30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in North East England | Apr 2025

Bamburgh and Lindisfarne Day Tour Image
# 1 provided by Viator.com

Bamburgh and Lindisfarne Day Tour

Since pre-history Bamburgh and Lindisfarne have had human settlements. As a fortress of the Kingdom of Northumbria Bamburgh was the centre of the largest Kingdom in England during the 7th and 8th century.

5.00 (4 reviews)

Guided City Walking Tour of Newcastle Image
# 2 provided by Viator.com

Guided City Walking Tour of Newcastle

The tour takes you around some of the more interesting sights of the beautiful city of Newcastle. On it you will hear about the history of the city from the Iron Age to present day, and also about some of the city's more interesting characters.

4.95 (490 reviews)

Vera Tour of Northumberland TV Locations Image
# 3 provided by Viator.com

Vera Tour of Northumberland TV Locations

This day tour explores the scenic coastal beauty of Northumberland iand includes places such as Amble, Warkworth, Alnmouth and Bamburgh.

4.81 (27 reviews)

Half Day Hadrian’s Wall Guided Tour  Image
# 4 provided by Viator.com

Half Day Hadrian’s Wall Guided Tour

2000 years ago this was a frontier, a place where two cultures collided. Your guide can happily weave a narrative from both the Roman perspective and the native perspective, providing both viewpoints.

4.92 (38 reviews)

1-Hour and a Half Walking Guided Tour in Medieval Newcastle Image
# 5 provided by Viator.com

1-Hour and a Half Walking Guided Tour in Medieval Newcastle

Join us for a tour around the fascinating remains of medieval Newcastle, including free entry to Newcastle Castle. This tour will explore the medieval history of Newcastle which lies hidden behind the modern city.

5.00 (34 reviews)

1.5 Hour Explore Newcastle Walking Tour Image
# 6 provided by Viator.com

1.5 Hour Explore Newcastle Walking Tour

Experience an amazing insight into Newcastle - a rounded story giving you all the highlights, little quirks and fascinating introduction to this amazing city we call home! Led by passionate guides, this is the best intro to a city you can imagine, setting the scene for the rest of your time here! .

4.81 (42 reviews)

Newcastle : Private Walking Tour With A Guide (Private Tour)  Image
# 7 provided by Viator.com

Newcastle : Private Walking Tour With A Guide (Private Tour)

Get to know the city through the eyes of a local guide. With no set itinerary, you can customize the tour or leave it to the local for an enlightening introduction to the city.

4.19 (16 reviews)

Private Newcastle Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation Image
# 8 provided by Viator.com

Private Newcastle Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation

Get your time in Newcastle off to a stress-free start with this private, one-way transfer service from Newcastle Airport.

A Silent Disco Adventure in Newcastle Image
# 9 provided by Viator.com

A Silent Disco Adventure in Newcastle

Join the Silent Adventures Team as we take you on a journey of song and dance through the famous streets of Newcastle. This musically instructed adventure aims to have your funky moves on display and your pop star voices serenading the people of the Toon! Hi-tech headsets will fill your body with beats, theme songs and your favourite hits across the decades.

4.64 (14 reviews)

Pilgrims' Path walk across the sands to Holy Island Image
# 10 provided by Viator.com

Pilgrims' Path walk across the sands to Holy Island

PLEASE NOTE THAT START TIMES FOR EACH WALK ARE DIFFERENT DUE TO THE TIDES, AND NOT AT 02:30am (as mentioned by tripadvisor) The route across the sands at low tide is atmospheric, evoking the time of Saxon Kings and Celtic Priests.

5.00 (58 reviews)

3 Hour Walking Tour through Newcastle upon Tyne Image
# 11 provided by Viator.com

3 Hour Walking Tour through Newcastle upon Tyne

This walking tour brings the ever changing heritage and culture into life. It explains the history as well as the future developments.

4.90 (52 reviews)

Annual Admission Newcastle Castle Ticket Image
# 12 provided by Viator.com

Annual Admission Newcastle Castle Ticket

Explore the site of the Castle that gave the city its name and discover its medieval gatehouse, the Black Gate. Uncover the changing face of the Castle through the ages: from royal fortress and border stronghold to grim dungeon and teeming slum.

4.50 (102 reviews)

Fun, Flexible Treasure Hunt Around Newcastle with Cryptic Clues & Hidden Gems Image
# 13 provided by Viator.com

Fun, Flexible Treasure Hunt Around Newcastle with Cryptic Clues & Hidden Gems

A fun and different way to see Newcastle Solve satisfying clues and follow beautiful maps sent to your phones. Spot things other people take for granted! You’ll learn interesting facts and stories.

4.74 (65 reviews)

Hadrian's Wall: A Self-Guided Audio Tour along the Ruins Image
# 14 provided by Viator.com

Hadrian's Wall: A Self-Guided Audio Tour along the Ruins

This is a self-guided audio tour (EXCLUDING ENTRY TICKET) around the ruins of Housesteads Roman Fort, one of the original forts built along Hadrian's Wall.

3.25 (4 reviews)

Northumberland Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK Image
# 15 provided by Viator.com

Northumberland Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK

Self-guided Tour & Treasure Hunt Travel Experience - Over 200 destinations & challenges to explore - Kid friendly & great for avoiding crowds - Flexible anytime start - 100% free cancellation up to 24hrs before - Just 1 Ticket for your whole group!! (with our great value device sharing ticket) The smartphone travel tool that helps you discover the great outdoors & connect with the world around you.

2 Hour Guided Tour of Hadrian's Wall Image
# 16 provided by Viator.com

2 Hour Guided Tour of Hadrian's Wall

Explore this hidden gem beautiful Northumberland on this 2 hour guided tour. Learn about the rise and fall of one of Rome’s most famous constructions at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hadrian’s Wall.

4.95 (59 reviews)

Private Newcastle Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport Image
# 17 provided by Viator.com

Private Newcastle Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport

Arrange a hassle-free finish to your stay in Newcastle with this private, door-to-door transfer service from your central Newcastle hotel to Newcastle Airport.

Hadrians Wall tour full day Image
# 18 provided by Viator.com

Hadrians Wall tour full day

2000 years ago Hadrians Wall was a frontier, a place where two cultures collided. Your guide will weave a narrative from both the Roman perspective and the native perspective, thereby providing both viewpoints.

4.98 (43 reviews)

Vera Tour of Newcastle TV Locations Image
# 19 provided by Viator.com

Vera Tour of Newcastle TV Locations

Follow in the footsteps of Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope as you explore the filming locations of the hit TV show, Vera.

4.74 (39 reviews)

Hadrian's Wall Day Tour - A guided walk of the Roman Frontier Image
# 20 provided by Viator.com

Hadrian's Wall Day Tour - A guided walk of the Roman Frontier

Hadrian’s Wall, the UNESCO world heritage site and the frontier of the Roman Hadrian’s Wall. Discover the varied lives of the troops stationed on the wall.

5.00 (7 reviews)

Newcastle Private Historic Pub Tour Image
# 21 provided by Viator.com

Newcastle Private Historic Pub Tour

Newcastle is famous around the world for amongst other things, it's great pubs, nightlife and friendly Geordie locals. This tour isn't just a pub tour but a history tour also as we explore some of the most beautiful streets in Britain and some back lanes too.

5.00 (2 reviews)

Tailor-made Walking Tour: Discover Newcastle Image
# 22 provided by Viator.com

Tailor-made Walking Tour: Discover Newcastle

This tour is completely customizable - let us know your ideal starting / end points, time, duration, inclusions you wish to add (museums, galleries, foodie places etc.

Newcastle True Crime Walking Tour Image
# 23 provided by Viator.com

Newcastle True Crime Walking Tour

This tour is one of a kind - it is not a ghost tour. It takes you on a true crimes journey of Newcastle and explores some of the gruesome dark times in the city's history (all brought to life by your local expert).

4.97 (62 reviews)

Private Half-day Coastal Tour from Newcastle to Vera’s World Image
# 24 provided by Viator.com

Private Half-day Coastal Tour from Newcastle to Vera’s World

Embark on a captivating journey through the TV series “Vera” as we delve into the intricacies of the show’s filming locations.

5.00 (4 reviews)

Private Tour - Durham and Bishop Auckland full day Tour Image
# 25 provided by Viator.com

Private Tour - Durham and Bishop Auckland full day Tour

The Prince Bishops of Durham were incredibly powerful lords and religious leaders in the North of England during the Middle Ages.

Hello Newcastle! Private Walking Tour  Image
# 26 provided by Viator.com

Hello Newcastle! Private Walking Tour

Experience the city of Newcastle (and Gateshead) in a new light - gone are the days of industry & depression - the city today is one of the most fascinating, culturally active and inspiring cities in the UK.

4.95 (22 reviews)

Northumbrian Coastline Food Tour Image
# 27 provided by Viator.com

Northumbrian Coastline Food Tour

This food tour really is the ultimate way to seek out those hidden foodie gems off the beaten track. This full day tour will see you escorted by vehicle along with our professional tour guides and driver.

5.00 (1 reviews)

Newcastle Roman Fort Tour Image
# 28 provided by Viator.com

Newcastle Roman Fort Tour

Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO world heritage site, marks the frontier of the Roman Empire. The frontier extended for 80 Roman miles and covered many landscapes.

5.00 (3 reviews)

Alnwick and Warkworth Castles - The strongholds of the Percy's of Northumberland Image
# 29 provided by Viator.com

Alnwick and Warkworth Castles - The strongholds of the Percy's of Northumberland

This tour will show you the towns and Castles of Alnwick and Warkworth. During their histories both were the residence of the Percy Family.

Private Newcastle Pub Tour Image
# 30 provided by Viator.com

Private Newcastle Pub Tour

This is the ORIGINAL NEWCASTLE PUB TOUR! Enjoy a tour of discover & taste, as we cherry-pick some of the oldest and most iconic pubs in Newcastle! We look forward to sharing their fascinating tales from amusing anecdotes to serious chat.

5.00 (3 reviews)

What activities can I do in North East England?

North East England offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in this region: 1. Visit Durham Cathedral: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a magnificent example of Norman architecture and is known for its stunning stained glass windows and medieval cloisters. 2. Explore Hadrian's Wall: This ancient Roman wall stretches across the region and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. You can walk along sections of the wall and visit the various forts and museums along the way. 3. Take a trip to Alnwick Castle: This historic castle is famous for its appearance in the Harry Potter films and offers guided tours, beautiful gardens, and various activities for visitors of all ages. 4. Discover the Angel of the North: This iconic sculpture by Antony Gormley is a must-see when visiting the North East. It stands at 66 feet tall and is located just outside of Newcastle. 5. Explore the historic city of Newcastle: Visit the Quayside area with its iconic bridges, explore the medieval Newcastle Castle, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife and cultural scene of this bustling city. 6. Visit the Beamish Museum: This open-air museum near Durham showcases life in the North East during the 19th and early 20th centuries. You can explore historic buildings, ride on vintage trams, and learn about the region's industrial heritage. 7. Enjoy the coastal beauty of Northumberland: Explore the stunning beaches, visit the picturesque coastal villages of Seahouses and Bamburgh, and take a boat trip to the Farne Islands to see puffins and seals. 8. Take a walk in the North Pennines: This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers breathtaking landscapes, including rolling hills, moorland, and picturesque villages. It's a great place for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. 9. Visit the historic town of Whitby: Famous for its connections to Bram Stoker's Dracula, Whitby offers a charming harbor, a historic abbey, and delicious fish and chips. 10. Experience the vibrant cultural scene of Sunderland: Explore the National Glass Centre, visit the Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens, and enjoy live performances at the Sunderland Empire Theatre. These are just a few of the many things to do in North East England. Whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or simply enjoying the local cuisine, this region has something to offer everyone.

When is the best time to travel to North East England?

The best time to travel to North East England, England is during the summer months of June, July, and August. This region experiences milder temperatures during this time, with average highs ranging from 18-20°C (64-68°F). The days are longer, allowing for more time to explore the beautiful landscapes and historical sites. Additionally, summer is the perfect time to visit the North East's stunning coastline, including popular destinations like Whitby, Seahouses, and Bamburgh. You can enjoy activities such as hiking along the coastal paths, visiting picturesque fishing villages, or relaxing on the sandy beaches. However, it's worth noting that the North East of England can be quite busy during the summer months, especially in popular tourist areas. If you prefer to avoid crowds, you may also consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October). These months still offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists, allowing you to enjoy the region's attractions at a more relaxed pace. Winter in the North East can be cold and wet, with temperatures ranging from 1-8°C (34-46°F). However, if you don't mind the cooler weather, this time of year can be a great opportunity to explore the region's indoor attractions, such as museums, galleries, and historic sites. Overall, the best time to travel to North East England depends on your preferences and interests. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, beach relaxation, or cultural experiences, there is something to enjoy in this region throughout the year.

Travel culture you should know when traveling to North East England

North East England is a vibrant and diverse region with a rich cultural heritage. It is known for its friendly locals, stunning landscapes, and strong sense of community. Here are some aspects of the travel culture in North East England: 1. History and Heritage: The region is home to several historic sites and landmarks, including Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches across the countryside. Other notable attractions include Durham Cathedral, Alnwick Castle, and Beamish Museum, an open-air museum that depicts life in the North East during the 19th and early 20th centuries. 2. Festivals and Events: North East England hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. The Great North Run, the world's largest half marathon, takes place in Newcastle every September, attracting thousands of participants and spectators. The Durham Miners' Gala, held in July, is another popular event that celebrates the region's mining heritage. 3. Music and Performing Arts: The North East has a thriving music and performing arts scene. Newcastle is known for its vibrant live music venues, hosting both local and international acts. The Sage Gateshead, a stunning concert venue overlooking the River Tyne, is renowned for its classical, folk, and contemporary music performances. The region also boasts several theaters and art galleries, showcasing a range of productions and exhibitions. 4. Food and Drink: North East England is known for its hearty and delicious cuisine. Traditional dishes include stotties (large bread rolls), pease pudding, and stottie cake. The region is also famous for its seafood, particularly the local delicacy of Craster kippers. Visitors can enjoy a pint of locally brewed ale in one of the region's many traditional pubs. 5. Sports and Recreation: The North East is passionate about sports, particularly football. The region is home to two Premier League clubs, Newcastle United and Sunderland AFC. Football matches are a big part of the local culture, and attending a match is a memorable experience for visitors. The region also offers opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking in the Northumberland National Park or enjoying water sports along the coastline. 6. Friendly Locals: One of the highlights of visiting North East England is the warm and friendly nature of the locals. Known for their hospitality and down-to-earth attitude, the people of the region are always ready to welcome visitors and share their love for their homeland. Overall, North East England offers a unique travel experience with its rich history, cultural events, delicious food, and friendly locals. Whether you're exploring its historic sites, enjoying live music, or immersing yourself in the local culture, this region has something to offer for every traveler.

Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to North East England

When visiting North East England, there are several unique items that you can consider adding to your shopping list or bringing back as souvenirs. Here are some suggestions: 1. Newcastle Brown Ale: This iconic beer is brewed in Newcastle upon Tyne and is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike. You can find it in most supermarkets or even visit the brewery for a tour. 2. Durham Cathedral merchandise: The stunning Durham Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the region. You can find a range of souvenirs, including books, postcards, and artwork, featuring the cathedral's beautiful architecture. 3. Lindisfarne Mead: Produced on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, this honey-based alcoholic drink has a rich history dating back to medieval times. It is often referred to as the ""nectar of the gods"" and makes for a unique and delicious souvenir. 4. Northumberland Tartan: Northumberland is known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. Consider purchasing a piece of Northumberland tartan, available in various forms such as scarves, ties, or even kilts, to commemorate your visit. 5. Angel of the North merchandise: The Angel of the North is a contemporary sculpture located near Gateshead. You can find various souvenirs featuring this iconic artwork, including keychains, magnets, and prints. 6. Alnwick Castle merchandise: Alnwick Castle, known for its appearance in the Harry Potter movies as Hogwarts, offers a range of souvenirs related to the wizarding world. From wands and broomsticks to Gryffindor scarves, you can find plenty of magical mementos here. 7. Sea glass jewelry: North East England has beautiful coastlines, and you can find unique pieces of sea glass washed up on the beaches. Consider supporting local artisans and purchasing handmade sea glass jewelry as a special keepsake. 8. Local food products: North East England is known for its delicious food offerings. Look out for local specialties such as stotties (a type of bread), pease pudding, Craster kippers, and Durham mustard. These make for tasty treats to take home or as gifts for food-loving friends. Remember to check the customs regulations of your home country before purchasing any food or alcohol items to ensure they can be brought back legally.

North East England travel review

North East England: A Hidden Gem for Travelers When it comes to exploring the diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage of England, North East England often gets overlooked in favor of its more well-known counterparts. However, this region is a hidden gem that offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. From its stunning coastline to its vibrant cities and charming countryside, North East England has something for every traveler. One of the highlights of North East England is its breathtaking coastline. Stretching from Northumberland to County Durham, this rugged and unspoiled coastline is a paradise for nature lovers. The Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a must-visit destination, with its pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque fishing villages. Be sure to explore the iconic Bamburgh Castle, perched majestically on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea, and the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, accessible only at low tide. For history enthusiasts, North East England boasts a wealth of historical sites and landmarks. Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a masterpiece of Norman architecture and a symbol of the region's rich religious heritage. The city of Newcastle upon Tyne is another must-visit destination, with its iconic Tyne Bridge, historic Castle Keep, and vibrant Quayside. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Roman remains at Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches across the region. North East England is also home to a vibrant cultural scene. The city of Newcastle upon Tyne is known for its lively nightlife, with a plethora of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The Sage Gateshead, an architectural marvel overlooking the River Tyne, is a hub for world-class music performances. The region also hosts a number of annual festivals, such as the Durham Miners' Gala and the Great North Run, which attract visitors from around the world. For those seeking outdoor adventures, North East England offers plenty of opportunities. The North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts, with its rolling hills, moorland, and picturesque villages. The region is also home to several national parks, including Northumberland National Park and the North York Moors National Park, where you can explore scenic walking trails, go cycling, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the countryside. When it comes to food and drink, North East England does not disappoint. The region is known for its hearty cuisine, with specialties such as stotties (a type of bread roll), pease pudding, and stottie cake. Don't miss the chance to try the famous Newcastle Brown Ale, a local beer that has gained international recognition. In conclusion, North East England is a hidden gem that offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. From its stunning coastline and rich historical heritage to its vibrant cities and charming countryside, this region has something to offer everyone. So, next time you plan a trip to England, be sure to include North East England in your itinerary and discover the wonders that await you.