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Things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne
With its stylish waterfront and a host of historic sites, Newcastle is a mix of fun and culture, heightened by the legendary Geordie folk heritage. Newcastle, the party capital of northeast England, is often underrated as a travel destination and has been dubbed one of England's best-kept secrets.
A weekend break in Newcastle is well-suited to a younger crowd, who will get the most out of the party culture of this university city. However, history buffs may also enjoy a trip to Newcastle for its ancient Roman heritage, particularly its proximity to Hadrian's Wall.
The city's modern amenities actually lie comfortably close to numerous historic sites and impressive old buildings, including the Castle Keep and New Castle, Wallington Hall, the lovely old buildings of Grey Street, and the Victoria Tunnel, a fully preserved 19th-century wagon tunnel that became an air raid shelter during the war. A safe city that is easily navigated, with a range of fascinating museums and year-round cultural events, Newcastle is far more than its party reputation suggests.
Like most of England, summer is the best time to travel to Newcastle-upon-Tyne, which has the advantage of being one of the United Kingdom's driest cities. Summertime brings warm temperatures, when locals and visitors alike can take advantage of outdoor bars and clubs.
Castle Keep and New Castle
Originally known as Monkchester, Newcastle only got its present name when Robert Curthose, son of the infamous William the Conqueror, built his 'New Castle' on the site of the Roma…
Castle Keep and New Castle
Originally known as Monkchester, Newcastle only got its present name when Robert Curthose, son of the infamous William the Conqueror, built his 'New Castle' on the site of the Roman fort Pons Aeliu in 1080. Used as a point of defence, the castle was originally built of wood and timber, but was later rebuilt in stone. Today, visitors can explore the remains of the castle, as well as the Castle Keep built later on the same site by Henry II. The Castle Keep is acknowledged as one of the finest surviving examples of a Norman Keep in the country.
Website www.newcastlecastle.co.uk
Hadrian's Wall
In order to separate the Roman Empire in Britain from the native 'barbarians', Emperor Hadrian ordered the building of an impressive wall in the year 122. Taking approximately six …
Hadrian's Wall
In order to separate the Roman Empire in Britain from the native 'barbarians', Emperor Hadrian ordered the building of an impressive wall in the year 122. Taking approximately six years to complete, the wall stretches for roughly 80 miles (120km) from South Shields to Ravenglass, passing through present-day Newcastle. Dotted along it are several forts, temples, turrets and mile castles, and visitors can explore these fascinating 2,000-year-old remains, as well as the often stunningly beautiful surrounding countryside. Hadrian's Wall was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, and continues to delight and amaze historically minded visitors to the north of England.
Website www.hadrianswallcountry.co.uk
BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art
The BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Arts is a unique and fascinating collection of ever-changing exhibits set in an old flourmill on the south bank of the River Tyne. The biggest ga…
BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art
The BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Arts is a unique and fascinating collection of ever-changing exhibits set in an old flourmill on the south bank of the River Tyne. The biggest gallery of its kind, the Centre allows visitors to explore the innovative and unusual world of top contemporary artists, both local and international. The BALTIC Centre also plays host to various performances, activities, and talks, and visitors have the opportunity to interact with the current artist-in-residence. Some of the Centre's past and present exhibitors include Sam Taylor-Wood, Wang Du, Sofia Stevi, Susan Hiller, and Keith Haring.
Website www.balticmill.com