travel advice north east england

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North East England

Moors covered in carpets of heather and a heritage coastline studded with fossils. The scenery in the North East is worthy of romantic Bronte sisters' novels and magical Harry Potter film sets. Starry nights sparkle over Northumberland National Park's clear skies, an astronomer's paradise. You'll always be looking up in York at the cathedral's epic stained glass and to medieval buildings that huddle over cobbled alleyways, or at Durham's World Heritage towers and turrets. Leap into the 21st century in Newcastle with its world-class music and arts venues overlooking the River Tyne criss-crossed with a family of impressive bridges.

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Explore captivating Alnwick Castle

Walk through history and admire world-class art at this fascinating castle, then stroll through spectacular floral displays at The Alnwick Garden.

Location: Alnwick, Northumberland

Waitress standing at a table setting up afternoon tea

Take afternoon tea at Bettys Café Tea Rooms

Experience vintage English hospitality and choose from hundreds of delicious treats and tea varieties in this iconic Art Deco café.

Location: Harrogate, North Yorkshire

Rekindle your romance in the Peak District

Put a spring in your step with a tete-a-tete in a country house hotel, share a walk with heart-stopping views and chill out in a relaxing spa.

Location: Castleton, Derbyshire

See the light at the end of the tunnel

Standedge Tunnel, in the heart of the Pennine countryside, is the longest canal tunnel in Britain.

Location: Marsden, Yorkshire

Get back to nature at High Force waterfall

Explore a peaceful landscape of moors and hills, valleys, waterfalls and rivers dotted with picturesque villages and historic market towns.

Location: Durham Dales

Kiss under the Heart of Yorkshire window at the Minster

According to legend, all loved up couples that kiss under the 'Heart of Yorkshire' window, will stay together forever.

Location: York, North Yorkshire

Go shopping medieval-style along The Shambles

Travel back in time along one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval shopping streets, with cheerful cafés and quirky shops in timber-framed buildings.

Retrace Turner's footsteps in Durham

Durham’s landscapes and iconic buildings have inspired several of England’s great artists and writers, including the master painter JMW Turner.

Location: Durham Dales, Durham

March along England's longest medieval city walls

Enjoy a bird's-eye view of the city and stroll along its 13th century defensive walls, passing historic landmarks, gatehouses and gardens.

Get on board at the National Railway Museum

The world's largest railway museum is home to a staggering collection of restored locomotives, including the fastest steam engine of all time.

Rainy Day Activities: Step back in time at York Castle Museum

Travel back in time on a rainy day at this trend-setting museum, which transports visitors back through 300 years of history.

Go ghost hunting in ‘Europe's most haunted city’

York claims to be the world’s first city to run ghost walks – you’ll soon see why, with tales of murder, mayhem and gore at every corner.

Take a cruise along the River Ouse

The city of York owes its existence to the rivers. Escape the city rush and admire the scenery from the comfort of a City Cruises boat.

Discover the walled gardens at medieval Raby Castle

Visit one of England’s finest medieval castles, and explore the medieval walled gardens and 200 acre deer park.

Explore the city of York by bike

York is voted as one of the most bike-friendly cities in England with a wide range of cycle routes through the city and beyond.

Star gazing like a Roman at Cawfields Roman Wall

Built in AD122, Hadrian’s Wall was once the largest frontier in the Roman Empire and remained that way for 300 years.

Location: Haltwhistle, Northumberland

Lose yourself in the Allen Valleys

Strap on your walking boots and explore a countryside full of contrasts. Prepare to be blown away by this picturesque part of the North Pennines.

Location: Allendale, Northumberland

Enjoy dog friendly days out at Belsay Hall

Explore the magnificent gardens of this dog friendly attraction with your four legged friend.

Location: Belsay, Northumberland

Stay in a cottage built by an amazing Victorian inventor

Experience Cragside in Northumberland as many have never seen it before – by staying in the spectacular and dramatic grounds of the Cragside Estate.

Location: Rothbury, Northumberland

Sip Earl Grey where it was created: Howick Hall

Earl Grey tea is enjoyed – usually at around 4pm – all over the world, but few know it was invented in Northumberland for Charles, 2nd Earl Grey.

Location: Howick, Northumberland

Discover a seaside shopping paradise

Amble is a shopper's paradise, a haven for lovers of local produce, crafts and gifts. Perfect for presents, but don’t forget to treat yourself!

Location: Amble, Northumberland

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The Northeast Travel Guide

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

roughguides.com
the-northeast
Travel guide
Local Experts
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Remote and breathtakingly beautiful, the county of Northumberland forms the bulk of the northeast of England. An enticing medley of delightful market towns, glorious golden beaches, wooded dells, wild uplands and an unsurpassed collection of historical monuments, it’s undoubtedly the main draw in the Northeast, and where you should focus the majority of your time. South of Northumberland lies County Durham, famous for its lovely university town and magnificent twelfth-century cathedral, while to the southeast and edged by the North Sea is industrial Tyne and Wear. It’s home to the busy and burgeoning metropolis of Newcastle-upon-Tyne , a dynamic and distinctive city crammed with cultural attractions, great shops and an exceptionally energetic nightlife.

Around Durham

Around newcastle, hadrian’s wall, newcastle upon tyne, the northumberland coast, the tees valley.

While its most recent past is defined by industry and in particular post-industrial hardship, the Northeast has an eventful early history: Romans, Vikings and Normans have all left dramatic evidence of their colonization, none more cherished than the 84-mile-long Hadrian’s Wall , built by the Romans in 122 AD to contain the troublesome tribes of the far north. Thousands come each year to walk along parts, or all, of the Wall, or to cycle the nearby National Route 72. Neighbouring Northumberland National Park also has plenty for outdoors enthusiasts, with its huge reservoir, Kielder Water and surrounding footpaths and cycleways.

As well as Roman ruins, medieval castles scatter the region, the best preserved being Alnwick , with its wonderful gardens, and stocky Bamburgh , on the coast. The shoreline round here, from Amble past Bamburgh to the Scottish border town of Berwick-upon-Tweed – and officially the end of Northumberland – is simply stunning, boasting miles of pancake-flat, dune-backed beach and a handful of off-shore islands. Reached by a tidal causeway, the lonely little islet of Lindisfarne – Holy Island – where early Christian monks created the Lindisfarne Gospels, is the most famous, while not far away to the south, near Seahouses , the Farne Islands are the perfect habitat for large colonies of seabirds including puffins, guillemots and kittiwakes.

South of Northumberland, County Durham and Tyne and Wear better illustrate the Northeast’s industrial heritage. It was here in 1825 that the world’s first railway opened – the Darlington and Stockton line – with local coal and ore fuelling the shipbuilding and heavy-engineering companies of Tyneside. Abandoned coalfields, train lines, quaysides and factories throughout the area have been transformed into superb, child-friendly tourist attractions.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for England, created by local experts

20 days / from 3018 USD

The Great British Road Trip

Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

7 days / from 1361 USD

Magical 7-Day Family Adventure in Scotland and England : From Harry Potter to Loch Ness!

Searching for an unforgettable family adventure? Scotland is the perfect destination! With a perfect balance of nature, adventure, and Scottish culture. This 7-day trip offers a delightful mix of activities that everyone in the family will enjoy. Get ready to create life long lasting memories!

5 days / from 643 USD

Refreshing English Countryside Break

Outside of London, England is known with a countryside full of history, picturesque villages, patchwork hills, and winding country roads. Explore the countryside with its castles, parks, and historical cities such as Oxford.

14 days / from 3248 USD

Walking around vintage England and picturesque Scotland

Visit two traditional capitals, London and Edinburgh, and enjoy a trek through the Loch Lomond national park. This trip will let you discover peaceful Scottish islands by foot, with several days of detailed walking tours included in the trip.

12 days / from 2894 USD

Hiking in out-of-the way Northern Cornwall

Northern Cornwall is a hiker's paradise and this itinerary includes the most scenic parts. You will start your journey in London with some unique activities to get to know the city, before setting off on a 5-day walk across Cornwall. End your trip in Bath and explore the backdrop of Bridgerton.

12 days / from 2686 USD

A walking holiday on the Jurassic Coast

Walking the Jurassic Coast is one of the best ways to truly appreciate the spectacular scenery. Walks range from easy to challenging. 6 days walking are included in this itinerary, as is an extensive pre-program in London and a last night back in the capital.

11 days / from 1298 USD

England Historical Highlights

Discover the highlands of England: From busy London and its Buckingham Palace over historical Oxford to the mysterious Stonehenge. England has plenty to offer and this self-drive itinerary allows you the freedom and flexibility to choose activities to your liking.

8 days / from 3969 USD

Discover 'All Creatures Great and Small' - England & Scotland

Explore the sets of the TV show "All Creatures Great and Small". The show follows the adventures of a young veterinarian in the Yorkshire Dales during the 1930s. Start in London and make your way up to Yorkshire and then further to Edinburgh in Scotland.

County Durham has shaken off its grimy reputation in recent years and recast itself as a thriving tourist area. The well-to-do market towns of Bishop Auckland and Barnard Castle make great day-trips from Durham, and there’s plenty of excellent walking and cycling in the wilds of the two Pennine valleys, Teesdale and Weardale . You’ll find some top-class museums in the area, too, including Beamish , Locomotion and the Bowes Museum .

Beamish Museum

The open-air

spreads out over 300 acres, with buildings taken from all over the region painstakingly reassembled in six main sections linked by restored trams and buses. Complete with costumed shopkeepers, workers and householders, four of the sections show life in 1913, before the upheavals of World War I, including a

colliery village

complete with drift mine (regular tours throughout the day) and a large-scale recreation of the High Street in a market

. Two areas date to 1825, at the beginning of the northeast’s industrial development, including a

manor house

, with horse yard, formal gardens, vegetable plots and orchards. You can ride on the beautifully restored steam-powered carousel, the

Steam Galloper

– dating from the 1890s – and the

Pockerley Waggonway

, which is pulled along by a replica of George Stephenson’s

, the first passenger-carrying steam train in the world.

Sitting to the north of Teesdale, the valley of WEARDALE was once hunting ground reserved for the Prince Bishops, but was later transformed into a major centre for lead-mining and limestone quarrying; this industrial heritage is celebrated at the excellent Killhope Iron Mining museum and the Weardale Museum in Irehopesburn. The main settlement is Stanhope , a small market town with a pleasant open-air heated swimming pool, perfect for cooling off after a long walk in the hills.

Killhope Lead Mining Museum

If you’re keen to learn about Weardale’s mining past, a visit to Killhope Lead Mining Museum , five miles west of Ireshopeburn, is an absolute must. After many successful years as one of the richest mines in Britain, Killhope shut for good in 1910, and now houses a terrific, child-friendly museum that brings to life the difficulties and dangers of a mining life. The site is littered with preserved machinery and nineteenth-century buildings, including the Mine Shop where workers would spend the night after finishing a late shift. The highlight of the visit comes when you descend Park Level Mine – you’ll be given wellies, a hard hat and a torch – in the company of a guide who expounds entertainingly about the realities of life underground, notably the perils of the “Black Spit”, a lung disease which killed many men by their mid-forties.

There are a number of attractions near Newcastle, all accessible by Metro. The train runs east towards Wallsend , where Segendum fort marks the beginning of Hadrian’s Wall, while further east Bede’s World pays homage to Christianity’s most important historian. Further out, near Sunderland, is the splendid Washington Wildfowl Centre .

The Geordie Nation

Tyneside and Newcastle’s native inhabitants are known as Geordies , the word probably derived from a diminutive of the name ”George”. There are various explanations of who George was (King George II, railwayman George Stephenson), all plausible, none now verifiable. Geordies speak a highly distinctive dialect and accent, heavily derived from Old English. Phrases you’re likely to come across include: haway man! (come on!), scran (food), a’reet (hello) and propa belta (really good) – and you can also expect to be widely referred to as “pet” or “flower”.

The handsome city of DURHAM is best known for its beautiful Norman cathedral – there’s a tremendous view of it as you approach the city by train from the south – and its flourishing university, founded in 1832. Together, these form a little island of privilege in what’s otherwise a moderately sized, working-class city. It’s worth visiting for a couple of days – there are plenty of attractions, but it’s more the overall atmosphere that captivates, enhanced by the omnipresent golden stone, slender bridges and glint of the river. The heart of the city is the marketplace , flanked by the Guildhall and St Nicholas Church. The cathedral and church sit on a wooded peninsula to the west, while southwards stretch narrow streets lined with shops and cafés.

Brief history

Durham’s history revolves around its cathedral. Completed in just forty years, the cathedral was founded in 1093 to house the shrine of St Cuthbert , arguably the Northeast’s most important and venerated saint. Soon after Cuthbert was laid to rest here, the bishops of Durham were granted extensive powers to control the troublesome northern marches of the Kingdom – a rabble of invading Picts from Scotland and revolting Norman earls – ruling as semi-independent Prince Bishops , with their own army, mint and courts of law. At the peak of their power in the fourteenth century, the office went into decline – especially in the wake of the Reformation – yet clung to the vestiges of their authority until 1836, when they ceded them to the Crown. They abandoned Durham Castle for their palace in Bishop Auckland and transferred their old home to the fledgling Durham University, England’s third-oldest seat of learning after Oxford and Cambridge.

Durham Cathedral

From the marketplace, it’s a five-minute walk up Saddler Street to

, considered a supreme example of the Norman-Romanesque style. The awe-inspiring

used pointed arches for the first time in England, raising the vaulted ceiling to new and dizzying heights. The weight of the stone is borne by massive pillars, their heaviness relieved by striking Moorish-influenced geometric patterns. A door on the western side gives access to the

, from where there are beautiful views. Separated from the nave by a Victorian marble screen is the

, where the dark Restoration stalls are overshadowed by the 13ft-high

bishop’s throne

. Beyond, the

Chapel of the Nine Altars

dates from the thirteenth century. Here, and around the

Shrine of St Cuthbert

, much of the stonework is of local Weardale marble, each dark shaft bearing its own pattern of fossils. Cuthbert himself lies beneath a plain marble slab, his shrine having gained a reputation over the centuries for its curative powers. The legend was given credence in 1104, when the saint’s body was exhumed in Chester-le-Street for reburial here, and was found to be completely uncorrupted, more than four hundred years after his death on Lindisfarne. Almost certainly, this was the result of his fellow monks having (unintentionally) preserved the body by laying it in sand containing salt crystals.

Back near the entrance, at the west end of the church is the Galilee Chapel ; begun in the 1170s, its light and exotic decoration is in imitation of the Great Mosque of Córdoba. The chapel contains the simple tombstone of the Venerable Bede , the Northumbrian monk credited with being England’s first historian. Bede died at the monastery of Jarrow in 735, and his remains were first transferred to the cathedral in 1020.

The Monks’ Dormitory and Treasures of St Cuthbert

A large wooden doorway opposite the cathedral’s main entrance leads into the spacious cloisters , flanked by what remains of the monastic buildings. On the right of the passage lies the Monks’ Dormitory with its original twelfth-century oak roof – it now houses the cathedral library. At the end of the passage, in the undercroft, the Treasures of St Cuthbert exhibition displays some striking relics, including the cathedral’s original twelfth-century lion-head Sanctuary Knocker (the one on the main door is a replica), and a splendid facsimile copy of the Lindisfarne Gospels (the originals are in the British Library in London). A couple of interesting audiovisual displays detail the history of the cathedral, too.

St Cuthbert

Born in North Northumbria in 653, Cuthbert spent most of his youth in Melrose Abbey in Scotland, from where he moved briefly to Lindisfarne Island, which was at that time a well-known centre of religious endeavour. Preferring the peace and rugged solitude of the Farne Islands, he lived on Inner Farne for thirty years. News of his piety spread, however, and he was head-hunted to become Bishop of Lindisfarne, a position he accepted reluctantly. Uncomfortable in the limelight, he soon returned to Inner Farne, and when he died his remains were moved to Lindisfarne before being carted off to Durham Cathedral which soon became a pilgrimage site.

Hadrian’s Wall was constructed in 122 AD at the behest of the Roman Emperor Hadrian. Keen for peace and safety within his empire, fearing attacks from Pictish Scotland, Hadrian commissioned a long wall to act as a border, snaking its way from the Tyne to the Solway Firth. It was built up to a height of 15ft in places and was interspersed by milecastles, which functioned as gates, depots and mini-barracks. The best-preserved portions of the Wall are concentrated between Chesters Roman Fort , four miles north of Hexham, and Haltwhistle, sixteen miles to the west, which passes Housesteads Roman Fort , Vindolanda and the Roman Army Museum . Most people come to walk or cycle the length of the Wall. There are plenty of lovely places to stay and eat around and along the Wall; the handsome market towns of Hexham , Haltwhistle and Corbridge also make good bases.

Along Hadrian’s Wall

The best way to visit the Wall is to walk or cycle the length of it. The Hadrian’s Wall Footpath runs for 84 miles alongside the Wall itself from Wallsend to Bowness-on-Solway. It takes on average seven days to complete and there’s an optional Passport system involving collecting a series of stamps to prove you’ve done it. The National Route 72 , shares some of the same route as the Footpath, and runs from South Shields to Ravenglass in Cumbria. There’s bike hire in Newcastle.

Vibrant and handsome, NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE has emerged from its industrial heyday and its post-industrial difficulties with barely a smut on its face. Its reputation for lively nightlife is just the tip of the iceberg; with its collection of top-class art galleries, museums and flourishing theatre scene – not to mention the shopping – the city is up there among the most exciting in Britain.

The de facto capital of the area between Yorkshire and Scotland, the city was named for its “new castle” founded in 1080 and hit the limelight during the Industrial Revolution – Grainger Town in the city’s centre is lined with elegant, listed classical buildings, indicating its past wealth and importance as one of Britain’s biggest and most important exporters of coal, iron and machinery. The decline of industry damaged Newcastle badly, signalling decades of poverty and hardship – a period recalled by Antony Gormley’s mighty statue the Angel of the North , which, since its appearance in 1998, has become both a poignant eulogy for the days of industry and a symbol of resurgence and regeneration.

Budget hotel chains offer plenty of good-value rooms in the city centre and down by the Quayside, while the biggest concentration of small hotels and guesthouses – and the YHA hostel – lies a mile north of the centre in popular, student-filled Jesmond, along and off Osborne Road.

Newcastle’s boisterous pubs, bars and clubs are concentrated in several areas: in the Bigg Market (between Grey St and Grainger St), around the Quayside and in the developing Ouseburn area, where bars tend to be quirkier and more sophisticated; in Jesmond , with its thriving student-filled strip of café/bars; and in the mainstream leisure-and-cinema complex known as The Gate (Newgate St). The gay area, known as the “Pink Triangle”, focuses on the Centre for Life, spreading out to Waterloo Street and Westmorland and Scotswood roads. Top drinking brew is Newcastle Brown – an ale known locally as “Dog” – produced in this city since 1927.

Newcastle has a great variety of places to eat, from expensive, top-quality restaurants showcasing the talents of young and creative chefs, to fun, relaxed cafés and budget-friendly Chinese restaurants (mostly around Stowell Street in Chinatown). The popular chain restaurants are down by the Quayside.

Newcastle orientation

Visitors are encouraged to think of the city as Newcastle Gateshead , an amalgamation of the two conurbations straddling the Tyne. On Gateshead Quays are the BALTIC contemporary arts centre and Norman Foster’s Sage music centre, and on the opposite side, Newcastle’s Quayside is scene of much of the city’s contemporary nightlife. The city splits into several distinct areas, though it’s only a matter of minutes to walk between them. The castle and cathedral occupy the heights immediately above the River Tyne, while north of here lies the city centre, Grainger Town . Chinatown and the two big draws of the Discovery Museum and the Life Science Centre are west of the centre, while east is the renowned Laing Gallery . In the north of the city, on the university campus, is the Great North Museum: Hancock and even further north, through the landscaped Exhibition Park, is the Town Moor , 1200 acres of common land where freemen of the city – including Jimmy Carter, Nelson Mandela and Bob Geldof – are entitled to graze their cattle. The old industrial Ouseburn Valley , home to an alternative cultural scene, interesting galleries, the excellent Seven Stories children’s museum and some popular bars, is a short walk east along the river from the city centre.

Newcastle’s biggest club night is Shindig , taking place on Saturdays and switching locations around the city. Gigs, club nights and the gay scene are reviewed exhaustively in The Crack , available in shops, pubs and bars.

Stretching 64 miles north of Newcastle up to the Scottish border, the low-lying Northumberland coast is the region’s shining star, stunningly beautiful and packed with impressive sights. Here you’ll find the mighty fortresses at Warkworth , Alnwick and Bamburgh and the magnificent Elizabethan ramparts surrounding Berwick-upon-Tweed , while in between there are glorious sandy beaches as well as the site of the Lindisfarne monastery on Holy Island and the seabird and nature reserve of the Farne Islands , reached by boat from Seahouses.

The appealing market town of ALNWICK (pronounced “Annick”), thirty miles north of Newcastle and four miles inland from Alnmouth, is renowned for its castle and gardens – seat of the dukes of Northumberland – which overlook the River Aln. It’s worth spending a couple of days here, exploring the medieval maze of streets, the elegant gatehouses on Pottergatea and Bondgate and the best bookshop in the north.

Alnwick Castle

The Percys – who were raised to the dukedom of Northumberland in 1750 – have owned Alnwick Castle since 1309. In the eighteenth century, the first duke had the interior refurbished by Robert Adam in an extravagant Gothic style – which in turn was supplanted by the gaudy Italianate decoration preferred by the fourth duke in the 1850s. There’s plenty to see inside, though the interior can be crowded at times – not least with families on the Harry Potter trail, since the castle doubled as Hogwarts School in the first two films.

Alnwick Garden

The grounds of the castle are taken up by the huge and beautiful Alnwick Garden , designed by an innovative Belgian team and full of quirky features such as a bamboo labyrinth maze, a serpent garden involving topiary snakes, and the popular Poison Garden , filled with the world’s deadliest plants. The heart of the garden is the computerized Grand Cascade, which shoots water jets in a regular synchronized display, while to the west is Europe’s largest treehouse with a restaurant within.

One-time capital of Northumbria, the little village of BAMBURGH , just three miles from Seahouses, lies in the lee of its magnificent castle . Attractive stone cottages – holding the village shop, a café, pubs and B&Bs – flank each side of the triangular green, and at the top of the village on Radcliffe Road is the diminutive Grace Darling Museum . From behind the castle it’s a brisk, five-minute walk to two splendid sandy beaches , backed by rolling, tufted dunes.

Bamburgh Castle

Solid and chunky, Bamburgh Castle is a spectacular sight, its elongated battlements crowning a formidable basalt crag high above the beach. Its origins lie in Anglo-Saxon times, but it suffered a centuries-long decline – rotted by sea spray and buffeted by winter storms, the castle was bought by Lord Armstrong (of Rothbury’s Cragside) in 1894, who demolished most of the structure to replace it with a hybrid castle-mansion. Inside there’s plenty to explore, including the sturdy keep that houses an unnerving armoury packed with vicious-looking pikes, halberds, helmets and muskets; the King’s Hall, with its marvellous teak ceiling that was imported from Siam (Thailand) and carved in Victorian times; and a medieval kitchen complete with original jugs, pots and pans.

Berwick-upon-Tweed

Before the union of the English and Scottish crowns in 1603, BERWICK-UPON-TWEED , twelve miles north of Holy Island, was the quintessential frontier town, changing hands no fewer than fourteen times between 1174 and 1482, when the Scots finally ceded the stronghold to the English. Interminable cross-border warfare ruined Berwick’s economy, turning the prosperous Scottish port of the thirteenth century into an impoverished English garrison town. By the late sixteenth century, Berwick’s fortifications were in a dreadful state and Elizabeth I, fearing the resurgent alliance between France and Scotland, had the place rebuilt in line with the latest principles of military architecture. Berwick was reborn as an important seaport between 1750 and 1820, and is still peppered with elegant Georgian mansions dating from that period.

Berwick’s walls – one and a half miles long and still in pristine condition – are no more than 20ft high but incredibly thick. They are now the town’s major attraction; it’s possible to walk the mile-long circuit (1hr) round them, allowing for wonderful views out to sea, across the Tweed and over the orange-tiled rooftops of the town. Protected by ditches on three sides and the Tweed on the fourth, the walls are strengthened by immense bastions.

Holy Island

It’s a dramatic approach to HOLY ISLAND ( Lindisfarne ), past the barnacle-encrusted marker poles that line the three-mile-long causeway. Topped with a stumpy castle , the island is small (just 1.5 miles by one), sandy and bare, and in winter it can be bleak, but come summer day-trippers clog the car parks as soon as the causeway is open. Even then, though, Lindisfarne has a distinctive and isolated atmosphere. Give the place time and, if you can, stay overnight, when you’ll be able to see the historic remains without hundreds of others cluttering the views. The island’s surrounding tidal mud flats, salt marshes and dunes have been designated a nature reserve .

It was on Lindisfarne (as the island was once known) that St Aidan of Iona founded a monastery at the invitation of King Oswald of Northumbria in 634. The monks quickly established a reputation for scholarship and artistry, the latter exemplified by the Lindisfarne Gospels , the apotheosis of Celtic religious art, now kept in the British Library. The monastery had sixteen bishops in all, the most celebrated being the reluctant St Cuthbert , who never settled here – within two years, he was back in his hermit’s cell on the Farne Islands, where he died in 687. His colleagues rowed the body back to Lindisfarne, which became a place of pilgrimage until 875, when the monks abandoned the island in fear of marauding Vikings, taking Cuthbert’s remains with them.

Seahouses and around

Around ten miles north from Craster, beyond the small village of Beadnell, lies the fishing port SEAHOUSES , the only place on the local coast that could remotely be described as a resort. It’s the embarkation point for boat trips out to the windswept Farne Islands , a rocky archipelago lying a few miles offshore.

The Farne Islands

Owned by the National Trust and maintained as a nature reserve, the Farne Islands are the summer home of hundreds of thousands of migrating sea birds, notably puffins, guillemots, terns, eider ducks and kittiwakes, and home to the only grey seal colony on the English coastline. A number of boat trips potter around the islands – the largest of which is Inner Farne – offering birdwatching tours, grey seal-watching tours and the Grace Darling tour, which takes visitors to the lighthouse on Longstone Island, where the famed local heroine lived.

Northumberland National Park

Northwest Northumberland, the great triangular chunk of land between Hadrian’s Wall and the coastal plain, is dominated by the wide-skied landscapes of Northumberland National Park , whose four hundred windswept square miles rise to the Cheviot Hills on the Scottish border. The bulk of the Park is taken up by Kielder Water and Forest nature reserve , a superb destination for watersports and outdoor activities; the small town of Bellingham makes a good base for the reserve, as do Rothbury and Wooler , both of which also provide easy access to some superb walking in the craggy Cheviot Hills .

Kielder Water and Forest

Surrounded by 250 acres of dense, pine forest, Kielder Water is the largest reservoir in England. The road from Bellingham follows the North Tyne River west and skirts the forested edge of the lake, passing an assortment of visitor centres, waterside parks, picnic areas and anchorages that fringe its southern shore. Mountain biking, hiking, horseriding and fishing are some of the land-based activities on offer, and watersports like waterskiing, sailing, kayaking and windsurfing are hugely popular, too. The mass of woodlands and wetlands mean that wildlife is abundant – you might spot badgers, deer, otters, ospreys and red squirrels. Leaplish Waterside Park , on the western flank of the reservoir, is the best place to head if you’re visiting for the first time and need to get your bearings.

Admittedly not much of a tourist hotspot in comparison to Northumberland or County Durham, the TEES VALLEY – once an industrial powerhouse and birthplace of one of the greatest developments in Britain, the public steam railway – nevertheless has some enjoyable attractions. Darlington , with its strong railway heritage, is a pleasant place to spend a day, while Middlesbrough’s MIMA and Hartlepool’s Maritime Experience are extremely worthwhile, the latter particularly if you have children to entertain.

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

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 31, 2022

10 PLACES TO VISIT IN NORTH EAST ENGLAND

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!

10 BEAUTIFUL PLACES TO VISIT IN ENGLAND NORTHUMBERLAND AND NORTH EAST

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

A photo of Hadrian's Wall one of my recommended places to visit in North East England.

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.

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.

15 Best Places In The North Of England To Visit

Exploring Ancient England - Robin Hood's Bay And Whitby Abbey (36)

England is an incredible country to explore. We’ve got some stunning history, beautiful villages and gorgeous national parks that dotted all across the lands. That being said, sometimes, the best places in the north of England are forgotten in lieu of amazing cities like London or the pretty spots in the south of England .

The Perfect 4 Day Itinerary For Visiting England's Beautiful Lake District (108)

That being said, the north of England is pretty vast, with a whole heap of beautiful places to explore. This is exactly why I wanted to share some of my favourite and best places in the north of England to visit on your next trip.

Now, for clarity, there’s no real defining line of what constitutes, north and south England, it seems like everyone has their own cutoffs of where this border exists. To make things simpler, I’m going on the notion that anything lower than the Peak District National Park is south.

15 Best Places In The North Of England To Visit (1)

With that in mind, take a look below at the best places in the north of England to see. Have the best trip around England, we really have a beautiful country.

1.) The Lake District

The Perfect 4 Day Itinerary For Visiting England's Beautiful Lake District (19)

One of the UNESCO protected national parks , the Lake District is one of the best places in the north of England to visit if you love the countryside. Consisting of around sixteen lakes, the Lake District is filled with stunning mountains, rolling hills and a heap of lakes that are nestled within the countryside.

The Perfect 4 Day Itinerary For Visiting England's Beautiful Lake District (13)

Now, with the Lake District, you do have ‘popular’ lakes and some that are much quieter. For me, I prefer the quiet ones like Ullswater Lake that is totally pristine.

Here, you can head out paddleboarding, hiking and even take the historic Ullswater Steamer that crosses the lake itself.

The Perfect 4 Day Itinerary For Visiting England's Beautiful Lake District (95)

That being said, don’t forget Windermere Lake, too. It’s probably the most famous lake in the Lake District with plenty of little places to explore around the shores.

Read more: Best things to do in the Lake District

Exploring Ancient England - Robin Hood's Bay And Whitby Abbey (42)

Perched on the north-east coast of England, Whitby is a pretty historic fishing town to visit.

The town’s skyline is overlooked by the historical ruins of Whitby Abbey, a gothic structure which inspired Bram Stoker to write his classic horror masterpiece, Dracula. They’re incredible to see and easily one of the best places in the north of England to see if you love history.

Exploring Ancient England - Robin Hood's Bay And Whitby Abbey (11)

Afterwards, pop over some classic fish and chips from the Magpie Cafe. For dinner, don’t forget the Star Inn (the harbour) for some yummy fresh seafood and local treats.

Finally, if you fancy a little jaunt from the town itself, head over to Robin Hood’s Bay , it’s a stunning little smugglers village that is so beautiful to see.

Read more: Visiting Whitby and Robin Hood’s Bay

3.)The Holy Island of Lindisfarne

Visiting the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, England (10)

Nestled on a small tidal island off the coast of Northumberland, the holy island of Lindisfarne is beautiful to see.

First off, to get here, you have to pay attention to the tides, each day, the island gets cut off from the mainland when the sea washes over the road. Only ever attempt to travel this road when it is safe to do so as your car can get washed away. You can see the safe crossing times, here .

Visiting the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, England (25)

Once you’ve got over to the island, make sure to spend some time exploring the historic abbey, head to the Lindisfarne Castle and have a tipple of Lindisfarne Mead that has been made on the island for centuries. The island itself is steeped in history and is considered the starting point for the Viking Age in northern Europe.

Visiting the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, England (29)

It really is one of the best places in the north of England to explore ancient beauty and history.

Read more: Visiting the Holy Island of Lindisfarne

Taking A Step Back Into The Past In York, England (18)

York is one of the oldest cities in England and easily one of the best places in the north of England to visit whilst you’re here. Honestly, York itself is absolutely teeming with history and dates way back over a thousand years.

Taking A Step Back Into The Past In York, England (19)

Once you arrive, make sure to visit and explore York Minster , a cathedral that dates back to the 13 th century. Here, you can even climb the stairs to the roof, with a lovely view across York itself.

Finding The Very Best View In York At York Minster (7)

Also, don’t forget Clifford’s Tower and the Castle museum nearby. Afterwards, rent your own little red boat and charter the river that runs through the city. Afterwards, take a little road down the medieval street called the Shambles and explore the totally quaint side of York.

Exploring The Beautiful Ancient City Of York, England (41)

Finally, for some amazing food, head over to Skosh or Roots that both have some of the tastiest grub in the city. You won’t be disappointed with either of them.

Exploring The Beautiful Ancient City Of York, England (47)

Oh yeah, and if you fancy a little jaunt from the city, head across to Castle Howard that is about 25-minutes in the car from the centre. It’s huge and totally magnificent to see.

5.) Bamburgh

Visiting The Beautiful Bamburgh Castle & Farne Islands, England (55)

Nestled on the pristine coastline of Northumberland, Bamburgh is a tiny little place that has some of the best coastline and castle around. Only about 60-minutes from the Holy Island , it’s quite easy to partner a trip to Bamburgh with a wider trip across Northumberland.

Visiting The Beautiful Bamburgh Castle & Farne Islands, England (51)

As soon as you arrive, make sure to wander around the little town and make reservations for dinner at the Potted Lobster. It’s so yummy and they serve the best local seafood. Afterwards, head on over to Bamburgh Castle itself and explore the ancient history of this gorgeous place. Finally, take some time to enjoy the stunning beaches around the castle, too. They’re totally pristine and offer some gorgeous views over the castle itself.

Visiting The Beautiful Bamburgh Castle & Farne Islands, England (73)

Finally, if you fancy going on a little adventure, pop over to the uninhabited Farne Islands on a boat. You might even see whales or puffins during your trip.

Visiting The Beautiful Bamburgh Castle & Farne Islands, England (32)

Honestly, if you love castles, you’ll easily find Bamburgh one of the best places in the north of England to visit.

6.) Peak District

Finding Winnats Pass And An Underground Lake In The Peak District, England (21)

The Peak District National Park is the oldest national park in the UK and one of the best places in the north of England to explore.

Finding Robin Hood's Bow And Safari Lodging In The Peak District, England (40)

Once here, make sure to explore Winnats Pass and discover the underground river on a tiny boat. Afterwards, head across to the plague village of Eyam and learn about this isolated community during the plague.

The Peak District: Exploring England's Oldest National Park (55)

Afterwards, check into your own safari-style lodge that is just so cosy with the wood burner roaring.

Read more: Visiting the Peak District in England

7.) Scarborough

15 Best Places In The North Of England To Visit (10)

Nestled on the coast of the North Sea, Scarborough is a gorgeous town to visit for a weekend trip.

Once here, head on through Peasholm Park and also explore the historic harbour that makes this spot so picturesque. Also, make sure to explore Scarborough Castle and visit St Mary’s Church where you can also see Anne Bronte’s final resting place.

Finally, for a good spot of lunch, head over to the Green Room Brasserie which has some of the freshest dishes around. If it’s a traditional fish and chips you’re after, pop into the Lifeboat Fishbar – they serve some of the best on all the east coast. Scarborough really is one of the best places in the north of England to visit.

15 Best Places In The North Of England To Visit (6)

Leeds is a pretty cool city to visit in the north of England and an easy spot to explore when heading further north.

Once here, make sure to explore the city centre and head to explore the Corn Exchange with all its little eateries and shops. Afterwards, head across to the arcades which are gorgeous to see.

15 Best Places In The North Of England To Visit (9)

If that’s not your thing, head to Kirkstall Abbey (one of the largest in England) or even Harewood House (out of the centre) which was built in the 1700s.

Best Things To Do In Leeds Yorkshire England Corn Exchange

Finally, for some tasty grub, head across to The Swine That Dines for a gorgeous dinner.

That being said, if you want something quick and easy, pop into the Station House Cafe for some of the best Italian food in the city. It is one of the best places in the north of England to visit if you like a little city break.

10.) Hebden Bridge

15 Best Places In The North Of England To Visit (18)

A whimsical little market town, Hebden Bridge’s Rochdale Canal is a gorgeous spot to visit.

While, like most of northern England, the weather can be a little unpredictable (take your umbrella), Hebden Bridge is easily one of the best places in the north of England to explore.

Once here, head out on the 15 miles of footpaths and walkways around the Hardcastle Crags. That being said, if you’re feeling a little lazier, head to the Heptonstall Museum which has far less walking.

After strolling the canal, pop over to Sowerby Bridge and gorge at Engine. The tapas-style plates are just so yummy.

11.) Manchester

15 Best Places In The North Of England To Visit (7)

Being one of the larger cities in England , there’s a whole heap of amazing things to see and do whilst in Manchester . Plus, it’s one of the best places in the north of England to explore if you want a vibrant city.

You see, Manchester has a long history, which makes for some gorgeous places to explore. Once here, make sure to explore the Science and Industry Museum, see Old Trafford (if you’re a football fan), or check out the Manchester Art Gallery. The latter is stunning and a great thing to do if the weather takes a turn for the worst.

Oh yeah, and if you fancy some nightlife, Canal Street is famous for being one of the oldest LGBT+ neighbourhoods in Europe, while the Northern Quarter has loads of trendy bars to explore. Also, for a tasty and juicy steak, pop into Fazenda Rodizio Bar which is gorge-worthy. You’ll leave stuffed.

Also, for a great place to stay, check into Hotel Gotham which is unique.

Read more: Best things to do in Manchester

12.) Haworth

15 Best Places In The North Of England To Visit (12)

An absolute must-visit for any literary lover, Haworth is home to the longtime home of the Bronte sisters, Charlotte, Emily and Ann.

While the girls worked under pen names, they released some tremendous successes which continue to resonate with readers today, including the classics Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre. You can visit the gravesite of the majority of the Bronte family at the Haworth Parish Church as well.

15 Best Places In The North Of England To Visit (19)

Although Haworth is pretty small, it’s a great place to spend a pit stop on your way further north (or south) for an hour or two.

13.) Liverpool

15 Best Places In The North Of England To Visit (4)

Of course, most people know Liverpool as the hometown of the Beatles, right? Liverpool is certainly one of the best places in the north of England to visit if you love the Beatles! That being said, there’s so much more to this city to experience.

Best Things To Do In Liverpool England Liverpool metropolitan cathedral

After arriving, make sure to explore the waterfront (marked by a trio of buildings popularly known as the Three Graces). If that doesn’t float your boat, the Liverpool Cathedral is worth visiting for its stunning Gothic architecture, too.

Finally, head across to the Royal Albert Dock, visit the Beatles Story and visit the Walker Art Gallery, too.

Best Things To Do In Liverpool England View

Oh yeah, there’s also a shedload of yummy spots to grab a bite to eat, too! From high-end spots to a pint and some fish and chips at the local pub, Liverpool has a spot for everyone.

Best Things To Do In Liverpool England The Beatles Story

Now, for a tasty dinner, head across to the London Carriage Works. Once you arrive, make sure to try their incredible cocktails and seasonal menu. Their salted cod with clams is so good.

Read more: Best things to do in Liverpool

14.) Chester

15 Best Places In The North Of England To Visit (25)

Originally constructed as a Roman fortress (almost two thousand years ago), Chester still maintains some of its Roman past in what remains of the city’s walls.

Now, with a city that’s so steeped in history, it’s easily become one of the best places in the north of England to see. Plus, it’s really easy to get to from the likes of Manchester or Liverpool.

Once here, make sure to explore Chester’s gothic cathedral and stroll along the Groves which are lovely. Oh yeah, the Old Town is worth a visit to gaze upon the black and white Tudor-style homes that line the streets too.

15 Best Places In The North Of England To Visit (26)

Afterwards, head across to visit the Grovesnor Museum or walk the city walls themselves. It’s the perfect thing to do before gorging at The Yard for their tasty seabass.

15.) Durham

15 Best Places In The North Of England To Visit (15)

Based just west of Newcastle, Durham is pretty easy to get to from most places in the UK, especially by train. Now, although Durham is a relatively small city (as cities go), it’s still got a shedload of history and gorgeous things to do.

After stepping off the train, head across to explore Durham Cathedral in all its glory. It’s so imposing and can’t be missed when visiting the city.

Afterwards, stop over to Durham Castle and learn more about the ancient history of this place. Oh, and don’t forget to visit the quaint Palace Green and see Finchale Priory (that sits outside the centre).

15 Best Places In The North Of England To Visit (17)

If it’s the food you’re after, pop into Cafedral (on Owengate) for some of the tastiest homemade cakes and buns. It really is one of the best places in the north of England just for the cakes alone!

Read more: Best places in the UK to explore

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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

Overview of Kynance Cove on Lizard Peninsula.

North East England

2 Understand
3.1 By plane
3.2 By rail
3.4 By road
3.5 By boat
4.1 By rail
4.2 By road
4.4 By bike
4.5 By boat
4.6 On foot
7 Stay safe

North East England has outstanding natural beauty. Hadrian's Wall snakes over dale and hill along the crest of a sharp ridge. Along the coast, windswept castles raise defiant stone fists against invaders and the elements. Northumberland National Park has wild tracts of moorland and dark, dark skies, and the Northern Lights are often seen. Charming small towns include Hexham, Corrbridge, Alnwick and border town Berwick. Durham's old city centre is remarkably well preserved.

The industrial areas for which the North East is famous are re-inventing themselves, Newcastle with Gateshead being the most successful example. This region is no longer a rusty blur on the journey between Yorkshire and Scotland, it's a major area to visit in its own right. Come soon before the rest of the world discovers it.

Counties [ edit ]

Understand [ edit ]

The North East is England's most northern and sparsely populated region. The area has a very long and bloody history, due to its proximity to Scotland and has fallen under Scottish hands at least once as the border shifted over time.

It is the region of England that lies east of the Pennines between the River Tees and the Scottish border. It centres around the River Tyne, with Newcastle on the north bank and Gateshead on the south bank, and industrial sprawl south along the coast. Inland lies a string of former coal-mining towns, whose produce fed the ship-building and other heavy industry of the region and was exported worldwide. "Sending coals to Newcastle" used to be a common phrase for a pointless activity, and generations of travellers would have felt the same about visiting the North East for leisure, but there's a lot more to the North East than its industry.

Visit North East England . Tourist information website. ( updated Feb 2024 )

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Manchester ( MAN IATA ) is worth considering for its great range of long-haul flights at competitive prices, avoiding a change in London or Amsterdam. Frequent trains run from the airport to North East England.
Teeside ( MME IATA ) near Darlington is small, with scheduled flights only from Amsterdam, Aberdeen, Belfast City and London City. Onward public transport is poor.

By rail [ edit ]

The East Coast mainline runs north from London Kings Cross via York, with direct trains hourly to Darlington (2 hr 20 min), Durham (2 hr 50 min), and Newcastle (3 hr). Other routes from Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham and the southwest join at York. The line continues north to Berwick-upon-Tweed and Edinburgh. Other lines serve Middlesbrough and Sunderland, and cross the waist of the country from Carlisle.

By bus [ edit ]

National Express and Megabus run from London Victoria to Middlesbrough, Sunderland and Newcastle, with some continuing to Edinburgh and Glasgow. There are also buses from the Midlands, Manchester and Leeds.

By road [ edit ]

The major routes across the region are mostly dual-carriageway. Near the cities they can be congested in rush hour, and on fine Sunday afternoons as city-dwellers head home from the countryside. The main roads are:

A1 from the south, passing Darlington, Durham and Newcastle, then continuing to Berwick-upon-Tweed and Edinburgh
A19 branches off A1 in Yorkshire and runs north nearer the coast, via Middlesbrough and Sunderland and bypassing Newcastle
A69 connects Newcastle and Carlisle
A66 (several long sections undivided) runs from Darlington over the Pennines to meet M6 at Penrith in the Lake District
A68 (an undivided highway) switch-backs across the hills from Darlington to Jedburgh and Edinburgh

By boat [ edit ]

Ferries sail overnight from IJmuiden near Amsterdam to North Shields, 7 miles east of Newcastle.

Get around [ edit ]

Public transport in this region is good along the north-south lowland corridor (connecting London with Scotland) and to the industrial towns near the coast. Towards the hilly west, transport routes follow the river valleys so east-west is straightforward, but you need your own wheels to go north-south across the moors.

The East Coast Main Line runs north from London via York with stations at Darlington, Durham, Chester-le-Street, Newcastle, Morpeth, Alnmouth and Berwick-upon-Tweed, continuing to Edinburgh. All trains stop at Newcastle, the others are served every hour or so.

Hourly trains run along the coast from Newcastle via Heworth, Sunderland and Seaham to Hartlepool, Stockton and Middlesbrough. In County Durham, a branch line train runs hourly from Darlington to Newton Aycliffe, Shildon and Bishop Auckland.

The scenic Tyne Valley line runs parallel to Hadrian's Wall, from Newcastle via Gateshead, Prudhoe, Hexham, Haydon Bridge and Haltwhistle and onwards across Cumbria to Carlisle.

The Tyne and Wear Metro serves Newcastle and Sunderland. The Yellow Line is a big inverted "@" that runs from Newcastle city centre, east to the coast at North Shields then north to Whitley Bay, before looping back to Newcastle via Gosforth and Jesmond. Its southern tail runs south of the Tyne via Gateshead to South Shields on the coast. The Green Line runs from Newcastle Airport to city centre then southeast to Sunderland and ends at South Hylton.

The road network in the North East is decent, however traffic can build up severely, particularly on approaches to cities and on the A1 and A19 roads. For this reason it is often best to use public transport to get around the region, especially in urban areas.

The North East has many buses, which are provided by a range of operators. There are some tickets that are only valid on certain operators, so it is worth checking which bus you are getting on. In particular, some bus numbers are used by multiple operators, which can get very confusing. An Explorer Ticket, valid on all bus services across the North East (as well as some in neighboring parts of North Yorkshire and the service to Carlisle), costs £10.50 for an adult for one day.

Most towns and cities have some kind of internal bus route as well as longer range buses that run from town to town. Some of the more useful intra-regional bus routes are:

7: Durham to Darlington 10: Newcastle to Hexham 21: Newcastle to Durham 45: Newcastle to Consett X7: Sunderland to Middlesbrough X10: Newcastle to Middlesbrough X11: Newcastle to Blyth X15: Newcastle to Berwick (fast) X18: Newcastle to Berwick (scenic) X21: Newcastle to Newbiggin by the Sea X21: Newcastle to Stanhope X21: Newcastle to Bishop Auckland X21: Sunderland to Darlington

Some buses take scenic routes, such as the X18, AD122 (a bus for Hadrian's Wall) and even normal buses will still provide views of the picturesque scenery.

By bike [ edit ]

Several cycle routes pass through the area and this can be a quick way to get around the region. In particular, National Cycling Route 1 runs along the coast and is arguably one of the most scenic routes in the country around places such as Bamburgh.

The Shields Ferry crosses the mouth of the Tyne between South Shields and North Shields every 30 mins, a seven-minute ride. Foot passengers and bikes only; both ferry piers are served by the Metro.

The Tees Transporter Bridge is a weird contraption: it's a gondola slung beneath a slender metal bridge that carries vehicles and others across the river between Middlesbrough (south bank) and Port Clarence, Stockton (north bank).

On foot [ edit ]

The cities of the North East sprawl out, but their areas of interest are usually compact and best explored on foot.

Hadrian's Wall path stretches coast-to-coast from Wallsend to Carlisle. The eastern section is modern, but west of Newcastle the route follows the Roman wall.

The Pennine Way is at the west edge of the region, bordering Cumbria, then turns east for several miles to coincide with Hadrian's wall path. It then resumes its march north to the Cheviots and into Scotland.

Both these long-distance paths have multiple access points suitable for an out-and-back afternoon hike.

Eat [ edit ]

Eating out in North East England is very much dependent on where you are. Fresh fish can be found at many of the coastal towns such as Redcar. Fast food chains, Italian, Indian and French restaurants are all common to most larger towns.

North Easterners pride themselves on serving what they argue is the best traditional English fish and chips. From the largest cities in the region to the smallest villages, the presence of a fish and chip shop and a pub are practically guaranteed.

Drink [ edit ]

You're seldom far from a pub, whether in the city centres or out in the sticks.

The region has a great brewing tradition but its big commercial breweries have moved away. For instance Newcastle Brown Ale is now brewed in Tadcaster, North Yorkshire. But in their stead are many small independent breweries. They seldom offer tours but it's worth tracking down their products.

Several micro-distilleries produce gin and vodka.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Northerners are wonderfully friendly and can usually be counted on to look after those not familiar to the area. As in any large city, certain areas will not be as safe after dark . As a general rule of thumb, you should avoid travelling alone late at night.

Go next [ edit ]

South is Yorkshire, nowadays four separate counties. North Yorkshire is rural, with the Yorkshire Dales , and charming towns such as Ripon and Harrogate .
York is unmissable for its historic centre.
West is Cumbria and the Lake District: scenic, but it's sure to rain.
North you enter Scotland via the Scottish Borders , with a rugged coastline on the way to Edinburgh .

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North East of England

With an impressive collection of castles, a UNESCO World Heritage site, The Holy Island of Lindisfarne where the Vikings spilled the blood of saints, Hadrian’s Wall, and miles of breathtakingly beautiful beaches along the Northumberland coastline - the North West of England is famous for plenty and it promises lots of opportunities to make amazing memories.

The region’s major cities are Newcastle, Sunderland, and Durham. Newcastle is all about non-stop nightlife, tourist attractions such as the award-winning Gateshead Millennium Bridge and the jaw-dropping Angel of the North sculpture, plus its dazzling Quayside.

Explore Durham's magnificent cathedral and magical Harry Potter connections Head to Sunderland for sparkling shopping malls and landscaped Victorian parks.

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Getting Around

Getting Around the North East

It's easy to travel around the North East of England, whether you are hiring a car, getting public transport and taking a stroll there is always a way for you to get where you need to be.

Getting Around · Car Hire

Hiring a car couldn’t be easier. There are many car hire companies within the Airport terminal, including Europcar, Hertz, Enterprise and Avis, located opposite domestic arrivals. Choose your car and start your adventure.

Getting Around · By Metro

The award winning Nexus Metro system has 60 stations located around Newcastle, Gateshead, Sunderland, North Tyneside and South Tyneside. With a train departing directly from Newcastle International Airport every 12 minutes, early ‘til late, getting around the North East couldn’t be easier. It is a convenient and comfortable 23 minute journey from the Airport to Newcastle City Centre.

Getting Around · By Bus

Bus travel is very convenient for anyone looking to get around the North East of England. From Central Newcastle to the Northumberland countryside, everywhere in the region is easily accessible by bus. Jump on a bus outside the Airport terminal and start your North East discovery.

Getting Around · By Taxi

The North East can be easily explored by taxi. From Newcastle International Airport, the official Airport taxis offer a reliable and efficient service, waiting to take you where you need to go. Throughout the region, ABC Taxis, Blueline and many more app-based and private hire services can be used to make your journey that bit quicker.

Places to go

Northumberland, south shields, tees valley, tynemouth & whitley bay.

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Newcastle Gateshead Initiative/Rich Kenworthy

Newcastle Gateshead, England

A family walking in front of the iconic Angel of the North, found just south of Newcastle Gateshead

Accessible guide to North East England

The Angel of the North – Antony Gormley’s giant statue with its outstretched wings – welcomes visitors to the North East and reflects the same warm welcome from the locals. North East England boasts a range of accessible adventures and places to explore. Discover the city of Newcastle upon Tyne and Gateshead , with buzzing nightlife, an artsy scene and fantastic food. Take an accessible route to Hadrian’s Wall in the Northumberland National Park then relax in the hot-tub at award-winning accessible accommodation. With access for all across Northumberland , you’ll find plenty to explore in the North East.

Accessible travel to North East England

The largest international airport in the North East of England is Newcastle Airport. Welcoming people flying from 27 different countries, it has a Passenger Assistance program for help navigating your journey if needed.

London North Eastern Railway (LNER) runs from London Kings Cross hourly to Darlington, Durham and Newcastle in less than three hours. Other routes head to Berwick-upon-Tweed and Edinburgh and all are accessible. The Assisted Travel team can offer advice on stations, help to book tickets and wheelchair spaces, and support if required when you arrive at a station.

Accessible trains, ferry and buses in North East England

For travel services across the North East , a Network One Explorer Ticket is a cost effective option. It is valid across the region on major bus routes and there are other tickets available for the bus, metro, train and ferry.

For information on travel and accessibility on all modes of transport in the region see Travel Line North East and for the Northumberland region see Visit Northumberland .

Newcastle and Gateshead has a wealth of accessible travel options, including buses and trains and its underground Metro, see the NewcastleGateshead page on accessibility for more information.

Many bus services around Tyne and Wear are accessible, including Go North East, Stage Coach and Arriva. Nexus has further information.

The Shields Ferry crosses the mouth of the Tyne between South Shields and North Shields every 30 mins and is accessible.

For a scenic view from a train carriage look to the scenic Tyne Valley line . It runs parallel to Hadrian’s Wall, from Newcastle via Gateshead and onwards across Cumbria to Carlisle.

Accessible things to do in North East England

Discover our pick of accessible things to do in North East England.

VisitBritain/SolStock/Getty Images

A young boy with Downs Syndrome playing on the beach

Art and culture

Baltic centre for contemporary art, gateshead.

Experimental and inspiring, the Baltic Centre is packed with art from all over the world and it’s free to visit. The museum is accessible with level and ramped access, lifts with Braille, accessible toilets on every floor (except level 5), and assistance dogs are welcome with bowls of water available on request. You can borrow tri-wheeled walkers and wheelchairs, there are hearing loops at the Hello Desk, Baltic Shop and Front Room, and many more facilities.

Angel of the North, Newcastle Gateshead

An impressive site welcoming visitors to the North East, Antony Gormley’s 20 metre high sculpture, Angel of the North , has been standing proud since 2018. While there are no toilet facilities at the site, there is a car park with an accessible parking bay and a path leading to the sculpture. Paths are suitable for mobility scooter users and manual wheelchair users, though manual wheelchair users may require assistance.

The Glasshouse International Centre for Music

Designed by British architect Sir Norman Foster, The Glasshouse sits by the River Tyne. It hosts concerts and music events, from classical to rock and jazz, boasting a state-of-art interior to match the lively programme of events. The building has level access and is easy to navigate with lifts, accessible toilets and more. Assistance dogs are welcome and it has relaxed performances, where the doors remain open, there are no intervals and the house lights stay on.

Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art (MIMA), North Yorkshire

MIMA is home to a wealth of contemporary art, including textiles, ceramics, jewellery and more from artists such as David Hockney and Tracey Emin. The museum is fully accessible with large print guides, wheelchairs and ear defenders to borrow and guide dogs are welcome. You can access each floor by lift and there are accessible toilets throughout. Head to the second floor to take in views of the city.

History and heritage

Beamish museum, county durham.

Located in the north of County Durham is the open air Beamish Museum that will transport you to life during the 19th and 20th centuries. There are accessible toilets throughout and a Changing Places facility, wheelchairs to hire, assistance dogs are welcome and motorised scooters are allowed. There’s accessible parking and sensory packs available to borrow. As a ‘living museum’, expect actors in costume as you explore the working pit village, a 19th century hall, and a pub where you can order a pint. It has wheelchair accessible buses, too.

National Museum of the Royal Navy Hartlepool, Hartlepool

Ever wondered what life was like at an 18th century seaport? With a recreated Georgian quayside, a visit to the National Museum of the Royal Navy Hartlepool will take you back in time to find out! Visit the exhibition which details the history of the oldest floating British warship and the last of Admiral Lord Nelson’s Frigates, HSM Trincomalee, then head on-board the ship itself. With free accessible parking, the gun deck and mess deck are accessible to wheelchair users with a lift between the two. The lift has been out of order before, though visitors using wheelchairs can still access the gun deck. There are accessible toilets and baby changing facilities at the site.

Outdoors and nature

The alnwick garden, northumberland.

Alnwick Castle, the star of Harry Potter films , makes for a great day out, and one aspect that makes it so magical is its extensive gardens. Accessibility is at the heart of The Alnwick Garden , with visual and accessibility guides and a sensory map available. There is an accessible route throughout the gardens, with smooth, solid surfaces for wheelchairs and award-winning accessible toilets. Assistance dogs are welcome, there is seating all around the garden and the rope bridges and walkways at the Treehouse are accessible by wheelchair. Enjoy the bamboo labyrinth, rose garden, cherry blossom orchard and more. Plus, the Poison Garden filled with more than 100 of the most toxic plants known – enter if you dare!

Kielder Observatory, Hexham, Northumberland

Part of the Dark Skies project, the award-winning Kielder Observatory want as many people as possible to experience the night sky in its purest form. The main evening event is perfect for aged 12 and up. Visitors will get a tour of the observatory, a presentation and star gazing along the way. There are Young Explorer events for children aged between 6 to 10 during the day with interactive activities. Visitors can expect accessible parking and ramps throughout the observatory for access, except for one telescope turret which has six steps. Other telescopes are accessible. Look out for Relaxed Astronomy sessions for a slower paced event. There is a composting unisex toilet which is accessible to people using wheelchair, though it’s advisable to call in advance to check access. See the Access Statement for full details.

Adventure and sports

Coquet shorebase trust, amble, northumberland.

If water sports are your thing, Coquet Shorebase Trust have plenty of options and can tailor activities to suit individual needs. From canoeing to sailing to windsurfing, the team here have over 30 years’ experience helping everyone get on to the water, and are a RYA Sailability Centre and a British Canoeing Paddle-ability Centre. Based at two locations, Druridge Bay Country Park and The Braid in Amble, facilities include accessible changing for people who use a wheelchair, a jetty with a hoist, ‘Access’ dinghies, open canoes and more.

Newcastle United Stadium Tour, Newcastle upon Tyne

One of Britain’s oldest football clubs opens its doors for a behind the scenes tour . Discover the home of Newcastle United, St. James’ Park, with a personal tour guide and learn about its history stretching back to 1892. The Classic Tour takes guests around the stadium, with access for wheelchair users in all areas apart from the tunnel to the pitch side and the pitch side itself. There is an Autism Friendly Stadium Tour, which is a smaller group of up to 15 people. The tour is quieter and can be adapted to meet visitor needs on the day.

Work is ongoing to improve accessible tours for people who are Blind or have reduced sight, and people who are Deaf or are hard of hearing. For watching a match, there are 234 spaces for people using wheelchairs, a sensory room with specialist staff, induction loops in the reception, Box Office and club store, and a text phone for visitors who are hard of hearing in the Box Office. A Changing Places facility is available in the Milburn and East stands.

Discover accessible England

Accessible guide to london.

London is packed with accessible things to do, with plenty of ways to experience the buzz or calm of the capital.

VisitBritain

Male wheelchair user on elevated walkway at a museum

Accessible guide to North West England

From cities to the countryside and coast, the North West of England has many jewels in its dazzling crown.

Getty Images/Solstock

Lake District, England

Group of friends out walking in the lakes crossing bridge in the Lake District

Accessible guide to the East of England

The East of England is a seaside and country get-away, with accessible rail journeys and epic cathedrals.

Getty Images

Bridge across the River Cam between the St John's College's Third Court and New Court, Cambridge University

Accessible guide to Yorkshire and the Humber

From accessible adventures across the Yorkshire Coast and East Yorkshire to the North York Moors and historic cites, you’ll find a wealth of experiences in Yorkshire.

Jennie Berry using a hand bike at Dalby Forest with staff from the cycle hub.

Accessible guide to the Midlands

The Midlands is home to national treasures, from inclusive hiking, horseback-riding and the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

VisitBritain/Nemorin

Group of friends, one wheelchair user, sat around a table

Accessible guide to South West England

There's something for everyone in the South West, from accessible coastal trails to adrenaline-pumping paragliding.

VisitBritain/Calvertexmoor.org.uk

Man and boy wearing harnesses and helmets, abseiling

Accessible guide to South East England

From seaside towns with beach-friendly wheelchairs to accessible castles, the South East has a broad range of activities for all.

VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

A family cycling along path through the wide open landscape

Explore accessible Britain

Not found what you were looking for.

Northern England: How to Plan a One Week Trip

From picturesque national parks to gorgeous coastal towns and scenic countryside, England is an incredible country with plenty to offer its visitors. However, most tourists spend time in London or the south of England, completely forgetting about the northern part of the country.

Northern England is filled with historic places, stunning landscapes, and charming towns perfect for exploring. So if you are planning to spend a week traversing this part of the country and don’t know where to start, here are some places you can add to your travel itinerary and plan your one-week trip more efficiently.

How to Make Your One Week Trip More Interesting

Before we jump into the best locations, it is time to learn how to make your visit more interesting and productive.

Pick your destination first. After all, northern England is enormous, and you might not be able to see everything in just a week. For example, if you plan to stay in York, create an itinerary that includes nearby towns and places. North York Moors National Park and Whitby are just a short drive away. Visitors who go to Manchester can take a day trip to Liverpool too and experience the Beatlemania .

Remember that you can’t get lost even if you are entirely unfamiliar with the area. Just connect to the internet and use maps of your choice. However, it could be hard to stay safe while using public Wi-Fi. You never know how secure these networks are. Apps like VPN can increase your privacy and prevent the theft of your personal information. A VPN connects you to a private network, so you can use public Wi-Fi as much as you like.

Don’t hesitate to explore. Most cities have famous tourist sights and locations, but going off the beaten track can be fun. You could discover some hidden gems in other parts of a city. Ask locals to share with you their favorite cafes, restaurants, and shops. It is a great way to get to know a place and see it from a different perspective.

Best Locations in Northern England

It is best to start with a list of locations and famous tourist attractions when planning a trip. So if you are unfamiliar with the area, take a look at some of our picks. Then select the ones that seem interesting to you.

If you are traveling to the north of England, you have to visit York. It is one of the oldest cities in the country, so the history here is simply unique. Keep in mind that the city is pretty large so you might want to stay here for a couple of days. Plus, there are so many places to see in and around York.

York Minster, a gorgeous cathedral constructed in the 13th century, should be your first stop.

The architecture is the perfect example of the magnificent English gothic style. Visitors may climb to the roof and see York from above.

Harry Potter fans might want to take a walk down the Shambles. This narrow street dates back to the 14th century, and some even say it was an inspiration for Diagon Alley, a well-known location in the book series. Even though J.K. Rowling didn’t confirm this rumor yet, the street does have a magical vibe.

Speaking of places that inspired great literary works, Whitby is a simple fishing town with ties to one of the best horror novels of all time. Bram Stoker vacationed here in 1890 and explored the area. Mesmerized by the beauty of the Whitby Abbey, he got an idea to write Dracula. The structure still stands on the hill overlooking Whitby, so make sure you see it. The architecture and details are stunning.

You can then head to the harbor and tour the Captain Cook Museum. Here, you can learn about the man who sailed the world and discovered many new lands, including Australia. Whitby is a cozy place where visitors can find excellent restaurants that serve seafood. So once you get tired of walking, order a diner and enjoy some local dishes.

The Peak District National Park

Outdoor enthusiasts shouldn’t miss an opportunity to see one of England’s most beautiful national parks (and the oldest). The diverse terrain is perfect for hiking, caving, camping, and cycling. Of course, a couple of tourist attractions within the park can be a great addition to your trip plan.

If you are up for an adventure, head out to the Winnats Pass and see an underground river. Then there is the village of Eyam. It is an exciting place because it stayed isolated during the plague to stop the spreading of the disease. Visitors can learn more about the Black Death at the Eyam Museum.

If you prefer traveling to larger cities, then Manchester is for you. Its vibrant history mesmerizes every visitor. After all, this place gave us bands like Joy Division, Oasis, and The Smiths, who shaped the music world. So it shouldn’t be surprising that Manchester still has a thriving art scene, with plenty of independent art galleries around.

Since it is one of the largest cities in the north, Manchester is home to a couple of exquisite museums like the Manchester Museum and Science and Industry Museum. Manchester

Museum is a part of the University of Manchester and is the largest research museum in the UK, with more than 4.5 million artifacts on display.

Football fans have to visit Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United. Manchester is all about this sport and even has the National Football Museum in the very heart of the city. Here you can learn about football history, see the UEFA collection, and various memorabilia.

Complete Guide to Walking the Cleveland Way

savvyglobetrotter

England Road Trip: 50 Unmissable ideas (for every UK itinerary)

England road trip idea- Isle of wight road trip

Planning an England road trip? Here are some of the best itinerary ideas for all schedules, including London to Cornwall, the Cotswolds and Kent in southern England, National Parks like the Lake District or Peak District, Northern England and all the way up to the Scottish border.

Whatever your cup of tea, there’s a UK road trip idea here for you. We’ve also provided a helpful map so you can visualise your route.

*We work hard to make this the best motorhome travel blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own .

If you find this post useful, you can also treat us to a coffee – we promise to enjoy it while creating more useful content like this- we might even indulge in a biscuit (or two!)

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UK Road Trips- How to Plan

Planning a UK road trip to England or elsewhere can be tough.

There are SO MANY places, ideas, options and reviews- how on earth are you supposed to choose the best way or most scenic drives?

Then, you have to factor in how long you have for your UK road trip (remembering that much of rural UK has smaller, slower roads, so it takes a lot longer to get there than you might expect.

So, if you’re planning a road trip around England (and the UK) and feeling overwhelmed, here are some of our favourite road trips and itinerary ideas to help you. We’ll discuss the best bits of each area, why and when you should visit, how far it is from London and where you should allow extra time to explore.

England Road Trip Ideas- Where to Start

The first thing to decide is where you want to visit on your road trip. Also, remember that England is only one section of the UK- there are several other countries to explore (England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland make up the United Kingdom).

So, if you want to do a full UK road trip, you’ll need more time than if you were just doing an England road trip.

Our biggest tip is not to overface yourself. Whether you only have a long weekend for a quick trip from London or a week to get out on the open road and tour, make sure you leave time to actually get out of your vehicle and explore the places you’re visiting- you’ll find plenty of historic sites, sandy beaches and incredible routes to enjoy.

Roughly speaking, you can split England in half- the South of England and the North (the line roughly goes through Birmingham) or even further into quarters if you only have time for a one-week road trip.

Again, how far you can travel will depend on how much time you have, as well as how you are travelling (rental car, motorhome or public transport), but to do each half ‘properly’ we would recommend at least 2-3 weeks- especially if it’s your first time in England.

Having said that, you can see some of the best sights in less time than that- here’s our one week in England road trip itinerary .

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Where to stay during your England road trip

If you’re planning a motorhome or campervan trip , you’ll be able to travel and stop along the way, often without booking in advance, using schemes like Brit Stops or wild camping in your motorhome .

If you’re in a car or motorbike, there are PLENTY of hotels and BnBs to use en route. If you’re travelling in summer we recommend booking at least the first stop in advance- if you use Booking.com for all your accommodation you’ll find you can get a great deal and save a lot of money.

England Road Trip Map

I know how hard it can be to visualise places if you don’t know the country well, so here’s a map of England with several of the road trip destinations shown on it.

Out of interest, if you did this route, it’s about 1056 miles (1700km) long. You could technically do it in a week, but you’d barely have time to get out of the car!

England road trip itinerary ideas and map

Common England Road Trip Questions

How long does it take to drive the whole of england .

Many people wonder “ How long does it take to drive the whole of England ?” That’s a tough question, as there are so many places to go and depends a lot on your starting point.

Most people allow 2-3 weeks to drive through as much of England as they can, but that will involve a LOT of driving. Of course, you can take a look at the road trip itinerary ideas below and see which scenic route or quaint villages most appeal to you- and then plan your trip around that.

One common UK road trip idea is to drive from Land’s End in Cornwall all the way up to John o’Groats in Scotland, which is about 838miles (1350km). Obviously, this is a road trip which involves England AND Scotland, and that brings me to another important point.

Want to rent a vehicle for your road trip?

These might help:

Discover incredible deals for motorhome/ camper rentals
Find the best deals for car rental

READ: 10 essential questions to ask before you rent a motorhome

Can we go to England by road?

This is a common question for anyone who doesn’t live in the UK- and the short answer is yes, you can drive to England from mainland Europe.

Whether you’re enjoying a European road trip (here are some ideas for you ), or want to combine a trip to England with another country, you can drive to England from Europe via either the Eurotunnel or taking one of several car ferries (they also take motorhomes/ campervans on most of the ferry routes.)

If you’re planning a road trip from France to England, which route you take will depend on which part of France and England you want to visit- find out more in our Eurotunnel vs Ferry post.

And if you’re going the other way and will be driving in Europe, make sure you are aware of the new rules for driving in Europe after BREXIT .

If you’re like more help planning your trip, this post about how to plan an epic UK road trip will help.

Is England the UK or Great Britain?

Neither. And part of both 🙂

It’s common for people to confuse an England road trip with a UK road trip. England is just one country within the UK, along with Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. If you want to extend your trip and see more of those countries, you might enjoy our post on the best UK road trips and scenic drive ideas.

The UK is short for ‘The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland’.

Great Britain is the LANDMASS of the largest island in the British Isles (the one which makes up England, Wales and Scotland). Northern Ireland, Isle of Man and the Channel Islands are not included in this.

And, to make things even more odd, the British Isles includes ALL the islands, including the whole of Ireland, which isn’t part of the UK at all.

Thoroughly confused? Ok, let’s just stick to England road trip ideas! 🙂

South England Road Trip Ideas

If you’re visiting London and want to explore part of the country for a few days, southern England is a good place to start. Of course, there are a HUGE number of places to explore in ‘South England’ (which is roughly classed as anywhere below Birmingham), so I’m just going to pick a few highlights to inspire you.

Cornwall- South West England

England road trip ideas and itinerary- South England cornwall road trip

Cornwall is one of my favourite places to road trip in England. I spent 2 years living there whilst I was in the Navy, and have been back many times since. There are plenty of things to do in Cornwall , but there are some important tips you need to know before you arrive!

Why is Cornwall one of the best England road trips?

If you want cute villages, incredible beaches and more history than you can shake a stick at, Cornwall is perfect. Also, they have some of the best ice cream IN THE WORLD (no kidding) and it’s perfectly acceptable to eat a scone with jam and clotted cream EVERY day and no one will judge you.

IMPORTANT NOTE : There is intense rivalry between Devon and Cornwall over whether jam or cream should go first on a scone. In Cornwall, they do jam and THEN cream, which is apparently the way the Queen preferred her scones .

(Don’t worry, they’re used to tourists and won’t stone you if you get it wrong. But be warned if you want to live there…!)

In Devon, they do it the other way. I’ve tried both, and I’m a jam first girl (because you can then put more cream on!)

When should you visit Cornwall?

Cornwall is best anytime between Easter and mid-October.

TOP TIP : Avoid July and August if you possibly can. The schools are on holiday and it feels like EVERYONE in England has travelled to the same small Cornish village as you.

Beaches are overcrowded, parking becomes a struggle and there’s a very real chance of shops running out of ice cream. Don’t do that to yourself. You deserve that ice cream.

Also, many businesses and attractions close after mid-October for the winter, so you might find you can’t do everything you want to outside the season.

Having said that, we find Cornwall one of the best places to enjoy Autumn in Europe – the weather is still warm, but everywhere is quieter and easier to get to.

How long should you spend roadtripping Cornwall?

How long is a piece of string!! But, as you can see on our Cornish road trip itinerary , we recommend 7-10 days minimum to see all the best places.

Where are the best places to visit in Cornwall on a road trip?

Did I mention that I used to live here? I have SO many recommendations for places to visit we could be here all week!!! Some of my absolute favourites (and this is like choosing my favourite child… or chocolate bar) include:

Tintagel Castle (the home of Arthur and the round table)
Minack Theatre (built onto the side of a cliff)
St Michael’s Mount
Boscastle (where one of the best witchcraft museums in the world is!)
Newquay beach (and bars!)

READ MORE: Discover our complete Cornwall road trip itinerary (45 places you HAVE to see!)

England road trip ideas and itinerary- Devon road trip south coast england travel

Recommended by Ben at Driftwood Journals

Famed for its endless rolling hills, craggy coastlines and clotted cream delights, Devon is unsurprisingly one of the most popular destinations in the UK – and a dream for rural road-trippers! With wild moors galore, cutesy towns and villages, and bountiful beaches, you don’t have to drive far in Devon to stumble upon scenes of unparalleled beauty.

Highlights and best places to visit in Devon

Dartmouth- one of the best towns in the county (and home of the Royal Naval Officer training. I spent a year here…running up those bl***y hills!) Hire a boat and explore the river.
Paignton- the beach with the red sand and is also known as the English Riviera.
Dartmoor National Park
Exmoor National Park
Exmouth with its beautiful painted houses
Salcombe Harbour – a holiday hotspot for all generations.
Dulverton- head to the Copper Kettle tearoom; you won’t regret it!

Devon road trip ideas

Pack up your motorhome/ camper (or car with tent) and find a site with views across the Devonshire cow-grazed hillsides of the Lyn Valley, or out over Dartmoor. You can wild camp in Devon, but not on the moors. Find out more about motorhome wild camping in the UK.

For a coastal trip, explore sea towns like Salcombe and Dartmouth (where you can take a boat up to Greenway, Agatha Christie’s summer home) and round to Exmouth, before heading north to Woolacombe, Dawlish and the fishing boat bobbing harbour of Ilfracombe. Enjoy the bustle and culture in the capital of Exeter or discover the notorious prison of Dartmoor.

Alternatively, head to North Devon and enjoy the wilder seas and views of the north coast. This is a great area for surfing and watersports.

If you have more time (and fuel) to burn, take to the A386 between Appledore and Plymouth, traversing through forested valleys to picture-perfect towns like Great Torrington and Tavistock, where you can tour the tearooms and plan the rest of your trip in the park while dangling your toes in the River Tavy.

But the true beauty of road tripping in Devon is that you don’t really need to plan too extensively. You’ll never be far from a cream tea pitstop, and the verdant country roads will offer up some of the most perfect picnic spots you’ll ever see. All you need is is a full tank, and a little patience when stuck behind tractor after tractor!

When is the best time to visit Devon on a road trip?

As with Cornwall, the best time to visit Devon is Spring to Autumn, but avoid the high summer months if you can, especially if you’re on a UK motorhome holiday .

Can you visit Devon on a day trip from London?

You can, but it’s quite a long drive. I’d say you’d need at least 2 or 3 days to really be able to explore anything.

Dorset- One of England’s Best Road Trips

England road trip itinerary ideas- best places to visit

Recommended by Paul | Anywhere We Roam

The Jurassic Coast stretches 95 miles across Dorset in southern England. With an iconic coastline of towering white cliffs, it’s an excellent destination for a classic road trip. Stunning scenery, historical sites and local breweries make the Jurassic Coast one of the best places to experience the beautiful English countryside.

Dorset road trip- best places to visit?

The main highlight of a road trip to Dorset in the area has to be Old Harry Rocks – a collection of white stone monoliths that have been carved out along the coast. It’s one of the most impressive stretches of scenery in the UK with dazzling chalk stacks assembled like a jigsaw puzzle waiting to be completed. If you get time, be sure to enjoy one of the many fabulous Dorset walks- you won’t regret it.

A thirty-minute drive away, Corfe Castle stands as a reminder of England’s 11th-Century past. It was one of the earliest Norman castles built and today it glows in its dilapidated glory overlooking the Dorset hills. It’s a stunning, photogenic inclusion on a UK road trip.

For another natural phenomenon, Durdle Door is possibly one of the most recognisable symbols of the Jurassic Coast. Over time, crashing waves have eroded limestone stacks in the sea leaving a glorious natural arch.

It’s a beautiful stretch of beach, ideal for a long summer stroll. It’s also next to the famous Lulworth Cove, which is a wonderful place to enjoy an ice cream!

Editors note: (I (Kat) actually jumped off the top of Durdle Door on my hen party!)

After soaking up the stunning scenery, head west to Lyme Regis, a quaint town with a vibrant independent retail scene. The historic Cobb Harbour set against moody cliffs is well-preserved and houses some of the best coffee in the area.

When is the best time to visit Dorset on an England road trip?

The best time to visit the Jurassic Coast on a road trip is from May to early July when the surrounding countryside will be verdant green and covered in wildflowers, but there’s not too much traffic!

Hampshire road trip

Hampshire is another county in England we know well, having lived here for 14+ years. There’s plenty to enjoy on a road trip to Hampshire, from beautiful cities to picturesque country houses.

Highlights of a Hampshire road trip

Some of our favourite places to visit in Hampshire include:

Winchester- be sure to visit the Cathedral where Jane Austen is buried and you can see one of the oldest Bibles in the world. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting in December, don’t miss the famous Winchester Christmas Market , held in the Cathedral grounds each December.
Highclere Castle (or Downton Abbey, as you might know it!)
Lymington – for the oldest open sea water baths in the UK – and the New Forest (check out the Wildlife park there and make sure to take some memorable photos).
Hinton Ampner- 18th century famous manor house known for its gardens.
Portsmouth (you MUST go to the Mary Rose museum and HMS Victory)
Isle of Wight (see below)

Isle of Wight road trip

Recommended by Darek | DarekandGosia

The Isle of Wight , famous for its beautiful views, is an island on the south coast of England, just below Southampton. Technically, it’s part of Hampshire, but feels like a different world.

With a motorhome or car, you can reach the island by ferry from either Southampton or Portsmouth – book in advance during summer. There are also a couple of foot passenger ferries and a hovercraft from Southsea.

Why is it one of England’s best road trips?

The Isle of Wight is like going back in time. It’s worth a road trip here for even a weekend, to escape the hustle and bustle of normal life, ride bikes and take a walk on the cliffs.

Also, there are some wonderful places to stay. If you’re on a road trip, check out these amazing Isle of Wight campsites – some with stunning sea views!

What is there to do?

You can start exploring the island in Shanklin – one of the coastal villages famous for its beautiful beaches. On the promenade along the sea you will find many restaurants and hotels – most of the Island is typically tourist-oriented.

From Shanklin drive to the western part of the island. The most characteristic point is The Needles – three chalk rocks emerging from the sea with a small lighthouse built at the end of one of the columns. You can get to Needles by car and then follow the path on foot to the cliff slope. It’s a fabulous place for a picnic.

Next to Needles is Old Battery, a military fortification dating from the nineteenth century. There you can find World War II memorabilia or visit one of the various exhibitions are also taking place.

While driving around the island make sure you get to Carisbrooke Castle near Newport. Its construction began in the 12th century. It is worth taking a moment to walk around the castle, relax in the Edwardian-style garden.

One of my favourite places on the Island is Osborne House- Queen Victoria’s summer home. You can walk around the gardens and the house and even enjoy an ice cream on her private beach. Osborne House is run by English Heritage.

When is the best time to visit the Isle of Wight?

The Isle of Wight is a must-see for anyone who wants to admire the British climate and above all fantastic views. It is worth going here all year round – it’s actually one of the best places to visit in Europe in October , when there are fewer tourists and you can enjoy the views & roads!

Norfolk Broads

England road trip ideas and itinerary- norfolk

Recommended by Mandi | Big Family, Little Adventures

Sometimes you want nothing more than to escape the hustle and the bustle of everyday life, the noise, the bright lights, the never-ending pace of life. If you want to get away, the Norfolk Broads is pure escapism; big skies, plenty of peace and quiet and an abundance of wildlife.

Best places to visit in Norfolk on a road trip

The Old Roman Fort at Burgh Castle with an elevated position and commanding views over the marshes – perfect for a walk in both winter morning frost or a hot and hazy mid-summer evening
If you prefer a bit of activity, Wroxham is a bustling Broads village- home to Roy’s of Wroxham, possibly the largest village shop you have ever seen
Plenty of riverside pubs and restaurants in Wroxham and all around the Broads- the perfect places to stop for a bite to eat
St Benet’s Abbey – an 11th century monastery defying time, standing in a stunning green valley.
If you are an animal lover, you will enjoy a visit to Wroxham Barns to feed the lambs or spot the grey seals on the Norfolk beaches

Norfolk Road Trip- when is the best time to visit?

You can explore Norfolk all year. In summer, if you would like to explore the best Norfolk beaches or Broads up close, why not hire a dayboat; these can be hired at various boatyards throughout the Broads. Waveney River Centre is another stunning place to stop and admire the view, either by boat or car.

The challenge is (as always in England!) the weather. In dry conditions, most paths are excellent, but it can get a bit more challenging in wet weather.

However, over the years, an increasing number of boardwalks have been developed, increasing safe access to the Broads whatever the weather. Also, seeing the windmills and rivers on a crisp winter morning is unforgettable.

Time does not stop in Norfolk, but it really does feel like it slows down. To be able to watch the sunset across the broads any time of year is a magical experience and the perfect place to enjoy a chilled road trip.

Sussex, Kent and Surrey

Ahhh, the picturesque south-east corner of England, which includes the Garden of England (that’s the other name for Kent). This area is lush, green and has some many historic buildings and castles you’ll find it impossible to avoid them.

It’s also home to plenty of gorgeous sandy beaches, white cliffs (such as Dover and Beachy Head) and some truly wonderful parks to walk in.

Even better, it’s all easily reached from London by car and train, so it’s easy to get away from the city for a few days if you’d like a countryside break or a trip to the beach.

Best Places to visit in Sussex include:

Sussex is actually split into East and West Sussex, but to make things easy on your road trip I’ve made one list for you. They’re not that far apart from each other!

Brighton : A vibrant seaside city famous for its pebble beach, iconic pier, and the Royal Pavilion with its distinctive architecture. Explore the Lanes for unique shops and enjoy the city’s lively arts and music scene. See below for more ideas
Arundel : Home to Arundel Castle, a medieval and Victorian castle that overlooks the River Arun. The town itself is picturesque with cobbled streets and antique shops.
Chichester : A historic cathedral city with Roman origins, Chichester offers a mix of history, culture, and shopping. The Chichester Cathedral and Pallant House Gallery are notable attractions.
Lewes : Known for its medieval architecture, Lewes Castle, and historic streets. The Lewes Bonfire Night is a famous annual event.
Eastbourne : A traditional seaside town with a Victorian pier, beautiful seafront, and the iconic Beachy Head cliffs nearby.
Rye : A charming medieval town with cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and views of the surrounding marshland.
Battle : Famous for the Battle of Hastings in 1066, this town is home to Battle Abbey and the Battlefield. Explore the historic sites and learn about this pivotal event in English history.
Petworth House and Park : A stately mansion with an impressive art collection set in a vast deer park. The gardens are also worth exploring.
Seven Sisters Country Park : A stunning coastal area with dramatic chalk cliffs and rolling hills, perfect for hiking and enjoying breathtaking views.
Bodiam Castle : A 14th-century moated castle surrounded by water and picturesque landscapes.
Sheffield Park and Garden : A National Trust property known for its stunning gardens, lakes, and vibrant displays of plants.
Birling Gap and Beachy Head : More stunning chalk cliffs and coastal views, with the added beauty of the natural arch at Birling Gap.
Glyndebourne Opera House : Known for its world-class opera productions, the opera house is set in beautiful countryside and offers a unique cultural experience.

Best places to visit in Kent include:

Canterbury – home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Canterbury Cathedral
Dover : Known for the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, this coastal town is home to Dover Castle, which boasts a complex history and offers panoramic views of the English Channel.
Rochester : A charming town with a medieval castle and cathedral. It’s also the birthplace of Charles Dickens, and you can visit the Dickens World theme park.
Whitstable : This coastal town is famous for its oysters and seafood. Enjoy the quaint streets, beach huts, and seafood restaurants along the coast.
Margate : A seaside town with a revived artistic scene, featuring the Turner Contemporary art gallery and the scenic Margate Sands.
Leeds Castle : Often referred to as the “loveliest castle in the world,” Leeds Castle is set on an island in a lake and surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Hever Castle : The childhood home of Anne Boleyn, with historic architecture, gardens, and a maze.
Chatham Historic Dockyard : A maritime museum where you can explore historic warships, submarines, and learn about Britain’s naval history.
Biddenden Vineyards : If you’re a wine enthusiast, Kent has several vineyards. Biddenden is one of the oldest and most well-known.
Canterbury Tales Visitor Attraction : An interactive museum where you can step back in time to experience Chaucer’s famous tales.
St. Augustine’s Abbey : A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this abbey in Canterbury dates back to the 6th century and is a significant historical site.
Chartwell House : The former home of Winston Churchill, now a museum showcasing his life and legacy.

These are just a few highlights of what Kent has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, you’re likely to find something appealing in this diverse and beautiful county.

Best Places to Visit in Surrey

Box Hill : A National Trust site known for its stunning views and walking trails. It’s a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside.
Polesden Lacey : A grand Edwardian estate with beautiful gardens, Polesden Lacey is a National Trust property that offers a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy in the early 20th century.
Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village : Located in Compton, this unique attraction is dedicated to the works of Victorian artist George Frederic Watts and his wife Mary Watts. The village includes a gallery, chapel, and artist studios.
Hampton Court Palace : While part of the palace is in Greater London, the stunning Hampton Court Palace is right on the border of Surrey. It’s famous for its Tudor history, grand architecture, and beautiful gardens.
RHS Garden Wisley : A flagship garden of the Royal Horticultural Society, Wisley offers a wide variety of plants, landscapes, and garden designs to explore.
Brooklands Museum : A museum dedicated to motorsport and aviation history, located on the site of the world’s first purpose-built motor racing circuit.
Loseley Park : A grand Elizabethan manor house surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland, open to the public during certain times of the year.
Denbies Wine Estate : England’s largest vineyard, Denbies offers tours, wine tasting, and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Newlands Corner : Another viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the Surrey Hills, perfect for picnics and outdoor activities.
Epsom Downs : Known for Epsom Downs Racecourse and the famous Epsom Derby, this area offers open spaces and walking trails.
Virginia Water : Part of Windsor Great Park, Virginia Water features a lake, ornamental cascades, and woodland walks.

Surrey’s mix of historic sites, natural beauty, and cultural attractions make it a delightful destination for a variety of interests. Whether you’re into history, outdoor activities, or simply enjoying scenic landscapes, Surrey has something to offer.

Brighton – East Sussex

I’ve given Brighton it’s own section because it’s one of my favourite cities in England and you should try to add it to your England road trip itinerary, especially if you’re heading toward East Sussex.

Brighton is a city renowned for its diverse communities and innovation, the quirky shopping areas, its music and art scene, and its large LGBT population. Read more about Brighton in Autum .

Why is Brighton one of the best England road trips?

Brighton is less than an hour away from London (76 km) and on a direct train line. It offers plenty of fun and exciting activities to enjoy (more than just fish and chips at a pier!)

Brighton has been famous as a cultural centre for over a century. It’s home to the world’s oldest operating aquarium (which opened in 1872- now called ‘’Brighton Sea Life’’), and you can even ride the world’s oldest operating electric railway, the Volks Railway, built in 1883.

Other Brighton Highlights include:

See the Palace Pier
Catch the latest release in the Duke of York Picturehouse, Britain’s oldest cinema.
Have a stroll down the North Lane- home to over 400 independent shops
Discover the Victorian innovations still in operation in the city.

How long should you spend in Brighton?

You will want to spend at least two days in Brighton to truly take in the city, but you can easily make a week of your itinerary if you want to explore more places in Sussex, Kent and Surrey.

What is the best month to visit Brighton?

The sunniest (and therefore warmest!) time of the year in Brighton is from May to September. July and August are peak tourist season, with hotel prices skyrocketing, so be aware of that and plan your stay accordingly.

Cambridgeshire & Cambridge

Cambridgeshire is a county in the East of England with plenty to do. The jewel of the county is Cambridge, with a historical, 800-year-old centre you should definitely not skip.

Why should you include Cambridge on your England road trip?

Only 1 hour and 30 minutes away from London via M11, Cambridge offers so much: a rich history of English heritage, a buzzing local community, and a picturesque setting. You’ll even find a gift Henry VIII gave to Anne Boleyn!

Cambridge Highlights

See the King’s College Chapel
Enjoy breakfast at Fitzbillies
Go punting in the River Cam
Have a picnic by the river.
Enjoy walking the historic streets

Cambridge Trip Itinerary idea

Leaving London, head up to Cambridge via the M11.

Start the day with drinks and a meal in one of the many deli and brunch places in Market Square before setting off to explore the city. I highly recommend the famous Fitzbillies- the food is delicious.

From there, you can choose from a variety of activities: visiting King’s Chapel, punting in the River Cam (pass under the Bridge of Sighs), hiking on the Cam Towpath (lots of hidden gems if you know how to look for trails!), or taking in the city views from St. Mary’s Tower.

If you’re staying overnight, end the day by attending the Evensong at the King’s College Chapel (select days only)

When is the best (and worst) time to visit Cambridge ?

Cambridge is beautiful all year round. However, the worst time to visit would be spring – the university students sit their finals between April and June, which means many of the college sites are closed to visitors.

What are some of the best places to visit in Cambridge?

The King’s College Chapel in the University of Cambridge is the third-oldest university in operation and the most iconic and instantly-recognisable building in the county.

Don’t miss out on an opportunity to drink at the Eagle, a historic pub in the heart of Cambridge’s city centre famously linked to Watson and Crick’s discovery of DNA.

If you are feeling adventurous and are ready to brave the British winter, visit Cambridge in December. It’s off-peak season and features one of the best UK Christmas markets you should visit. Read all about the Cambridge Christmas market here.

How long should you spend in Cambridge?

One day in Cambridge is usually enough time to visit the majority of the main sights, especially if you are visiting during the summer. You’ll need tickets for most of the chapels and university buildings, so go first to buy those.

Wiltshire & Cotswolds Road Trip – 3 day trip from London

Recommended by Ann | The road is life

The Cotswolds is the largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in England and Wales. If you look at a map of England, find Bristol (west coast, just below the indent of southern Wales) and the Cotswolds is the area north-east of Bristol.

There is so much beauty and fascinating history to discover around the Cotswolds region and luckily you don’t have to travel far from London to get there! You can reach Bath or Bristol easily in a day from London, but we recommend at least 3 days to really explore the area by car/ motorhome, plus explore Stonehenge and Salisbury on the way back to London. If you’re travelling with children, don’t worry- there’s plenty of things to do in the Cotswolds with kids.

Highlights & Best Places to Visit in the Cotswolds and Surrounding Area

Explore the charming stone villages of the Cotswolds
visit the historic city of Bath
marvel at the mysterious ancient stones of Stonehenge
Indulge in some shopping at Daylesford farm
stop at the magnificent Salisbury Cathedral.

When is the best time for a Cotswolds road trip?

Although the Cotswolds can be visited all year, this road trip is best completed in the spring or summer months to ensure warmer and sunnier sightseeing weather.

The days are also longer- allowing you to see more each day. However, unlike Cornwall and Devon, most places to NOT shut during winter, so feel free to explore whenever suits you!

Wiltshire & Cotswolds road trip itinerary from London

Departing London, drive out to the Cotswolds. This is where you should spend 3-4 days exploring as many lovely little towns and villages as you wish to.
A few of the prettiest Cotswolds villages include Bibury, Stow-on-the-Wold, Lower Slaughter, Bourton-on-the-Water, Castle Combe and so many more! The beauty of the Cotswolds region is that the villages are all located in close proximity with minimal driving time in between them.
Once you have seen your share of lovely English villages , carry on to Bath which is only a 30-minute drive from the village of Castle Combe- well worth a visit.
Spend a full day and night in Bath visiting the Roman baths.
From there continue to Stonehenge. A visit to this incredible ancient site can easily take half a day. We camped overnight at Stonehenge and saw the most INCREDIBLE sunrise we’ve EVER seen. (Seriously, watch the video. It’s breathtaking)
From Stonehenge, it’s only a short 20-minute drive to the medieval town of Salisbury which brings you to the final stop of this road trip.
The highlight of Salisbury is the stunning Salisbury Cathedral which has the tallest spire in all of Britain! Spend one night in Salisbury before making the final 2-hour road trip back to London.
Another option is to return to London via the historic city of Oxford. Don’t miss a meal in Sticks and Sushi- one of the best restaurants in Oxford and with incredible views over the city.

North England Road Trips- Why You Should Visit

It’s easy when planning an England road trip to get sucked into famous places like Cornwall, Devon or the Cotswolds- and those are all AMAZING places to visit.

However, I strongly encourage you to visit the north of England as well if you have time. You’ll find villages just as pretty, delicious food (chips, pie and gravy is the best thing in the world) and incredible history.

Again, we were lucky to live up here for 4 years- here are some of our absolute favourite places to road trip, although there are of course many more we have yet to discover! I hope they give you some ideas and inspiration for your next trip.

Don’t forget to Grab your ULTIMATE road trip planner here – it has everything you need to help you pack for your road trip.

Peak District National Park

The Peak District is a huge and stunning area in Derbyshire, just to the east of Manchester. It’s a perfect place for a road trip because there are so many things to see!

A car or motorhome makes it easy to travel between the sites and there are plenty of campsites or hotels to use as you explore.

There are a multitude of hikes, walks and tors to climb and the area is famous for its caves, which people still lived in as recently as 1910!

The Peak District was the UK’s first National Park and is also considered the real ale capital of the world! If you’re exploring the Peak District with kids , there are steam trains, tramways, cycle paths and even a cable car taking you up to see some stunning views! There’s also Alton Towers theme park – one of the best in the UK.

Best places to explore in the Peak District

Some of the highlights include:

Chatsworth House
Ladybower reservoir
Alton Towers theme park
Heights of Abraham cable car

Lake District road trip

Recommended by Fiona/ Passport & Piano

The Lake District National Park is a UNESCO heritage site that makes for the perfect road trip. Walking around the lakes and fells to see the magnificent scenery is one of the many pleasures of the area.

Quintessential villages are plentiful as are traditional English pubs with real ale and hearty food. Don’t just rush by on your way from England to Scotland; take a few days and enjoy all that the lakes have to offer.

Best places to visit on a Lake District Road Trip

Most people arrive from the south via Windermere, but to explore the areas hidden gems its worth spending at least three days here. The Lake District has some of the worlds best scenic drives and a trip along the Honister Pass and Kirkstone Pass are a must.

In the South Lakes, I’d highly recommend a visit to Grasmere . Here you can visit several homes of the famous poet William Wordsworth and enjoy Sarah Nelson’s delightful gingerbread.

If you love Beatrix Potter, you can follow in her footsteps at Beatrix Potter World in Bowness- on- Windermere. Her home near Hawkshead is open to visitors, and Wray Castle is a beautiful spot where she enjoyed her family holidays.

In the North Lakes, the towns of Keswick and Cockermouth have plenty to explore. The Castlerigg stone circle, with its stunning views across the fells, is worth stopping at, and the “Surprise View” across Derwent Water is spectacular.

If you’re not exploring in a motorhome or campervan, accommodation throughout the area is plentiful. There are boat rides and water-based activities to enjoy on most of the lakes and a plethora of outdoor pursuit centres for the more adventurous.

When is the best time for a Lake District road trip?

In the summer months, the National Park can be rather busy particularly on the main A66 road which runs through the centre. Hence if you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the spring or autumn.

While you’re not guaranteed sunshine at any time of the year, the weather is probably at its best between April and September.

England Road Trip- Yorkshire & The Dales

England road trip ideas and itinerary- england to Scotland road trip yorkshire

Recommended by Sinead | Map Made Memories

England’s largest county, Yorkshire, is a perfect destination for a road trip. There are so many diverse attractions to see within a relatively short drive of each other.

Highlights and some best places in Yorkshire to visit

Hardraw Force–England’s highest single-drop waterfall
White Scar–The longest show cave in England
Visit the ‘Best Street in Britain’
Visit the cobbled Shambles, named ‘the Best Street in Britain’.
Marvel at the Ribblehead Viaduct, the 24 arches that span the Yorkshire Dales, a true masterpiece of Victorian engineering.
Castles and ruins all over the place
Stand on Hogsmeade station (or at least the station which played it in Harry Potter!)

Yorkshire Road Trip Itinerary

Start your road trip in the rolling hills and river valleys of the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. Visit the 11th century Skipton Castle or descend underground to marvel at the formations in White Scar Caves, the longest show cave in England.

Clamber over Brimham Rocks or hike the stunning landscape around Malham Cove. Browse the independent shops in the Victorian spa town of Harrogate.

Places to visit on the Yorkshire Dales

The Yorkshire Dales are packed with attractive waterfalls. Choose between the plunging falls around Ingleton, popular Aysgarth Falls or, my favourite waterfall, Hardraw Force which is England’s highest single drop waterfall. Before leaving the Dales, visit the impressive monastic ruins and landscaped gardens of Fountains Abbey.

Continue your road trip by exploring the historic city of York . This compact city is easily navigated on foot and is an ideal location for history buffs. You can visit Viking, Roman, Georgian and Victorian sites all in one day!

See the iconic York Minster, walk the city’s medieval city walls and stroll along the cobbled Shambles, which has been voted the ‘ Best Street in Britain’ and was the inspiration behind Diagon Alley from the movie adaptation of the Harry Potter series!

Road trip over the Yorkshire Moors

End your Yorkshire road trip with a drive across the wild Yorkshire Moors. Take a scenic trip on a steam train across the Moors to visit charming Goathland train station which doubled as Hogsmeade station in the Harry Potter movies. Alternatively, your legs with a hike at the Hole of Horcum, a huge ancient natural amphitheatre.

How long should you spend exploring Yorkshire on a road trip?

You could ‘cover’ Yorkshire in a couple of days but to truly appreciate all it has to offer I would recommend at least one full week.

When is the best time to road trip to Yorkshire?

Yorkshire can be explored all year around- and expect rain at any time! But Spring is incredible on the moors- with the wildflowers blooming and the days getting longer, it’s a perfect time to visit. Autumn also offers spectacular views with the leaves turning colour, providing an incredible backdrop.

England Road Trip Idea – North East Coast

England road trip ideas and itinerary- england to Scotland road trip saltburn

Northern England’s east coast is full of charming towns and villages, and is the perfect destination for a road trip.

Best places to visit on a North East coast England road trip

Saltburn-by-the-Sea (to search for fossils)
Lemon top ice-cream – Its legacy goes back over 100 years!)
Staithes- picturesque fishing village
Whitby Abbey – the inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s Dracula
Robin Hood’s Bay (where smuggling was commonplace
Scarborough Castle

North East England road trip itinerary

Start in Saltburn-by-the-sea. Be sure to search for fossils throughout your visit. I actually found one in Saltburn-by-the-Sea, but you can get lucky in any of the places on this list! Saltburn-by-the-Sea is home to the historic Saltburn Cliff Tramway and affords beautiful views from the bluffs above town.

You can walk along The Cleveland Way, a historic trail that runs through each of the 5 locations mentioned. I’d also recommend trying Lemon Top Ice Cream, or vanilla ice cream with a dollop of lemon sorbet on top.

Staithes is a quaint fishing village laden with narrow pathways and quirky cottages.

The Whitby Abbey towers above the town, giving it an eerie feeling – it’s even credited as the inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s Dracula!

Robin Hood’s Bay has a long history with smugglers, and its red rooftops and crowded buildings conceal hidden routes. In Scarborough, you can enjoy rides at the Luna Park amusement park or visit the historic Scarborough Castle!

When is the best time to road trip England’s north-east coast?

Although you can visit this area all year round, I’d suggest visiting in the summer or fall. It rains much of the year in this region of England, but there’s a higher likelihood of sunshine from July through October.

How long to spend on this England Road trip?

You can complete this road trip in less than 2 hours, but I’d suggest spending at least a few days exploring the region. Each Yorkshire coastal town has its own charm and activities to offer, so you certainly don’t want to rush!

How far is it from the North east coast to London?

Scarborough to London takes about 5 hours by car. Avoid travelling Friday afternoons or Monday morning- those are the peak road traffic times.

Don’t miss Durham

We spent a lovely couple of days exploring the city of Durham. There are so many wonderful places to explore, but one of the highlights for us was Durham Cathedral. This incredible building was built in the 11th Century and is the largest surviving stone vaulted ceiling of its size.

However, if I’m honest, I was more excited by the fact that several scenes in Harry Potter were filmed here, including in the cloisters and many of the covered walkways.

It was also in Durham Cathedral that Harry, Ron and Hermione encounter ‘Fluffy’- the forbidden corridor was also part of the cathedral.

Other fantastic things to see in or near Durham include:

Durham Castle
High Force Waterfall (one of the best waterfalls in Europe )
Finchale Priory

Northumberland Coast

England road trip itinerary- North england places to visit- lindisfarne priory

Recommended by Tracy | Travels in Time

The Northumberland Coastal route stretches for over 35 miles from Alnmouth in the south to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne in the north.

The drive takes you through an area of outstanding natural beauty with many beautiful villages and places of interest to visit along the way.

How long to spend on a Northumberland coast road trip

This itinerary covers a day trip but you could spend a few days exploring the area or even walk the Northumberland Coastal Path along the same route if you are feeling up to it!

Northumberland road trip itinerary

The first village to visit is Craster – famous for its kippers and overlooked by Dunstanburgh Castle. If you’re looking for impressive castles in England , Northumberland is the place to go- there are more castles here than any other county in England!

After exploring Craster and the castle, head to Seahouses. A popular seaside town for families with lots of arcades and fish and chip shops this is the place to stop for a bite to eat.

If the weather is good why not hop on a boat over to the Farme Islands? With large colonies of seals and puffins the islands are popular with nature lovers.

Bamburgh Castle dominates the horizon and is worth exploring. It was once the home to the Royal Seat of the Kings of Northumbria and also has a ghost or two!

After Bamburgh head to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. Make sure you check the tides before you go- the island is tidal and is only accessible during certain times.

Once on the island take a stroll up to the castle. Don’t miss exploring the ruins of Lindisfarne Priory. This is the place famous as the home of Christianity in England until Viking raids eventually led to the abandonment of the priory.

When is the best time for a Northumberland road trip?

The best time to visit Northumberland and places in North East England is in the summer – the days are long and the sun will hopefully be shining! Be aware that on occasions during the summer a sea fret (mist) can hang over the coast and cool temperatures and decrease visibility. Make sure to check the weather forecast before you travel.

Wow- anyone else want to jump in their motorhome/ camper/ car/ bike and head off to start exploring? What a fantastic list of England road trip destinations!

As you can see, it really doesn’t matter where you go or how long you have to explore England- you’ll have plenty of places to enjoy. And who knows- next time we set off for Norfolk, we might even make it there without swinging by Cornwall first!! 🙂

Planning an England road trip? You might find these posts useful:

How to plan an epic UK road trip
How to create a road trip itinerary with Google Maps
100 best road trip driving songs
How to plan a motorhome trip to UK or Europe

See all our UK travel ideas and tips

Planning England travel and road trips? Looking for itinerary ideas and the best places to visit? Here are 12 BREATHTAKING places to see in England, including Cornwall, Devon, south coast, Salisbury and the Lake District. These England travel tips are all you need to plan your perfect UK road trip itinerary.

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

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Cornwall is such a beautiful part of the UK to visit in a motorhome, although it can be a little tight around those country roads.

So true- some of those roads are tiny, but worth it for the incredible views and places to visit.

Have you been on the welsh coast much

Our very first motorhome trip EVER was to the Welsh coast. We’ve put together some of our favourite Welsh road trips here if you want some ideas: https://wandering-bird.com/wales-road-trip/

Although all road trips are lovely, I particularly enjoy traveling in a campervan through Devon in the UK. I appreciate you sharing this list of road trip suggestions.

Fantastic article for anyone travelling England on a road trip

Travel around North East England - Family Travel Forum

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Hoping to get some tips and advice about a mini break around the North East of England please.

We were thinking of starting in York. We are a family of five, two adults, 3 kids aged 10, 9 and 7.

We are interested in lots of things especially sport and history and we always like a walking tour.

Could you possibly advise on the best towns, villages or cities to visit please?

Thank you so much.

For advice about travel to/within England, asking the other member volunteers and Experts who give local advice directly on the actual Trip advisor England “ Destination” Forum is recommended…

This Family Forum is one of Tripadvisors “ Theme” Forums, discussing travelling with children in a general way, not information about any specific location/area/town.. The Destination Forums were created for travel advice about locations…

See the Forums Destination section, Europe then United Kingdom to access the England Forum… York, UK also has its own sub forum…( as do all towns/cities/counties Wordwide)

Each Forum also has a Things To Do section, incl York so check that area too for lots of great information…

Safe travels

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Hoping to get some tips and advice about a mini break around the North East of England please.

We were thinking of starting in York. We are a family of five, two adults, 3 kids aged 10, 9 and 7.

We are interested in lots of things especially sport and history and we always like a walking tour.

Could you possibly advise on the best towns, villages or cities to visit please?

Thank you so much.

For advice about travel to/within England, asking the other member volunteers and Experts who give local advice directly on the actual Trip advisor England “ Destination” Forum is recommended…

See the Forums Destination section, Europe then United Kingdom to access the England Forum… York, UK also has its own sub forum…( as do all towns/cities/counties Wordwide)

Each Forum also has a Things To Do section, incl York so check that area too for lots of great information…

Safe travels

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Road trip Dec/Jan - New York to Miami 30 March 2024
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Single Mom Iceland maybe?? 27 March 2024
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What counts as a pushchair? Flying with Tui 26 March 2024
Travelling with an infant 24 March 2024
All Inclusive for Young Family of 4 - UK based 24 March 2024
Property response to tripadvisor review 22 March 2024
Beach Vacation Ideas within the USA 21 March 2024
Family resort near NYC 21 March 2024
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Maps of the April 2024 Total Solar Eclipse

By Jonathan Corum

On April 8, the moon will slip between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow across a swath of North America: a total solar eclipse.

By cosmic coincidence, the moon and the sun appear roughly the same size in the sky. When the moon blocks the glare of the sun, the sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, will be briefly visible.

Below are several maps of the eclipse’s path as well as images of what you might experience during the event.

Where Can I See the Total Eclipse?

The eclipse will begin at sunrise over the Pacific Ocean, then cut through Mexico and cross the United States from Texas to Maine. Most of North America will see a partial eclipse, but viewers within the deepest shadow — a band sliding from Mazatlán, Mexico, to the Newfoundland coast near Gander, Canada — will experience a total solar eclipse.

Percentage of

the sun obscured

during the eclipse

Indianapolis

Little Rock

San Antonio

Viewers inside the path of the total eclipse may notice a drop in temperature , a lull or shift in the wind , the appearance of bright planets in the sky, and the quieting of birds and other wildlife.

Many cities lie inside the path of the total eclipse, as shown below, the width of which varies from 108 miles to 122 miles.

20% partial eclipse

NEWFOUNDLAND

SASKATCHEWAN

Fredericton

Minneapolis

San Francisco

90% partial eclipse

Los Angeles

Mexico City

EL SALVADOR

Explore our interactive cloud outlook for eclipse viewing times and average cloud data at your location.

What Will I See?

A composite image of the 2017 total solar eclipse over Madras, Ore.

A composite image of the 2017 solar eclipse over Madras, Ore.

Aubrey Gemignani/NASA

If the sky is clear, viewers in the path of the total eclipse should see a “diamond ring” effect a few seconds before and after the total eclipse, as the edge of the sun slips in and out of view.

The sun’s corona during the 2017 total solar eclipse.

The “diamond ring” effect during the 2017 solar eclipse.

Rami Daud/NASA, Alcyon Technical Services

The sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, is normally hidden by the sun’s glare. These tendrils and sheets of gas, heated to a million degrees Fahrenheit or more, are in constant motion and shaped by the sun’s swirling magnetic field.

The sun’s corona during the 2017 solar eclipse.

The sun is relatively active this year and is nearing the expected peak of its 11-year solar cycle . Researchers at Predictive Science are using data about the sun’s magnetic field to predict and model a dramatic corona for the April eclipse.

A prediction of how the sun’s corona might appear on April 8.

A prediction of how the sun’s corona might appear during the April 8 total eclipse.

Predictive Science

What Colors Should I Wear?

As the sky darkens, light-sensitive cells in human eyes become more sensitive to blue and green hues than to reds and oranges. This shift in color perception is known as the Purkinje effect , after a 19th-century Czech scientist, and is typically seen at twilight.

People watch the 2017 total eclipse at Southern Illinois University.

Watching the 2017 total eclipse at Southern Illinois University.

Andrea Morales for The New York Times

To take advantage of the Purkinje effect, wear green clothes or a contrasting combination of greens and reds. Blue-green colors (shorter wavelengths) will appear brighter, while red colors (longer wavelengths) will appear to recede into the darkness.

What If I Miss It?

The next two total solar eclipses in the United States won’t occur until 2044 and 2045 . But eclipse chasers might catch one in 2026 in Greenland, Iceland and Spain; 2027 along the coast of Northern Africa; 2028 in Australia and New Zealand; or 2030 across Southern Africa and Australia.

A Total Solar Eclipse Is Coming. Here’s What You Need to Know.

These are answers to common questions about the April 8 eclipse, and we’re offering you a place to pose more of them.

By Katrina Miller

What’s the Cloud Outlook for Eclipse Day? See if History Is on Your Side.

April 8 could be your best opportunity to see a total solar eclipse for decades. But if clouds fill the sky, your shot at seeing the spectacle could be lost.

By Josh Katz, K.K. Rebecca Lai and William B. Davis

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The Official Site for Visiting North East England
Explore the North East of England using the interactive map below. Click on each icon to discover more about the experiences and attractions across the region and create your perfect trip using our itinerary planner. Simply select each icon on the map that you'd like to visit, add to 'My Itinerary' and your personalised adventure awaits. ...
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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 ...
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Amble is a shopper's paradise, a haven for lovers of local produce, crafts and gifts. Perfect for presents, but don't forget to treat yourself! Location: Amble, Northumberland. See more results. Full of old-fashioned charm and contemporary entertainment, North East England is the perfect place for a fun-filled holiday.
Northeast England
Remote and breathtakingly beautiful, the county of Northumberland forms the bulk of the northeast of England. An enticing medley of delightful market towns, glorious golden beaches, wooded dells, wild uplands and an unsurpassed collection of historical monuments, it's undoubtedly the main draw in the Northeast, and where you should focus the majority of your time.
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Spot puffins on the Farne Islands. 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.
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Angel of the North. Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Nicknamed the Gateshead Flasher, this extraordinary 200-tonne, rust-coloured, winged human frame has loomed over the A1 motorway some 6 miles south of…. 1. 2. Discover the best attractions in Northeast England including Durham Cathedral, Bowes Museum, and Life Science Centre.
North East England
North East England has outstanding natural beauty. Hadrian's Wall snakes over dale and hill along the crest of a sharp ridge. Along the coast, windswept castles raise defiant stone fists against invaders and the elements. Northumberland National Park has wild tracts of moorland and dark, dark skies, and the Northern Lights are often seen.
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North East England Tourism: Tripadvisor has 1,435,108 reviews of North East England Hotels, Attractions, and Restaurants making it your best North East England resource. ... Things to Do Restaurants Flights Vacation Rentals Travel Stories Cruises Rental Cars Tripadvisor Plus More. Tours Add a Place Airlines Travelers' Choice Help Center.
Things to do in North East England
With an impressive collection of castles, a UNESCO World Heritage site, The Holy Island of Lindisfarne where the Vikings spilled the blood of saints, Hadrian's Wall, and miles of breathtakingly beautiful beaches along the Northumberland coastline - the North West of England is famous for plenty and it promises lots of opportunities to make amazing memories.
Destination Guides for North England
Travel destination guides for Northern England, consisting of the north east, north west regions and Yorkshire & the Humber. Located in the north of England, the area borders the Midlands region in central England up to the border with Scotland in the north. The area includes a range of attractions & places of interest for visitors to explore.
How to get around North East England
Travel. Bus travel is very convenient for anyone looking to get around the North East of England. From Central Newcastle to the Northumberland countryside, everywhere in the region is easily accessible by bus. Jump on a bus outside the Airport terminal and start your North East discovery. More information
Accessible guide to North East England
The largest international airport in the North East of England is Newcastle Airport. Welcoming people flying from 27 different countries, it has a Passenger Assistance program for help navigating your journey if needed.. London North Eastern Railway (LNER) runs from London Kings Cross hourly to Darlington, Durham and Newcastle in less than three hours.
Northern England: How to Plan a One Week Trip
Pick your destination first. After all, northern England is enormous, and you might not be able to see everything in just a week. For example, if you plan to stay in York, create an itinerary that includes nearby towns and places. North York Moors National Park and Whitby are just a short drive away. Visitors who go to Manchester can take a day ...
England Road Trip: 50 Unmissable ideas (for every UK itinerary)
Best places to visit on a North East coast England road trip. Saltburn-by-the-Sea (to search for fossils) Lemon top ice-cream - Its legacy goes back over 100 years!) Staithes- picturesque fishing village. Whitby Abbey - the inspiration behind Bram Stoker's Dracula.
Travel around North East England
Answer 1 of 3: Hello all. Hoping to get some tips and advice about a mini break around the North East of England please. We were thinking of starting in York. We are a family of five, two adults, 3 kids aged 10, 9 and 7. We are interested in lots of things...
North East England Traffic reports & updates. Live traffic map, news
Return to normal: Normal traffic conditions are expected between 13:45 and 14:00 on 27 Mar 2024. Delay: There are currently delays of 10 minutes against expected traffic. Nearest town: 3.77m from Dalston. CLEARED @ 13:48. CONGESTION. Location: The A66 eastbound between the junctions with the A592 and the M6 .
Traffic & Travel news
Traffic & Travel. All the latest live traffic, travel and weather information from across Newcastle and the North East. Live traffic updates about public transport services, roadworks and traffic ...
Travel around North East England
26 reviews. 93 helpful votes. 1. Re: Travel around North East England. 2 years ago. Save. Hi Marie…. For advice about travel to/within England, asking the other member volunteers and Experts who give local advice directly on the actual Trip advisor England " Destination" Forum is recommended…. This Family Forum is one of Tripadvisors ...
Ultimate England Travel Guide for Visiting in 2024
Ultimate England Travel Guide for Visiting in 2024. 5 June 2021. This England travel guide has everything you need to know about visiting this year, including advice on travelling to England during the pandemic, in 2022. We will update this page regularly to reflect up to date advice on what it's like travelling to England right now.
Travel Updates
Application forms and guidance material useful when wishing to make an abnormal loads movement by road in England. Motorway service access guides The guides will help you plan where to stop for a break at any one of the 114 motorway service areas across England.
Roadwatch traffic news
Traffic news. Jams, roadworks and more - see what the traffic's like in your local area. Check Roadwatch from the AA for the latest traffic news and weather information, 24/7.
April 8 Solar Eclipse: Path, Maps and More
March 25, 2024. On April 8, the moon will slip between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow across a swath of North America: a total solar eclipse. By cosmic coincidence, the moon and the sun ...