Newcastle
About 40 miles east of the coast is the vibrant city of Newcastle upon Tyne. Although known as an international party city it still has some of the finest architecture in northern Europe. In the very heart of the city is the Castle Keep whose stark construction is a contrast to the neo-classical architecture of Grey Street.
Shoppers will delight in spending time in Eldon Square, while culture vultures may prefer crossing the river Tyne to visit the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art or the Sage. The region’s heritage, both natural and industrial, are celebrated at the Great North and Discovery Museums. And there is an experience awaiting the whole family at the Centre for Life, with a regularly changing exhibition.
Durham City
A mere 15 minutes south of Newcastle by train takes you to Durham City – home to the iconic and statuesque Durham Cathedral World Heritage Site. Durham City itself is absolutely worth a visit, with lots of independent shops, and a static indoor market.
County Durham offers a landscape of contrasts both coast and country - from the peace and tranquillity of the Durham Dales to the spectacular beauty of High Force waterfall and the Durham Heritage coast.
For a small county, it has a rich heritage which is kept alive by award-winning attractions including Beamish Museum and Locomotion – the National Railway Museum at Shildon. And if you crave culture, you can’t get much better than the incredible collections and contemporary exhibitions at The Bowes Museum near Barnard Castle.