Things to do in Northumberland & County Durham

Standing resplendent above the medieval city below, this masterpiece of Norman engineering is one of the most striking and historically important sights in England.

Uncover the secrets of this striking castle that's been in continuous use for over 900 years and is now home to the university's students!

A wonderfully impressive waterfall, where you can truly appreciate the power of nature, as the River Tees cascades 21 metres down into scenic plunge pools.

Breathe in the sea air and soak up sublime views of the coastline as you walk the beautiful golden sands of this popular beach.

This spectacular paradise in the pretty town of Alnwick, is one of the most exciting contemporary gardens in the world.

Adorable puffins and enchanting seals are just some of the gorgeous species of wildlife you'll spot at the Farne Islands - an unforgettable natural spectacle!

Surely one of Britain's most picturesque and spectacular castles, standing stoically above the gorgeous sand dunes and sprawling beach below - a truly epic sight!

A 700 hundred-year-old castle simply brimming with enchantment - delve into a dragon's lair or learn to ride a broomstick exactly where Harry Potter did!

See, stroke and feed a lovely variety of animals at this family-fun farm, from classic goats and sheep to exotic meerkats and skunks!

Explore the history of Newbiggin-by-the-Sea at this lovely little museum which celebrates the industries and people that made the town what it is today.

Come face-to-face with spellbinding creatures from the depths of the ocean - including graceful cownose rays, deadly lionfish and the most charming clownfish!

Wander along Northumberland's longest promenade and breathe in spectacular views of the bay and the UK's first off shore sculpture - The Couple.

The largest shopping centre in the UK with more than 340 shops to enjoy, ranging from high street favourites to independents - ready, set, shop!

Immerse yourself in history at this unique open-air living museum where the past really does come to life all around you!

The glorious cathedral dominates the skyline of Durham, but explore the medieval streets below and you'll quickly find there's so much more to this city!

A fun-filled day for the kids where they'll make friends with lovable animals and run wild on indoor or outdoor play areas. Guaranteed energy-burning entertainment!

Journey back to the times of Nelson and Napoleon at this working recreation of an 18th-century seaport, that's home to Britain's oldest floating warship.

Situated on the Durham Heritage Coast this expansive golden beach makes the most sublime setting in which to learn horse riding.

11m high tightropes, swings over giant drops... who knew that such an idyllic woodland could be filled with such fear... and wild excitement!

Combining the fun of painting your favourite ceramics with the opportunity to feast on gorgeous pancakes - this is a match made in heaven!

The city's most historic building is filled with dark secrets and striking architecture and rewards those who climb it with the most breathtaking urban views.

The fun of surfing just without the water! Ride this awesome simulator to feel the sensation of riding the waves no matter what the weather.

Set within the surroundings of High Gosforth Park, this 18 hole mini golf course can be delightfully relaxed family entertainment or a seriously competitive challenge.

Whether you're pushing yourself to perfect your swing or enjoying a relaxed game on the 18 hole course; this is a wonderful spot for golfers.

Ride heart-stopping roller coasters, swing on a giant pirate ship and fly on the chair swings at the North East's largest amusement park!

Dramatically blending action and adrenaline, this multi-level arena is the ideal place to battle it out in a frenetic game of laser tag!

Smell aromatic herbs, hear beautiful bird song and experience the calm of a meditative space in this wonderfully diverse country garden.

This lovely little museum tells the story of the people of Alnwick with lots of fascinating displays and interactive activities to discover.

A calm, peaceful, serene ancient forest. That is until you come flying through the canopies on an exhilarating zip wire!

A hidden gem within the city of Durham, this wonderful medieval hall is a treat to explore but it's the sublime gardens that truly shine!

There are so many animals to make friends with at this family farm - from traditional pigs, sheep and cows, to exotic alpacas and wallabies!

Who knew operating heavy machinery could be THIS exciting; get hands-on with real diggers and dumpers at Diggerland - awesome fun whatever your age!

The North East's biggest adventure park with 6 gigantic play zones to clamber and explore and the most loveable animals to cuddle.

Recounting the story of the local historic railway this fascinating museum is home to the world's first steam powered passenger locomotive!

Unearth Cleveland's industrial and social history at this 19th-century ironstone mine that's filled with fascinating and sometimes terrifying tales of life in the dark.

A magical garden, filled with beautiful and exuberant displays and yet there's a secret behind these plants - they can heal your body and brain!

A wonderfully striking Jacobean House set in the most idyllic surroundings - step through its doors and be transported back to another age!

The northern border of the once mighty Roman Empire, much of Hadrian's Wall still stands today, providing a remarkable insight into life in ancient times.

A picturesque market town filled with historic treasures, Alnwick is renowned for its beautifully well-preserved streets, magnificent castle and idyllic gardens.

Striking architecture, historic splendour, sensational museums, legendary nightlife... Whatever you're looking for in a city then Newcastle-upon-Tyne surely has it!

While the kids scramble, slide and swing through this indoor soft play area you can kick back with a coffee. Talk about ideal!

Sitting resplendent off the Northumberland coast this picturesque island has a deep spiritual heritage and is simply awash with history and natural beauty.

An iconic coal mine where you can explore the social heritage of this mining community and discover the difficult and dangerous conditions of the pit.

A historic gun emplacement filled with 20th-century armaments, from rifles to tanks - an absolute treat for those interested in military history.

A seaside themed soft play centre that will lure your kids in with gigantic slides, swings and ball pools for endless energy-burning fun!

A hands-on science centre filled with possibilities. Create wonders and compose music in the curiosity zone or explore the stars in the magical planetarium.

Step back in time and discover the history of Newcastle and Tyneside at this fascinating museum - that houses a 34-metre long steamship!

There's a whole series of tunnels running right underneath the centre of Newcastle-upon-Tyne; so what else to do but get down there and explore them!

The impressive home of Victorian inventor Lord Armstrong is filled with ingenious gadgets but it's his creations outdoors that show true genius!

A splendid medieval castle with a captivating yet sometimes dark history; discover the glories of the Elizabethan Great Hall and the horrors of the dungeon.

The gigantic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, one of the largest in Northern England, are truly picturesque against the dramatic backdrop of the Northumberland coast.

From 4,000 years in the past to the present day, this fascinating museum explores the social, industrial and maritime history of South Shields.

An unbeatable offering of water sports - from the adrenaline-fuelled action of white water rafting to the joys of quiet paddle boarding.

Recently restored to its former glory, Spanish City is one of the North East's most iconic landmarks - with prime position on Whitley Bay's seafront.

Overlooked by the historic Tynemouth Priory and Castle is hidden gem King Edward's Bay - a small and popular sandy beach nestled between the cliffs.

Whitley Bay Links and Beach is a lovely expanse of golden sand flanked by a long promenade that stretches between Cullercoats and St Mary's Lighthouse.

Part of the North Northumberland Heritage Coast and set within Northumberland's Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is horseshoe-shaped Beadnell Bay.

Running from Hauxley in the north to Cresswell in the south is Druridge Bay, a golden 7-mile curve of spectacular shoreline and dunes.

Seahouses is a historic fishing village with a small bustling harbour, forming part of the Northumberland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Its north beach is tranquil and unspoilt.

Beautiful Bamburgh Beach is free of crowds and full of dramatic coastal sights. The sandy beach is sheltered by impressive dunes and overlooked by the majestic Bamburgh Castle.

Seaham Beach boasts golden sand and pebbles bejewelled with colourful smooth glass stones - a remnant from the days when the town was famed for its glass factory.

In a wide sandy bay at the mouth of the River Aln and on the fringes of a characterful little village is spectacular Alnmouth Beach.

Close to two nature reserves and just moments away from the holiday park that shares its name, Crimdon Dene Beach is a lovely long stretch of golden sand.