North East England

Make Durham your base and discover the delights of Northumberland, NewcastleGateshead, Sunderland and Tees Valley.

A unique combination of tranquil countryside and vibrant city life, historical sites and modern culture - the North East has a host of amazing attractions to explore.

Durham is the ideal base from which to explore the surrounding areas of Northumberland, NewcastleGateshead, Sunderland and Tees Valley.

Offering the perfect blend of countryside, coast and city life, there is much to discover on Durham's doorstep.

After experiencing all that Durham has to offer, history lovers will enjoy soaking up the atmosphere at the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, Bamburgh Castle, Alnwick Castle and Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland, or the twin monasteries of Wearmouth-Jarrow.

The past is brought to life at attractions including Head of Steam, Darlington Railway Museum in Tees Valley, where you can learn about the first steam-powered passenger carrying public railway. Explore the large-scale interactive model of Hadrian's Wall and impressive natural history exhibits at the Great North Museum: Hancock in Newcastle, or uncover Tees Valley's seafaring past at the reconstructed 18th Century seaport at Hartlepool's Maritime Experience.

For family days out visit the award-winning science attraction, Life Science Centre or Seven Stories, The Centre for Children's Books in Newcastle, whilst the wide sandy beaches of Roker and Seaburn in Sunderland will provide lots of seaside fun. And if you crave culture, don't miss Sunderland's National Glass Centre and Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art in Gateshead and mima, Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art.

For a breath of fresh air, head to The Alnwick Garden or Kielder Water and Forest Park in Northumberland, Washington Wetlands Centre or the award-winning RSPB Saltholme Nature Reserve and Discovery Park in Tees Valley. Or discover your adventurous side by taking to the rapids at Tees Barrage White Water Course.

And when its time to refuel, stroll along the vibrant NewcastleGateshead Quayside and take in the ambience of the many restaurants and bars, and of course that famous view of the seven bridges across the River Tyne. 

Click here for more information on Northumberland
Click here for more information on Tees Valley
Click here for more information on NewcastleGateshead
Click here for more information on Sunderland

Sunderland
A city by the sea, Sunderland has a captivating combination of relaxing countryside, beautiful sandy beaches, a lively city centre, fascinating attractions and spectacular events.

Hartlepool
Situated on the coast of North East England, Hartlepool is a town that has seen a dramatic renaissance in recent years, with Christian heritage critically important to the town’s development.