visit in North East England, including some of the most stunning castles and natural highlights.

We hope you enjoy learning about this sparsely populated but beautiful region and be sure to let us know in the comments which North East England must-sees we should add to our list!

Alnwick Castle

Probably most famous as a location for film and television, Alnwick Castle is the seat of the 12th Duke of Northumberland, but also open to the public to visit.

It’s a Grade 1 Listed building, with its stunning formal gardens as popular with visitors as the castle/country house. While the Duke of Northumberland and his family live in part of the castle, most of it is open to the public, making it the second largest inhabited castle in England (after Windsor Castle).

Alnwick Castle was used for many scenes at Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films, and has also appeared in numerous other television series’ and films, including Downton Abbey.

There are three on-site museums at the castle, with different exhibitions all about the history of the area and castle. Harry Potter fans can take part in free Broomstick Training sessions and there are plenty of other fun activities available for children, or those who are just young at heart!

PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR VISITING: The castle closes for the winter season around October, and usually reopens towards the ends of March. The gardens are open year-round.

Home to both the Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle (which, in turn houses a university college!) , the city of Durham is a beautiful location looped around by the River Wear, and one of the most famous North East England attractions.

Durham Cathedral, (full name The Cathedral Church of Christ, Blessed Mary the Virgin and St. Cuthbert of Durham – now that’s a mouthful!) is a stunning example of Norman architecture and, together with Durham Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The cathedral was also another famous site used for filming in the Harry Potter films, and the interior was also used for scenes in Asgard in Avengers: Endgame.

While the cathedral and castle get most of the fuss, the rest of the town is also beautiful and well worth a wander around to look at the shops, cafés, pubs and picturesque parks.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR VISITING:  You can only visit the castle as part of a guided tour, since it’s a working building and home to many students. Durham Cathedral is open most days for visitors and sermons, but make sure you check their website as sometimes the Cathedral is closed for university ceremonies.

Bamburgh Castle

Yes, it’s another castle, but since North East England was so important for defense, there are quite a few stunning ones worth visiting! After passing from Briton and Anglo-Saxon hands many times over the years, the original Celtic fort was destroyed by the Vikings in 993, then rebuilt by the Normans.

The castle was eventually bought by the Victorian-era industrialist Baron William George Armstrong in 1894, and while it’s still owned by the Armstrong family today, it is also open to the public.

It’s a very impressive castle, sitting on a dolerite outcrop next to the Bamburgh Beach, so you can get stunning photos of the castle without actually going in. But we do advise going in, so you can also enjoy the views from the castle, as well as explore the staterooms, museums and other epic displays.

Hadrian’s Wall

One of the most famous things to see in North East England is Hadrian’s Wall; a former defensive fortification of the Roman province of Britannia, which was built around AD 122.

While the wall once ran from one side of the island of England to the other, the whole wall is no longer still standing, but there are still more than 20 sites where you can explore the sections that are still intact.

Hadrian’s Wall was built to mark the boundary between Roman Britannia and Caledonia (which is mostly Scotland) but has never actually been on the border between England and Scotland.

Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a fascinating way to learn about life in Roman Britain. There are multiple hikes you can do along sections of the wall, while different areas in the North East are home to Roman forts and garrison towns to explore. Check out the official website to decide which part (or parts) you want to see!

The Angel of the North

The Angel of the North is a huge sculpture by British artist Antony Gormley, located beside the A1 road in Gateshead, not far from the city of Newcastle. Widely believed to be the largest sculpture of an angel in the world, this is definitely one of the most unusual places to visit in North East England!

The angel is visible both from the nearby highway, as well as from trains traveling on the East Coast Main Line. It has also become a symbol of the North East of England, so it’s definitely a must-see.

There’s a dedicated car park if you want to get up close and personal to the 20 metre tall figure, with a wingspan of 54 meters across. Touching and sitting on the feet of the angel is also actively encouraged!

Newcastle upon Tyne

As the largest city in North East England, it stands to reason that there is plenty to discover in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. If you’ve ever heard the old English idiom of “selling coals to Newcastle” (which means a pointless action), this is the Newcastle from the saying as it was once one of the biggest exporters of coal in the country.

Located on the banks of the River Tyne, and close to the coast, Newcastle has always been a shipping hub, but has also become renowned for its nightlife in more recent years.

People from in and around the city are known as Geordie (sounds like jawr-dee), due to their dialect. The reality show Geordie Shore is set in Newcastle, while British television presenters Ant and Dec are also from Newcastle.

Must-see sights in Newcastle-upon-Tyne include the Gateshead Millennium Bridge (pictured below), the Sage Gateshead music venue (also below), BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, Newcastle castle, the Victoria Tunnel and Earl Grey Monument.

Beamish Museum

Located in the town of Beamish, south of Newcastle, is the open-air Beamish Museum. This is a really cool and immersive attraction where you can experience what life was like in the region during Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian, war time and fifties Britain.

The Beamish Museum is situated on 350 acres, with a town representing 1913, a Georgian landscape based around a farm, a 1940s farm and a 1950s town. Within these separate sections there are so many shops and displays to take you back in time, as well as staff members dressed in period costumes!

Visitors can ride old trams, buses and trains between the different parts of the museum, as well as getting the chance to taste delicious treats from the past. From a “chippy” to a bakery, pub or old-fashioned lolly shop, the Beamish Museum is truly a delight for young and old.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR VISITING:  The Beamish Museum has different opening times during the year (sometimes open daily, sometimes only on weekends and sometimes closed on Monday and Tuesday) plus it’s closed over winter, so make sure you check well ahead of time if it will be open when you are in the area. You also need to pre-book your visiting timeslot, even if you have an unlimited pass.

Lindisfarne

Also simply called the Holy Island, Lindisfarne is a small tidal island located close to Bamburgh Castle. The island has had a religious history since the 6th century AD, being an important site for Celtic Christianity and is still home to an ancient priory. There is also a castle and quite a few pubs and cafés, as it’s a popular North East England destination.

Visitors can drive across the causeway to the island, or walk along the ancient pilgrim’s path. Twice a day the island is completely cut off by high tide, so you do need to check tidal times and be careful!

Staying overnight is a lovely way to experience the tranquillity of the island once it’s cut off from the mainland, and the day trippers have gone away. Lindisfarne is also famous for the mead that was originally made by the monks in the priory. Nowadays you can try the same mead (made with the secret recipe) at St. Aidan’s Winery on the island.

The island is also surrounded by the 8,750-acre Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve, which attracts hundreds of different bird species to the area, making Lindisfarne very popular for bird-watchers as well.

The Farne Islands

The Farne Islands are a small cluster of between 15 and 20 islands (depending on the tide) located off the coast of Northumbria near the town of Seahouses. Legendary biologist Sir David Attenborough even declared them his favorite spot to see nature in the UK!

While humans have lived on the islands in the past, nowadays only National Trust assistant rangers stay there for part of the year, but visitors can enjoy regular boat trips from Seahouses to see the abundance of wildlife that lives in and around the islands.

During the summer months you can expect to spot dolphins, seals and puffins, along with many other bird species during a boat trip, plus you can also explore three of the islands by land if you book the right tour.

While Newcastle-upon-Tyne sits on the Tyne River, Tynemouth (not surprisingly) is located at the river mouth. Tynemouth is very popular with locals from the region as well as tourists, since it boasts beautiful beaches that have been fashionable for bathing since the late 18th century.

Even when it’s too cold for swimming, there are plenty of stunning coastal walks to enjoy, especially the 810-metre pier which leads to the Tynemouth Lighthouse. The ruins of Tynemouth Priory and Castle dominate the headland of the town, and are over 2,000 years old.

Tynemouth is a fabulous spot for a day trip or short stay, especially if you enjoy beaches, surfing and delicious seafood! There’s an excellent market held on Saturdays, while the yearly events the Mouth of the Tyne Festival and the Tynemouth Food Festival are both worth timing your trip to experience.

Berwick-upon-Tweed

Berwick-upon-Tweed is the northernmost town in England, as it sits just 4 kilometres under the border to Scotland. It’s a traditional market town that also retains medieval town walls, a Georgian Town Hall, Elizabethan ramparts, and Britain’s earliest barracks buildings.

The town is also famous for the fact that many residents don’t really agree on whether they are English or Scottish, since the town exchanged hands so many times during the 400 year border wars.

The Royal Border Bridge (pictured below) is a Grade I listed railway viaduct that enters the town after crossing over the River Tweed. It doesn’t actually cross the border between England and Scotland (since that’s further north) but is worth a visit if you’re in Berwick-upon-Tweed to see all 28 stunning arches.

Have we missed any of your favourite places to visit in North East England?

Let us know in the comments!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Ten of the best places to visit in North East England

Last updated on August 23rd, 2023 at 11:32 am

Frankly, you’ll be spoiled for choice if you’re looking for things to see and do in North East England.  From dramatic, wild coast and countryside, to wildlife, castles, Roman remains, the simple grandeur of Durham and the culture and vibrancy of Newcastle upon Tyne, there is something for everyone.  To start you off, here is a selection of 10 of the best places to visit:

Alnwick Castle & Garden

Beamish Museum

• Durham Cathedral

The Bishops of Durham – ‘the Prince Bishops’ used to wield temporal, as well as spiritual, power and effectively ruled the diocese for 850 years.  That did not stop Oliver Cromwell using the Cathedral to hold 3,000 Scots prisoners after the Battle of Dunbar in 1650; many of them died within the Cathedral.   Durham Cathedral , along with the adjacent Castle, is a World Heritage Site.

Farne Islands

• The Grace Darling legend

Holy Island

• A pilgramage to Lindisfarne, the Holy Island

Newcastle upon Tyne

• Tyne Bridge

• *Armstrong built a house not far away, at Cragside
• The legend of Grace Darling

Northumberland National Park

Hadrian’s Wall

• Segedunum – the end of the Wall
• Brocolitia, Mithraeum
• Arbeia upon Tyne

Warkworth Castle

So those are some of the best places to visit in North East England.  Helpful links to more information have been included in this piece.  You will find even more inspiration by clicking Places to Visit from the main menu, as well as by browsing articles categorised ‘north east’ on the website.

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Threads (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Mastodon (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on X (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Bluesky (Opens in new window)

Not only, but also...

200 Places to visit

A bit about Bede

A pilgrimage to Lindisfarne, the Holy Island

77 thoughts on “ten of the best places to visit in north east england”.

Great selection although I would be tempted to squeeze Craster & Dunstanburgh in, maybe at the expense of Alnwick which I find a bit too Harry Potter obsessed these days – but then, for many people that would be the main attraction there!

Thanks very much. I know what you mean – I love the walk from Craster to Dunstanburgh – bit about it here https://bitaboutbritain.com/craster-to-dunstanburgh/ – but I figured one ruined castle was enough and Warkworth won!

Fair enough – maybe you need a top 20?!

I think search engines like top 10s – but I’m probably wrong! 🙂

Some lovely choices from one of my favourite parts of the world 🙂

Thank you, CP!

A great list of places up there in the fabulous North-East, Mike. As you say, visitors to the area would never be at a loss for places to see. The region is one of our ‘go to’ places for short breaks of 3 or 4 days. We’ve been many times now, and love all the places in your list, although we’ve not yet been out to the Farne Islands. How remiss is that? Your lovely description has made me want to go, but it won’t be this year. Have you visited Cragside? That’s well worth a visit, with some interesting history behind it.

Thanks, Millie. Yes, Cragside is certainly interesting – and the grounds are lovely https://bitaboutbritain.com/cragside/

The north east of England is a favourite of ours and we have visited most the places on your list. One of our holidays was spent visiting most of the castles one after another as that was the only way we could placate our younger daughter.

Ooh, I’ve never even heard of Warkworth! Alnwick Castle has been on my list for a while, mostly for the Harry Potter association. 🙂 Holy Island looks fantastic – I’ve seen signs for it but never looked it up so I had no idea what it was like, but this has made me want to check it out. Also I was totally expecting Barnard Castle on this list, or does it not live up to the hype? 😉

Ooops – should I have included Barnard Castle?! It is certainly a great castle, though not as good as Warkworth in my view and the visit was slightly marred by a dodgy meal/restaurant. These ‘Ten best places’ type articles are entirely subjective, of course! I think you’d love Holy Island – maybe not as spectacular as Orkney… 🙂

We’ll have to check those out! I actually have no idea about Barnard Castle, it’s just topical. 😉 (I’m trying not to make a joke about testing your eyesight with it not being as good “in your view”… :D)

Ah – totally missed that! Woops.

So many great places to visit …

All the best Jan

…and so little time 🙂 Thanks, Jan!

I am sorry (ashamed?) to say that I have never been to NE England, at least not yet! I have long been aware of all the beautiful places to explore in this particular area and your post makes me want to discover them even more. Perhaps with foreign travel looking less appealing and a new puppy (!) arriving next week, there will be many reasons to visit, sooner rather than later.

It’s a long way from France – but the puppy (congratulations!) would probably love the beaches!

And from Surrey! It’s been 4 years since our last dog, so I am beside myself with excitement. He’s a Border Collie, so should love beaches.

It’ll be like taking him home – mind you, it’s about a 6-hour drive for you!

I spent a day at Beamish Museum once and it was amazing. A day well spent.

Beamish is still on my ‘to visit’ list – I’m really looking forward to it.

This area of England is probably the one considered least touristy, but your post shows what an amazing variety of interesting places are available to visit. Must plan a holiday there one day!

Personally, I like the idea of hunkering down in a nice little cottage or something, almost anywhere in Britain, and exploring…

Good memories of visits made to all except for Walkworth. Durham Cathedral was where old family friends were married and a worshipper and cricket fan used to ponder if the Aisle matting would ‘take spin’.

Memories help make us, don’t they? Love the idea of using the Cathedral for a cricket match. Warkworth is great – wonderful chocolate shop (a shop that sells chocolate, rather than one made of it).

I’ve visited many cathedrals and Durham has never been surpassed.

I was bowled over the first time I visited Durham; it stuck in my memory for years.

All these places look great, but I think I would want to visit Newcastle first. And then one of the islands…

Ah – get the urban culture fix first; makes sense! Then drive up the coast…

exactly, you need to have balance in life…

I have been to all the places you mentioned they are all wonderful especially the coast. My husband came from the Newcastle-upon-Tyne and took my to all these beautiful places, it was a treat for a London born girl. I miss it.

It’s certainly different to London, Jean (though I love the capital too). Hope you make it back to all those places one day.

Hi Mike, some of my absolute favourite places here, and I was really looking forward to going back to visit them on our holiday in Northumberland this year. Sadly, of course, it wasn’t to be, so looking forward to seeing them all next year instead. In the meantime, it was good to see your lovely photos of them instead. Hope you’re keeping well and sane. 🙂

So many disrupted plans, Alli – but of course that’s the least of it, really. Yes, hanging onto sanity – always a challenge! Hope you are all staying safe and well – and thank you for dropping in.

Thanks Mike. Having to ban myself from blogging intermittently at the moment while I do the last two modules of my degree (last one starts October, hopefully). It’s all been getting a bit intense, especially with all that’s been going on. We’re fine, thanks, but emotionally drained with all this madness. Looking forward to Northumberland next year, although I doubt my photos will be any match for yours! 🙂

Well, good luck with all of that – and look after yourselves.

Thanks Mike, you too.

Thanks Mike … I’ve been to a few … I had a memorable holiday with my father in the 70s … he’d been at school with a Percy … and we stayed at Alnmouth, visiting a few other sites … the weather was bliss – actually too hot … but a great introduction with my Dad. Take care – Hilary

Alnmouth is lovely – wonderful beach – a favourite of good friends.

Ah, if only it were possible to get over to the UK! Actually, my sister and I were scheduled to begin our annual Yorkshire Holiday today… but of course, apart from not even getting a flight, we would have to sit in our cottage for two weeks of quarantine and then head straight back home as our holiday and lease of the cottage would then be up… And much as we love our cottage in Ripon, we don’t love it THAT much. By the way, a while ago I have finally downloaded the ebook version of your book. It will keep me company on many train trips!

Ah – I’ll suggest 10 of the best in Yorkshire at some point; you can tell me where you disagree! Shame about the travel situation – as I said below, we won’t get back to normality until we have a vaccine. Thank you very much for buying the book – I hope you enjoy it and it raises the occasional smile. Let me know what you think of it – reviews on Amazon and/or Goodreads gratefully received!

My youngest was at university in Newcastle, and my eldest grandson is also a student there. It’s nine years since my son finished university and we’ve been saying ever since that it’s time for another visit to the North East, I love the area

Me too! I’ve worked a bit round there and explored whenever I could, but of course you never see it all.

I guess Hadrian thought that the Scots and the Picts hadn’t heard of ladders then. Truly stunning castles.

I heard another theory, that the Wall was partly about controlling trade. I wonder what kind of return they got on the investment? 🙂 Yes – stunning castles in that neck of the woods – another favourite is https://bitaboutbritain.com/craster-to-dunstanburgh/

In those days the cost would have been in the grain to feed the slave labour and a bit of centurian management time thrown in for good measure. Perhaps it was the trade in ladders across the border that they were trying to control ! Devious those Romans. I would have been up there writing “Romans they go to the house!” any chance I got!

So many awesome places that I don’t think I will ever visit in person, so I liked the post

Thanks, Joanne – we aim to please!

Although I lived two years in the SE corner of Britain, I tried to visit other parts in Summer Academies during later long July holidays. Durham was a delight. Probably living under the all-powerful bishops of Durham would have been problematic, but it led to a well developed and unified city with its own parliament, fairs, markets and courts. Even an early university.

Yes, Durham is lovely – one of my favourite cathedrals and packed full of interesting stories.

Sorry to report we had to cancel our trip to Oxford in September. Not the easiest time to travel especially if you are over 65. Still hope to be able to reschedule sometime in the next couple of years if British Airways gives us a travel voucher. Always enjoy your Bits about Britain.

Thanks, Ellen. Sorry to hear you had to cancel, though I thought you’d have to. Frankly, I can’t see us getting back to normal until there’s a vaccine.

My favourite part of the country. When visiting Alnwick try to spend a few hours in Barter Books situated in the old railway station!

I’ll bear that in mind, Peter. There’s a wonderful market at Tynemouth Station I’d love to revisit too.

It’s one of the few parts of Britain I haven’t explored yet. Having read your article it’s definitely moving up my list! Thanks, Hugh.

Thanks, Hugh 🙂 We’re lucky to have different areas with their own unique characteristics in the UK. The NE is definitely worth exploring!

Doh! My mistake, Mike. Apologies for getting your name wrong (a senior moment).

No worries, Penny – it’s the kind of thing I often do!

Lots of spots about which I dont know that much! Thanks, Mike!

Stacking up the ideas for your next visit, Jeanie!

I got lost in Warkworth Castle a few years ago trying to find the way out 🙂 I missed out on the Hermitage though as I didn’t know about it at the time 🙁 I like your photo of Beamish, it’s an excellent shot – I’ve never been but it looks and sounds very interesting. One for the future maybe 🙂

Thanks, Eunice. I loved Warkworth, but also missed out on the Hermitage – it was closed. The Beamish photo isn’t one of mine, but it is a good shot. The sort of place to spend a day in and still not see everything.

My neck of the woods!

I know – hope you approve, though the photographs won’t be as good as yours!

Don’t be daft man! Fab post, I’ve done most of the places you mention, still to do Holy Island though.

I had to ‘borrow’ from Pixabay. You’d make a wonderful job of photographing Holy Isle!

Mike, another belter. Thanks for this dose of joy and revelation.

Thanks, Graeme – much appreciated!

What an extraordinary country! Such history! Such beauty! Thank you for this tiny tour…

Glad you enjoyed it, Will!

A fine list

Thank you, Derrick.

What, no golf courses ? And no mention of Vera in Newcastle ?

Golf courses are two a penny everywhere, aren’t they, Mark? 🙂 I’m sorry I forgot to mention Vera, though.

You’re right about golf courses, though some of the links courses in that part of the world have spectacular settings along the coasts. I played some of them a few years ago, though technically they were in Scotland, like North Berwick. https://markspitzerdesigns.wordpress.com/category/golf-scotland/north-berwick-and-glen/ Have a look. As for Vera – one of the best BritBox offerings we get. We’re always wondering where the incredible settings they use are located – her cottage home in the middle of “nowhere” for instance.

Apparently, her cottage in the series is actually on Lindisfarne. Must admit, we’re not huge Vera fans.

A Bit About Britain welcomes visitors. What do you think? Cancel reply

Discover more from a bit about britain.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

Site Search

The 10 best places to visit in the north east of england.

The North East of England is a treasure trove of Britain's finest historic houses & gardens. Here we look at the best places to visit in the region.

If you love castles and stately homes, a visit to the North East of England ticks all the boxes. From Alnwick Castle – as also seen in the Harry Potter franchise, to Raby Castle, Brancepeth Castle and Chipchase Castle, among others, the North East of England is the perfect day out for lovers of historic houses and gardens. See our top eleven suggestions for places to visit below, or view a map of the houses and gardens in the region here .

County Durham

Brancepeth Castle, Brancepeth

Brancepeth Castle was the stronghold of the Neville family in medieval times. The Battle of Neville’s Cross, between England and Scotland, was planned in the castle’s Baron’s Hall.

The Nevilles forfeited their estates after the failed Rising of the North, and the Castle went through a number of hands before being bought by the wealthy Russell family in the late 18th-century.

Raby Castle, Darlington

This impressive and complete 14th-century fortress of the powerful Nevills, with nine towers set in 200 acres of landscaped deer park and picturesque walled garden, has been home to Lord & Lady Barnard’s family since 1626.

Victorian restoration by Burn includes the Octagon Drawing Room and extensions of the Barons’ Hall to 132-ft.

Rokeby Park, Barnard Castle

Completed in 1735 by its owner, Sir Thomas Robinson, a leading amateur architect of his day, Rokeby Park represents the heyday of the Palladian-style country house.

A unique collection of 18th century needlework pictures by Anne Morritt (1726 – 1797) are on display as well as a very rare surviving print room. Velásquez’s ‘Toilet of Venus’ hung at Rokeby for almost a century until it was bought by public subscription in 1905 and now hangs in the National Gallery. A copy of the ‘Rokeby Venus’, painted by W.A. Menzies, can be seen in The Saloon at Rokeby.

Ushaw: Historic House, Chapels & Garden, Durham

Situated in acres of immaculate gardens, the buildings feature outstanding examples of Georgian and Victorian Gothic architecture throughout the Main House and Chapels.

Established initially as a Catholic Seminary (known as Ushaw College/ St Cuthbert’s College, Ushaw) founded in 1808 from the former English Catholic College at Douai in France, it was purpose-built in its beautiful setting four miles from the City of Durham.

Explore the North East of England sustainably

You don’t have to jump in the car to explore the stunning historic houses and gardens of the North East, and we’re keen for you to explore alternative travel options to help us fight for a more sustainable future. We’ve therefore teamed up with Good Journey to help you find car-free options to explore the UK’s historic estates. Take a look at their website here.

Northumberland

Alnwick Castle, Alnwick

The origins of Alnwick Castle date back to the Norman period. Since 1309 its story has been intertwined with that of the Percy family, a family with a history as illustrious as the Castle’s own.

The exterior medieval castle is one of the finest in Britain – it was restored by Anthony Salvin in the mid-19th century. The interior includes lavish state rooms filled with excellent collection of Italian old masters and sculpture. The Castle is set in a wonderful park landscaped by Capability Brown.

Bamburgh Castle, Bamburgh

With its origins in the Anglo-Saxon period, Bamburgh has dominated its volcanic outcrop and the surrounding countryside for centuries. From its humble wooden palisade to the impressive stone walls of today it strikes an iconic pose on the Northumbrian coastline.

Open all year round it welcomes visitors to enjoy the grounds and staterooms. From the medieval kitchen to grandeur of the Victorian Kings Hall there are fourteen rooms to explore.

Bywell Hall, Stocksfield

Home to the Beaumont family since 1810, the Palladian building sits by the River Tyne at Bywell, Northumberland.

The privately owned 18th-century country house is a Grade II* listed building set in extensive parkland and houses an important collection of furniture and art.

Chillingham Castle, Chillingham

Chillingham Castle is a 13th-century, Grade I listed stronghold in Northumberland, famed for action and battles. With its fine rooms, gardens, lakes, fountains and tea rooms, the castle has an extraordinary ownership bloodline which runs back to the 1200s.

Just twenty minutes from the seaside, this romantic and thriving castle is perfect for short breaks or family days out! Or if you’re looking for a more chilling experience, as one of the most haunted castles in England, our ‘Torture Chamber’ and evening Ghost Tours are sure to entertain.

Chipchase Castle, Hexham

Chipchase Castle is a  rugged border castle of the 14th century consisting of a great Pele tower with corner turrets.

The castle was added to later in the 1620s and more comfortable lodgings which were themselves altered in the mid-18th century. In the mid-19th century dining room furniture by Mein of Kelso was installed.

Preston Tower, Chathill

The Preston pele tower, which is owned by GJ Baker Cresswell, was built between 1392 and 1399, when warfare between England and Scotland was endemic.

At the time of Agincourt (1415) it was one of 78 Pele Towers in Northumberland. Its owners included Sir Guiscard Harbottle, who was slain fighting against James IV at the battle of Flodden in 1513, the conflict that brought Mary, Queen of Scots to the Scottish throne.

Events in the North East

Don’t just visit historic houses and gardens. Experience them. There simply is no better place to attend a concert, watch an outdoor film screening, peruse a plant fair, or admire vintage cars than at a historic house or garden. Here, you can view a regularly updated list of the best events you can attend in the North East over the coming weeks and months.

Explore other UK regions

Best Places to Visit in Wales

The 14 Best Places to Visit in the West Midlands

The 20 Best Places to Visit in Yorkshire

The 21 Best Places to Visit in the East of England

The 24 Best Places to Visit in the East Midlands

The 28 Best Places to Visit in the North West of England

The 4 Best Places to Visit in Northern Ireland

The 46 Best Places to Visit in Scotland

The 56 Best Places to Visit in London and the South East

The 53 Best Places to Visit in the South West of England

Visit the 300 Best Historic Houses & Gardens in the UK

Become a historic houses member.

Explore the nation’s heritage from just £68 per year.

Hundreds of the most beautiful historic houses, castles, and gardens across Britain offer our members free entry.

Also: receive a quarterly magazine, enjoy monthly online lectures, get exclusive invitations to buy tickets for behind-the-scenes tours, and take up a range of special offers on holidays, books, and other products you might like.

Sign up for our newsletter

Read more of our stories, receive exclusive content, and find out what’s on.

You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of our emails. For information about our privacy practices, please visit our privacy policy .

" * " indicates required fields

Member Login

Forgotten your password?

Register to login

All members (except house and corporate members) need to register for an online account to be able to log in to the site. If you are a house or corporate member, contact our offices.

If you have already registered an account and still can’t login, try setting a new password by clicking ‘Forgotten your password’.

Not yet a member?

In order to view our online lectures and other members-only content, and access hundreds of Historic Houses for free, you’ll first need to become a member.

• Visit 100 Countries
• Visit 500 UNESCO Sites
• Landmarks of the World

Welcome to the enchanting world of North East England, a hidden gem often overlooked by travelers from both near and far. Nestled between the Scottish borders and the captivating counties of Yorkshire, this captivating region holds a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered!

At the heart of this land lies the picturesque River Tyne, surrounded by a string of charming former coal-mining towns. These towns once fueled the shipbuilding and heavy industries that resonated with the world. However, North East England is not solely an industrial hub; it’s a haven of natural wonders.

As you venture through this captivating region, you’ll be captivated by rolling landscapes adorned with ancient dry-stone walls, expansive dales, and untamed moorlands that stretch as far as the eye can see. Don’t miss the windswept castles dotting the coastline, gazing out over the majestic North Sea.

Among the many treasures North East England has to offer, we hold a special place in our hearts for the historic city of York, with its rich heritage and timeless charm.

So, whether you’re planning a short weekend escapade, a week of exploration, or an extended stay, we’re excited to present you with eight fantastic places to visit in North East England. These carefully curated recommendations come straight from us and our fellow travel bloggers, ensuring you experience the very best this captivating region has to offer. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our   full disclosure policy here .

TABLE OF CONTENTS

8 great places to visit in north east england, barnard castle, berwick-upon-tweed.

Taking its name from the castle of the same name which dates back to the 12th century,  Barnard Castle  is the main market town of Teesdale, County Durham. The town and the castle are set on a rocky outcrop high above the River Tees and have attracted famous visitors for centuries.

Sir Walter Scott visited and wrote about the area, Charles Dickens stayed and also wrote about the area and the town’s independent school has famous alumni that include rugby internationals Rob Andrews and the Underwood brothers.

The town hosts a traditional market every Wednesday in the centre, and there’s also a farmer market on the first Saturday of each month. The town also hosts an annual ‘Meet and Carnival’ in May and an increasingly popular 1940’s weekend.

MUST DO IN BARNARD CASTLE:

• Barnard Castle : Maintained now by   English Heritage , the castle dates to the 12th century. It contains artefacts from Richard III whose boar emblem is found here and offers superb views over the surrounding countryside.
• The Bowes Museum : Considered one of the most important museums outside of London, this French Chateau contains art from Goya, porcelain, and a stunning mechanical Silver Swan. The building itself is also seriously impressive.
• Gateway to Teesdale : Barnard Castle is viewed as the gateway to one of the Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty – visit the incredibly picturesque High Force and Low Force waterfalls and walk part of the   Pennine Way   or the less arduous Teesdale Way.

Contribution from Sarah of ASocialNomad

READ MORE: Like exploring castles? Check out these 15 beautiful and historic  castles to visit in England !

Staithes is a very picturesque fishing village in the  North York Moors National Park .  This sleepy hamlet, nestled between two cliffs, gives the illusion that nothing has changed for hundreds of years.

MUST DO IN STAITHES:

• Race up to the fantastic viewpoint : When all of the other visitors are heading to the harbour, you should instead head up the narrow winding stairs which lead to a patch of green on the cliff edge. You’ll find two old benches standing proudly on the hilltop that have endured many years of windy weather which allows you to take in the view of  Staithes below. This is truly a must-do when you   visit Staithes.
• Walk down its little alleys and go cottage name spottin g: Notice the lovely cottage names as you wander through the maze of little streets.   Rose of England, Confidence Cottage, Blue Jacket House   and   True Love   can be seen. What cannot be seen however are house numbers because the inhabitants found the idea of numbering the houses daft. They argue that the romantic names are part of Staithes’ history and removing them would be taking away part of the village’s past. Therefore, as you are wandering around take note of the sweet cottage names of which the Staithians are fiercely proud of.
• Enjoy a pint by the beach : After your wandering up to the viewpoint and meandering through the quaint streets you will in no doubt be in need of refreshment. Make your way to the seafront and the beach where you will find a local favourite, the   Cod & Lobster . There is a huge range of food and drink at this pub, including three vegetarian and vegan options! Grab a drink and sit outside overlooking the harbour and bay. What a great way to end your trip in Staithes

Contribution from Anna of MyTravelScrapbook

York , a pretty little town located about 20 minutes by train from Leeds is definitely a must-visit in  England .

You will notice the historic walls as soon as you leave the train station reminding you of medieval times, including cobbled streets, pretty tea rooms, and architecture with an emphasis on the Gothic style.

A mix of old and modern, the city offers a variety of activities for all types of travellers making it the perfect short getaway, even if only a   day trip from London . While there are quite a few attractions you can visit, here are the top three that you must when   visiting York .

MUST DO IN YORK:

• York Minster : Located near the city centre, the best views of the city can be seen from the top of York Minster’s central tower. While it is quite a climb (275 steps), once at the top you’ll get a glimpse of the walls, the river and pretty much the whole of the city! The   Jorvik Viking Centre   is located right around the corner from the cathedral and is another popular activity for adults and kids alike, where everyone can play dress up too!
• The Shambles : The Shambles is a favourite of many visitors to York and possibly the most famous attraction. The Shambles is one of the best-preserved medieval streets in the whole world. Tiny, quirky shops which were once butchers now have fudge, tea and cookies on offer. The cobbled streets are very narrow and if you pay attention you’ll be able to see the butcher hooks on some of them!
• Have tea at Betty’s : Nothing is as British as having a ‘cuppa’ and Betty’s is quite the experience for it. Fancy cutlery and a wide variety of sandwiches, cakes and tasty scones make it a lovely spot to head up on a rainy afternoon.

Contribution from Lavina of Continent Hop

Whitby is located in Yorkshire, which is one of my favourite places to visit in  England . On the northeast coast, Whitby is famous for its fish and chips, Blue Flag beaches and its old-fashioned English seaside sensibility.

Whitby is also known for many other reasons, that make is the perfect British seaside town. Whitby Jet, a fossilized wood, was a Victorian favourite used by jewellers. The   North Yorkshire Steam Railway   transports passengers back in time and heads out to Goathland which was used for Harry Potter’s journey to Hogwarts. Whitby also draws in thousands of Goths and Steampunk folks with two festivals yearly that celebrate all things horror and Victorian.

MUST DO IN WHITBY:

• Whitby Abbey : Whitby is a haunted place and makes a great horror story location. Whitby Abbey is a 1340-year-old ruin that stands on top of East Cliff. If you are a Dracula fan and have read   Stoker , you will know that Whitby is where Dracula first comes ashore in Britain in the guise of a black dog.
• Beaches : From the Abbey, you can   walk the 199 steps   down to the old town and the beaches. There are two beaches in Whitby –  Tate Hill, to the east of the river is small and sheltered, and West Cliff is bigger, with beach huts, deckchairs, and donkey rides.
• Shops and Museum : When wandering the narrow streets of Whitby stop in and visit the   Captain Cook Memorial Museum   (he was an apprentice here). Whitby also has some fabulous eclectic little shops for interesting gifts and trinkets. Not your typical stuff, you can find lots of old shipping antiques, privateer and pirate gifts as well as the traditional Whitby Jet. Keep an eye out for old-fashioned sweet shops with jar upon jar of candy and chocolate and antique shops galore, such as Justin Chocolatiers for some amazing chocolates.

Contribution from Faith of XYU and Beyond

The northeast county of Durham is three hours out of  London  by train, near England’s east coast. Once you arrive you’ll understand how the city got its name from a Celtic-Norse portmanteau that means “hill fort island”.

The quaint, cobbled city of Durham is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and was once crowned the “best city in the UK” by Condé Nast. And all for good reason, which you will find out on a visit.

MUST DO IN DURHAM:

• Durham Cathedral : Durham is perhaps best known for its 11th-century cathedral, which attracts tourists for its UNESCO World Heritage Site status and the fact that it was used as a set for the Harry Potter films, as well as a number of other box office hits. It is believed to be one of England’s finest examples of Norman Romanesque architecture with a museum that hosts permanent and temporary exhibits and collections.
• Durham Castle : Just across the lawn from the cathedral is the town’s second UNESCO World Heritage Site – Durham Castle – which was also once a fortress. Today it houses one of the country’s best universities and can be visited on a guided tour, which will narrate its history, heritage and what it’s like to study within its walls. It’s really well worth taking a walk along the Wear River that runs alongside the cathedral and castle.
• Beamish Museum:  Durham folk are rather proud of the Beamish Museum. The 300-acre, open-air living, working museum offers a glimpse into what northeast England must have looked like from the 1820s until the 1940s. Here you can find everyday items from steam engines to sewing machines.

Contribution from Iga of Eager Journeys

READ MORE: Interest in exploring more UNESCO World Heritage sites in England? Check out these 8 great UNESCO sites to visit from London !

Newcastle doesn’t always get the attention it deserves, and it is often overshadowed by other cities in the north of   England  such as Manchester, Liverpool and York. But there are so many reasons   why Newcastle should be everyone’s next UK destination .

Located in the northeast of England, Newcastle has joined forces with Gateshead, making NewcastleGateshead. They’ve co-existed side by side since Roman times, despite being divided by the River Tyne, and they are now a centre for culture, a vibrant nightlife, inspiring heritage and award-winning dining. And not only that, it has been voted the number one place in the world to visit in 2018 by   Rough Guides . Do you need any more reasons to visit?

MUST DO IN NEWCASTLE:

• BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art :  Located inside a re-purposed flour mill, BALTIC has an ever-changing calendar of exhibitions and activities created by a number of the world’s most prominent artists and designers.
• Sage Gateshead : Named as one of the top concert halls on the planet, seeing a performance here is a must. And if you are a lover of architecture, then you’re in for a treat!
• Dinner and drinks : The  ‘ House of Tides’   is Newcastle’s only Michelin star restaurant and should be on every foodie’s itinerary. Set within a Grade 1 listed 16th-century former merchant’s townhouse, it focuses on natural, seasonal and sustainable food. After dinner, enjoy a few drinks at  ‘ The Cluny’ , one for Newcastle’s coolest drinking spots. The Cluny is a bar, an art gallery and a music venue rolled into one and it attracts the city’s most artistic residents.

Settled since the Iron Age, Lincoln was a major settlement in Roman times when they built a sophisticated aqueduct system to bring water to the city. Several city gates can still be found around the city dating from as early as the 3rd-century.

The city also had important roles in both world wars. It was here, in Lincoln, that the first military tanks were invented for use on the Western Front during World War I. Today the Royal Air Force’s famous aerobatic display team the ‘ Red Arrows’   are based at RAF Scampton just to the north of the city.

MUST DO IN LINCOLN:

• Lincoln Cathedral : The tallest building in the world for 238 years after it surpassed the great pyramid of Giza in 1311, though construction started in 1072! It then lost the title when the central spire was destroyed by a storm in 1549. It is the third-largest cathedral in Britain and full of interesting details such as the Lincoln Imp and the Rose windows.
• Steep Hill : Voted “Britain’s Best Street”, Steep Hill offers unique stores offering many different speciality items for sale. But don’t just come to shop, some of the buildings on the street date back to the 12th-century and the whole street is full of historic interest. Be warned though, the street is well named with a gradient of 1 in 7!
• Lincoln Castle : Built in the 11th-century by William the Conqueror to extend his control north, Lincoln Castle protected several key trading routes in the area. A walk around the walls offers great views whilst the Victorian prison is well worth exploring. The castle is also home to an original 1215 Magna Carta, one of the most important documents in history as recognised by its inclusion in the UNESCO Memory of the World Register.

READ MORE: Looking for more great places to visit in England? Check out these  8 great places to visit in North West England !

You can’t go much further north in England than Berwick-upon-Tweed; just a couple of miles north of the town and you’ll find yourself crossing the border into  Scotland !  The town is the northernmost in England and its proximity to the border meant it changed hands between the English and the Scots on multiple occasions in the first few centuries of the second-millennium.

Even though the town has been on the English side of the border since 1482, some still campaign for it to be in Scotland. The town’s football and rugby teams are unique in that they play in the Scottish leagues for their sport, despite their teams being based in England.

MUST DO IN BERWICK-UPON-TWEED:

• Lowry Trail : The artist LS Lowry is famous for his “matchstick men” of industrial scenes and the terraced house in the northwest of England, but he also spent quite some time in Berwick on holiday and produced over twenty images of the town. The Lowry Trail follows in his footsteps and showcases parts of the town where Lowry worked. The trail also takes in the city walls for views of the city and several towers and other defensive structures of the town.
• Berwick Barracks : The first purpose-built military barracks in the country, Berwick Barracks were constructed in the early 18th-century. Today they house three museums: “By the Beat of Drum” details the life of a British soldier with scenes of how life would have been in the barracks, “King’s Own Scottish Borderers” is a regimental museum with a collection of artefacts from the 325-year history of the regiment, and the Berwick Museum and Art Gallery is a collection of items from Berwick’s past industries.
• Holy Island : 11-miles south of Berwick is Holy Island which is only accessible during low tides across the causeway. The most famous structure on the island is the   Lindisfarne Priory  which was founded in 635AD by Saint Aidan. Other interesting things to visit are the two lighthouses that guide ships and   Lindisfarne Castle   which dates from 1550.

North East England has proven to be a treasure trove of diverse experiences, where history and modernity coexist harmoniously and we hope you’ve been captivated by the region’s charm and allure.

From the historic streets of York, where the past and present blend seamlessly, to the awe-inspiring grandeur of Durham’s cathedral, our love for this enchanting region only grows stronger with every visit, and we hope you, too, have fallen under its spell.

We know we’ll be back to explore more and we hope you have a wonderful time on your own visit to the North East England.

Looking for more information to plan your visit to England? You may find these articles helpful.

• Beautiful and Historic Castles to Visit in England
• 101 Free Things to See and Do in London
• 23 Day Trips from London
• 25 Weekend Breaks in England

Map of Places to Visit in North East England

RESOURCES | PLAN YOUR TRIP TO ENGLAND

To book flights, rental cars, accommodations, and activities for your trip, please check out our recommended travel providers, favourite apps and websites. 

• For more great weekend ideas around England and the rest of Britain, check out one of my favourites –   52 Great British Weekends: A Seasonal Guide to Britain’s Best Breaks
• For weekend ideas in London –   The Weekend Starts Here: Fifty-Two Weekends of Things to See and Do   – will give you lots of ideas!
• For all things England, you can’t go wrong with Rick Steves! Check out his   England travel guide , full episodes of his   TV show , or download his app for excellent   audio tours .

Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission but this does not affect the price to you. Please read our   full disclosure policy here . 

RELATED POSTS

Guide to visiting the tower of london, 8 great places to visit in central england.

Unveil the magic of central England with its ancient towns, majestic cathedrals, industrial heritage, and unspoiled landscapes.

Things to Do in Cornwall, England

Guide to england’s unesco world heritage sites.

Unveil England’s captivating wonders! Start your journey with UNESCO World Heritage sites—natural and man-made marvels—unfolding a historic and beautiful country. Plan your trip now!

Things to Do in Bath, England

Days out in the North East

Use our North East days out guide to find a family day out, fun things to do with the kids , day trips for couples or a place to visit this weekend.

Click a button below to select an area :-

County Durham things to do Northumberland things to do Tyne and Wear things to do All

Offers & tickets for things to do in the North East :-

• Family & Kids Things To Do in the North East - Save up to 60%
• Adults & Couples Days Out - Save up to 50%
• Afternoon Tea for Two - Save up to 40%
• Go Ape - Forest Segway, Tree Top Adventure and Tree Top Junior
• Hot Air Balloon Flights - Over 100 launch sites available

View more cheap deals in the North East

County Durham attractions :-

• Auckland Castle - Bishop Auckland
• DLI Museum and Durham Art Gallery - Aykley Heads
• Crook Hall and Gardens - Sidegate, Durham
• Durham Cathedral - Durham
• Durham University Botanic Garden - Durham City
• Egglestone Abbey - Barnard Castle
• Hall Hill Farm - Lanchester
• Hartlepool's Maritime Experience - Hartlepool
• Head of Steam - Darlington Railway Museum - Darlington
• Heugh Battery Museum - Hartlepool
• Killhope - The North of England Lead Mining Museum - Upper Weardale
• Oriental Museum - Durham
• The Bowes Museum - Barnard Castle
• Tweddle Children's Animal Farm - Blackhall Colliery
• Weardale Museum and High House Chapel - Ireshopeburn, Bishop Auckland

View all in County Durham

Northumberland places to visit :-

• Alnwick Castle - Alnwick
• Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens - Belsay, Nr Morpeth
• Castle Mania Indoor Adventure Play - Amble
• Cherryburn - Mickley, Stocksfield
• Chesters Roman Fort and Museum - Chollerford, Hexham
• Conundrum Farm - Berwick upon Tweed
• Cragside - Rothbury, Morpeth
• Eshott Heugh Animal Park - Morpeth
• Hexham Abbey - Hexham
• Housesteads Roman Fort - Hexham
• Howick Hall Gardens - Alnwick
• Kielder Water Bird of Prey Centre - Kielder, Hexham
• The Sanctuary Wildlife Care Centre - Morpeth
• Wallington - Cambo, Morpeth
• Warkworth Castle and Hermitage - Warkworth

View all in Northumberland

Tyne and Wear attractions :-

• Arbeia Roman Fort and Museum - South Shields
• Blue Reef Aquarium Tynemouth - Tynemouth
• Discovery Museum - Newcastle upon Tyne
• Down at the Farm - Houghton Le Spring
• Great North Museum: Hancock - Newcastle upon Tyne
• Laing Art Gallery - Newcastle upon Tyne
• Mister Twisters Gateshead - Gateshead, Wardley
• Parklands Mini Golf - High Gosforth Park, Newcastle upon Tyne
• Ryhope Engines Museum - Ryhope, Sunderland
• Segedunum Roman Fort, Baths and Museum - Wallsend
• Seven Stories - Newcastle upon Tyne
• Souter Lighthouse and The Leas - Whitburn, Sunderland
• Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens - Sunderland
• Tanfield Railway - Gateshead
• Tynemouth Priory and Castle - Tynemouth

View all in Tyne and Wear

Newcastle Landmarks & Attractions

Landmarks and Attractions in Newcastle upon Tyne 

There are so many fantastic landmarks and attractions in newcastle upon tyne, including a variety of museums, theatres, historic sites, and cultural venues. find out more..

Here at Visit North East England, we know all of the best Newcastle Landmarks and Attractions . So, if you're paying a visit to our region and are looking for a heritage, history, culture or just something new we'll certainly be able to point you in the right direction.

Read all about the best things to do in Newcastle, no matter what type of visit you’re looking for.

Newcastle Castle ·

Looking for heritage right in the heart of the city centre? Steeped in history you will find the Norman fortress Newcastle Castle, an iconic landmark that teaches us all about northern England’s past. The castle signifies where the story of Newcastle began and the reason the city got its name. After you’ve roamed the fortress for stories of the past, take a trip to the top of the castle where you will find one of the best views in Newcastle for that all important Instagram pic!

The International Centre for Life ·

The Life Centre is not like any other museum, get ready to explore the centre by looking, touching and getting creative for a hands on experience at all of their exhibitions. When purchasing a ticket you will gain access to everything the Centre for Life has to offer – explore interactive zones, discover off the wall activities and get inspired by a range of immersive experiences. There are many unique attractions in Newcastle and this is certainly one of the best.

St James’ Park ·

Nothing compares to the electric atmosphere of a premier league match at St James’ Park, home to Newcastle United Football Club. Join the 50,000 strong Toon Army fans, embrace the no doubt exciting game and cheer the home team on. Join a tour and you can even walk on the famous stadium terrace roof.

Theatre Royal ·

The beautiful Theatre Royal situation on the iconic Grey Street is the perfect venue to enjoy a variety of contemporary dance, musicals, ballet, opera to name a few. This neoclassical gem, designed by local architects John and Benjamin Green provides the region with the best entertainment. Whether you fancy a night of laughs, drama, or award winning music you won’t regret planning an evening at this Newcastle attraction.

Great North Museum: Handcock ·

One of Newcastle’s best attractions is without a doubt the Great North Museum, a natural history hub in the heart of the city centre. Within the museum you can find exhibitions on the living planet, ancient Egyptians, world cultures and natural Northumbria. The most popular attraction is most definitely the life-size T-Rex replica skeleton on the ground floor of the building.

Magical Light Trails in North East England 

7 ways to explore the outdoors in North East England

Alfresco Summer Nights in the North East

Simply enter your email in the box below to sign up to the Visit North East England newsletter for the latest destination information, special offers and news from North East England.

North East England Tourist Guides

North east england, explore our fantastic region.

North East England is one of the best kept secrets in Britain. Come and discover our beautiful countryside, breathtaking landscapes, gorgeous sandy beaches, outstanding attractions, fabulous market towns and cultural cities.

Every part of our region has its own unique character and the easiest and best way to really experience our region is to be accompanied by one of our qualified and passionate tourist guides.

OUR SERVICES

Discover how we can enhance your visit to North East England. We offer a wide range of services such as professional tour planning, guided walks, coach tours, multi-lingual tourist guide services and more… 

Our Tourist Guides

Find out more about our friendly, professional tourist guides who will make your visit to our region a memorable one.

Blue Badge Guide Profession

Blue Badge Guides are the official, professional tourist guides of the United Kingdom.

GET IN TOUCH

Making plans to visit North East England? Get in touch to discuss your requirements from itinerary planning to tourist guiding in our great region.