Introduction
If you’re looking for a day trip from Newcastle that will take you to some of the most beautiful places in the area, look no further! This list has got you covered with 15 different places to visit, all within an easy driving distance from the city. From beaches and hiking trails to charming towns and historic sites, there’s something for everyone on this list. So gas up the car and get ready for a day of exploring!
Seaham Hall
Seaham Hall is a beautiful stately home that was once the home of Lord Seaham. The house and its grounds are now open to the public, and there is plenty to see and do.
There are guided tours of the house itself, which take in the stunning architecture and interiors, as well as the many paintings and artifacts on display. The grounds of Seaham Hall are also worth exploring, with their manicured gardens, lake, and woodland walks.
If you’re looking for somewhere to eat while you’re visiting Seaham Hall, there are several options. The Dining Room at Seaham Hall is a formal restaurant offering fine dining, or you can opt for something more relaxed in the brasserie or café. There is also a lovely afternoon tea room if you fancy something sweet.
Durham Cathedral
Durham Cathedral is a beautiful example of early English architecture, having been built in the 11th century. The cathedral is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Durham, and for good reason! The interior of the cathedral is stunning, with its high ceilings and intricate stained glass windows. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the resident choir singing during your visit.
Outside of the cathedral, you can explore the grounds and take in the views of Durham city. The cloisters are particularly lovely, and make for a peaceful spot to relax after exploring the rest of the cathedral.
If you’re interested in learning more about Durham Cathedral, there are plenty of guided tours available. These tours are a great way to learn about the history of this fascinating building and see some parts that are usually off-limits to visitors.
The Bowes Museum
The Bowes Museum is a must-see for any art lover or historian. Located in the beautiful town of Barnard Castle, The Bowes Museum houses an impressive collection of paintings, furniture, ceramics, and other artifacts from around the world.
The museum was founded in 1892 by John Bowes and his wife, Josephine. They amassed a large collection of art and artifacts during their travels around the world, and decided to open a museum to share their treasures with the public.
Today, The Bowes Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region. Visitors can explore the galleries at their own pace, or take a guided tour of the highlights. There is also a cafe on site, as well as a shop where you can purchase souvenirs.
Raby Castle
1. Raby Castle
Raby Castle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the area and is just a short drive from Newcastle. The castle dates back to the 14th century and has been home to some of the most famous families in British history, including the Nevilles and the Dukes of Northumberland. Today, visitors can explore the castle’s extensive grounds, which include a deer park, gardens, and a lake. There is also a museum on site that houses an impressive collection of art and historical artifacts.
Beamish Museum
If you’re looking for a day trip from Newcastle that’s a little bit different, then Beamish Museum is the perfect place for you. This living museum is set in 300 acres of countryside and tells the story of life in North East England during the 1820s, 1900s and 1940s.
You can explore the town, pit village and farm, and see how people lived, worked and played during these different periods. There are also plenty of interactive exhibits to keep everyone entertained.
Beamish Museum is located just a short drive from Newcastle city centre, making it the perfect day trip for families or groups of friends.
Hadrian’s Wall
Hadrian’s Wall was built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian in AD 122. It is a stone and turf fortification that stretches for 73 miles across northern England, from Wallsend-on-Tyne in the east to Bowness-on-Solway in the west. The wall was designed to protect the Roman Empire from the barbarian tribes of Scotland, and it was also intended to serve as a customs barrier. Today, Hadrian’s Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in England. Visitors can explore the remains of forts, towers, and milecastles, as well as take in the stunning views of the countryside.
Alnwick Castle
Alnwick Castle is a must-visit for any Harry Potter fan – it’s the location used for filming exterior shots of Hogwarts in the first two films! But even if you’re not a fan of the Wizarding World, Alnwick Castle is still well worth a visit. This imposing medieval castle was once home to some of the most powerful families in England, and has been featured in many other films and TV shows over the years. Today, it’s open to the public and there are plenty of activities and exhibitions to enjoy, making it the perfect day out for all the family.
Bamburgh Castle
Bamburgh Castle is a must-see when visiting North East England. The imposing castle sits atop a basalt outcrop overlooking the village of Bamburgh and the magnificent Northumberland coastline. The castle has been restored to its former glory and is now a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, including the ancient keep, towers, ramparts and dungeons. The castle also houses a museum, which tells the story of its fascinating history.
Lindisfarne Gospels
The Lindisfarne Gospels are some of the most beautiful and ornate examples of religious manuscripts from the early medieval period. Housed in the British Library, they were written and illuminated by monks on the island of Lindisfarne, off the coast of Northumbria, in around 715-720 AD.
The gospels are incredibly detailed and feature a plethora of vibrant colors and intricate patterns. They are truly a sight to behold, and make for a fascinating day trip from Newcastle.
In addition to being visually stunning, the Lindisfarne Gospels are also historically significant. They offer insight into early Christian beliefs and practices, as well as the everyday lives of the monks who created them.
If you’re interested in learning more about the Lindisfarne Gospels or other early medieval manuscripts, consider taking a day trip from Newcastle to visit the British Library. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget!
Durham University
If you’re looking for a day trip from Newcastle, Durham is the perfect destination. Just a short train ride away, this historic city is home to Durham University, one of the UK’s top universities. Founded in 1832, the university has a long and proud history, and its buildings are some of the most beautiful in the country.
The university’s campus is located in the heart of Durham, surrounded by medieval buildings and stunning architecture. The city itself is compact and easy to explore on foot, so you can easily see all the sights in a day. Start your visit with a walk around the castle and cathedral, then head to Palace Green to see the iconic university buildings.
After exploring the university, take some time to discover Durham’s other attractions. Visit the Botanic Garden or take a boat trip on the river Wear. For something different, head to Beamish Museum, an open-air museum where you can step back in time and experience life in Victorian England.
Whether you’re a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, Durham has something for everyone. So why not jump on a train and explore this fascinating city for yourself?
Newcastle upon Tyne
If you’re looking for a day trip from Newcastle, there are plenty of great places to visit. Here are our top picks:
1. The Lake District
The Lake District is one of the most beautiful parts of the UK, and it’s only a short drive from Newcastle. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, including walking, cycling, boat trips and more.
2. York
York is a historic city with plenty to see and do. Visit the famous York Minster, wander the medieval streets or explore one of the many museums.
3. Edinburgh
Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital city and it’s easy to reach from Newcastle by train. Wander the cobbled streets, visit Edinburgh Castle or enjoy the views from Arthur’s Seat.
4. The Yorkshire Dales
The Yorkshire Dales is a stunning area of natural beauty, perfect for a day of walking or cycling. Explore the pretty villages, take in the stunning scenery and don’t forget to try some of the delicious local produce!
Gateshead Millennium Bridge
If you’re looking for a day trip from Newcastle then look no further than Gateshead. The town is home to some fantastic attractions, including the Gateshead Millennium Bridge.
The bridge was built to mark the new millennium and is a striking piece of architecture. It’s also unique in that it’s the only bridge in the world that tilts! You can walk or cycle across the bridge, and there are also boat trips available if you want to get a different perspective.
Once you’ve crossed the bridge, make sure to explore some of the other attractions in Gateshead. The BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art is always worth a visit, or you could check out The Sage – a concert venue with an impressive design. For something different, why not take a ride on the Gateshead Eye? This giant ferris wheel offers great views over the town and River Tyne.
The Quayside
The Quayside is one of the most popular areas in Newcastle. It’s full of bars, restaurants, and shops, and it’s a great place to walk around and take in the sights. There are also a few museums and galleries in the area.
St James’ Park
1. St James’ Park
Whether you’re a fan of the Magpies or not, a visit to St James’ Park is a must when in Newcastle. As one of the biggest and most iconic football stadiums in the country, it’s well worth a look even if you’re not into the sport. Take a tour of the ground, explore the museum, and soak up the atmosphere on match day.
