Must-visit attractions
Durham Cathedral's Romanesque towers stand proud in the heart of Durham, while a short drive north, the mighty Angel of the North—with its wide industrial wings—is impossible to miss. At 20 meters tall, this steel guardian has become one of the region's most talked-about landmarks. Meanwhile, in Northumberland's brooding countryside, Housesteads Fort is one of the country's best-preserved ruins and promises a fascinating glimpse into Roman Britain.
Diverse culture
Prepare to be astounded by the cultural contrasts and diversity of North East England. Newcastle's legendary Geordie accent adds a layer of quirkiness you'd only find in Britain—don't worry if you can't understand every word, the locals are famous for their friendliness and will happily chat away with you. When in Newcastle, be sure to visit the Grainger Town area. Here, elegant neoclassical architecture coexists with colorful street art that would make Banksy proud.
Food and drink
The fare and libations in this corner of Britain balance the novelty of ever-evolving flavors while keeping traditional tastes alive. In Newcastle's modern Quayside district, a burgeoning restaurant scene awaits while in Durham, you'll discover a craft gin revolution in full swing. Up in Northumberland, the local cheese is loved across Britain for its punchy countryside taste. And then there's Lindisfarne Mead, the ancient honey wine still made by monks on Holy Island.
Where to stay
If you're one for hotels with quirk and character, the North East checks all your boxes. Newcastle's regenerated Quayside district is where industrial-chic meets river views. Here you'll encounter some of the region's most contemporary boutique hotels. Over in Durham, wake up in elegant Victorian townhouses-turned-hotels boasting creaky staircases and cathedral views.
Lesser-known gems
For a one-of-a-kind view of Bamburgh Castle, arrive just as the morning mist rolls off the coast. On your hike around Northumberland's atmospheric countryside, duck into the mysterious Cuthbert's Cave, where, legend has it, an Anglo-Saxon monk once lived during the 7th century when the region was under attack by marauding Vikings. In Durham, grab a different perspective of the city by kayaking down the peaceful River Wear.
Getting there and around
Getting to the North East of Britain is a breeze. Flights from Europe land at Newcastle International Airport, or if you're coming from the US, you can fly into airports in Manchester or Edinburgh. Newcastle Central Station is your railway gateway to the region's cities: Durham's just 15 minutes south. From there, you can reach London's King's Cross in around three hours.
From 8 January 2025, all non-European visitors who do not need a visa will need an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) to travel to the UK. ETAs will then extend to eligible Europeans from 5 March 2025, who will need an ETA to travel from 2 April 2025. Find out more information here on the rollout of the ETA and eligibility.
