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visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

ContentsTourist Information ..................4

Getting Here & Getting Around ......................6

Must See .....................................8

NewcastleGateshead...............10

Sunderland ...............................14

The Coast ..................................18

South Tyneside .....................20

North Tyneside......................20

Get Out & Active .....................22

History & Heritage..................24

Public Art .................................26

See Art Buy Art .....................28

Attractions A-Z........................29

Museums & Galleries..............36

Theatre, Dance, Cinema & Comedy .................42

Music Venues ..........................44

Tours..........................................46

Itineraries ................................48

NewcastleGateshead Map............................................50

Shopping...................................52

Sports & Leisure .....................59

Family Fun ...............................62

Restaurants & Cafés ..............64

Bars & Pubs .............................74

Clubs & Casinos ......................84

Gay & Lesbian..........................86

Around the Region ................88

Accommodation Ratings Explained..................................90

Accommodation Listings.......92

Events .......................................98

Tyne & Wear Map...................100

Produced by NewcastleGateshead Initiativeand Tourism Tyne & Wear, 4th Floor, CentralSquare South, Orchard St., Newcastle uponTyne NE1 3AZ. Tel: +44 (0)191 243 8800Email: [email protected]

DISCLAIMERWhilst every care has been taken in the accuracy of producing this guide, thepublisher is not liable for any errors oromissions which may inadvertently occur.All information in this publication is subjectto change and prices stated are subject toavailability. Details correct at time of goingto print in March 2009.

KEY TO SYMBOLSNearest Metro StationNearest QuayLink Bus Stop

E4 Map Reference (see page 50 & 51)

Discover Pass accepted here.Available to buy from TouristInformation Centres and Online atwww.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk/discoverfor just £1.

REGION COLOUR CODING� NewcastleGateshead

� North Tyneside

� South Tyneside

� Sunderland

Tyne & Wear is made up of fourdistinct sub-regions. To helpmake your stay a successful one,we have colour coded the regionsfor quicker reference

Tyne & Wear

NewcastleGateshead

A warm welcome to NewcastleGateshead, Sunderland, NorthTyneside and South Tyneside, known collectively as Tyne &Wear after the two rivers that run through our region. Ourpart of the world is a tight network of enthralling cities andtowns defined by two mighty rivers, protected by rollingcountryside and moorland, set against golden sandy beacheslapped by the North Sea.

The cityscape is studded with someof Britain’s best buildings, historicand futuristic: Newcastle’s lateGeorgian quarter, Sunderland’sNational Glass Centre, The SageGateshead, BALTIC Centre forContemporary Art, Theatre RoyalNewcastle, Sunderland Empire,Tynemouth Priory, the new GreatNorth Museum… and that gloriousparade of bridges over the RiverTyne. And symbolising the area’stransition from industrialpowerhouse to cultural capital - theAngel of the North.

Down at street level take a deepbreath, feel the buzz and join thebustle. Shopping choices range fromsome of the UK’s biggest malls anddepartment stores to one-offfashion favourites down cobbledstreets and Victorian marketsbursting with bargains. Time to eat.Global cuisines are here in plentyplus restaurants with a national

reputation for delicious dishes usingfresh local produce.

Let the entertainment begin. The array of theatres, venues andarenas attracts talked-about newdrama, West End musicals, the RoyalShakespeare Company, opera andinternational names in rock, pop, jazzand classical music. Later, hide awayin a traditional pub or be seen in acutting-edge club.

You’ll never be far from the coastwhere you can be soothed by thesound of waves, seagulls andseabirds on long sands andexpansive cliff tops, and the clink of cups and glasses in a seafrontcafé or harbour bar. But there’ssomething extra that adds a specialvibrancy not found anywhere else inthe UK – the people, whosefriendliness and passion for the placeis legendary. They’ll be eager not justto point out the big attractions butguide you to hidden gems.

2

Official Pocket Guide

TOURIST INFORMATIONFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

Our numerous Tourist Information Centres (TICs) will helpyou make the most of your stay. They can advise on a wholehost of things to see and do. Whether it‘s comedy, theatre,guided tours or itineraries, they‘ll be only too pleased to help.

Before you travel

When you’re planning a trip to ourregion and you need help to find aplace to stay, call the AdvancedAccommodation Booking Line on0906 680 6805 (25p per minute) or [email protected] advice, suggestions on what tosee or do, call, email or write to anyof our TouristInformation Centresor visit our website.Also order yourDiscover Pass online atwww.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk/discover Look out for this symboland enjoy great savings

When you’re here

The best place to find informationto help you make the most of yourvisit, is at our Tourist InformationCentres. You can bookaccommodation, buy tickets forguided walking tours, bus tours andriver cruises and pick up greatgifts, souvenirs and ‘What’s On’guides too.

� NEWCASTLE TIC C3Central Arcade, Newcastle

MonumentQ1+2: Theatre Royal

Tel: +44 (0)191 277 [email protected]: Mon-Sat 9.30am-5.30pm; Closed Sundays and Bank Holidays.

� GUILDHALL VISITORINFORMATION CENTRE D5Newcastle Quayside

Central Station Q1+2: Quayside

Tel: +44 (0)191 277 [email protected]: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 9am-5pm; Sun 9am-4pm Bank Holidays10am-4pm.

� GATESHEAD TIC E5Situated on the main concourse ofThe Sage Gateshead.

GatesheadQ1: The Sage Gateshead

Tel: +44 (0)191 478 [email protected]: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm; Sat 10am-5pm; Sun & BankHolidays 11am-5pm.

� GATESHEAD LIBRARY TIC Gateshead Central Library, PrinceConsort Road, Gateshead Tel: +44 (0)191 433 8420Minicom: +44 (0)191 478 [email protected]: Mon-Fri 9am-7pm (closes5pm Wed); Sat 9am-1pm.

� NORTH SHIELDS TICUnit 18, Royal Quays OutletShopping, North ShieldsTel: +44 (0)191 200 [email protected]: Mon–Sun 9am–4.30pm.

� WHITLEY BAY TIC Park Road, Whitley BayTel: +44 (0)191 200 [email protected]: Mon, Tues, Thurs-Sat9.30am–12.30pm & 1.30pm–5pm.

� SOUTH SHIELDS (OCEAN ROAD) TICMuseum & Gallery, Ocean Road,South Shields Tel: +44 (0)191 454 [email protected]: Oct–Mar Mon–Sat 10am–1pm,2pm–5pm; Apr–Oct Mon–Sat 10am–

1pm, 2pm–5.30pm, Sun 1pm-5pm.Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Dayand New Year’s Day.

� SOUTH SHIELDS(AMPHITHEATRE) TICSea Road, South ShieldsTel: +44 (0)191 455 7411Open: Seasonal.

� SUNDERLAND TIC50 Fawcett Street, Sunderland Tel: +44 (0)191 553 [email protected]: Mon–Sat 9am–5pm. BankHolidays 10am–4pm. Closed EasterMonday and Christmas Day to NewYear’s Day inclusive.

Useful websites

www.visitnorthtyneside.comwww.visitsouthtyneside.co.ukwww.visitsunderland.comwww.NewcastleGateshead.com

NHS DirectFor confidential health advice andinformation, 24 hours a day, sevendays a week: 0845 46 47Hospitals with 24-hour A&E These have 24-hour A&E to treatserious injuries and sudden illness:Newcastle General HospitalWestgate Road, Newcastle 0191 233 6161Queen Elizabeth Hospital Sheriff Hill, Gateshead 0191 445 2171South Tyneside District HospitalHarton Lane, South Shields 0191 404 1000Sunderland Royal HospitalKayll Road, Sunderland 0191 565 6256North Tyneside General HospitalRake Lane, North shields 0844 811 8111NHS Walk-In CentresFor fast and convenient access tohealth information and advice,with treatment provided for arange of common illnesses, try

one of the NHS Walk–In Centres.• Unit 5, The Bar, St. James Gate,

Newcastle Upon Tyne 0191 233 3760

• Newcastle General Hospital,Westgate Road, Newcastle 0191 256 3163

• Molineux Street Medical Centre,Molineux Street, Newcastle 0191 275 5863

• Bensham Hospital, Gateshead0191 445 5454

Disability NorthFor advice on transport, accessibleparking, Shopmobility andinformation on services fordisabled people. 0191 284 0480

NHS Dentist Call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47to find the nearest dentist.

Northumbria Police To report a crime or for generalinformation, advice and details onhow to contact the nearest policestation, call: 03456 043 043

Emergency & useful telephone numbers

Tourist Information

Official Pocket Guide 54 NewcastleGateshead South Tyneside SunderlandNorth Tyneside

South Shields(Amphitheatre)Regional TIC ofthe Year 2008

GETTING HERE & GETTING AROUNDFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

Getting here

AIR You can fly from all overthe UK, Europe and the world

to Newcastle International Airportwhich is conveniently located only20-25 minutes from Newcastle byMetro. www.newcastleairport.com0870 122 1488.

RAIL Direct rail services runfrom many UK cities to

Newcastle Central Station.National Express operate the EastCoast mainline from LondonKing’s Cross to Scotland.CrossCountry Trains link withScotland, the Midlands and theSouth West whilst Northern Railoperate from Carlisle, Teessideand beyond. TransPennineExpress services run fromManchester, Liverpool andYorkshire stations. A service fromKing’s Cross to Sunderland is alsooperated by Grand Central Trains.National Rail Enquiries –www.nationalrail.co.uk 08457 484 950www.nationalexpresseastcoast.comwww.crosscountrytrains.co.ukwww.tpexpress.co.ukwww.northernrail.orgwww.grandcentralrail.co.uk

ROAD The A1(M) & A19 offerdirect access to Tyne & Wear

from the north and the south. TheA69 links with the M6 giving accessfrom Carlisle, the Lake District, andthe south and west of England. Forcoach travel contact NationalExpress enquiries: 08705 80 80 80,www.youreastcoast.co.uk orMegabus on 0900 160 0900,www.megabus.com

SEA The International FerryTerminal at North Shields is

the North of England’s main sealink with Northern Europe andoperates regular services from theNetherlands.DFDS enquiries 0871 882 0886or www.dfds.co.uk

Getting around

THE METRO The Tyne &Wear Metro is rated as one of

the country‘s most efficient modesof transport and an ideal way to getto and from the airport,NewcastleGateshead, Sunderlandand the coast. Buy your ticket at anyMetro station – look out for the

Metro DaySaver giving all-day travel.See the Metro map on the backcover of this guide.www.nexus.org.uk

BUSES Bus services areplentiful and frequent. There’s

a wide variety of special traveltickets available including a DayRover for unlimited travel by anyform of public transport in Tyneand Wear while the North EastExplorer ticket can be used onpublic transport right across theregion. Buy from bus drivers orfrom TravelShops. The QuayLinkbus service uses ultra low emission,electric vehicles which are easilyidentified through their distinctivebright yellow branding and linksmany of the main areas ofNewcastleGateshead Quayside.www.nexus.org.uk/quaylink

NEXUS TRAVELSHOPS Visit one of the many TravelShops for up-to-date information on all Tyne & Wear transport services plus literature such as ‘What’s On’ guides:• Four Lane Ends Metro station

• Gateshead, Bus/MetroInterchange

• Gateshead MetroCentre Bus station

• Heworth Metro station

• Newcastle, Central Station

• Newcastle, Haymarket Metro station

• Newcastle, Monument Metro station

• North Shields Metro station

• South Shields, 34-36 Fowler Street

SHIELDS FERRY There is afrequent ferry service

operating between North Shieldsand South Shields (taking around 7minutes). There are also 40 minuteTyne Tours along the River Tyneand afternoon river trips. Visitwww.nexus.org.uk for details.

TRAVELINE For all your localpublic transport enquiries callTraveline on 0871 200 2233or, for the hearing impaired, call the Textphone number on 0870 241 2216. Lines are open 7am-8pm daily (excludingChristmas Day, Boxing Day andNew Year‘s Day). You can alsocheck the website:www.traveline.info

CYCLE If you need to hire abicycle contact:

Darke Cycles, Sunderland0191 510 8155Whickham Thorns Outdoor ActivityCentre 0191 433 5767Newburn Leisure Centre0191 264 0014South Shields Tourist InformationCentre 0191 454 6612Cycle Transport North East cantransport cyclists, bikes andluggage to most destinationsacross Tyne & Wear andNorthumberland 07780 958 679

CAR HIRE Hiring a car is theideal way to explore the many

regional attractions, but not

necessary if you’re just enjoyingthe delights of Tyne & Wear. Thereare lots of reliable car hirecompanies in and around the city:Avis 0870 608 6350Enterprise 0800 230 0218Europcar 0191 286 5070Hertz 0870 040 9000National Car Rental 0870 400 4521

TAXI Taxis offer a convenientand flexible mode of transport

around the city. Useful taxinumbers:

Airport Taxis 0191 214 6969

Dean Taxis, Gateshead 0191 444 4444

East Coast Taxis, Whitley Bay0191 253 3777

Lansdowne Taxis, Newcastle0191 236 3738

Grosvenor Taxis, 0191 240 4242

Richmond Taxis, South Shields0191 455 3131

Station Taxis, Sunderland0191 565 6565

K

K


Must SeeThere is so much to see and do, you're spoilt for choice. Hereare just 10 of the many attractions that you must experience.

� ANGEL OF THE NORTHWithout doubt, the most famouspiece of public art in Britain.Antony Gormley's Angel is madefrom 200 tonnes of steel and seenby 33 million people every year!See page 29 for details.

� NEWCASTLEGATESHEADQUAYSIDEThe waterside regeneration ofNewcastleGateshead ties thehistoric beginnings of the city to itsdynamic future. Many of thequayside's structures including theGateshead Millennium Bridge andThe Sage Gateshead have quicklygained iconic status across theglobe. The world-class arts facilitiesand a great choice of bars andrestaurants make the quayside a'must see'. See page 33 for details.

� GRAINGER TOWN Internationally renowned GraingerTown is based around classicalstreets built by Richard Graingerin the 1830s and 1840s. Today,40% of its buildings are listed asbeing of historical andarchitectural importance. See page 32 for details.

� RED KITE COUNTRY After an absence of more than 170years, Red Kites, one of the UK’smost beautiful birds of prey, werereintroduced to the region in 2004.Three years later, the first youngkites to be hatched in the DerwentCountry Park successfully took tothe skies. See page 22 for details.

� ST MARY'S LIGHTHOUSE Climb the 137 steps to the top ofthis photogenic lighthouse forspectacular views of the coast. The surrounding nature reservecontains rock pools, cliff topgrassland, a wetland habitat andbeach. But remember, the

lighthouse is only reached via a tidal causeway! See page 34for details.

� TYNEMOUTH PRIORY & CASTLE Standing on a dramatic headlandbetween the River Tyne and theNorth Sea, Tynemouth Priory andCastle is a dramatic sight. Wanderthe soaring ruins of the 13thcentury priory church and findtranquility in the tiny chapel. Seepage 35 for details.

� SOUTH TYNESIDE'SCOASTLINE AND BEACHES South Tyneside is blessed withgolden beaches and spectacularcliffs. Littlehaven Beach at SouthShields provides superb views ofthe harbour whilst SandhavenBeach has won a Blue Flag for itscleanliness. Further along the coastat Marsden, there are dramaticcliffs and even a restaurant set intothe cliffs themselves! See page 20for details.

� ST PAUL'S CHURCH,JARROW Originally built in AD681-685, thechancel at St Paul's survives intacttoday. It also has the oldest dateddedication stone of any church inEngland and was home to theVenerable Bede. Together with itstwin monastery, St Peter’s inSunderland, it is the UK’snomination for World Heritagestatus 2010. See page 35 for details.

� SUNDERLAND MUSEUM &WINTER GARDENS Situated in the heart of the city,this is a treasure house just waitingto be discovered. There are fourfloors of amazing galleries andexhibitions, telling not only thestory of Sunderland and its peoplebut of fascinating worlds beyond.See page 38 for details.

� WASHINGTON OLD HALL One of the UK's 'great little houses'.A charming 17th century manorhouse, it has some remnants of theoriginal 12th century dwelling thatwas home to the direct ancestorsof the first President of the UnitedStates, George Washington. Seepage 35 for details.

MUST SEEFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk


NEWCASTLEGATESHEADFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

Think what would make a break truly great. World-class-culture, vibrant nightlife, award-winning dining,inspiring heritage, fantastic shopping, acclaimedarchitecture, the friendliest people all in a setting ofheart-stopping beauty? NewcastleGateshead has itall. The image of the sparkling Quayside and theseven bridges linking our two communities on eitherside of the mighty River Tyne makes an instantlyrecognisable image worldwide. It’s little wonder thatTelegraph readers voted us “Best City in the North.”

Welcome to


NEWCASTLEGATESHEADFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

But that’s not the only awardbestowed on NewcastleGateshead.An EU poll named us as the best cityin Britain and third in Europe forquality of life. And in 2008, theLonely Planet Bluelist featured theregion in its 30 up-and-coming world destinations.

As you approachNewcastleGateshead from thesouth, the Angel of the Northwelcomes you with open arms. Thenall roads lead down to the RiverTyne. The Sage Gateshead, a “must-play” music venue, reflects thecurves of the Tyne Bridge and thesublime, multi award-winningGateshead Millennium Bridge, thefirst pedestrian footbridge over theRiver Tyne, leading to thespectacular BALTIC Centre forContemporary Art.

NewcastleGateshead’s compactcentre means it’s easy to make aday of it. Admire the vista from theelegant Theatre Royal, walk downGrey Street’s late Georgian curve,climb the 126 steps to the CastleKeep’s battlements, relax at apavement café or sample amiscellany of global tastes at themany swish restaurants.

Go designer shopping in boutiquesor bargain hunting in colourfulmarkets and arcades. Take a trip toMetroCentre, Europe’s largestindoor shopping and leisure

complex. Later, join in the crack in atraditional pub serving local ales ora lively bar with the focus on fun.

NewcastleGateshead is fantastic forfamilies too. Kids will be enrapturedby Seven Stories, the UK’s onlyCentre for Children’s Books. Thepioneering technologies of ourindustrial past come to life at theDiscovery Museum; whilst theCentre for Life transports youacross the frontiers of science.

A unique blend of old and new,culture and top class entertainment,history and big city style means wereally can deliver the promise –something for everyone. And itkeeps getting better.

The Theatre Royal, Live Theatre andTyneside Cinema have been rebornto offer even more in their finehistoric buildings. 2009’s star eventis the opening of the £26m GreatNorth Museum on 23rd May 2009 –three existing collections broughttogether in one stunning revelationof the region’s glorious natural andhuman history. There's a large-scale,interactive model of Hadrian's Wall,spectacular objects from AncientGreece and mummies from AncientEgypt, a planetarium and even a life-size T. Rex dinosaur skeleton!

And with many world-class events toenjoy, one visit here is not enough.We look forward to welcoming youback again and again.


SUNDERLANDFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

Sunderland is a city with a difference. The vibrantcentre is balanced with relaxing green surroundings,uplifting coastal scenery and a refreshing attitude to life. Here quality of life and quality of environmentgo hand in hand.

The city is rapidly transforming itself as the historicstreets are renewed and striking buildings arise on the banks of the River Wear. With its beautifulsandy beaches, easily accessible countryside andoutstanding heritage, cultural and sportingattractions, this unique ‘City by the Sea’ has all the ingredients that make a break great.

Welcome to


SUNDERLANDFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

Sunderland boasts England’slongest stretch of city-side sandybeach, washed by the clear watersof the North Sea. Roker, with itsmarine activities at AdventureSunderland, is ideal for theoutdoor enthusiasts whileSeaburn’s wide stretch of goldensands and the green, traffic-freepromenade make it a year-roundfamily favourite.

In the city centre, the shoppingside of life is focused on TheBridges where over 100 top highstreet names jostle for attention.For night time, choose betweencontemporary bars and nightclubsor the warm welcome of atraditional North East pub.Restored to its Edwardiansplendour, the Sunderland Empirestages the best West End shows asthey tour the UK.

The Sunniside quarter of the cityhas been the heart of commercialand cultural life over centuries.Investment has breathed new lifeinto its historic streets, restoringits pride and creating an excitingand dynamic atmosphere.Contemporary restaurants andcafés, as well as boutiquesstocking niche fashions can befound dotted around, as well as a number of art attractionsincluding a new glass and metalsculpture inspired by Sunderland’sindustrial heritage.

Stroll along to the award-winningSunderland Museum and WinterGardens where multi-mediainstallations tell the city’sfascinating story. The art collection

contains works by LS Lowry wholoved Sunderland, whilst theWinter Gardens stimulate thesenses with treetop walkways over2,000 tropical flowers and plants.

Across the River Wear beside theStadium of Light, you will find thestate-of-the-art SunderlandAquatic Centre. It is the region’sfirst 50 metre, 10 lane Olympic sizeswimming pool and boasts a hostof sustainable design features. Forexample, every single raindropthat falls on the buildings roof iscollected, filtered and used in thepool itself.

Down river is the 7th century St.Peter’s Church. One of the UK’s firststone built churches, it forms thetwin monastery of Wearmouth-Jarrow, the UK’s nomination forWorld Heritage Site status in 2010.Nearby, the National Glass Centrewill fascinate you with workshopsand displays of the glassmaker’s art.

For a change of pace head forWashington Old Hall. The 17thcentury home of GeorgeWashington’s direct ancestors, it still features remnants of theoriginal 12th century dwelling.Nearby the Washington Wetlands Centre, boasts 100 acres of wetlands, woodland and a wildlife reserve with rareand endangered waterfowl.

Penshaw Monument is also wellworth a visit. One of the NorthEast’s most prominent landmarks,Penshaw Monument was built in1844 and stands magnificently on alimestone hill with spectacularviews over the city.

Whether you’re after relaxation,invigoration or both, Sunderland’sdistinctive mix of city, coast andcountryside will definitely be abreath of fresh air.


To buy your Discover pass online, click onwww.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

It's amazing what's right onour doorstep...Discover is an exclusive pass offering special money-saving deals at some of our most popular visitorattractions. NewcastleGateshead, Sunderland, NorthTyneside and South Tyneside boast some of the bestattractions in the UK so be sure to join in the fun.

ONLY £1 to buy, Discover gives you great savings at over40 attractions in Tyne and Wear.

Buy online or pick up from your nearest TouristInformation Centre

You never know what you might Discover!

THE COASTFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

Only minutes from our cities, you’ll be delighted to discovervibrant seaside towns with a sparkle and buzz all of theirown. Between St. Mary’s and Souter lighthouses stretcheight miles of proper seaside – award-winning beaches,coves and cliffs, fish & chips, real ale, ice cream, sandcastles,swimming, surfing and all the fun of the fair. Daytime ornight time, you’ll find it all here.

From the two piers watch big ships and fishing boats sail by or visit happening pubs and clubs with some right by thesea – there’s even a restaurant in a cave at Marsden Grotto!Shoppers will find everything from high street names toexcellent markets and there are museums, a castle,theatres, cinemas and an aquarium for everyone to enjoy.

Welcome to


THE COASTFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

Start off at South Shields, famousfor its award-winning sandybeaches, cliff top walks andbustling atmosphere. The goldensands of Sandhaven Beach arehugely popular with families andwatersports enthusiasts alike.Then traverse the bustling market place, linger amongst King Street’s shops and visit the Museum to celebrate the life and achievements of Catherine Cookson.

As you stroll down Ocean Road,enjoy the spicy aromas from themany splendid Indian restaurantsor stop off for award-winning fishand chips at Colmans.

Who can say no to an ice cream bythe seaside – especially whilstenjoying the fun of Ocean BeachPleasure Park? Wander round thebeautifully restored South MarinePark. Enjoy an invigorating walkacross National Trust grasslandand twisting cliff top paths toSouter Lighthouse for great viewsand the cosy tea room.

But don’t call it a day until your kids havebecome juniorarchaeologistsat ArbeiaRoman Fort andadmired the many rarebreeds of cattle, wild boar andsheep at Bede’s World’s AngloSaxon farm. Perhaps you’ve beensitting in quiet contemplation inBede’s 7th century St. Paul’schurch too. So much to see anddo? Yes we agree!

Discover

South TynesideThere’s so much to love about this lively destination. It’s theperfect blend of spectacular scenery, inspiring historicalsites, family-friendly attractions and traditional seaside fun.Add to this a fantastic programme of events and a mouthwatering selection of places to eat and you’ll quickly seewhy it’s difficult to know what to enjoy first.

Geordies cherish this coast astheir seaside domain becausethere is so much to see and do

including King Edward’s Baytucked under a crag where threeKings rest in 7th century

Explore

North TynesideImagine a string of gems curving down thecoast and along the River Tyne, each with itsown individual character – a classic seasidetown, a Victorian artists’ colony, a villagealive with history, a bustling fish quay and aRoman stronghold. Better known as WhitleyBay, Cullercoats, Tynemouth, North Shieldsand Wallsend, they’re all waiting for you todiscover in North Tyneside.

Tynemouth Priory and Castle;Longsands beloved of joggers,families and surfers both pros andamateurs, all year round;Cullercoats cove whosebreathtaking scenery andfisherfolk were immortalised by a thriving colony of renownedartists at the end of the 19thcentury; and Whitley Bay’scelebrated sands, hot nightspotsand St. Mary’s Lighthouse. NorthShields Fish Quay is an excellentplace to relax, watch the fishingboats and cargo vessels sail by andsavour the local fish and chips.

It’s far too fabulous to be keptsecret. The beaches are honouredwith Blue Flags. Whitley Bay andits iconic Dome is resurgent.Segedunum draws visitors fromaround the world as part of theFrontiers of the Roman EmpireWorld Heritage Site. Tynemouth’srestaurants, boutiques andweekend flea market in therestored Victorian railway stationare incomparable. And the kidswill love Blue Reef Aquarium andthe thrills and spills of Wet’n’ WildWaterpark. Feel free to invade.


Get Out & ActiveGatesheadcountryside

Over half of Gateshead ismade up of countryside withponds, woodlands andwildflower meadows. Theonce derelict Path HeadWater Mill is now a museum;Red Kites fly where cokeworks once belched smokewhilst the Derwent Walkwinds through farmland past the National Trust’sGibside Estate.

� DERWENT WALKCOUNTRY PARK ANDDERWENTHAUGH PARKVisitor Centre at ThornleyWoodlands, 01207 545212 Visitor Centre at Swalwell, 0191 414 2106www.gateshead.gov.uk The Derwent Walk Country Park isa mix of natural woodlands,meadows, wetlands, riverside andreclaimed industrial sites all linkedby the Derwent Walk, the track-bedof the old Derwent Valley Railway.Follow the valley from Swalwell toConsett. The Northern KitesProject, set up to establish apopulation of Red Kites in northernEngland, has established the RedKite Trail, an 18km way-markedtrail designed to give manyopportunities to view thesefantastic birds. Young kites werereleased in 2004 and three chickswere reared in summer 2006, thefirst to be born here for 200 years.

� CHOPWELL WOODLAND PARKHigh Spen, Chopwell, Gateshead,www.forestry.gov.uk A beautiful woodland that is hometo many mammals includingbadgers, foxes, roe deer and otters.95 species of bird have beenrecorded including great spottedwoodpeckers and a 'parliament' oftawny owls! With woodland walksand a regular events programme, itis a must for all.

� PATH HEAD WATER MILL Summerhill, Blaydon A restored 18th century water millset in a tranquil dell west of

Gateshead, complete with aworking water wheel andmachinery plus picnic areas,wooded walks and renewableenergy features. See page 34for details.

� WATERGATE FOREST PARKNear A1 off Whickham Highway,Lobley Hill www.gateshead.gov.uk Watergate was once a collieryemploying hundreds of miners.Since closing, the area has beenlandscaped with thousands of treesand the creation of a lake, trailsand paths through wildflowermeadows and woodlands.

� GIBSIDE 18TH CENTURYLANDSCAPE GARDEN Near Rowlands Gill, Gateshead,01207 541 820 www.nationaltrust.org.uk The Column of Liberty is the firstsight of this impressive landscapegarden created by the Bowesfamily in the 18th century.Spanning 160 hectares, Gibside is a'grand design' of spectacular vistas,grassy open spaces and decorativegarden buildings such as thePalladian Chapel and Georgianstables. Open: 10 Mar-2 Nov, daily10am-6pm; 3 Nov-28 Feb, daily10am-3.30pm.

v] £

Parks, Gardens & Trails

Want to get close to nature,explore our history, enjoythe sea and country air?Then take to the wonderfulweb of paths and trails orvisit our superb public parks. � BEDE’S WAY AND BEDE’SCYCLE WAY0191 454 6612www.wearmouth-jarrow.org.uk

St Peter’s, BedeThis 12 mile route links theWearmouth-Jarrow Monastery ofSt Peter’s in Sunderland and StPaul’s in Jarrow. It follows a lovelypath through the Great NorthForest and passes Tileshead LocalNature Reserve, Cleadon Hills,andSeaburn and Roker in Sunderland.

� SOUTH & NORTH MARINE PARKS www.visitsouthtyneside.co.uk

South Shields The seafront parks are perfect fora relaxing afternoon. South MarinePark has a boating lake, miniaturesteam railway and children’s playarea. Nearby North Marine Park isa great vantage point with stunningviews of the coast.

� RISING SUN COUNTRY PARK Whitley Road, 0191 200 7841

Palmersvillewww.visitnorthtyneside.comA 400 acre natural green oasisboasting an organic farm, naturereserve, countryside centre, ponds,woodlands and grassland. As wellas being a haven for wildlife, itprovides a refuge from the hustleand bustle of the city.

v]zFREE

� JESMOND DENE Off Jesmond Road, Newcastle www.jesmonddene.org.uk

JesmondOnly a mile from the city centre butits peace and tranquility will makeyou think you are in the middle ofthe countryside. This wooded valleywas given to the city in 1883 byindustrialist Sir William Armstrongand now provides a superb wildlifehaven. Visit Pets’ Corner and thecraft market held each Sunday onArmstrong Bridge. v]

� LEAZES PARK A1 St James

Richardson Road, Newcastlewww.newcastle.gov.uk The oldest green space inNewcastle, the park has beenrestored following painstakingresearch into its original design.This includes the reintroduction ofornate gateways and boundaryrailings, substantial tree planting,the restoration of the lake and amemorial garden for the 15th/19thHussars regiment. v]

� SALTWELL PARK Saltwell Road, Gateshead www.gateshead.gov.uk/saltwellpark When opened in 1876, it wasdesigned to give the impressionthat it stretched as far as the eyecould see. Today, it has beenrestored to its former splendour,

winning many awards along theway. With 55 acres, the park haswoodland, ornamental gardens,play areas, an animal house, a lake and maze. At the heart isSaltwell Towers, a Grade II listedbuilding, now home to a visitorcentre and café. v]

� TOWN MOOR Claremont Road, Newcastle www.newcastle.gov.uk The Town Moor is one of the placesthat makes NewcastleGateshead sospecial. With nearly 1,000 acres ofopen space providing a green heartto the city, it has a history aspasture-land dating back to the12th century. Its land tenure anduse is regulated by its own Act ofParliament. It hosts the annual visitof Europe’s largest travelling fair,The Hoppings, every June.

� MOWBRAY PARKBurdon Road, Sunderlandwww.visitsunderland.com

Park LaneAs one of the oldest municipalparks in the North East, MowbrayPark is a green oasis in the heart ofSunderland. Now restored to itsformer Victorian splendour, itfeatures an unusual blend ofhistoric and modern features.

� HERRINGTON COUNTRYPARKLocated off A183, oppositePenshaw Monument www.visitsunderland.comHerrington Country Park offerswalk and cycle trails, environmentalsculptures and is home toSunderland’s annual Great NorthWalk. It also features one of theNorth East’s largest open-airconcert sites and a children’s playpark, designed around the well-known local myth, the story of theLambton Worm.

2322 NewcastleGateshead South Tyneside SunderlandNorth Tyneside v Café ] Toilet 4 Disabled Toilet zDisabled Access £ Entry Charge

GET OUT & ACTIVEFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

HISTORY & HERITAGEFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

Visitors fresh to our part of the world are immediately struckby the brilliant marriage of historic and contemporarybuildings. It’s easy to come across striking reminders of everyera as you traverse the centuries just walking our streets.

ROMAN TIMESNear the site of the present SwingBridge, the Romans built the firstRiver Tyne crossing, the Pons Aelius,in 122AD to serve a fort andsettlement which was to becomeNewcastle. Down river, you can seeexcavations and reconstructions ofthe forts of Segedunum at Wallsend,once home to 600 soldiers, andArbeia at South Shields whichserviced 17 forts along Hadrian’sWall. Sections of the wall survive onthe west side of Newcastle, and youcan marvel at an interactive model ofthe whole length at the new GreatNorth Museum.

CHRISTIAN HERITAGEThe Golden Age of Northumbriasaw the foundation of monasteries,international centres of creativityand culture in the 7th and 8thcenturies. The largest and mostimportant of these was the twinmonastery of Wearmouth-Jarrowwhich can be visited in Sunderlandand South Tyneside, home to theVenerable Bede, author of the firsthistory of England. It will be theUK's nomination in 2010 for WorldHeritage Site status.Also testament to the importance

of Christian heritage in our region’shistory is the cliff-top TynemouthPriory and, in Newcastle city centre,the tranquil Blackfriars, the 14thcentury St Nicholas AnglicanCathedral and St Mary’s CatholicCathedral designed by Gothicrevivalist Augustus Pugin.Called Monkchester when theNormans arrived, Newcastle isnamed after a wooden fort built in1080 by Robert, son of William I.Other Norman remains inNewcastle’s ‘Heart of the City’ canbe found with the stone CastleKeep, separated from its BlackGate by the Victorian built railway,Gateshead’s St Mary’s Church(now a Heritage Centre), andimpressive sections of Newcastle’stown walls which once had sevengates and 19 towers.

KING COALBeginning in the 14th century, the‘sea cole’ trade to Londonincreased twelvefold between 1565and 1625. Newcastle’s populationreached 10,000, making it thefourth largest provincial town,written of as “the fairest andrichest town in England’ – asmerchants’ homes like the

Jacobean Bessie Surtees House onthe quayside still bear witness.Newcastle’s charter dictated thatcoal mined outside the town had tobe rowed on keel boats (‘We’ll makethe Keel Row’) to sailing boatsmoored downriver. The woodenstaithes at Dunston, Gatesheadbuilt in 1890 are an awe inspiringreminder of when coal was king.

INDUSTRIAL PIONEERSIn 1825, to meet the collieries’demand for a faster and cheaperway to transport coal, GeorgeStephenson built the firstlocomotive, Locomotion No 1 at his Forth Street works which stillsurvive in Newcastle. His sonRobert built the ingenious HighLevel Bridge, combining rail androad, which still connectsNewcastle to the south. Although Sunderland’s glassindustry began in Anglo Saxontimes and ships were builthereabouts in the Middle Ages, it was 19th century innovators like the Stephensons who drove the development of Wearside and Tyneside. Ironclads from William Armstrong’sNewcastle shipyards helpedBritannia to rule the waves. By1900, a quarter of global shippingtonnage was launched in the NorthEast and Sunderland was theworld’s biggest shipbuilding town.

Sunderland born Joseph Swan,inventor of the electric light bulb,installed electric lights in homesacross England whilst MosleyStreet in Newcastle was Britain’sfirst street lit by electricity. Theturbine designed by CharlesParsons is the same in principle asthose driving ships and powerstations today. Experience a mechanical marveland North Eastern endeavour atSouter Lighthouse. When switchedon in 1871, it was the firstlighthouse in the world specificallyconstructed for electricillumination by carbon arc lamps. Step back into this golden age bywalking through the elegantGeorgian stone streets, terracesand squares of central Newcastle’sGrainger Town, named after itsdeveloper. Our engineeringheritage still endures in the soaringgirders of the Tyne Bridge openedin 1928 just ahead of its SydneyHarbour twin.

2524 Top picture courtesy of Newcastle Libraries and Information Service.

History & Heritage

Public Art

PUBLIC ARTFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

GatesheadGateshead’spremierlandmarksculpture is theworld-renownedAngel of theNorth byAntony Gormleyand now one of the 12 official 'Iconsof England'. Close by the CivicCentre is Threshold, a soundsculpture by Lulu Quinn emittingthe sounds, songs and stories from300 local people. Situated atGateshead Interchange, OpeningLine by Danny Lane is one of thelargest public artworks ever createdin Britain. The James HillMonument, by Peter Coates,celebrates the life of James Hill, a19th century fiddle player. Rise andFall by Lulu Quinn is a six metrehigh glass and steel archway at theentrance point to the RiversideSculpture Park combiningcontemporary art with stunninglighting. David Pearl’s GatewayBeacons are six metre highfeatures in coloured cast acrylic,stainless steel and corten basesmarking the routes to GatesheadQuays. Ribbon of Colour, GlassBalustrade, Kate Maestri’sspectacular 200 metre curved glassruns along The Sage Gatesheadconcourse, giving an added visualexperience to the building with animagined ‘musical rhythm’.

NewcastleAt the Civic Centre is River God, agiant figure with water pouringfrom his outstretched hand.Originally black in colour, the figurehas been slowly turned green andbrown by the running water. LeazesPark is home to The Flowering ofthe Lort Burn by Tom Grimsey, aresponse to the Lort Burn thatflows beneath the Park andconsists of a blue terrazzo streamwith insets of brightly colouredceramic and stainless steel flowers.

Tyne Line of TXT Flow by CarolSommer and Sue Downing is a 140metre long line of continuous text

embossed on a stainless steelstrip set between paving stones inThornton Square. The text comes

from a Romanmessage foundlocally, printed textfrom the time ofKing Charles I andtext messagescollected on the dayof a Newcastleversus Sunderland

derby match! In LowerGrainger Street, Man withPotential Selves by Sean Henrycomprises three views of the same man. One stands, one walksand one apparently floats abovethe ground. Be sure not to miss the numerous art installationsalong the quayside and withinTrinity Gardens.

South Tyneside

South Tyneside is a highly regardedlocation of many visually stunningpieces of art. Conversation Pieceby Spanish sculptor Juan Munozfeatures 22 bronze life size figuresin a superb coastal setting. Spiritof South Shields at Market Dockreflects the town's rich seafaringpast and is a bold andconfidentfigurehead for its future.Flash@Hebburn byCharles Quick is acontemporarylighting installationand made up of adozen solar-poweredlighting columns thatwill flash with lightsequences as a symbol of thearea's traditional industries. InSouth Marine Park in SouthShields, you will find South MarinePark Art Trail featuring 10sculptures reflecting the heritageand natural environment of thisbeautiful seafront park.

North Tyneside

Stefan Gec, Permindar Kaur andCathy de Monchaux are just someof the respected artists who havecreated works in North Tyneside.Visit Royal Quays at North Shieldsand you’ll see a myriad of superbinstallations showing how art andthe environment co-exist in perfectharmony. Sea Dreamer’s Rest byGilly Rogers reflects the romanceof returning seaman as they reachfor home. Tyne Anew by Mark diSuvero is amonument toartisticengineering,with threehuge tripodlegssupportinga toppiece thatgently twists in thewind. Lightning Clock by AndyPlant can be found at The RoyalQuays Shopping Centre. The clockis 30 feet high, consisting of twobeaten copper spheres fixed to a stainless steel column with afiberglass weatherman figure. As the hour approaches, all comesto life.

Sunderland

Sunderland’s rich and diverseheritage has inspired many of itspublic art collections - which nowboasts over 150 individualartworks. Sunderland is developinga new series of public artcommissions that uses technology,animation and light to show thediverserange ofwhat publicart can be. Inthis Day andThat Age byKathrynHodgkinson at thePlace arts andbusiness centre, a series of glasssun shields, depicting the historicarchitecture from the Sunnisideneighbourhood. The digitalanimation piece Tropic ofSunderland by Dan Brown at thenew Aquatic Centre and theimposing glass ‘heads’ of TheDelegation by Tord Kjellstrom atRainton Bridge.

Tyne & Wear has an established reputation for providing artistswith a platform to express themselves in the field of public art.From imposing large-scale installations to smaller creations andthe many works to be seen from public transport, visitors havebeen intrigued by our visually stunning pieces.Download public art walking routes at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

Spirit of

South Shields

Rise and Fall

Flight

Lightning Clock

2726 NewcastleGateshead South Tyneside SunderlandNorth Tyneside NewcastleGateshead South Tyneside SunderlandNorth Tyneside

Man with

Potential SelvesMan with

Potential Selves

Art on Transportnexus.org.uk/artontransport

There are over 30 permanentworks from a range of artists onTyne & Wear’s transport network.So get your ticket for artwork that brings colour, humour andinspiration to our bus, Metro, ferry and walking trails.

When the Metro was extended toSunderland, Morag Morrison wascommissioned to develop a colourrange to feed through all stationsfrom Pelaw to South Hylton.Station Colours arranges panels ofcolour in each of these stationsdeveloped from the artist’sresponse to the landscape of theroute. Beach & Shipyards by MikeDavies at Monkseaton station is twostained glass works placed in eachend of the original glazed canopyprotecting passengers from thevagaries of the weather.

Bede station is close to St Paul’s inJarrow where the Venerable Bedespent much of his life. Illuminationare brightly coloured murals whichliterally shed light on the past. Theyare made up of enamel panelsfeaturing feather quills and crossessymbolising Bede’s spiritual andacademic influence on the world.

At Newcastle Central Station, have alook at Hilary Paynter's From theRivers to the Sea, a wood engravingof a panoramic traveloguereproduced on vitreous enamelpanels linking two Metro platformsand commissioned to mark the250th anniversary of the birth ofwood engraver Thomas Bewick.

As you leave Gateshead Metrostation for Newcastle, you can’tmiss the sequence of lightreflective panels that pass by thewindow. Look even closer andyou’ll be treated to a short film.Space Travel is a result of thetrain’s movementalong a total of 115stills giving theimpression ofpassing through a deserted multi storey carpark - withouteven leaving your seat!

An Illumination mural

ATTRACTIONS A-ZSEE ART BUY ART

Attractions A-ZWith 2,000 years worth of history, stunning new buildingsalong the NewcastleGateshead Quayside, proud remindersof our industrial heritage and modern fun-filled attractionsfor the kids, Tyne & Wear has something to suit everyone.

� ANGEL OF THE NORTHLow Eighton, Gateshead, 0191 478 4222www.gateshead.gov.uk/angel Approach NewcastleGateshead byrail or road and you’ll see the iconicAngel of the North which has beenwelcoming visitors since 1998. TheAngel is one of the most visiblesymbols of North East pride. It wascreated by Antony Gormley OBEand stands 20m high, with awingspan of 54m. Travel: just offthe A1/A167, 10 minutes from thecity centre. Take the appropriatelynamed and branded Angel bus (no.21 and 22) from PilgrimStreet/Gateshead Interchange. FREE

� ARBEIA ROMAN FORT Baring St, South Shields

South ShieldsArbeia Roman Fort was built inAD160 and guarded the entrance tothe River Tyne. See page 36 formore details

� BEDE’S WORLD Church Bank, Jarrow, 0191 489 2106 www.bedesworld.co.uk

Bede 1,300 years ago, Wearmouth-Jarrow was the home and place ofwork of medieval Europe's greatestscholar, Venerable Bede, ‘theFather of English History’. Bede’sWorld is the gateway to thisinspirational site. This wonderfulattraction showcases the excavatedartefacts and brings the story ofBede and his fellow monks to life.Open: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun

12noon–5pm, Bank Hols 10am-4.30pm. Closed Good friday. Call for Christmas opening times.

v]4 z £

� BESSIE SURTEES’ HOUSE D4 41-44 Sandhill, Newcastle, 0191 269 1200 www.english-heritage.org.uk


The 16th and 17th century home of a local woman who caused ascandal when she eloped with thefuture Lord Chancellor of Englandin 1772. A well-preserved exampleof Jacobean domestic architecture.Visit the small museum inside.Open: Mon-Fri 10am-4pm.FREE

� BILL QUAY COMMUNITY FARM Hainingwood Terrace, Bill Quay,Gateshead, 0191 433 5780 www.gateshead.gov.uk

Pelaw A working farm on the banks of theTyne and home to a fine collectionof rare breed livestock, anabundance of artworks and muchwildlife. Farm open: Mon-Sun 9amto 5pm. Some areas have restrictedaccess until 12 noon.]zFREE

� BLACKFRIARS B4 Monk Street, Newcastle

St James/Monument/CentralStation An oasis of calm just a minute fromthe city centre. This formermonastery, dating from the late13th century and later used as ameeting place for the city‘s craftguilds, has been renovated and ishome to craft shops, a restaurantand an outdoor meeting place.

vFREE

� THE BLACK GATE C4Castle Arch, St Nicholas’ Street,Newcastle

Central Station Q1: Central Station

A medieval gatehouse to the CastleKeep surmounted by a 17th centuryhouse. External viewing only.FREE


� ART-EST GALLERY A4The Courtyard, 14 BlandfordSquare, Newcastle, 0191 232 7744


Bespoke picture framing and artgallery exhibiting the likes of FabianPerez, Duncan MacGregor andArtiom. Bronze sculpture by PaulJenkins and exotic furnishings.Open: Mon-Fri 10am-5.30pm; Sat9am-4pm.

� THE ART WORKS GALLERIES G2Stepney Bank, Ouseburn Valley,Newcastle, 0191 261 9922 www.theartworksgalleries.com

Manors Q2: Lime Street This is the North’s largest singlefloor art gallery. Situated inOuseburn, this innovative space isthe place to see, buy, display, enjoyand talk about art. In-housecurating coupled with artists’autonomy ensures all exhibitionsare inspired, relevant andconstantly changing. Open: Tue-Sat10am-5pm, Sun 11am–4pm.

� BALTIC BOOKSHOP F4 BALTIC Centre for ContemporaryArt, Gateshead Quays, 0191 478 1810 www.balticmill.com

Gateshead Q1: Baltic Square As well as stocking a huge range ofart books, BALTIC also sells limitededition prints and other artworks.Open: daily 10am-6pm; except Tue10.30am-6pm.

� CRAFTSHOP AT B4NEWCASTLE ARTS CENTRE 67 Westgate Road, Newcastle, 0191 222 9880 www.newcastle-arts-centre.co.uk

Central StationQ1: Central Station

This is Newcastle's longestestablished specialist shop fororiginal work by leading makers.More than a gift shop, it is ashowcase for handmade ceramicsand glass from across the UK andEurope. Open: 9am-5pm.

� DESIGNED & MADE GALLERY E4 Level 1, Live Theatre, BroadChare, Newcastle, 0191 229 2398www.designandmade.co.uk

Manors/Central StationQ2: Lime Street

An exciting artist-led, not-for-profitorganisation situated on Newcastle’sQuayside where you can see andbuy the work of the mostaccomplished designer-makersfrom the North East and beyond.

� DETAILS @ NEWCASTLEARTS CENTRE B4 67 Westgate Road, Newcastle,0191 261 5999 www.details.co.uk

Central StationQ1: Central Station

Details is the region’s leading artmaterials retailer. With more than7,000 items in stock, it is avaluable resource for any visitingartist. Open: 9am-5pm.

� MUSHROOM WORKS H4 St Lawrence Road, OuseburnValley, Newcastle, 0191 224 4011www.mushroomworks.com

Byker/Manors Q2: Lime Street

An artist-led gallery and studiospace, Mushroom Works is hometo a diverse range of creativebusinesses including painters,illustrators, jewellery makers,animators, architects, glassartists and furniture makers. The gallery offers a vibrantprogramme of exhibitions andspecial events. Check website for opening times.

� WAYGOOD ART BOUTIQUE C331 High Bridge, Newcastle,0191 265 6857 www.waygood.org

Monument Q1+2: Theatre Royal

Waygood currently has a smallgallery space, Waygood ArtBoutique, selling art and artistmade gifts and books. It offers amonthly changing exhibitionprogramme with work for saleuntil September 2009.Redevelopment work continueson its warehouse to create amajor new city centre culturalvenue, due to open in 2010.Open:Wed and Sat, 12noon-5pm.

See Art Buy ArtAn original artwork is an inspired choice as a souvenir ofyour visit to Tyne & Wear. You’ll find a whole range of placeswhere you can browse and buy dotted across the region.

ATTRACTIONS A-ZFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

� BLUE REEF AQUARIUM Grand Parade, Tynemouth, 0191 258 1031 www.bluereefaquarium.co.uk

Cullercoats 15 minute walk Blue Reef, on the sea front inTynemouth, has 30 living displaysfeaturing amazing aquatic lifeincluding tropical sharks, octopi,seahorses, giant crabs andpiranhas. A purpose-built seal covehouses harbour seals. Entertainingtalks and feeding displays helpmake the whole experience evenmore enjoyable. Open: daily from10am. Last admission is 5pm (4pmNov - Feb. Closed Christmas Day.

v]z£

� CASTLE KEEP C4 Castle Garth, St Nicholas’ Street,Newcastle, 0191 232 7938 www.museums.ncl.ac.uk/keep


In 1080 Robert Curthose, son ofWilliam the Conqueror, built thefirst wooden fortification fromwhich the city takes its name – the’New Castle’. Today’s Castle Keep(1168-78) was built during the reignof Henry II and overlies the earlierRoman fort of Pons Aelius (pons –Latin for bridge, Aelius - Familyname of Emperor Hadrian whovisited the site in 122AD). It is oneof the finest examples of a NormanKeep in the country and is a GradeI listed building. Open: Apr-Oct,Mon-Sun 9.30am-5.30pm; Nov-Apr,Mon-Sun 9.30am-4.30pm. Disabledaccess is available, by appointment.

£

� THE CATHEDRAL CHURCHOF ST NICHOLAS C4St Nicholas’ Street, Newcastle,0191 232 1939www.stnicholascathedral.co.uk


The Anglican Cathedral Church ofSt Nicholas is the Mother Churchof the most northerly diocese inEngland. It is mainly 14th century,and dominating the skyline of thishistoric Heart of the City is the15th century Lantern Tower of theCathedral. Medieval treasuresinclude a stained glass roundel ofthe Virgin Mary and infant Jesusand the Thornton Memorial Brass.vzFREE

� CENTRAL EXCHANGEBUILDING AND CENTRALARCADE C3Entrances: Grey Street, GraingerStreet, Market Street, Newcastle


This triple-domed building was builtin 1837 for Richard Grainger. It wasrebuilt in 1906 after a fire, at whichtime the present Central Arcadewas formed to cut through fromGrey St to Market St with a link toGrainger St. Under its glass barrel-vaulted roof, the glorious tile workis a joy to behold. Today, it housesseveral retail outlets and theNewcastle Tourist InformationCentre. A great place for souvenirs.

� CHILDHOOD MEMORIES TOY MUSEUM Grand Parade, Tynemouth, 0191 259 1776 www.tynemouthtoymuseum.co.uk

Cullercoats (15min walk) The Childhood Memories ToyMuseum features over 8,000exhibits and is guaranteed torekindle happy memories of daysgone by. The museum is home todolls, games, toys and many otheritems familiar to generations ofvisitors. Open: 10.30am-5pm, Apr-May weekends only; June-SeptTues-Sun except Bank Hols; Sept-Nov Weekends only. Also openGood Fri & Easter Hols.

£� CHINATOWN B3 & CHINESE ARCH Stowell Street, Newcastle www.newcastlechinatown.co.uk

St James As well as an array of top qualityChinese restaurants, the Chinatowndistrict also has craft shops,specialist supermarkets andvibrant Chinese New Yearcelebrations. At the head of StowellStreet is the grand arched gateway,a 11.3 metre high traditional archbased on a Chinese Royal Palacearchitectural style. vFREE

� DISCOVERY MUSEUM A4Blandford Square, Newcastle


Discovery is the North East‘s mostpopular free museums and the placeto find out about life on Tyneside.See page 36 for more details.

� DUNSTON STAITHESDunston Riverside, Gateshead Britain‘s largest wooden structurewhich consists of 1,700ft of bracedtimber. Built in 1890 to transfer coalfrom local pits onto the colliersberthed directly below on the RiverTyne. Best seen from the Newcastleside. External viewing only. FREE

� FULWELL WINDMILL Newcastle Rd, Sunderland, 0191 516 9790 www.fulwell-windmill.com

Seaburn The only working windmill in NorthEast England. Built in 1821 from themagnesium limestone from nearbyquarries and now restored, itfeatures a purpose-built visitorcentre. Open: 12noon–4pm everySun (except the two either side ofChristmas), 12noon–4pm every Sat from May-Sept, 12noon–4pmweekdays every school and Bank Hols.] FREE

� GATESHEADMILLENNIUM BRIDGE F4NewcastleGateshead Quayside

Manors/Gateshead/Central Stn

Q1: Baltic Square Q2: Law Courts This stunning bridge is a winner ofBritain‘s premier architecturalaward, the Stirling Prize, and it‘seasy to see why. It is an iconicsymbol of NewcastleGateshead’sdramatic cultural development. The bridge opens and closes like agigantic eyelid (to let ships pass)and with spectacular colouredlighting, provides a pedestrian linkover the River Tyne fromNewcastle into the heart ofGateshead Quays. Tilt times vary - see www.gateshead.gov.ukfor details.FREE

� GIBSIDE 18TH CENTURYLANDSCAPE GARDEN Near Rowlands Gill, GatesheadA superb landscape garden createdby the Bowes family in the 18thcentury and covering 160 hectares.See page 22 for details.

� GO WILD AT BEAMISHBeamish Hall Country House HotelBeamish, 01207 233 733www.beamishwild.co.uk

Beamish Wild’s Bird of PreyConservation Centre at Beamish



Hall Country House Hotel, has awhole host of resident birds suchas Golden Eagles, African WhiteBacked Vultures, and Snowy Owls.Ropes Activity Centre is a highwireadventure course where you canenjoy an adrenaline rush high inthe treetops, climbing throughtunnel nets, jumping the 'leap offaith' and freefalling on anincredible power-fan. Open:10.00am-4.30pm.

v]4 z£� GRAINGER TOWN C3/C4

Monument Q 1+2: Theatre Royal

Described as the ‘city of palaces’when completed in 1839, GraingerTown is an historic area right in theheart of Newcastle. Recentlyregenerated, the elegant ‘TynesideClassical’ Georgian and stylishVictorian architecture can now beenjoyed to the full. It containsmany fine buildings andmonuments, like the Theatre Royaland former Bank of Englandbuilding. Grey Street in GraingerTown has an elegant curve and wasvoted the ‘Best Street’ in Englandby Radio 4 listeners. It’s a real gem.

� THE LIT & PHIL LIBRARY C4 23 Westgate Road, Newcastle,0191 232 0192www.litandphil.org.uk


This educational charity has anextraordinary library housed in alandmark Grade II listed building.View books dating from the early16th century up to the present,including an extensive local historysection, plus many newspapers andperiodicals. There are also many freelectures and events. Open: Mon–Satfrom 9.30am.FREE

� NATIONAL GLASS CENTRE Liberty Way, Sunderland, 0191 515 5555www.nationalglasscentre.com

St Peter’s Explore the history of glass-makingin the UK, see cutting-edgeexamples of the contemporaryglassmaker’s art and buy your ownpieces in the shop. Housed in aninnovative glass-roofed building, itacts as a focus for artists, designersand makers to create exciting newproducts and art. Open: 10am-5pm.Last admission 4.45pm.

v]zFREE

� NEWCASTLEGATESHEADQUAYSIDE D5/E5/F4 Central Station/Gateshead

Q1: The Sage Gateshead/1+2Quayside On the Newcastle side of the RiverTyne, a riverside walk takes youpast an array of bars andrestaurants as well as manyexamples of public art. TheGateshead side of the river housesThe Sage Gateshead and BALTICCentre for Contemporary Art. Theregeneration of both sides of theRiver Tyne is as stunning as thefamous bridges which span it.

� NEWCASTLE TOWN WALLS A3/A4/C5 Various locations aroundNewcastle city centre Much of the medieval town wall canstill be seen today. Work on the wallbegan circa 1265 and the wallsencompassed the whole of themedieval town. Several of the walltowers remain, including PlummerTower on Croft Street; SallyportTower, just past Pandon Bank onCity Road. Check the area behindStowell Street and Bath Lane.FREE

� NEWCASTLE UNITEDSTADIUM TOURS A2St James’ Park, Newcastle, 0844 372 1892 www.nufc.co.uk

St James’ Q2: Haymarket Take an amazing journey throughthe history of the Toon Army. Theknowledgeable tour guides willshow you many areas you will neverhave seen before. You can now alsosee all of these sights and take inthe passion of a Matchday with thenew Matchday tours. Imagineseeing the first team dressing roomall kitted out for your team andwalking down the tunnel just hoursbefore the players. Tours everydayincluding matchdays.

v]4 z£

� NORTH SHIELDS FISH QUAYNorth Shields

Bus 333 connects the town centrewith the fish quay. Dating back to the 13th century, it isstill a hive of activity and theperfect place to eat some fish andchips and watch the passing trafficon the Tyne. Located on the quay isthe 17th century Clifford’s Fort,built as part of a network of coastaldefences against the Dutch.


� LIFE SCIENCE CENTRE A5 Times Square, Newcastle ,0191 243 8210 www.life.org.uk


Explore the fascinating story ofHuman Life by discovering OurOrigins and how we evolved. Seewhat life is like in Our World andwhat challenges we might face inOur Future. Explore the stars orexperience an immersiveaudiovisual film in The Dome. Seelive science demonstrations in theLife Theatre and enjoy the thrills ofthe Motion Ride and regulartemporary exhibitions and specialevents. Plus, get your skates on aseach winter an outdoor ice rink is insitu outside the centre in TimesSquare. It’s fantastic fun for all thefamily and no surprise that it hasbeen voted “Large VisitorAttraction of the Year 2008” inNorth East England.Open: Mon-Sat, 10am-6pm; Sun,11am-6pm.

v]4 z£

� GREY’S MONUMENT C3Grey Street, Newcastle


The focal point of the city, thistowering monument features EarlGrey and was erected in 1838 tocommemorate the Reform Act of1832 drafted during Earl Grey’s timeas Prime Minister. This paved theway for modern parliament in theUK. You can take a closer view ofEarl Grey without climbing to thetop; a hologram effect likeness ofhis head is set into four points onthe base as part of a creativelighting strategy for Grainger Town. External viewing only. FREE


causeway and is one of the mostphotographed and painted buildingsin the country. Now a visitor centre,the surrounding area is a naturereserve. Open: Varies with tide, callfor confirmation.

]z£

� ST PAUL’S CHURCH Church Bank, Jarrow, 0191 489 2106www.jarrowparish.info

Bede The twin monastery of Wearmouth-Jarrow was founded in AD681 andthe Chancel survives to this day.Inside the church the original stoneslab records in a Latin inscriptionthe dedication of the church on 23April AD685. Open: daily 9am-5pm.FREE

� ST PETER’S CHURCH St Peter’s Way, Sunderland, 0191 516 0135 www.visitsunderland.com

St Peter’s This Anglo-Saxon church was builtin 674AD and was one of the firstNorthumbrian buildings to be builtin stone. St Peter's church togetherwith its twin monastery, St Paul's inJarrow, is the UK's nomination forWorld Heritage status in 2010.FREE

� TANFIELD RAILWAY Sunniside to Stanley Road, 0191 388 7545 www.tanfield-railway.co.uk Ride in Victorian carriages pulledby a steam train along a line built in1725. The line skirts Causey Arch,the world’s oldest surviving railwaybridge and features a workingengine shed. Open: daily. Trainsoperate every Sun throughout the year plus Wed and Thurs duringthe school summer hols.

]4 z£

� TYNEMOUTH PRIORY & CASTLE Tynemouth, 0191 257 1090www.english-heritage.org.uk/tynemouth

TynemouthAfter the destruction of a 7thcentury monastery by Danishraiders, the present Benedictinepriory was founded on the same sitein 1090. The east end of the priorychurch, built in 1200 still survives.Beyond it stands a well-preservedchapel, with a rose window andsculpted roof vault, built in the mid-15th century as a chantry for thesouls of the powerful Percy family.Open: daily: 1 Apr–30 Jun 10am–5pm;1 Jul–31 Aug 10am–6pm; 1–30 Sep10am -5pm. Thu-Mon, 1 Oct–31 Mar10am–4pm. Closed 24 – 26 Dec and1 Jan. Gun battery: Access limited,please ask site staff for details. English Heritage Members FREE

]4 z£

� WASHINGTON OLD HALL Washington Village, 0191 416 6879 www.nationaltrust.org.uk Regular buses from Washingtontown centreThis delightful stone-built 17thcentury manor house incorporatesparts of the original medieval home of George Washington'sdirect ancestors. There are displayson George Washington, oilpaintings, delftware and carved oakfurniture. The tranquil Jacobeangarden leads to the Nuttery, awildflower nut orchard. Open: Tues,Wed, Sun; House 6 Mar-1 Nov 0911am-5pm; Garden 10am-5pm.Tearoom 11am-4pm. Open Good Friand Easter Sat. Last admission30mins before closing.v] £� WASHINGTON WETLANDCENTRE Pattinson, Washington, 0191 416 5454 www.wwt.org.uk Regular buses from Washingtontown centre This recreated wetland provides a‘stop over’ and wintering habitatfor migratory waterbirds after theirpassage over the North Sea. It is ahaven for curlew and redshank anda breeding ground for herons. Callfor opening times.

v]4 z£

� OCEAN BEACH PLEASURE PARK Sea Road, South Shields, 0191 456 1617www.oceanbeach.co.uk

South Shields An exciting choice of white-knucklethrillers, colourful and imaginativerides for younger children plusamusements and video games.Open: Arcades and Bowling 10am-10pm, Rides are seasonal from Feb-Nov, please call for opening times.

v]4 z£

� DUNES ADVENTUREISLANDSea Road, South Shields,0191 455 5255www.dunesadventureisland.co.uk

South Shields This is a brand new leisuredevelopment for all the family, withten pin bowling, a giant children’splay area and a range of cateringestablishments all with stunningviews across the Tyne.v]4 z£

� PATH HEAD WATER MILLSummerhill, Blaydon, 0191 414 6288www.gatesheadmill.co.uk

Summerhill, Blaydon A restored 18th century water millcomplete with working water wheeland machinery. Open: from 31stMar 10am-5pm Tues, Wed & Sunand from 31st Oct 11am-3pm. OpenBank Hol Mon.v]4 z£

� PETS’ CORNERJesmond Dene, off Jesmond Road,Newcastle, www.jesmonddene.org.uk

Jesmond Situated in Jesmond Dene (seepage 23), it is home to a collectionof animals and birds. v] FREE

� THE SAGE GATESHEAD E5Gateshead Quays 0191 443 4661 www.thesagegateshead.org

Gateshead Q1: The Sage Gateshead

This Lord Foster building with aspectacular glazed open foyerprovides unrivalled views ofNewcastleGateshead quayside. It ishome to Northern Sinfonia,presents a wide variety of music inits two main performance spacesand a groundbreaking centre formusic education.

v]4 z

� SEGEDUNUM ROMAN FORT,BATHS & MUSEUM Buddle Street, Wallsend, Segedunum, 0191 236 9347www.twmuseums.org.uk/segedunum

WallsendSegedunum is part of the Frontiersof the Roman Empire WorldHeritage site. See page 37 for more details.

� SOUTER LIGHTHOUSE Coast Rd, Whitburn 0191 529 3161 www.nationaltrust.org.uk

South Shields + short bus ride When Souter Lighthouse wasswitched on in 1871, it was the firstlighthouse in the world specificallyconstructed for electric illuminationby carbon arc lamps. Visitors canexplore the engine room, thekeeper’s cottage and enjoy theoutstanding views from the top ofthe tower. Open: Mar-Nov.] v £

� SOUTH SHIELDS MUSEUMAND ART GALLERY Ocean Rd, South Shields,

South Shields Discover the story of local peopleduring the 20th century. See page37 for more details

� STADIUM OF LIGHT TOURSStadium of Light, Stadium Village,0191 551 5055 www.safc.com

Stadium of Light This fantastic tour will give you theopportunity to explore one of thebest stadiums in the country. Seethe dressing rooms, tunnel,pitchside area and hospitalitylounges. Admission charges apply.Pre-booking is essential. ]4 z£

� STEPHENSON RAILWAYMUSEUMMiddle Engine Lane, North Shields,0191 200 7146www.twmuseums.org.uk/stephenson Re-live the glorious days of steamrailway and see ‘Billy’, a forerunnerof the world famous Rocket andmany other engines. Please call foropening times.

]4 zFREE

� ST MARY’S ISLAND &LIGHTHOUSE Whitley Bay, 0191 200 8652 www.visitnorthtyneside.com

Whitley Bay + short bus ride This much-loved lighthouse standson an island accessible via a tidal


MUSEUMS & GALLERIESFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

The museums and galleries in Tyne & Wear are a superb mix of history and heritage, contemporary and cutting-edge– and with the brand new Great North Museum opening 23rdMay 2009, a cultural treat is guaranteed for any visitor.

Museums

� ARBEIA ROMAN FORT Baring St, South Shields, 0191 456 1369www.twmuseums.org.uk/arbeia

South Shields Situated beyond Hadrian's Wall atSouth Shields, Arbeia Roman Fortguarded the entrance to the RiverTyne. Built in AD160, the Fort playedan essential role in the mightyfrontier system. Today, visitors canclimb the reconstructed West Gate,explore the Barrack Block,Commanding Officer’s Home andmuseum and enjoy re-enactmentson special events days. Open: 1 Apr–31 Oct, Mon-Sat, 10am–5.30pm &Sun 1pm–5pm; 1 Nov–31 Mar, Mon-Sat 10am-3.30pm, closed Sun.

]4 zFREE

� BOWES RAILWAYSpringwell Village, Gateshead,0191 416 1847www.bowesrailway.co.ukDesigned by George Stephensonand opened in 1826, Bowes Railwayis the world’s only operationalpreserved standard gauge ropehauled railway. Get a unique insight

into how coal was moved from localcollieries to the Tyne at Jarrow forshipment. There are steam enginesplus diesel locomotives, old collierywagons, historic workshops and anhistorical exhibition. Open: Mon-Fri10am-3pm, Sat & Bank Hols, pleasecheck to find out when trains arerunning. Charges apply on eventdays.]

� DISCOVERY MUSEUM A4 Blandford Square, Newcastle, 0191 232 6789www.twmuseums.org.uk/discovery


Discovery is the North East’s mostpopular free museum and the placeto find out about life on Tyneside.From the area’s renowned maritimehistory to world-changing scienceand technology, it has somethingfor everyone. The gem of thecollection is Turbinia, the world’sfirst boat to be powered by a steamturbine engine. Bursting withexciting interactives, the museum isthe perfect place to learn and havefun. Open: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun2pm-5pm.

v]4 zFREE

� GREAT NORTH MUSEUM:HANCOCK C1Barras Bridge, Newcastle,0191 222 6765www.greatnorthmuseum.org

Haymarket Q2: Haymarket Highlights of the new £26millionmuseum include a large-scale,interactive model of Hadrian'sWall, major new displays showingthe wonder and diversity of theanimal and plant kingdoms,spectacular objects from theAncient Greeks and mummiesfrom Ancient Egypt, aplanetarium, a life-size T.rexdinosaur skeleton and muchmore… Open: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm,Sun 2pm- 5pm.

v]4 zFREE

� SEGEDUNUM ROMAN FORT,BATHS & MUSEUM Buddle Street, Wallsend, 0191 236 9347www.twmuseums.org.uk/segedunum

Wallsend

Segedunum is part of the Frontiersof the Roman Empire WorldHeritage site and provides aunique insight into life onHadrian’s Wall 2,000 years ago.For almost 300 years, Segedunumwas home to 600 Roman soldiers.Today, a superb viewing towerprovides a panoramic view of thesite and the reconstructed BathHouse, whilst galleries featureexhibits from the excavation.Open: 1 Apr–31 Oct, daily, 10am-5pm; 1 Nov–31 Mar, daily, 10am-3pm.

v]4 z£

� SEVEN STORIES, G3 THE CENTRE FOR CHILDREN‘S BOOKS30 Lime Street, Ouseburn Valley,Newcastle, 0845 271 0777www.sevenstories.org.uk

Manors Q2: Lime Street

Britains first ever centre dedicatedto children’s books showcaseseverything from unconventionalexhibitions to entertaining eventsand activities. At its heart, is atreasure trove of original artworksand manuscripts. Currentexhibitions include All Aboard,Away We Go! (until Spring 2010)and From Toad Hall to Pooh Corner(until September 2009). Open:Mon-Sat 10am-5pm. Sun 11am-5pm.

v]4 z£

� SOUTH SHIELDS MUSEUMAND ART GALLERY Ocean Rd, South Shields, 0191 456 8740 www.twmuseums.org.uk/southshields

South ShieldsDiscover the story of local peopleat home, work and play during the20th century. Explore the life ofauthor Catherine Cookson and seethe history of South Tynesideunfold from the Bronze Age to thepresent. Meet reptiles and spidersin Creature Corner. There are alsoevents, exhibitions and a café.Open: 1 Apr-31 Oct Mon-Sat 10am-5.30pm, Sun 1pm-5pm. 1 Nov-31Mar: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, ClosedSun. Closed: 25 & 26 Dec & 1 Jan.v]4 zFREE

� STEPHENSON RAILWAYMUSEUMMiddle Engine Lane, NorthShields, 0191 200 7146www.twmuseums.org.uk/stephensonRe-live the glorious days of thesteam railway at the home ofGeorge Stephenson’s ‘Billy’, anddiscover the story of coal and

Sponsored by

THE GREAT NORTH MUSEUM: HANCOCKwww.greatnorthmuseum.org

Museums & Galleries



electricity’s impact on ordinarypeople’s lives. Fun activities for allages are regularly held alongsidetemporary exhibitions, and rideson a real steam train can be takenon Sundays from Apr to Oct.Open: Weekends from 4 Apr–1 Nov09, 11am–4pm; School hols (exceptChristmas hols), daily, 11am–4pm.

]4z(Please call to check) FREE

� MONKWEARMOUTHSTATION MUSEUMNorth Bridge Street, Sunderland,0191 567 7075www.twmuseums.org.uk/monkwearmouth

St Peter’s The Museum features manypersonal stories, evoking memoriesof when Monkwearmouth was themain station for the city. It hasbeen brought to life throughinspiring displays and renovatedinterior making it an important partof our railway heritage. Open: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 2pm-5pm.

]4 zFREE� SUNDERLAND MUSEUM & WINTER GARDENS Burdon Way, Sunderland, 0191 553 2323 www.twmuseums.org.uk/sunderland

SunderlandSituated in the heart of the city,this is a treasure house just waitingto be discovered. With four floorsof amazing galleries andexhibitions it tells the story ofSunderland and fascinating worldsbeyond. Open: Mon-Sat 10am–5pm;Sun 2pm–5pm.

v]4 zFREE� WASHINGTON ‘F’ PITAlbany Way, Washington,0191 553 233,www.twmuseums.org.uk/washingtonA magnificent Victorian steamengine, engine house andheadgear are preserved as amonument to Washington's coalmining heritage that reaches backover 250 years. 'F' Pit was one ofthe country's oldest working pits.Please call for opening times asthey are seasonal.]zFREE

Galleries

� ALT GALLERY B4 61-62 Thornton Street Newcastle, 0191 222 1213 www.altgallery.org


Presenting international work atthe intersection of visual art, musicand sound. Based within alt.vinylrecord shop. Open: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Thurs 10am-8pm. FREE

� BALTIC CENTRE FORCONTEMPORARY ART F4 Gateshead Quays, 0191 478 1810 www.balticmill.com

Gateshead Q1: Baltic Square

BALTIC is a major internationalcentre for contemporary visualart. This renovated flourmill isone of the biggest temporary artspaces in Europe with over3,000sqm of art space, acinema/lecture space and alibrary and archive for the studyof contemporary art. BALTICpresents a dynamic and ambitiousprogramme of changingexhibitions, events and projects,offering something new withevery visit. In addition to its fourgalleries, the building boaststhree different food and drinkspaces and a shop, making it aplace to eat, drink and relax, aswell as somewhere to discovernew art. Open: daily 10am-6pm;except Tue 10.30am-6pm.

v]zFREE

� THE BISCUIT FACTORY F2Stoddart Street, Newcastle, 0191 261 1103www.thebiscuitfactory.com

Manors Q2: Lime StreetThis beautiful Victorian buildingand former biscuit factorycontains the biggest singlecommercial art space in the UKand houses an extensive array ofart for sale, a coffee shop andrestaurant. Open: Sun/Mon 11am-5pm; Tue-Sat 10am-8pm.

v]1 FREE

� GLOBE CITY D34th Floor, Curtis Mayfield House, Carliol Square, Newcastle,0191 222 1666www.globegallery.org


This fabulous warehouse gallerypresents 8-10 exhibitions per yearof a decidedly cutting-edgenature, making it one of thecoolest galleries in the North.Look out for details on specialtalks and one-off events. Open: Wed-Sat 11.30am-5pm (andevenings as advertised on a show-to-show basis).

]zFREE



� THE HATTON GALLERY C1 University of Newcastle, The Quadrangle, Newcastle, 0191 222 6057www.twmuseums.org.uk/hatton

Haymarket Q2: HaymarketThe Hatton Gallery shows adiverse programme of historicand contemporary art exhibitionsand related events. On permanentdisplay is the internationallyrenowned Kurt Schwitter’sMerzbarn Wall, described by artcritic Andrew Graham-Dixon as‘the seminal piece of 20thcentury British art.’ Open: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm. ]4 zFREE

� LAING ART GALLERY D2 New Bridge Street, Newcastle, 0191 232 7734www.twmuseums.org.uk/laing

MonumentQ2: John Dobson St

Situated in the centre ofNewcastle, the Laing is home toan impressive collection of art. Itsexhibition programme isrenowned for bringing the biggestnames in art to the North Eastand includes historic, modern andcontemporary works. TheGallery’s permanent displaysfeature important 18th and 19thcentury paintings. Also, don’t missthe Blue Carpet art installationsituated outside the gallery.Open: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun2pm-5pm.

v]4 zFREE

� NORTHERN GALLERY FORCONTEMPORARY ART Fawcett St, Sunderland, 0191 561 1235 www.ngca.co.uk

Sunderland Located within the City Libraryand Arts Centre, the gallery hasreceived great critical acclaim forits changing exhibitions

programme, featuring the currentwork of local, national andinternational artists. ]4 zFREE

� NORTHERN PRINT G2Stepney Bank, Newcastle, 0191 261 7000

Manors Q2: Lime StreetNorthern Print’s gallery is abeautiful and welcoming spacedevoted to showing the very bestin contemporary printmaking. Theexhibitions change every twomonths and include original printsfrom regional artists as well asbringing world-class printmakingto the North East. Open: Wed-Fri11am-5pm. Sat-12 noon-4pm.

� OPUS ART GALLERY The Church Hall, West Avenue, Gosforth, Newcastle, 0191 213 0295 www.opus-art.com

South Gosforth/Regent Centre Opus’ new refurbished space inGosforth holds monthly exhibitionsfrom a range of internationallyrenowned and emerging artistsworking today, from quirky to classical. Open: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm.

v] FREE

� SHIPLEY ART GALLERYPrince Consort Road, Gateshead, 0191 477 1495 (Map south of E8)www.twmuseums.org.uk/shipley

GatesheadShipley is proud of its uniquedisplay of the latest glass,jewellery, ceramics, textiles andfurniture as well as historicalartworks. Home to the broadestrange of contemporary craftsoutside London as well as aspectacular collection of fine artincluding William Irving’s TheBlaydon Races. Open: Mon-Sat10am-5pm; Sun 2pm-5pm. ]4 zFREE

� SIDE GALLERY D49 The Side, Newcastle, 0191 232 2208 www.amber-online.com/gallery


Alongside exhibitions ofinternational work by some of theworld‘s leading photographers,the gallery continuesto commission an

unparalleled documentation ofnorthern lives and landscapes.Open: Tue-Sat 11am-5pm.v] FREE

� GALLERY NORTH @ D1NORTHUMBRIA UNIVERSITYUniversity of Northumbria, Sandyford Road, Newcastle, 0191 227 4424www.northumbria.ac.uk/universitygallery

Haymarket Q2: John Dobson Street

Gallery North is an important,new addition to Newcastle'sburgeoning art scene. The Gallery,based within NorthumbriaUniversity's School of Arts andSocial Sciences, will bring biginternational names to the regionas well as showcasing emerging,homegrown talent. Call foropening times. 4 zFREE

� VANE B5Kings House, Forth Banks,Newcastle, 0191 261 8281www.vane.org.uk

Central Station Vane represents the work of anumber of artists, both fromacross the UK and internationally,as well as showing the work of

invited artists in collaborationwith other galleries. Open: Wed-Sat 12noon-5pm. FREE

� REG VARDY GALLERYSUNDERLAND University of SunderlandRyhope Road, Sunderland,0191 515 2128www.regvardygallery.org

Park Lane (10 min walk)The Reg Vardy Gallery supportsexhibitions, projects and eventsthat explore contemporary artpractice with a focus on research,experimentation and collaboration.It also provides an informal spacefor lively debate through a range ofevents and open discussions forthe artistic, academic and regionalaudience. Open: Mon:closed Tue10am-8pm Wed-Fri 10am-6pm.

� WORKPLACE GALLERY E6The Old Post Office, 19/21 WestStreet, Gateshead, 0191 477 2200www.workplacegallery.co.uk

GatesheadWorkplace Gallery represents aportfolio of emerging andestablished artists through thegallery programme, curatorialprojects and art fairs. Open: duringexhibitions Tues- Sat 11am–5pm, orby appointment.

THE GREAT NORTH MUSEUM: HANCOCKwww.greatnorthmuseum.org


THEATRE, DANCE, CINEMA & COMEDY Find out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

Fans of the performing arts are in for a treat. Choose fromWest End shows, the RSC, contemporary dance, blockbusterfilms and arthouse classics – or a night of stand-up comedy.

Theatre & Dance

� THE CUSTOMS HOUSE Mill Dam, South Shields,0191 454 1234www.customshouse.co.uk

South Shields The Customs House hosts a variedprogramme of concerts, musicrecitals, theatre productions,exhibitions, the latest cinemareleases and a hilarious annualpantomime. � DANCE CITY A4 Temple Street, Newcastle, 0191 261 0505www.dancecity.co.uk


Dance City is the most northern ofNational Dance Agencies and thelargest outside of London. It aims tobring dance to life by developingaccess and participation in the richvariety of dance styles that arepractised in contemporary Britain. � THE JOURNAL TYNE THEATRE A4111 Westgate Road, Newcastle,0844 493 4567www.thejournaltynetheatre.co.uk


An excellent venue which primarily

stages music events, although oftenfeatures fantastic children’s showsand pantomimes. Worth seeing isthe beautifully restored Victorianinterior which houses a completeset of working stage machinery.

� LITTLE THEATRE1-4 Saltwell View, Gateshead, 0191 478 1499 www.littletheatregateshead.com Home to The Progressive Playerswho stage 10 plays (modern andacknowledged classics) each year,always to a very high standard.

� LIVE THEATRE E4 27 Broad Chare, Quayside,Newcastle, 0191 232 1232www.live.org.uk

Manors/Central Station Q2: Law Courts

Live Theatre opened its doors in2008 after a £5.5m renovationwhich has joined four listedbuildings to create a beautiful 21stcentury theatre. It explores ideas innew writing and creates andpresents work that is challengingand relevant.

� NORTHERN STAGE C1Barras Bridge, Haymarket,Newcastle, 0191 230 5151 www.northernstage.co.uk

Haymarket Q2: HaymarketHome for world-class productions

from the UK, Europe and beyond.The theatre company’s originalbase has been transformed intoNorthern Stage, a stunning newperformance space with threestages, and a high-tech acousticwall that can be removed to createone of the greatest theatricalspaces in the North.

� THE PEOPLE‘S THEATRE Stephenson Road, Heaton,Newcastle, 0191 265 5020www.peoplestheatre.co.uk The People’s is the region’s premieramateur theatre company and oneof the largest in the country, stagingup to 14 productions per year.

� THE ROYALTY THEATRE25 The Royalty, Sunderland, 0191 565 7945www.royaltytheatre.co.uk

University The Royalty Theatre wasestablished in 1925 and is run on anon-professional basis – all actors,stage crew, bar and front of housestaff are unpaid volunteers. Dramais staged here regularly throughoutthe year.

� SUNDERLAND EMPIRE High St West, Sunderland, 0844 847 24 99www.sunderlandempire.org.uk

Sunderland Opened in 1907, the Empire is theNorth East's largest theatre and asplendid example of Edwardianarchitecture. Following a £4.5millionrefurbishment, it now boasts 21stcentury facilities and regularlystages large West End productions.

� THE THEATRE ROYAL C3 100 Grey Street, Newcastle, 08448 112 121www.theatreroyal.co.uk


The Theatre Royal was described byactor Charlton Heston as amongstthe most beautiful he had everplayed in and it‘s not hard to seewhy. From the arresting façade tothe grandiose Frank Matchamdesigned auditorium, it's a visualdelight. It hosts many majorproductions from the RSC, NationalTheatre and Opera North to smashhit musicals and challengingcontemporary work.

� THE PLAYHOUSEMarine Avenue, Whitley Bay

Whitley BayFollowing a multi-million poundredevelopment, the Playhouse

re-opens in summer 2009. Pleasecheck for details.

Comedy

� THE HYENA B2Leazes Lane, Newcastle, 0191 232 6030 www.thehyena.com

Haymarket Q2: Haymarket The North East‘s premier comedyvenue bringing the best names instand-up comedy to the stage.

Cinema

� STAR & SHADOW CINEMA F2Stepney Bank, Byker,0191 261 0066www.starandshadow.org.uk

BykerThe Star works a bit like an artvenue: it shows films, but also hasgigs, live art and exhibitions. Filmsare shown every Thursday andSunday night. Wednesdays, Fridaysand Saturdays are open to anyother kind of event, including films.

� SIDE CINEMA D4 1-3 Side, Newcastle, 0191 232 2208 www.amber-online.com


A 48 seat cinema on the Quaysideshowing great films. Programmingstrands are developed with SideGallery, Side Café, and a range ofdifferent groups.

� TYNESIDE CINEMA C3 10 Pilgrim St, Newcastle, 0845 217 9909www.tynesidecinema.co.uk


Specialising in the best new andclassic films from around the world,the Tyneside Cinema has returnedto its iconic, art deco home after anexciting £6.5m restoration andredevelopment project. TheTyneside is a must for all film lovers.

� EMPIRE CINEMASThe Gate, Newgate Street,NewcastleLimelight Complex, Sunderlandwww.empirecinemas.co.uk0871 471 4 71 4

� ODEON CINEMAS MetroCentre, Gateshead Silverlink Retail Park , Wallsend 0871 22 44 007 www.odeon.co.uk

� CINEWORLDBoldon Leisure Park, Boldon,0191 536 3030www.cineworld.co.uk

Theatre, Dance, Cinema & Comedy


� BLACK SWAN B4Westgate Road, Newcastle, 0191 261 9959/5618www.newcastle-arts-centre.co.uk/blackswan.htm


Split over several rooms, this is a very well regarded venue andeach Friday you can catch one of the hottest salsa nights around.The basement bar also hosts one-off events.

� JAZZ CAFÉ B425 Pink Lane, Newcastle, 0191 232 6505


This extremely popular andintimate venue is a must visit forjazz aficionados. It‘s been up andrunning for many a year now andhas justifiably built up a superbreputation for staging some ofthe hottest jazz sounds NorthEast England has ever witnessed.Also check out their salsa nights.

� THE HEAD OF STEAM B42 Neville Street, Newcastle, 0191 230 4236www.headofsteam.co.uk


This fantastic pub venue is splitover two levels with the basementbar being one of the best placesin town to catch the hottest talentemerging from the thriving localscene. Gigs are stagedthroughout the week.

� THE HEAD OF STEAM G2@ THE CLUNY 36 Lime Street, Ouseburn Valley,Newcastle, 0191 230 4474

Byker/Manors Q2: Lime Street

Situated under Byker Bridge, justoutside Newcastle‘s city centre, thisplace is a smart-looking bar whichhas firmly established itself as oneof the best places to see top local,national and international bands.

� GATESHEAD OLD TOWN HALL E6West Street, Gateshead, 0191 433 6917

Gateshead Q1: Gateshead Gateshead Old Town Hall opens in winter 2009 with an area forperformances, concerts andprivate hire.

� INDEPENDENT 36 Holmeside, Sunderland,0191 568 9770Sunderland’s most popular musicvenue. With a capacity of 600, the venue plays host to touringbands from all over the world aswell as the local scene and specialall day events.

� METRO RADIO ARENA A6 Arena Way, Newcastle, 0844 493 6666www.metroradioarena.co.uk


This huge 11,000-seat arena is theideal place to catch the biggestnames in the world of music, witheveryone from Metallica to GirlsAloud playing it live.

� O2 ACADEMY B4Westgate Road, Newcastle, 0191 260 2020 www.02academynewcastle.co.uk


The Academy has only been openfor a couple of years but it swiftlyestablished itself as one of theplaces to go for a great night out.The main room holds 2,000 peopleand is where you‘ll catch bands likeArctic Monkeys, New Order,Counting Crows and Maximo Park.They also have a smaller, upstairsroom where you can catch thosebands determined to make it asThe next big thing.

� NEWCASTLE CITY HALL D1Northumberland Road, Newcastle, 0191 261 2606www.newcastle.gov.uk/cityhall

Haymarket Q2: Haymarket The City Hall is one of the oldestinstitutions and continues to pull in some of the world‘s biggest acts, from chart-toppers to goldenoldies. A rollicking atmosphere isalways guaranteed.

� UNION SOCIETY @NEWCASTLE UNIVERSITY C1Kings Walk, Newcastle, 0191 239 3900 www.unionsociety.co.uk

Haymarket Q2: Haymarket A hotbed of all that is good on theindie scene and beyond. Catch thecoolest up-and-coming bands aswell as old hands who still knowhow to work an enthusiastic crowd.

� NORTHUMBRIA UNIVERSITY D1Ellison Place, Newcastle, 0191 233 0444www.northumbria.ac.uk

Haymarket Q2: Haymarket Be the first to catch all those bandsthat the NME goes crazy for everyweek. Three great gig venues inone place, it can get packed out ashedonistic punters grab themselvesa slice of indie heaven.

� THE SAGE GATESHEAD E5Gateshead Quays, 0191 443 4666 www.thesagegateshead.org

Gateshead Q1: The Sage Gateshead

The Sage Gateshead is aninternational home for music andmusical discovery. It houses twomain stages of acoustic excellence,a 26-room music education centre,a music information resourcecentre, four bars, a brasserie and acafé. All kinds of music can beheard here including world, rock,pop, classical, acoustic, indie,country, folk, jazz, electronic anddance music, and its own orchestra,Northern Sinfonia, is at the heart ofThe Sage Gateshead’s classicalprogramme. The building itself isspectacular, entry is free, so pop inand have a look around for greatviews of the quayside.

� THE TROJAN ROOMSSouth Parade, Whitley Bay,0191 251 0080www.thetrojanrooms.co.uk

Whitley BayThe Trojan Rooms is a new homefor live music in North Tyneside.From reggae to rock, ska to classic.

MUSIC VENUESFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

Tyne & Wear runs a full spectrum of music venues fromwell appointed pubs to the world-renowned, The SageGateshead. From pop to classical, jazz to rock, it‘s allhere. As a hotbed of music talent, you may spot stars ofthe future at The Cluny and The Head of Steam

Music Venues



TOURSFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

� BLUE BADGE GUIDESThe Blue Badge is the BritishNational standard guidingqualification and internationallyrecognised benchmark ofexcellence, owned by TheInstitute of Tourist Guiding.

North East England TouristGuides are an Association ofprofessional registered BlueBadge Guides who have a greatpassion and in-depth knowledgeof the whole of North EastEngland as well as excellentgeneral knowledge of the British Isles.

For Tyne & Wear, in addition towalking tours they can also guidepanoramic coach tours deliveredto the highest standards andquality. Their tours will bring thecity to life and enhance your visitand are available in German,French, and Spanish. All NorthEast England Blue Badge Guidesare fully qualified and insured toguide coach or walking toursacross the whole region.For more information and tobook a guide please contact07905 697 296 or [email protected] or visitwww.neetg.co.uk

� Jan Williams Jan’s informative andentertaining commentary willhelp individuals and groups to getthe most from their visit. Guidingoffered throughout Tyneside,Northumberland and Co. Durhamplus walking tours ofNewcastleGateshead. For more information contact: 0191 383 [email protected]

� Tom Keating Tom offers friendly, professionallocal guiding services forindividuals and groups. Panoramic coach tours ofNewcastleGateshead a speciality,as well as walking tours, or acombination of both. Regionaltours also available. For more information contact:0191 488 [email protected]

� GREEN BADGE GUIDESGreen Badge Guides are trained,qualified and Registered with theInstitute of Tourist Guiding. TheNewcastle and Gateshead GreenBadge Guide Association(NAGGBGA) members are allprofessionally qualified and insuredto deliver high quality walking toursof NewcastleGateshead, soenhancing the visitor experience.They offer walks covering a widerange of themes, many withspecialist subject knowledge, andalso offer private and speciallytailored walking tours for groupslarge or small, all year round.

For more information contact: 07905 117 [email protected]

� CITY SIGHTSEEING BUS0191 228 8900www.city-sightseeing.comStarting from Newcastle's CentralStation, the open-topped tour busnow has two different routesaround NewcastleGatesheadtaking in the major landmarksincluding: Grey’s Monument,BALTIC, the Tyne Bridge, Ouseburnand St James' Park.

ToursMake the most of your stay in Tyne & Wear. Find out moreabout our history, heritage, architecture and culture. There’san informative programme of tours around the region onfoot, by bus and even by boat.

� TAXI TOURSNewcastle City Tours are alicensed taxi and tour operator.Tours of NewcastleGateshead,Hadrian’s Wall, Durham Cathedral and the Castles ofNorthumberland can be arranged.Wheelchair access vehicles also available. For more information contact:07780 958 679www.newcastlecitytours.co.uk

� RIVER ESCAPESEscape the hustle and bustle ofthe city to a place where you cantake in NewcastleGateshead'sfinest and most famous riversidescenery. The Quay to Sea cruise

from Gateshead MillenniumBridge downriver to the mouth ofthe Tyne accompanied by afascinating commentary by one of our knowledgeable guides. TheQuayside to Countryside cruiseto Ryton Willows takes in the bestcity and country views, headingup river, accompanied by anexperienced guide. Scheduled cruises runthroughout the year. Check the website for details. For more information: 01670 785666www.riverescapes.co.uk

� WALKING TOURS There’s a series of entertaining andinformative City Walking Toursaround NewcastleGateshead. ATaste of Newcastle covers the bestof the city from Monument toquayside in about an hour. Othertours include Nasty Newcastle,Armstrong’s Garden and GeordieGentlemen and run throughout thesummer. Pick up a guide from theTourist Information Centre atMarket Street. Walks begin atGrey’s Monument and cost just £3.

A day

If you are in Newcastle city centretake a stroll around GraingerTown, the historic centre whosestreets radiate away from Grey’sMonument. Take time to explorethe shops and boutiques. Visit thebeautiful tiled Edwardian CentralArcade and browseNorthumberland Street, EldonSquare, Monument Mall andEldon Garden, the main shoppingareas. Don’t miss Marks andSpencer’s Original Penny Bazaar in Newcastle’s 1830’sGrainger Market.Visit the brand new £26millionGreat North Museum. Threeexisting collections have beenbrought together in one stunningbuilding to celebrate the region’sglorious natural and human history.

For the lessenergetic,you can seethe sightsfrom thecomfort ofthe opentop deck ofthe big red

CitySightseeing bus. Hop on andoff at your leisure.Stop for lunch at one of the manycafé bars and restaurants. Look outfor the Café Royal’s grand, neoclassical façade on Nelson Street.Weary shoppers in need ofrefreshment, city sophisticates andfriends who enjoy a gossip all flockhere. Or why not try Pani’s a stylishcafé/restaurant on High Bridge runby a Sardinian family?On the quayside, look out for themany interesting public artinstallations. Walk across the award-winning Gateshead MillenniumBridge (at night the lighting isspectacular) to Baltic Square. Amust-see is BALTIC Centre forContemporary Art. Entry is freeand it has an ever-changingprogramme of cutting-edgeexhibitions and some spectacularviews over the River Tyne.Stroll through The Sage Gateshead,a Lord Norman Foster-designed

building and an international homefor music. Buy a ticket for one of itsmany international concerts. Asyou walk up towards GatesheadInterchange, don’t miss the publicart en-route. Acceleration by JohnCreed opposite the grand Old TownHall complements the industrialheritage of the area.Further upriver on theQEII Metrobridge, you cansee Nocturne,the biggest lightartwork inBritain, creatinga permanentkaleidoscope ofcolour over the River Tyne each night.To complete your day take theMetro to the coast. Get off atCullercoats and enjoy a walk alongthe seafront to Tynemouth, apretty village with limestone cliffswhich provide the perfect settingfor the ruins of Tynemouth Priory.Finish off your day on NorthShields Fish Quay with thefreshest fish and chips you’re everlikely to have. Afterwards, walk upto Tynemouh Village and enjoy thegreat nightlife.

A weekend

DAY 1For visitors to Sunderland, a visit tothe National GlassCentre is a must.Explore ways ofglass-making andsee cutting-edgeexamples of theglassmakers’ art.Are you braveenough to standon the glass-roofed building?Then head across the river toSunderland Museum and WinterGardens with its exotic plants andferns from around the world. Ahighlight is the treetop walk whichencircles a water sculpture by

internationally renowned artistWilliam Pye.Take a stroll along the RiversideSculpture Trail, suitable for bothpedestrians and cyclists. It offers apromenade of speciallycommissioned artworks in metaland stone that reflect the city’shistory and heritage.Stay for lunch in Sunderland, thecity by the sea. In Sunniside youwill find a number of restaurantsand eateries, before heading alongthe coast towards Whitburn to visitSouter Lighthouse, the world’sfirst electrically poweredlighthouse.From here head to South Shieldswith its fantasticcoastline that’sjust perfect forfamily fun.Littlehavenbeach lies at themouth of theTyne and offerswonderful viewsof the harbour.Excitement and thrills can beenjoyed at Ocean Beach PleasurePark. There’s an exhilarating choiceof white-knuckle thrills, rides foryounger children plus amusementsand video games.Discover one of the most excitingperiods of history at Arbeia RomanFort. The excavated remains of the Fort, which once guarded the entrance to the Tyne, provide a fascinating picture of life inRoman Britain.In the evening, why not take a strollalong legendary Ocean Road inSouth Shields. Here you’ll betempted by an array of superbplaces to eat. There are Italian andChinese establishments plus award-winning Colmans fish and chips,but the number and quality ofIndian restaurants on Ocean Roadis breathtaking! If you want tocontinue into the early hours, takeyour pick of the great nightlife tobe found at the coast.

DAY 2Head to Newcastle city centre. NearGrey’s Monument is the Laing ArtGallery, renowned for its leadingPre-Raphaelite art and stunningtouring exhibitions. Like mostattractions here entry is free.

Outside the gallery is the BlueCarpet by Thomas Heatherwick,created by blue tiles laid across thesquare. Look out for the corner ofthe carpet creeping up the wall ofthe gallery.

You’ll notice public artworks onalmost every street corner fromimposing, large-scale works tosmall pieces which have surprisedand delighted countless visitors.

If you’d prefer to rest your legs,hop on board a River Escapescruise. Sit back, relax and enjoy thechanging sights ofNewcastleGateshead, NorthTyneside and South Tyneside fromthe best vantage point of all – the

river itself!

Head for Chinatown’sStowell Street for anarray of greatrestaurants, or wanderround Dean Street wherethere’s a good choice forevery budget. Forentertainment you’respoiled for choice. The

recently refurbished Theatre Royalis fantastic for dance, music, WestEnd hits and contemporary works.Live Theatre is ideal for newwriting in an intimate atmosphere,whilst Northern Stage is thelargest producing theatre companyin the North East England.Alternatively try one of the many livemusic venues throughout the city.

DAY 3Have a leisurely breakfast thenunwind with a walk along all or partof the Red Kite Trail throughGateshead’s Derwent Valley. Thestar of the walk is the Red Kite, amagnificent bird of prey with a two-metre wingspan. Reintroducedin 2004 after a 170-year absence,they can be seen at vantage pointsalong this trail. It’s a varied walkacross woodland, farmland andrailway viaducts, with a richness of fauna and flora, includingkingfishers and otters.

Before going home enjoy a Sunday lunch. Stop off at the Angel View Inn and finish your visit by admiring Antony Gormley’sworld-famous sculpture, the Angelof the North.

ITINERARIESFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

ItinerariesWith so much to see and do, you’ll wonder how you will fit it allin. Here are a couple of itineraries to help you plan your stay.

Littlehaven beach

National Glass Centre

Tynemouth Priory


Great North Museum

NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD MAPFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

Official Pocket Guide 5150 Official Pocket Guide

We take our shopping very seriously! NewcastleGatesheadand Sunderland offer a great dose of retail therapy, fromstylish independent boutiques and major high street namesto colourful markets.

South Shields, Whitley Bay and Tynemouth offer a differentexperience by combining sand, sea and shopping. Here you’llfind classy independent boutiques, specialist shops forthose hard-to-find items and gift shops galore for souvenirsand trinkets. And all against a backdrop of unspoilt beachesand stunning coastline.

Shopping centres

� ELDON SQUARE C2 Newcastle, 0191 261 1891www.eldon-square.co.uk

Monument Q2: Monument Eldon Square is the focus ofshopping and dining in the citycentre, with 156 outlets, includingJohn Lewis, Fenwick and Marks &Spencer department stores. With

the leading names in fashion, greatdining opportunities, the Greenmarket at High Friars and splendidnew Bus Station, offeringcomfortable transport links fromaround the region. Open: Mon-Sat9am-6pm (Thurs until 8pm),Sunday 11am-5pm.

� ELDON GARDEN B2Newcastle, 0191 261 0117

Haymarket Q2: Haymarket Linked to Eldon Square is EldonGarden Shopping Centre, offering aneclectic mix of quality independentsand individual high street chainswithin a unique environment. Thecentre’s retailers provide a showcaseof accessories, jewellery, gifts andinternational fashion brandsenhanced by renowned hair andbeauty salons along with qualityeateries for the discerningpurchaser. Open: 7 days per week(late night Thurs until 8pm).

Shopping

52 NewcastleGateshead South Tyneside SunderlandNorth Tyneside

SHOPPINGFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

53Official Pocket Guide


� METROCENTREGateshead, 0191 493 0219www.metrocentre.uk.comMetroCentre is the largest shoppingand leisure centre in Europe and forthe second time running has beenvoted the No. 1 shopping centre inthe UK.The Centre offers a not-to-be-missed shopping experience withhigh street and department storesalongside speciality shops inatmospheric themed malls.

Whether your choice is seriousshopping or just a day out, there‘s atreat in store for all the family.The Centre also offers superbleisure attractions including aneleven screen cinema and over 50places to dine. Travel: located on the A1(M), 10minutes from Newcastle city centreby car with free parking. There isalso a bus service runningfrequently from Central Station andNewcastle city centre, the No. 100.and from Gateshead Interchangethe No. X66. Open: Mon-Fri 10am-9pm; Sat 9am-7pm; Sun 11am-5pm;Bank Hols 10am-6pm.

� MONUMENT MALL C3 Newcastle, 0191 233 2323

Monument Q2: Monument Situated on the corner ofNorthumberland Street andBlackett Street, this four storeyshopping centre has a host ofretailers, as well as a food courtthat caters for all tastes. MonumentMall is easily accessible, particularlyby Metro. Just hop off the Metroat Monument and jump straight into the Mall. Open: Mon to Sat9am–6pm (Thurs until 8pm); Sun 11am–5pm

� ROYAL QUAYS Off A19 (next to InternationalFerry Terminal), North Shieldswww.royalquaysoutletcentre.co.uk 0191 296 3743 Royal Quays is an excellent outletcentre situated about 10 mileseast of Newcastle and so handyfor the coast. It has some of thebiggest brands on the high street– all offering up to 60% offrecommended retail prices everysingle day. If you love shopping,you‘ll enjoy browsing in theirhuge range of stores. Open: Mon-

Fri 9.30am-5.30pm (Thurs 8pm);Sat 9am-6pm; Sun 10.30am-5pm.

� THE BRIDGES Upper Market Square, Sunderland, 0191 510 8581www.thebridges-shopping.comThe Bridges Shopping Centre,Sunderland is one of the North ofEngland’s largest shopping centreswith over 100 shops, 1,300 carparking spaces and a 107,000 sq ftDebenhams department store. TheBridges is located in the heart ofSunderland city centre and is easilyaccessible by car, bus, train andMetro. Open seven days a week;Mon to Sat 9am-5.30pm and Sunand Bank Hols 11am-5pm.

� THE GALLERIES Washington, 0191 416 7177www.gallerieswashington.co.uk

The Galleries Shopping centresituated in Washington has agreat range of stores; whateveryou are looking for the Gallerieshas it all.With over 200 shops and aselection of smaller stalls situatedthroughout the malls, it caters for all tastes. Open: Mon- Sat9am-5.30pm, Sun & Bank Hols10am-4pm.

Shopping areas

� NORTHUMBERLAND STREET C2

Haymarket/Monument Q2: Haymarket/Monument

Northumberland Street is beautifullypedestrianised so no traffic caninterrupt your shopping. It’s theNewcastleGateshead equivalent ofOxford Street in London and ispacked with all the big names.

Standing proud in the centre ofNorthumberland St is Fenwickwhich opened in 1882. Famed forits Christmas window displays,



Fenwick is particularly good fordesigner wear, with men andwomen both amply catered for. Infact, it has the UK’s largest HugoBoss concession. Close by is JohnLewis, formerly known asBainbridges, a much-lovedNewcastle institution which datesback to 1838.

� GRAINGER TOWN C3/C4Monument Q2: Monument

Newcastle’s redeveloped andstylish Grainger Town now has anenviable reputation as the place toshop. With a great selection of highstreet names sitting comfortablynext to smaller independent andspecialist shops, it’s a shoppingmagnet for fashionistas.

And when you need to sit downand recharge your batteries, you’llfind some of the best coffee shopsand cafés. The Central Arcade builtin 1837 is well worth a visit. Notonly does it have an excellentselection of specialist shops, it hasa stunning glass barrel-vaulted roofand glorious tile work to admire.

� HIGH BRIDGE C3Monument Q2: Monument

High Bridge twists from the BiggMarket across Grey Street up toPilgrim Street and is a fascinatinghub of independent shops, cafés,galleries and traders. Here youcan also grab a coffee, a pint, atattoo or a haircut at thelegendary Henry’s which hasbeen styling the men ofNewcastleGateshead since 1954.

� PINK LANE B4Central Station Q1: Central Station

Winding down to Central Station,Pink Lane and its neighbouringstreets Westgate Road, ClaytonStreet and Grainger Street boast a real cross-section of businessesand shops. Interspersed betweensolicitors, web designers,hairdressers and some great bars,you’ll find fantastic vintageclothing at Flip, hard-to-find CDsand vinyl at Roots or alt vinyl andreal funky clothes and artworks atElectrik Sheep.

� JESMOND

Jesmond/West Jesmond

Jesmond is a leafy suburb just northof Newcastle city centre. It’s packedwith designer boutiques, the finest

antique shops, excellent cafés andrestaurants and stylish bars. Take astroll around its fashionableshopping streets such as ClaytonRoad, Brentwood Avenue andAcorn Road and you’ll see why it issuch a flourishing destination formany. If you are into antiques, headfor Fern Avenue. Here, acommunity of experts andspecialists have a vast range offurniture, clocks, ceramics,jewellery, architectural salvage andmuch more.

� TYNEMOUTH VILLAGE

Tynemouth

This picturesque seaside village is amust for visitors. Its relaxed caféculture atmosphere is perfect forwindow shopping, browsing theantique shops or having a coffeeand cake. The nearby Metro stationand former Victorian railwaystation, first opened in 1882, has afantastic market every weekend.

� SUNNISIDEPark Lane

Millions of pounds are beinginvested in Sunniside, breathingnew life into its historic streets andrestoring the area to its formerglory. Home to 160 listed buildingsand boasting stunning new £2million gardens, this beautiful cityquarter is now bustling with newbusinesses including a number ofstored specialising in designerfashion labels and trendy interiors.

� NATIONAL GLASS CENTRELiberty Way, Sunderland

St Peter’s At the National Glass Centre, ashop sells the best UK glasswareand jewellery plus you can alsobuy hand-made glassworkcreated in the Centre's own hotglass studio. See page 32 fordetails.

� THE BARBOUR FACTORY Monks Way, South Shields, 0191 455 4444 www.barbour.com

Bede

World-famous Barbour Clothinghas been made in the region forover 100 years and for those wholove the great outdoors, theBarbour factory shop is a must.

]4 zFREE


SPORT & LEISURESHOPPING

Markets

� GRAINGER MARKET C3 Monument Q2: Monument

This covered, city centre market isa piece of real Newcastle history. Itwas the largest in Europe whenfirst built in the 1830s. Now a GradeI listed building, there are plenty ofstalls with fresh produce from awide range of butchers,greengrocers and fishmongers.Hidden within is the unique ‘Marks& Spencer Original Penny Bazaar’,the world's smallest Marks &Spencer store. There are also stallsselling books, CDs, clothes andshoes, cards, house and gardenplants and specialist coffee andfood. There's also an arts and craft market held here on the 2ndSaturday of each month. Open:Mon and Wed 9am-5pm, Tue,Thurs, Fri and Sat 9am-5.30pm.

� NEWCASTLE QUAYSIDEMARKET D5/E4


Don't miss the exciting, new-lookQuayside Market, every Sunday9.30am-4pm. You'll find a range of traditional stalls as well asartists, designers, jewellers, foodproducers, photographers andceramic artists. It’s well worth a visit for the bargains, the views, the Quayside cafés - and it’s a great way to blow away the cobwebs.

� JESMOND DENE MARKET Jesmond

The Armstrong Bridge arts andcrafts market is a great place tospend a Sunday afternoon. TheArmstrong Bridge market hasbeen held every Sunday at theCradlewell end of Jesmond Denesince 1963.

A myriad of traders selling artsand crafts produced locally sellitems as diverse as leather goods, contemporary art, mirrors,cards, sculpture, knitwear andframed prints of local scenes.Open: Every Sun 10am-4pm.

� SOUTH SHIELDS MARKET

South Shields

South Shields Market is the focalpoint for the town centre andattracts thousands of visitors andbargain hunters from near and far.Each week it is alive with the buzzof shoppers and the banter ofstallholders. It is one of the oldestand most popular markets in theNorth East and is held in atraditional square with the 18thcentury old Town Hall at its heart.Markets are held on the followingdays between 10am and 4pm:Monday: Traditional, Friday: Fleaand Saturday: Traditional.

� TYNEMOUTH MARKET

Tynemouth

Take the Metro to the coast, jumpoff at Tynemouth and you’rethere! Every weekend thisrestored Victorian station comesto life with the hustle and bustleof bargain hunters. Beneath theglass and wrought iron canopiesof this beautiful listed building,you’ll discover plenty of stallsweighed down with temptinggoodies. On Saturdays, search forantiques, bric a brac and bookswhile on Sundays the focuschanges to crafts, household andpractical items. Every thirdSaturday of the month, themarket is joined by local farmersselling their wares. Open: Sat/Sun9am–4pm. ’

Farmers’ Markets

Locally produced meat, cheese,crafts, bread, preserves andcondiments can be found atexcellent farmers' & countrymarkets across the region.

Try the farmers’ market held onthe first Friday of each month onGrainger Street, next to Grey’sMonument in the centre ofNewcastle. 9.30am–2.30pm.

� ADVENTURE SUNDERLANDSunderland Marina, Sunderland,0191 514 4721 www.marineactivitiescentre.co.uk

St Peter’s (Short walk)Adventure Sunderland isSunderlands’ new £1mWatersports Centre overlookingRoker beach. Operated by thecharity The Marine ActivitiesCentre; its objective is to provideaccess to outdoor activities to allsections of the community.

� BROUGH PARK STADIUM Fossway, Newcastle 0191 210 5300

Chillingham Rd www.broughparkdogs.co.ukwww.newcastlespeedway.netBrough Park hosts bothgreyhound racing and speedwayand has gained an enviablereputation for excelling in both.

� CITY POOL D1 Northumberland Road, Newcastle, 0191 277 1844 www.newcastle.gov.uk

Haymarket Q2: Haymarket In addition to the swimming pool,City Pool also boasts a greatselection of gym equipment and is the perfect place for all-round training.

� CLIMB NEWCASTLEShipley Place,Newcastle, 0191 276 2174 www.climbnewcastle.com

BykerGet a grip at Newcastle's dedicatedindoor climbing centre in Byker,close to the city centre. ClimbNewcastle offers climbing for kidsand adults of all abilities. With over200 climbs and three floors offacilities with dedicated areas for

kids, coaching and training as well as a shop and cafe lounge. Open: 12noon-10pm weekdays,9am-8pm Weekends.

� FORMULA ONE INDOORKARTINGForge Road, Dunston, 08712 20 5050 www.f1k.co.uk

Experience the thrill andexcitement of high-speed kartingaction whether you‘re looking forprofessional kart racing or a funactivity with children.

� GATESHEADINTERNATIONAL STADIUMNeilson Road, Gateshead, 0191 433 5700www.gateshead.gov.uk

Gateshead Stadium Gateshead International Stadiumis a first-rate sports centre with awide range of facilities, bothindoor and outdoor, which areaccessible to all. It also hostsmajor international athletics.

� GATESHEAD THUNDER Gateshead International Stadium,Neilson Road, Gateshead, 0191 433 5701 www.thunder-rlfc.co.uk

Gateshead Stadium Gateshead Thunder is the NorthEast‘s only professional RugbyLeague club and they play theirhome fixtures at the GatesheadInternational Stadium.

� NEWCASTLE EAGLESBASKETBALL TEAM A6 Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle, 0191 245 3880 www.newcastle-eagles.com


The Eagles are officially the mostsuccessful professional sportsteam in the North East. Theseason runs from September toMay with home games on Fridaynights at the Newcastle MetroRadio Arena.

� NEWCASTLE FALCONSKingston Park, Brunton Road,Kenton Bank Foot, Newcastle,0191 214 5588

Alan Bennington

Sport & LeisureThe people of Tyne & Wear work hard and play hard! Withtheir proud sporting heritage, it’s no surprise that there is a host of sporting facilities and venues to enjoy.


www.newcastle-falcons.co.uk Kingston Park

Home to Jonny Wilkinson, theNewcastle Falcons are the city‘slocal Rugby Union heroes andtheir Kingston Park ground offersgreat facilities.

� NEWCASTLE RACECOURSE High Gosforth Park, Newcastle, 0191 236 2020 www.newcastle-racecourse.co.ukSet in the 812-acre High GosforthPark Estate, NewcastleRacecourse is located just threemiles north of the city centre.Home to around 30 race meetingseach year, some of the highlightsinclude the Northumberland Platethree-day festival, BeeswingLadies Day and Bank HolidayFamily Fun Day.

� NEWCASTLE VIPERS A6 Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle, 0191 242 2420 www.vipershockey.co.uk


Formed in the summer of 2002, theVipers play in the elite Ice HockeyLeague at Metro Radio Arena.

� NEWCASTLE UNITEDFOOTBALL CLUB A2 St James‘ Park, Newcastle, 0844 372 1892, www.nufc.co.uk

St James Q2: Haymarket It has often been said thatfootball is a religion in the NorthEast, and St James’ Park, with acapacity of 52,193, is where thepassionate followers of NewcastleUnited, the ‘Toon Army’, come toworship! See page 33 for detailsabout tours of the stadium.

� SILKSWORTH SPORTSCOMPLEX & SKI SLOPESilksworth Lane, Sunderland, 0191 553 5793 www.sunderland.gov.uk/leisureThe 165m floodlit dry slope isavailable for skiers andsnowboarders, with courses andprivate lessons to help you findyour feet. The two nursery slopesare perfect for those wanting tolearn the basics and next dooryou will also find SunderlandTennis Centre.

� SUNDERLAND AQUATICCENTRE Sunderland, 0191 561 6161 www.sunderland.gov.uk/aquaticcentre

Stadium of LightThe recently opened AquaticCentre is a spectacular 50m pooland the only facility of its typebetween Leeds and Edinburgh. Ithas something for everyone, frombeginners to young athletes andthose who just want to have asplashing good time.

� SUNDERLAND ASSOCIATIONFOOTBALL CLUBThe Stadium of Light, Sunderland, 0871 911 1200 www.safc.com

Stadium of LightThe stadium opened in July 1997.Its design drew inspiration fromSunderland's proud industrialheritage in glass-making,shipbuilding and coal-mining.With its bowl-shaped lower deckand a second tier over the Westand North stands, it has acapacity of 49,000. See page 34for details about tours of thestadium.

� TEMPLE PARK CENTRE John Reid Road, South Shields, 0191 456 9119

South ShieldsTemple Park Centre is one of thelargest and most popular leisurecentres in South Tyneside withfabulous facilities and anextensive range of activities tosuit everyone. From the leisurepool to exercise classes to healthand beauty treatments tochildren’s fun time! Temple ParkSkatepark! is the latest attractionand comprises of a 3ft bowl and adriveway with ledge. Thisconcourse is wide, clean and fastand a must for all skaters,boarders and riders!

� THE TETLEY’SSUNDERLAND STADIUM Newcastle Road, Sunderland,0191 568 6200 www.sunderlanddogs.com Enjoy family-friendly livegreyhound racing everyWednesday, Friday and Saturday evening.

� SUNDERLAND WALLDoxford Works, Sunderland, 0191 514 4234www.sunderlandwall.co.uk

PallionSunderland Wall on the southbank of the River Wear is a

phenomenal 23 metres high.Never before has a climbing wallbeen able to offer such a gobsmacking, jaw droppingexperience. Open: Mon-Fri 10am-10pm, Sat-Sun 10am-8pm.

� WET ‘N’ WILD Rotary Way, Royal Quays,0191 296 1333 www.wetnwild.co.uk

Meadow WellEurope’s largest and mostexciting indoor waterpark. Tenfast and furious slides includingthe Abyss and Black Hole andmany more. Open: all year exceptMon & Tues outside summer andschool/Bank Hols.

� WHICKHAM THORNSOUTDOOR ACTIVITY CENTREMarket Lane, Dunston, 0191 433 5767 www.gateshead.gov.uk A unique leisure complex whichprovides opportunities for groupsand individuals to participate in arange of exciting outdooractivities including skiing,snowboarding, rock climbing,archery and mountain biking.

Surf shops

Tynemouth beach is asurfer’s paradise all yearround. If you want to lookthe part, get yourself alonghere and get kitted out.

� TYNEMOUTH SURF COUnit 1 Palace Buildings, GrandParade, Tynemouth, 0191 258 2496www.tynemouthsurf.co.uk

� RUBBER SOUL19 Front Street, Tynemouth,0191 257 5032www.rubbersoulsurfing.co.uk


SPORT & LEISUREFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

FAMILY FUNFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

You’ll find loads of family-friendly attractions in Tyne &Wear. Take a thrilling white-knuckle ride or a journey back intime, discover our fascinating industrial heritage or get backto nature in the great outdoors. Whatever you choose, it’sguaranteed to keep the whole family happy.

� SOUTER LIGHTHOUSECoast Rd, Whitburn How do you fancy being alighthouse keeper? Climb to the topof the tower and enjoy theoutstanding views. Explore theEngine Room, the keeper’s cottage,enjoy games and learn about life atsea. See page 34 for details.

� BEDE’S WORLDChurch Bank, Jarrow

JarrowAt the Anglo-Saxon farm, childrencan see animals like thoseVenerable Bede might have seen at the monastery farm, exploreinteractive displays and even dress up as monks! See page 29 for details.

� OCEAN BEACH PLEASURE PARKSea Road, South Shields, 0191 456 1617

South Shields There is an exciting choice of white-knuckle thrillers, colourful andimaginative rides for youngerchildren, plus amusements andvideo games galore. See page 34for details.

� ST MARY’S LIGHTHOUSESt Mary’s Island, Whitley Bay, 0191 200 8650

www.visitnorthtyneside.comClimb the 137 steps to the top of thelighthouse for spectacular views.The surrounding nature reservecontains an area of rock pools, clifftop grassland, a beach and awetland habitat. See page 34 fordetails.

� SEGEDUNUM ROMAN FORTAND MUSEUMBuddle Street,

WallsendFor over 300 years, Segedunumwas home to 600 Roman soldiers.Today, you can see the excavatedfort and the reconstructed bathhouse from the top of a spectacular35 metre viewing tower. There areoften great exhibitions and eventstaking place and you may evenmeet Maximus, the Roman soldier!See page 37 for details.

� RISING SUN COUNTRY PARKWhitley Road, 0191 200 7841The Rising Sun Country Park is a400 acre natural oasis set in theheart of North Tyneside with anorganic farm, nature reserve,countryside centre, ponds,woodlands and extensive areas ofgrasslands – and just the place for arelaxing day. See page 23 for details.

� CHILDHOOD MEMORIES TOY MUSEUM Grand Parade, TynemouthThis is the museum that is loved bykids from 2 to 102! You’ll see around8,000 toys on display dating fromthe 1890s to the 1980s includingclockwork and mechanical toys,dolls and prams, cars and puzzles –all manner of childhood memorabilia.See page 30 for details.

� BLUE REEF AQUARIUM Grand Parade, TynemouthA great aquarium on the sea frontwith 30 living displays featuringamazing aquatic life. See page 30for details.

� DOWN AT THE FARMStoneygate, Houghton le Spring,0191 584 1873www.downatthefarm.co.ukA farm experience for the wholefamily with many rare breedanimals – distinctive for theirappearance and lovable nature,along with many familiar farmanimals. Coffee shop on site.

� DUNES ADVENTUREISLANDSea Road, South Shields,0191 455 5255www.dunesadventureisland.co.uk

South Shields This is a brand new leisuredevelopment for all the family, withten pin bowling, a giant children’splay area and a range of cateringestablishments all with stunningviews across the Tyne. See page 34for details.� WASHINGTON WETLANDCENTRE Pattinson, WashingtonThis conservation site, with 45hectares of wetland, woodland andwildlife reserve is home to exoticwildfowl, beautiful flora andwoodland birds. Visit the lakesidehides, birdfeeding stations,sustainable garden, picnic area andcafé. See page 35 for details.

� MONKWEARMOUTH STATIONMUSEUMNorth Bridge Street, Sunderland

St Peter’s Housed in an original 1840’s stationbuilding with new interactivegalleries, it makes the history oftravel and transport in our regionfun and exciting. See page 38 for details.

� TANFIELD RAILWAYSunniside to Stanley RoadRide in Victorian carriages pulledby steam trains along a line built in

1725. The line skirts Causey Arch,the world’s oldest surviving railwaybridge, and features a workingengine shed where the loco fleet ismaintained. There are often specialevents taking place. See page 35for details.

� CHOPWELL WOODLAND PARKHigh Spen, Chopwell, Gateshead,Chopwell Woodland Park is abeautiful woodland and one of theUK’s rarest habitats. There are somany mammals here for you to tryand spot including badger, fox, roedeer and otter plus 95 species ofbirds! With tranquil woodland walksand a regular events programme,it’s the perfect place for family fun.See page 22 for details.

� SEVEN STORIES, THECENTRE FOR CHILDREN‘SBOOKS G330 Lime Street, Ouseburn Valley,Newcastle

Britain‘s first ever centre dedicatedto children‘s books is a great dayout for the whole family. SevenStories is where our rich heritageof children’s books is collected,explored and celebrated. Magicalwords and pictures inspireinteractive exhibitions, creativeactivities and spectacular events.See page 37 for details.

� LIFE SCIENCE CENTRE A5 Times Square, Newcastle,The Centre for Life is a familyscience centre full of hands onactivities and exhibitions that reallybring science to life. The kids canexplore the stars or experience animmersive audiovisual film in TheDome, see live sciencedemonstrations in the Life Theatreand enjoy the thrills of the MotionRide. See page 32 for details.

� SUNDERLAND MUSEUM & WINTER GARDENS Burdon Way, Sunderland A stunning visitor attraction in theheart of Sunderland city centre.With its combination of a museum,art gallery, exhibition space andWinter Gardens, it is a perfect placefor the whole family to enjoy a greatday out. See page 38 for details.

Family Fun


RESTAURANTS & CAFÉSFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

6564

You’ll find the locals love to experiment and take all types of cuisine to their hearts and stomachs – so you’ll never beshort of choice. Wherever possible, our resident army of chefs and restauranteurs think local so you can eat local.

Welcome to

All make full use of the deliciousingredients to be found in thefields, rivers, sea, forests andvillages of Tyne & Wear and thebordering counties ofNorthumberland and Durham.Fish direct from the North ShieldsFish Quay or Lindisfarne Oystersand Craster Kippers from furtherup the coast. Local cheeses andhoney. Superb lamb that grazes onthe heather and wild grasses. Andwho can resist Beckleberry’s multi

award-winning, fresh cream icecream, real fruit sorbets and hand-made desserts and patisserie!Whatever you’re looking for,traditional fare, exotic dishes fromacross the globe or a scrummysnack at a pavement café while you watch the world go by, you’llfind it here and it’s all great value.We’d love to be able to list all ourfavourites but space doesn’t allow!Check out this small selection offantastic places to eat. Enjoy!

Visit the website for full detailswww.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

� ESLINGTON VILLA8 Station Road, Low Fell, Gateshead, 0191 487 6017An oasis of calm in a family run,country house style restaurant justa short taxi ride from theNewcastleGateshead quayside. ££

� THE GRAINGER ROOMS D27 Higham Place, Newcastle, 0191 232 4949

Monument Q1+2: Theatre RoyalA chic restaurant serving upsimple, seasonal food prepared bychef-of-the-moment ChrisSlaughter. The menu supports localfarmers, fishermen andmicrobrewers. ££

� LUI’S WINE BAR AND BISTRO69a Front Street, Tynemouth,0191 257 7257

TynemouthThe best of British makes friendswith Spanish tapas. Sit outsidewhen the sun shines. ££

� CAFE BLACK DOORThe Magnesia Bank, 1 Camden St,North Shields, 0191 257 4831

North ShieldsThe perfect neighbourhood bistroserving great local food and wineat superb prices close to NorthShields Fish Quay. ££

� BAYS BISTRO183 Park View, Whitley Bay, 0191 251 3567

Whitley BayA British menu with worldwideinfluences combining ingredientsfrom the continent and theMediterranean with a modern styleof Bistro cooking. ££

� SIDNEY’S RESTAURANT3-5 Percy Park Road, Tynemouth,0191 257 8500

Tynemouth Award-winning restaurantspecialising in seafood dishes usingthe best local ingredients. ££

� EAUZONE 24-26 Norfolk Street, Sunderland,0191 510 3189

SunderlandThe quality and selection of food issuperb with everything cooked freshlyon the premises. Wines are sourcedfrom all over the world to perfectlycomplement the excellent menu. ££

� D’ACQUA Basement, 26-28 John St,Sunderland, 0191 565 1988

Park LaneSituated in the basement of historic

Hawksley House, D’Acqua sourcesbeef from Northumberland, chickenfrom North Yorkshire and fish fromNorth Shields. Using the best produce,it creates a menu of European disheswith a North East twist. ££

� PAPRIKA46 Frederick St, Sunderland, 0191 564 0606

SunderlandOne of Sunderland’s gems. A winnerat the North East Food Awards 2009,it is situated in a basement on asmall cobbled street in the citycentre. Paprika boasts a small butfresh and exciting menu for lunchand dinner. £ (lunch) ££ (evening)

� THROWING STONES National Glass Centre, Sunderland,0191 565 3939

St Peter’sEnjoy the magnificent views of theriverside in stylish and modernsurroundings. The chefs useseasonal ingredients to createfreshly prepared food daily, offeringa wide range of delicious dishes. ££

Find out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

� BLACKFRIARS CAFÉ BAR B4Monk Street, Newcastle, 0191 261 5945

Monument/Central Station Q1+2: Theatre Royal

Traditional British cooking at itsbest using local, seasonal produceoften direct from local farms andmarkets, to serve up a real taste ofthe North East. Located in themonastery of the Blackfriar Monksbuilt in 1239, it is the oldest purpose-built dining room in the UK. ££

� BRASSERIE BLACK DOOR @THE BISCUIT FACTORY F216 Stoddard Street, 0191 260 5411

Manors This award-winning restaurant isone of the stars of the local culinaryscene with an emphasis on localproduce such as Warkworth porkand Northumberland venison. ££

� CAFÉ 21 E4Trinity Gardens, Quayside,Newcastle, 0191 222 0755

Manors Q2 Law CourtsSmart but not stuffy, Café 21 has anexcitement and warmth all of itsown. The food is big on flavour andshort on fussiness so fresh,seasonal ingredients are treatedwith flair and passion. £££

� PAN HAGGERTY D421 Queen Street, Quayside,Newcastle, 0191 221 0904

Central Station Q1+2: QuaysideNamed after a traditional localrecipe for a no-nonsense dish of

pan-fried layered potatoes andonions topped with cheese, theirfood is about enjoyment – dishesyour mum would be proud of. ££

� JESMOND DENE HOUSEHOTEL AND RESTAURANTJesmond Dene Road, Newcastle,0191 212 3000

Ilford Road (10 min walk)Located in a grand buildingoverlooking Jesmond Dene, thefood is straightforward,flavoursome and fresh, under theguiding hand of the region’sleading chef restauranteur, TerryLaybourne. £££

� SIX RESTAURANT F4BALTIC Centre for ContemporaryArt, Gateshead Quays, Gateshead,0191 440 4948

Gateshead Q1: BalticSix is the stunning new rooftoprestaurant at BALTIC combiningbreathtaking views with great food.Enjoy British modern cuisine with aregional twist, featuring regionalingredients simply cooked andserved in a relaxed setting. ££

� STARTERS & PUDS C32-6 Shakespeare Street, Newcastle,0191 233 2515

Monument Q1+2: Theatre RoyalAn exciting new concept in eating -the best of savoury and sweetcuisine. Enjoy an unhurried lunch, arelaxed afternoon bite, an earlyevening get-together or a night ofgood food and company. ££

Best of British

Seafood

With an abundance of freshfish landed at North East ports,you’ll find several excellentrestaurants to enjoy. Some ofour favourites include:

� MARSDEN GROTTOCoast Road, South Shields,0191 455 6060The Marsden Grotto must be the only restaurant and bar thatis located in a cave! Known tolocals simply as ‘The Grotto’, it issituated in the cliffs of thestunning coast at Marsden nearSouth Shields. £-££

� FISHERMANS LODGE,Jesmond Dene, 0191 281 3281

JesmondHidden in Jesmond Dene,Fisherman’s Lodge is one of thebest places to enjoy seafood.Booking is essential. £££

� LOCH FYNEHigh street, Gosforth, 0191 255 9320

Regent CentreTastefully located in a renovatedchurch in the centre of Gosforth,the spacious ground floor has aseafood counter, a large bar and a dining area looking onto theopen kitchen. ££

6766 Restaurant Pricing Guide: £ Low ££ Medium £££ HighNewcastleGateshead South Tyneside SunderlandNorth Tyneside

RESTAURANTS & CAFÉS


Chinese

� ORCHID C5Old Bonded Warehouse, The Close, Quayside, Newcastle, 0191 221 1388

Central StationA superb new restaurant by theCopthorne Hotel. ££

� THE IMPERIALRESTAURANT489, Durham Rd, Low Fell,Gateshead, 0191 491 5558A Cantonese restaurant thatcombines traditional dishes witha modern twist. ££

� TAVISTOCK THAI CHINA Roker Terrace, Roker, Sunderland,0191 567 0719 Oriental food with that extra bit ofauthenticity. The restaurantfeatures a cocktail bar and issituated on the Roker seafront. Anexquisite menu to satisfy yourcraving for this delicate cuisine. ££

Italian

� PICCOLINO E4Stockbridge House, Stockbridge,Newcastle, 0191 260 2912

Monument Q1+2: QuaysideInspired by a mix of traditionalcharm and contemporary buzz,Piccolino offers a prodigiousmenu of classic Italian dishes. ££

� ZIZZI C342-50, Grey St, Newcastle,0191 261 8360

Monument Q1+2: Grey StGreat location and a great choiceof pizza and pasta. ££

� SECCO RESTORANTESALENTINO C386, Pilgrim St, Newcastle,0191 230 0444


An award-winning three storyvenue specialising in fine dininginspired by the De Giorgi family’shome region of Salentino inPuglia. ££

� LA RIVIERA D5Pipewellgate, Gateshead,0191 477 7070

Central StationQ1+2: Quayside

Fabulous riverside location withterraces overlooking the RiverTyne. There’s no finer place on awarm summer night. ££

� SABATINI’S RISTORANTE D425 King Street, Quayside,Newcastle, 0191 261 4415

Monument Q1+2: QuaysideSet in a cosy yet modern setting,this family run business servesauthentic Italian food from expertItalian chefs. ££

� PACINO'S136, Ocean Rd, South Shields,0191 455 7999

South Shields Fine selection of Italianfavourites. £

� ESSY’S RESTAURANTSouth Pier, South Shields,0191 455 4477

South Shields Great seaside location and tastyfood. You couldn't wish for more! £

� BISTRO ROMANO63 Front Street, Cleadon, 0191 519 1747Popular upmarket bistro in apretty village setting. ££

� RISTORANTE BRAVI7 North Street, South Shields,0191 427 5400

South Shields Set in the heart of the bustlingresort town of South Shields, thispopular restaurant offers animpressive range ofMediterranean cuisine. £

� THE RATTLERSea Road, South Shields, 0191 455 6789

South Shields A modern and unique restaurantoverlooking the beautiful sandybeaches of South Shields. £

� IL FORNO Tynemouth Station, StationTerrace, 0191 258 3200

Tynemouth Superb pasta with pizzas cookedto order in an authentic open firepizza oven. Seafood dishes madefresh with fish from North Shields.££

� TUSCANY 10, East Parade, Whitley Bay,0191 253 3050

Whitley BaySituated right on the sea front,this mainy Italian restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere withmodern decor. ££

� ANGELO'S48, West Sunniside, Sunderland,0191 565 4888

Park LaneLocated in a restored Grade II listedbuilding in the historic Sunnisidearea, Angelo’s serves bothcontemporary Italian andinternational cuisine in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. ££

� AMORE11, Tavistock Place, Sunderland,0191 565 0077

Park LaneAn Italian restaurant with a modernflair. Contemporary fusion cuisinemade from fresh local ingredientsand served within tasteful, stylishsurroundings. ££

� COSA NOSTRA 39 Borough Road, Sunderland,0191 510 0080

SunderlandCosa Nostra is a private diningexperience with live lounge musicand exclusive supper club feel.Intimate and exquisite, offering thebest in Mediterranean fusioncuisine with elements of the Orient.££

ChinatownNewcastleGateshead’scolourful Chinatown is centredaround Stowell Street. As wellas an array of craft shops andspecialist supermarkets, you’llfind many superb Chineserestaurants.

� LANDMARK RESTAURANT & BAR B3Stowell St, Newcastle,0191 261 0882

St JamesTop notch Eastern cuisine in anultra-chic setting. ££

� KING NEPTUNE B334-36, Stowell St, Newcastle,0191 261 6657

St JamesSpecialising in Peking andSzechuan cuisine, it has wonnumerous Egon Ronay awards. ££

� SHANGRI LA B338-42, Stowell St, Newcastle, 0191 261 2289

St JamesA real hit with lovers ofCantonese and Peking cuisine. ££

Japanese & Thai

� FUJIYAMA A335 Bath Lane, Newcastle, 0191 221 0333

St JamesGreat food and a lively night out! ££

� WAGAMAMA C28 Eldon Square, Newcastle, 0191 233 0663

Monument Q1+2: Grey StExperienced noodlers know this isthe place to come! £

� YO SUSHI C2Ground Floor, Fenwick,Northumberland Street,Newcastle

Monument Q1+2: Grey StSuper cool eating experience withits conveyor belt design andhealthy menu. £

� THAI SIAM B316 Stowell StreetNewcastle, 0191 261 7960

St JamesSuperb food at the heart of StowellStreet. ££

� UTHONG THAI A433, St. James' BoulevardNewcastle, 0191 2619080

St JamesA first class menu created with flairand expertise. ££

� @ BANGKOK CAFE B439 Low Friar St, Newcastle,0191 260 2323

St JamesModelled on a typical Bangkok caféwhere the food and drink is veryaffordable. £

� HANAHANA A445 Bath Lane, Newcastle, 0191 222 0282

St JamesHanahana is a Teppan Yakirestaurant, where chefs intraditional robes cook your meal in front of you on hot plates. ££

� ORANGEGRASSMount Terrace, South Shields, 0191 455 8555

South ShieldsSet your taste buds alive at thispopular restaurant. £

� THAI MANOR 5 Foyle Street, Sunniside Gardens,Sunderland, 0191 567 6297

Park LaneA new Thai restaurant where dishesare prepared to the highest standard.Staff will ensure that you have anenjoyable lunch or dinner. ££



Vegetarian &

World Food

� BOB TROLLOP D432-40 Sandhill, 0191 261 1037


One of the less frenetic bars onthe Quayside, Bob Trollop havedeservedly won plenty of plauditsfor their food which includes anaward-winning vegetariancollection served all day. £

� BARN ASIA A4Waterloo Square, Newcastle,0191 281 7179

Central StationQ1+2: Central Station

Newcastle's first Pan-Asianrestaurant, 'Barn Asia' features allthings great from Cambodia,Vietnam and Thailand with an'English' inflection. With a highlyoriginal décor and al fresco diningavailable, this is an absolute mustfor the discerning diner. ££

� SKY APPLE CAFÉ182 Heaton Road, Heaton,0191 209 2571A short bus ride from the citycentre, you‘ll discover thiswonderful restaurant which hasan ever-changing menu that'sbeyond reproach. Successfullydispelling the notion ofvegetarian eating as a stodgy andgrey experience, the food is lightyet filling, nutritious and alwaysimaginative. £

� FLATBREAD CAFÉ C369-75 High Bridge Street,0844 736 6166 (option 1)


Flatbread Café serves a delectableselection of dishes and dipsinspired by North African andPersian cuisine using the freshestlocal ingredients. ££

� SCRUMPY WILLOW ANDTHE SINGING KETTLE B489 Clayton Street, Newcastle,0191 221 2323

Central StationServing a selection of locallysourced and organically grown food suitable for allincluding Vegan, Vegetarian and Meat Eaters. £

Spanish & Mexican

� EL COTO B221 Leazes Park Road,0191 261 0555

St James Q2: HaymarketA great tapas restaurant whichhas a cool, tastefully Spanishtheme and a lovely secluded littlecourtyard for al fresco dining.They also have an exclusive firstfloor restaurant where deliciousmeats are roasted on their wood-burning oven or flame grilled tosuit your taste. ££

� EL TORERO D4Milburn House, The Side, 0191 233 1122

Central Station Q1+2: Grey St

With simple décor and greatservice, El Torero is a winner.Authentic, home-cooked Spanishtapas and paellas, Spanish beersand wines served in a relaxed,informal atmosphere. £

� LA TASCA E4106 Quayside, 0191 230 4006

Central Station/Manors Q2: Law Courts

This large tapas bar is situatedalongside all the trendy quaysidebars and consequently can getpretty full, creating a wonderfullyboisterous atmosphere. ££

� LA VINA C442-50 Grey Street, 0191 260 3533

Monument Q1+2: Grey St

This basement tapas restaurant

set in an old bank vault reallydoes create an air of Spainthroughout, from the stone floorsto the colourful tiles. It serves upa wide selection of mouth-wateringdishes to the accompaniment ofgreat Spanish sounds. It alsoboasts its own ‘La Bodega’. ££

� THE SALSA CLUB B489-93 Westgate Road,0191 221 1022


This friendly and laid back tapasbar has been a Newcastle fixturefor almost a decade now and is asauthentic as they come. There’s awarm ambience and you canoften find DJs spinning some ofthe latest tunes. £

� EL CASTANO44 Osborne Road, Newcastle, 0191 281 9111

JesmondSituated on the ever-popularOsborne Road, El Castano offersyou a little piece of Spain in theheart of Jesmond. £

Fish & Chips

� KRISTIANS5-9 Union Quay, North Shields0191 258 5155

North ShieldsAt the heart of the Fish Quay,you can’t get much fresher thanthat! £

� MARSHALLSFront Street, Tynemouth0191 257 2435

TynemouthEat in the Fish Restaurant or takeaway and eat overlooking thestunning coastline. £

� COLMANS RESTAURANT182-186 Ocean Rd, South Shields0191 456 1202

South ShieldsTry Colmans, famous for fish andchips since 1926. They have astring of awards as long as yourarm – National Champions UKTVFood Heroes 2008, Winner BestUK Takeaway at the BBC Foodand Farming Awards 2007,recommended by BBC Good FoodMagazine. The list goes on! £

Everyone loves fish and chips and there are few placesbetter to enjoy this wonderful dish than by the mouth of the River Tyne. Try a delicious cod and chips whilst youwatch the fishing boats come and go.

North Shields Fish Quay



Ocean Road, South Shields

Ocean Road in South Shields has cult status across the countrythanks to the large concentration of Indian restaurants to be foundhere. There are also Italian and Chinese establishments here toobut the number and quality of Indian restaurants on Ocean Road ismind blowing! Here are just a few to choose from:

South Shields

Cafés

� BELLE & HERBS 200 Heaton Road, Heaton,0191 265 1000Just outside of Newcastle, here youwill enjoy tasty soups, door stoppersandwiches and hearty breakfasts. £

� BLAKE‘S COFFEE HOUSE C353 Grey Street, 0191 261 5463


Situated on the majestic sweep ofGrey Street, Blake‘s Coffee House isa favourite destination with a livelyatmosphere. £

� CAFÉ 8 E78 Regent Terrace, Gateshead, 0191 490 1705

GatesheadQ1: Gateshead

A Gateshead based sandwich andcoffee bar serving freshly preparedfood and superior coffee in anfriendly atmosphere. £

� CAFÉ ROYAL C38 Nelson St, 0191 231 3000


Behind its grand, neo-classicalfaçade is a chic interior where youcan truly indulge your taste buds. ££

� PANI‘S C361 High Bridge, 0191 232 4366


A stylish café/restaurant run by a Sardinian family with a menu including sandwiches, pasta and pizza. ££

� TYNESIDE COFFEE ROOMSC310 Pilgrim Street, Newcastle, 0191 261 9291


Situated at the Tyneside Cinemafor 70 years, its comfort food andfriendly service makes it a favouriteof Newcastle café life. You don’thave to see a film to visit either. £

� BIZ-R 99-101 High Street West,Sunderland, 0191 514 2828

SunderlandOne of the city’s best coffeeshops serving a range ofspeciality coffees plus homecooked and freshly prepared food.A place to indulge. £

� THE PLACE CAFÉ Athenaeum Street, Sunniside

SunderlandA stylish Italian/continental foodoutlet offering a variety of dishesfrom Italy, Spain, France, Greece,North Africa and of courseEngland. Try alfresco diningduring the day in its outsideseating area. £

� CRUSOE’S COFFEE HOUSE & BISTROLongsands Beach, Tynemouth, 0191 296 4152

TynemouthLocated right on the beach so the views – and the food - arefantastic! £

� MINCHELLA & CO11 Ocean Road, South Shields,0191 456 1905

South ShieldsAward-winning ice cream anddelicious snacks at this traditionalice cream parlour. £

� HILL HEAD TEA ROOMSLizard Lane, Whitburn, 0191 529 2076Situated in the Cleadon Hills nearSouth Shields, you’ll enjoytraditional home-baked food andfabulous views along the coastline. £

Ice Cream

� MINCHELLA & COThe Elevated Walkway, Sea Road,South Shields, 0191 454 6030A trip to the seaside wouldn't becomplete without a treat andtheir award-winning ice cream istruly outstanding. £

� RISIS ICES AND GELATOCAFFE BAR E431 Quayside, Newcastle, 0191 260 3355


With stunning views of the Quayside,enjoy a myriad of flavoured icecreams, coffee, soup, crépes,pastries, juices and paninis. ££

Indian

� THE LAST DAYS OF THERAJ RESTAURANT168, Kells Lane, Low Fell,Gateshead, 0191 482 6494A multi award-winner that’s been inthe top 30 Indian restaurants in theBest of Britain Awards for as longas most of us can remember! ££

� SAFFRON D427, Sandhill, Newcastle, 0191 230 5785


Contemporary cuisine in theheart of the Quayside. ££

� VUJON D429, Queen St, Newcastle, 0191 221 0601


Famed for its original cuisine, itremains one of the best in town. £

� RAVAL RESTAURANT & BAR E5Kent House, Church St,Gateshead, 0191 477 1700

GatesheadQ1: The Sage Gateshead

Challenges the stereotypical viewof Indian food – classic cuisinewith a contemporary twist. £££

� SACHINS B5Forth Banks, Newcastle, 0191 261 9035

Central StationSachins Restaurant offers thediscerning diner a uniqueopportunity to sample the veryfinest Punjabi foods in a freshand exciting environment. ££

� SPICE BOLLYWOOD 12 Low Street, Wylam Wharf,Sunderland, 0845 0178 411

Sunderland A totally authentic Indianrestaurant serving made-to-orderPunjabi cuisine. Immaculatelypresented, the food served islight and always made with freshlocal ingredients and definitelydeserves a visit. ££

� KESAR76-78 Church Way, North Shields,0191 259 5976

North ShieldsAward-winning cuisine and agreat takeaway. £

� GATE OF INDIAFront Street, Tynemouth,0191 258 3453

TynemouthFabulous Indian cuisine onTynemouth Front Street close tothe seafront and Priory. ££

� CAFÉ INDIA 200 Ocean Road, South Shields,0191 454 9898Offering modern décor andsuperb food, Café India is the ideal place to enjoy aromantic meal. £

� ZEERA206 Ocean Road, South Shields,0191 456 1811Contemporary design andtraditional flavours combinewith friendly service. £

� STAR OF INDIA TANDOORI194 Ocean Road, South Shields, 0191 456 2210This long established restaurantoffers an extensive menu andgreat value for money. £

� EMPRESS OF INDIA104 Ocean Road, South Shields, 0191 454 8882Traditional Indian character andflavours at reasonable prices. £

� PAPRIKA86 Ocean Road, South Shields, 0191 456 6098Paprika offers a wide range of impressive and creative Indian dishes. £


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BARS & PUBSFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

Bars & PubsOur nightlife is legendary.Whether it is a traditional pubor a more sophisticated latenight lounge, you’ll find it here.

Bars & Pubs in

Sunderland City CentreYour guaranteed a great night out with a

fantastic selection of bars.

� 1. PADDY WHACKSA modern Irish bar with live gigs,live sport and traditional drinksfrom the Emerald Isle.

� 2. GLASS SPIDEROffering different variations ofthemed nights from week to week the Spider has something for everyone.

� 3. VARSITYA great place to start your nightout, or watch live sport onSunderland’s biggest screen.

� 4. PULSEA secluded upstairs bar, Pulse playsindie, old-school dance and R’n’B, aswell as custom mash-ups and mixes.

� 5.RUSHA two-floor bar with an outdoorterrace and cosy atmosphere, witha great selection of drinks.

� 6. TTONICThis two-floor bar crams in a hotdancefloor upstairs and a calmingchillout spot on the ground floor.

� 7. THE BOROUGHLive gigs upstairs, and a great pub atmosphere downstairs. Thebest place for the alternative scene in Sunderland.

� 8 LUMAA sleek bar upstairs and a finerestaurant upstairs, Luma is a hitwith students and the local crowd.

� 9. THE POINTA club and three bars rolled intoone. Union as part of the family, isthe biggest nightclub around with acapacity of 1300.

� 10. CHASEChase strikes a fine balance withlive and loud DJs upstairs and arelaxing seated area downstairs.

� 11. OSLOA stylish bar and café in the centreof the main club circuit, Oslo servesgreat food during the day and agreat time at night!

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� 1. BOOM C490’s revival bar with greatmemorabilia and music.

� 2. THE ROSE & CROWN C4Local clientele mid week but BiggMarket regulars at weekends.

� 5. POP WORLD C4Great party atmosphereguaranteed.

� 6. BEE HIVE C4Smaller and cosier than most butstill great fun.

� 7. KISS C4Only open in the evenings, its loud music attracts a younger crowd.

� 8. LIQUID C4Get the party started here!

� 9. FLARES C4Relive the 70s with loads ofmemorabilia and plenty of music.

In the Gate

� BAR BANNATYNE B3An upmarket bar-restaurant withdecor heavily influenced byMorrocan-Mediterranean styling.Also offers great traditional food.

� PLAYERS B3A sports bar that claims to havethe largest ‘Big Screen’ inNewcastle. The Players All Starsmake sure the entertainmentnever flags.

� THE KEEL ROW B3Part of the Lloyds No 1 chain sothe emphasis is on great value.Attracts a mixed crowed ofcustomers.

� BEYOND BAR AND GRILLB3Great bar with chic décor, liveDJs, and a varied bar menu.

� OPERA B3Stylish piano bar and lounge witha great following.

� MOOD B3Entertainment is the key with topDJ’s, cover bands, themed nightsand great party vibe.

� HIDE B3Downstairs, is a stylish café barwith great music. Upstairs inHide’s Grill, the lights are low in arelaxed dining experience.

� 1. TIGER TIGER B3

Three floors, 6 bars, 2 dancefloors and a restaurant. Need wesay more?!

� 2. SAM JACKS B3An American style bar featuringthemed nights, live entertainmentand a wild bucking bronco!

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Bars & Pubs in

The Bigg MarketBars & Pubs in

The GateThe legendary Bigg Market is known the world over! Withtwenty pubs in this area alone, it is the place to go tocelebrate the start of the weekend. Put on your partyclothes and join in the fun. Here are just some to put onyour list. Remember – no jackets required!

The Gate is a multi-tiered complex packed with bars, cafesand restaurants, Aspers casino and 12 screen cinema. Withsome bars staying open until 3am, you are guaranteed agreat night out.

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� 3. CITY VAULTS C4Always busy with football fans,stags and hens.

� 4. REWIND C4Lively bars spread over 2 floorswith regular DJ sets.


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Upmarket & Stylish

Central Station AreaThe Central Station area boasts a large number of

watering holes from the sophisticated to the lively to thetraditional. Why not try these vibrant bars?

Lively Bars & Stunning Views

The QuaysideThe Quayside is legendary for stylish bars.

Check out this small selection.

� 1. THIRTY 3IGHT D4One of the classiest bars in town.Enjoy leather settees and greatmusic. Business crowd during theday but plenty of revellers at nights.

� 2. THE SLUG AND LETTUCE E4Right on the Quayside so a greatplace to take in the view as youenjoy a drink or a meal.

� 3. THE EYE ON THE TYNE E4A sophisticated-looking modernbar with a slight art deco feel.

Popular with the business crowdand regular Quayside revellers.

� 4. PITCHER AND PIANO F4Enjoy stunning views of theQuayside from the roof terrace ofeveryone’s favourite bar. Coolmusic and good food too.

� 5. RIVERSIDE CAFÉ BAR F4Set inside BALTIC, it’s a caféduring the day and a stylish bar in the evenings.

� 1. BABY LYNCH C4Quirky but very stylish bar with agreat mix of people and music. Beprepared for Ginger Mojitos, PacMan, Curly Wurlys and late nightlive music.

� 2. FLORITA’S C4Get ready for Florita’s Miami Barand Tropical Garden. Choose fromthe Main Room, The VIP Suite orgo outdoors to The TropicalGarden complete with BBQ,cocktails and cold beers.

� 3. PERDU C4Ultra chic bar that oozes designerclass with lots of crushed velvet,snakeskin and murals. There iseven a secret garden withchandeliers at the back of the barfor some alfresco drinking.

� 4. THE LIVING ROOM C4Situated in a stunning Grade IIlisted building, The Living Roomboasts a luxurious bar andexcellent restaurant. You mightmeet some famous faces.

� 5. BARLUGA C4Always busy, Barluga attracts bothbusiness people and more upmarket

clientele. Lots of deep leatherarmchairs, a laid back atmosphereand DJs on certain nights.

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Fun & Lively in

South Shields� 1. THE MILE Mile End RoadA smart, stylish bar and grill withan extensive menu in acontemporary setting.

� 2. VIVA Mile End Road Lively bar in the heart of the vibranttown centre of South Shields.

� 3. ATLANTIC BAR AND BISTROMile End Road

Popular and centrally locatedtown centre bar and bistro.

� 4. PALMA Ocean RoadA trendy new bar, Palma alsoserves a selection of foodthroughout the day, and a varietyof music styles at night.

� 5. THE SAND DANCER Sea Road Live music and a greatatmosphere, right on the beach.

Bars & Pubs in

Jesmond

� 1. BAR BERLISEOne of the most popularhaunts of the Jesmond crowd,Bar Berlise is a firm favouritewith everyone from partypeople to those mixingbusiness with pleasure.

� 2. OSBORNE’S BARRight at the heart of theJesmond scene, Osborne’s isalways worth a visit. Whenyou want to relax and theweather’s good, sit outsideand chill.

� 3. BILLABONGThis popular bar/bistro issizeable inside with aspacious, modern décor. Anyhint of sun and the courtyardgets packed out – just as wellthat‘s quite a size too.

� 4. BLANCYou’ll love the smart décor and quality food. There areplenty of umbrellas outside in the seating area just in case it drizzles.

� 5. SPYSmart designer bar andlounge popular with ayounger crowd.

� 6. THE CARRIAGESituated just off the JesmondMetro stop, this converted train station is an ideal placefor a pint.

� 7. AS YOU LIKE ITIf you are looking forsomewhere gorgeous to drink,this is the place for you.Plenty of live music, quirkydécor and a fabulous foodmenu too.

� 8. MR LYNCHWild and wacky andJesmond’s only 2am licence.

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with high rollers, it has an excellent cosmopolitan feel. With manyoutdoor seating areas, Jesmond bars are excellent for people

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� 1. 42nd STREET 1-2 East Parade

Popular large seafront bar withsea views and outdoor area.

� 2. FITZGERALDS 2 South Parade

At night and at weekends, it’s a cornerstone of the

town’s pub circuit.

� 3. DEEPEsplanade

A great club to finish a night out at the coast.

� 4. THE FIRE STATION168-170 Whitley Road

Great value food and drink and an excellent

meeting place.

� 5. THE FAT OX278 Whitley Road

A traditional pub with caskales, friendly atmosphere

and live music at weekends.


Tynemouth

South Parade is popular with localsand visitors with great bars and

pubs all in one area. Here’s just afew of our favourites5

TRADITIONAL PUBSFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

Newcastle is famous for Newcastle Brown Ale, brewed heresince 1927 and enjoyed the world over, but there are a wholehost of independent micro breweries here producingwonderful local beers with some rejoicing in names likeRadgie Gadgie and Workie Ticket. So with stunningarchitecture, amazing locations and the friendliest of locals,you have a heady brew to enjoy.

� THE OLD GEORGE INN C4Cloth Market, 0191 269 3061One of the oldest pubs inNewcastle, dating back to the 17thcentury, the Old George is an oasisof calm in the otherwise freneticworld of the Bigg Market.

� THE BODEGA A4125 Westgate Road, 0191 221 1552 A rare treat for lovers of real pubs and real ale. It boasts atraditional long bar, two stunningVictorian stained glass ceilingdomes, tiled floors and loads ofhistory. A CAMRA award-winner.

� THE BRIDGE HOTEL D5Castle Square, 0191 232 6400Situated next to the historic HighLevel Bridge and the Castle Keepand boasting cosy Victorian snugs,stained glass windows andexcellent views of the Quayside.

� THE NEWCASTLE ARMS B3 57 St Andrew’s Street, 0191 260 2490With an excellent range of cask andguest ales on offer, it has been

voted Tyneside Pub of the Year byCAMRA for 3 years in a row. It evenhas its own Beer Festival!

� THE FREE TRADE H3 St Lawrence Road, Byker, 0191 265 5764A top drawer, no frills pub withmarvellous views of the Quayside.Sadly, there are not many of itstype left so it should be cherished.

� THE CROWN POSADA D431-33 The Side, 0191 232 1269Arguably Tyneside’s most famouswatering hole cosily ensconced in aGrade II listed building. It receivesregular awards from CAMRA andwas named one of the DailyTelegraph’s perfect pubs. A rare find!

� THE CENTURION B4 Central Station, Neville Street,0191 261 6611 Voted 'Newcastle's most impressivewatering hole' by the Observer, it is aformer first class passenger loungewith exquisite tiling which is todayworth an astonishing £3.8 million.

Traditional Pubs and Ales

The Coast

� THE TYNEMOUTH LODGEHOTEL Tynemouth Road, Tynemouth, 0191 257 7565 The Tynemouth Lodge Hotel hasbeen trading as a public housesince 1799. It has no television; nomusic; no hot food; no gamingmachines – just great beers!

� TURKS HEAD 41 Front Street, Tynemouth, 0191 257 6547 History has it that when one ofthe regulars died in 1880, theowners at the time had himstuffed and displayed in the pub.But don’t let that put you off theirexcellent ales!

� LOW LIGHTS TAVERN Brewhouse Bank, North Shields, 0191 259 5593 The original brewhouse onBrewhouse Bank, near the FishQuay, is now a friendly pub with agrowing reputation for its beer.

Visit on a Saturday as localmusicians and drinkers enjoy thelive buskers night.

� THE RIVERSIDE 3 Mill Dam, South Shields, 0191 455 2328 A traditional pub offering a great choice of real ales and afriendly atmosphere in the heartof the historic riverside area ofSouth Shields.

� THE MALTINGSClaypath Lane, South Shields, 0191 427 7147A beautiful, traditional pub withit’s own brewery.

Take a trip to the coast and try the excellent pubs inTynemouth, North Shields and South Shields. There are somany great places to drink - and some with stunning riveror sea views!

� THE CLARENDON 143 High St East, Sunderland, 0191 510 3200 Dating back to the 17th century,the Clarendon features beersfrom its own on-site brewery. Try the Sauce of the Niall, their stout tribute to SunderlandAFC’s Niall Quinn.

� THE SALTGRASS Hanover Place, Sunderland,0191 565 7229 The Saltgrass is a traditional two-room pub with a good pint of cask ale, a cosy ambience inthe bar room and fantastic food in the restaurant.

� FITZGERALD’S2 Green Terrace, Sunderland, 0191 567 0852Near the university, a regularwinner of CAMRA awards, andboasting a bar full of guest beers,Fitzgeralds is the traditional pub ofchoice for students, locals, andvisitors. Sit in the large, open-planarea, the cosy Chart Room, or theoutdoor terrace and seating area.

Sunderland

NewcastleGateshead

It wasn’t so long ago that many of Sunderland’s pubs weresupplied by the traditional method – with magnificent horsedrawn drays. Today, renowned brews such as Samson andDouble Maxim have made a triumphant return to several ofthe fine pubs in the city.


CLUBS & CASINOSFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

Everyone loves a great night out and late night drinking!You’re sure to find a club that suits you here.

� ASPERS AT THE GATE B3The Gate, Newgate Street, 0191 255 0400

Monument Aspers provides a world ofentertainment for you to explore,including bars, a superb restaurant,state of the art casino/gaming, aspa retreat and live entertainment.Now membership free and open allday every day, so you can enjoy thefacilities anytime, night or day.*

� CIRCUS CASINO C5Forth Street, 0191 232 0900

Centralsituated behind Newcastle’s CentralStation by the City Walls, CircusCasino has everything fromAmerican Roulette to Three CardPoker to Punto Banco plus a greatrestaurant.

� GROSVENOR CASINO A5100 St. James Boulevard, 0191 260 3303

CentralGrosvenor Casino offers anunbeatable gaming experience and everything you need for afantastic night out. Forget the oldimage of tuxedoes and cocktaildresses and get ready to enjoy amodern casino environment whereeveryone is welcome.

� BLU BAMBU C4Bigg Market, 0191 261 5811

MonumentMonument Q 1+2 Grey Street

Blu Bambu claims to officially beNewcastle’s most popularnightclub. With world-classcocktails, state-of-the-art-lightingand sound, a non-stop partyatmosphere and great music, theymight just be right!

� BLUE C5Mansion House Chambersquayside, Newcastle,0191 232 7240


Blue is set amidst the pubs andrestaurants on the Quayside andgets busy with eager revellersgetting in a sweat to the latestdance sounds as well as soul, r‘n‘band funk classics.

� THE COOPERAGE C5 Quayside, Newcastle,0191 233 2940


The building dates back to the 13thcentury but the music is bang up todate. With several rooms ondifferent levels this creates auniquely intimate atmosphere.Music varies but the emphasis is onhaving a good time.

� COSMIC BALLROOM B3Stowell Street, Newcastle,0191 232 2313

St James Set over two floors with a slinkydécor that's a cut above, they havethe club nights to match. Thelegendary house night Nice takesplace each Saturday. Rattled by theRush (Alternative/Indie) and Relax(80s electropop and generalexcess) rock it upstairs.

� DIGITAL B5Times Square, 0191 261 9755


The speaker system at this club issecond to none and they've got theclub nights to do it justice. Born InThe 80s on Monday (80s and 90sthrowbacks); Stone Love on aThursday (indie night); Wax onFridays (breakbeat, electro, hip-hop); while the house night, Shindig,is the main event on a Saturday.

� LEGENDS C377 Grey Street, 0191 232 0430

Monument 1+2: Grey Street An underground club that's a majordraw for rock lovers. On Fridays andSaturdays, the club opens at 8pmfor those getting into the mood withthe top-notch jukebox. The main

room opens at 10pm for the best inrock and metal, while downstairsyou'll find The Bunker, playing ska,emo and punk on Saturday.

� LIQUID & ENVY D249 New Bridge Street West, 0191 261 2526

Haymarket Q2: John Dobson StLiquid & Envy is a £4 millionsuperclub in the city centre. Liquidis the spectacular main roompromising all the very best tunes anda fantastic cutting-edge audio/visualexperience. Envy boasts a plush andstylish interior to relax in.

� THE LOUNGE B48 Neville Street, 0191 261 2211


Popular during weekdays and atweekends, The Lounge has a swishbar upstairs while the downstairsarea is the place to cut a rug toeverything from glittery ‘70s pop tocurrent sounds.

� THE OTHER ROOMS B5Times Square, 0191 261 9755


The sister club to Digital (see left). Great club nightsplaying everything from indie,rock and punk to drum and bass,hip-hop and northern soul, pluslive gigs and DJ sets.

� SEA D5Quayside, 0191 230 1813


Sea is a hugely popular nightclub bythe Swing Bridge. It boasts amembers only Glitterati ChampagneVIP bar and the Viper Lounge, a chillout room and a great dance floor.

� VENUE D3Market Street, Newcastle,0191 232 1111


You get three different musicpolicies each week. InternationalClub on Wednesdays for salsa,reggae and world music,Debauchery for indie and house onFridays, and Krash every Saturdaywith ska, punk and alternative.

� WORLD HEADQUARTERS D4Curtis Mayfield House, Carliol Square, 0191 261 7007


The club is the star and it's the

music that makes it shine. WorldHQ is totally unique in Newcastle'snightlife culture. Open from10.30pm–3am every Friday andSaturday and laid out over twofloors, you'll get true house, soul,hip-hop, jazz, lush disco, reggae,significant r'n'b, northern soul andworldwide block-rocking beats –plus any other rare groove ortrack they dig.

� BLU BAMBU 2-4 Albion Place, Sunderland,0191 5670181

SunderlandNewcastle's hottest club comes toSunderland, with a high-tech lightwall, the only laser show in town,and of course, big name DJs andcelebrity guest stars!

� LIQUID & DIVAGalen Building, Green Terrace, Sunderland,0191 567 0760

Park Lane The UK's leading nightclub brandcombines state-of-the-art lighting,sound and laser technology withstunning 360-degree graphics andvisuals to enhance the clubbingexperience. Liquid's contemporary,award-winning design and thecountry's top DJs attract clubbersback time and time again for anincomparable experience.

� PRIVILEGE7-11 Crowtree Road, Sunderland,0191 5143555

SunderlandLocated above Brogan's pub, thisupstairs club has seen top DJs likeShapeshifters, Lisa Lashes andGodskitchen scratchmaster SimonForestiero perform live sets of allkinds of dance music.

� THE POINT Holmeside, 0191 510 8680

Park Lane The Point is a club and three barsrolled into one. Union, as part of thefamily, is the biggest nightclubaround. with a capacity of 1300.Playing the very best in dance,Funky House and classics, The Unionwill keep everyone dancing all night.

� GLITTERBALL18-26 Ocean Road, South Shields,0191 456 7689

South ShieldsDig out those flares and let yourselfgo wild at this fun 70s and 80s venue.

Clubs & Casinos

*Aspers is open to all those 18 or over. Photo ID required if you look under 21 and to join our Aspire Loyalty Club.Please play responsibly www.gambleaware.co.uk84 NewcastleGateshead South Tyneside SunderlandNorth Tyneside 85

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GAY & LESBIANFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

Gay & Lesbian in

NewcastleGatesheadYou will find a selection of gay and gay friendly

venues across the region but NewcastleGatesheadboasts the biggest gay scene and is undoubtedly the

'Gay Capital' of the North East.

� 6. THE YARD A52 Scotswood RoadThe scene’s longest and mostestablished gay bar with a goodmix of all ages. Busy most nights.

� 7. HEAVENS ABOVE A52 Scotswood RoadLocated above The Yard, Heavens Above has alwaysattracted a young, fun clientele.DJs at the weekend and a positive feel-good vibe.� 8. @ONE A51 Marlborough CrescentAt the heart of the gay scene inthe village, it’s a trendy chilledout luxe bar with great liveentertainment on selected nights.

� 9. THE DOG A55 Marlborough CrescentAttracts a mixed crowd and isfamous for its karaoke. Chilledduring the week, it’s very busy ona weekend.

� 10. GOSSIP A515-19 Westmorland RoadGossip Sports Bar shows livePremiership football. Food servedin the daytime, live DJs and greatdrinks offers at night.

� 11. POWERHOUSE A57-19 Westmorland RoadThe Powerhouse is the biggest and longest running gay club inNewcastle. Hosting many bigname DJs and live PAs, it is

spread over 4 floors with greatlighting, decor and a fantasticsound system. Open until 4am atweekends.

� 12. THE VAULT A5

(Entrance to the rear ofPowerhouse) 15-19 WestmorlandRoadThe Vault is a show bar with greatentertainment every night. Itcloses at 11pm and reopens as partof 'The Powerhouse' night club.

� 13. ECLIPSE A548, Clayton St WestIf you love loud music and a placeto dance, then upstairs at Eclipseis ideal for you. Downstairs has amore relaxed feel. Sister bar toThe Dog.

� 14. TWIST A5Times SquareAttracting a good, lively mix of punters (gay and straight).Great sound system. Grab one of the outdoor seats when theweather is good and watch theworld go by.

� 15. BARON & BARONESS A5Times SquareSet over several levels, this barhas a distinctly gothic feel, but isanything but gloomy. It attractsboth a gay and straight crowd andalso has an outside drinking areafor those summer months.

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� 1. THE END A578 Scotswood RoadRelaxed atmosphere with comfysofas, cool music and good liveentertainment. Open until 1am.

� 2. THE EAGLE A542 Scotswood RoadThere‘s a bit of a ranch-like feel tothis bar with its wooden interiorattracting those with a fondnessfor leather, denim and uniforms.

� 3. THE BANK A512 Scotswood Road Although one of the smallestvenues on the scene, The Bank isNewcastle’s no.1 bar forentertainment, with regularkaraoke and top drag DJs.

� 4. SWITCH A54-10 Scotswood Road The ultimate party and dancevenue with DJ’s every night from7pm playing a mix of old skool,dance, house and pop classics.Loft can be accessed from here.

� 5. THE LOFT A510a Scotswood Road Newcastle’s only exclusively gayclub open every night per week.Great music guaranteed – alwaysa night to remember.

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AROUND THE REGIONFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

NorthumberlandTo the north, you will findNorthumberland, with itsglorious coastline, beautiful,countryside and tranquilmarket towns. Take time toexplore and make sure youdon’t miss:

� THE ALNWICK GARDEN ANDALNWICK CASTLE 01665 511 350www.alnwickgarden.com 01665 510 777www.alnwickcastle.com Just an hour’s drive north ofNewcastle you will find AlnwickCastle and The Alnwick Garden.The castle is a perfectly preservedmedieval fortress with palatialstate rooms open to the public. TheAlnwick Garden opened in 2002and is an absolute must see.There’s a Grande Cascade, BambooLabyrinth, Water Sculpture Garden,Poison Garden, Visitor Centre andnot forgetting Europe’s largesttreehouse. New for 2009 is theCherry Orchard.

� WOODHORN MUSEUM,ARCHIVE & COUNTRY PARKAshington, 01670 528 080www.experiencewoodhorn.com There are fascinating stories toshare and wonderful events toenjoy in a unique historic collierysetting. Visit the amazing Cutterbuilding with its startling rooflinemimicking the monster coal cuttingmachines that once burrowedunderground. See the work of thefamous Ashington Group of artistsaffectionately know as the “PitmanPainters” and explore the nearbyQEII Country Park with its lake andabundant wildlife.

� HADRIAN’S WALL01434 322 002www.hadrianswall-northumberland.com Built between AD122 – 130 on theorders of the Emperor Hadrian tomark the northern frontier of theRoman Empire. The Wall snakesacross Britain from Wallsend on theeast coast to Bowness-on-Solwayon the west. Journey along theWall, stopping off at forts includingHousesteads and Vindolanda.

Tees ValleyTo the south of our region,Tees Valley is easy to get to from Tyne & Wear andwith such a fantastic rangeof things to do it isdefinitely worth a tripbefore you head home.

� HARTLEPOOL MARITIMEEXPERIENCE 01429 860 077www.hartlepoolsmaritimeexperience.com Voyage back in time to the sightsand sounds of an 18th centuryseaport. This award-winningattraction tells the story of life atsea at the time of Nelson,Napoleon and the Battle ofTrafalgar. In 2010 (7-10 August),Hartlepool is host to the Tall Ships,definitely one not to miss.

� CAPTAIN COOK BIRTHPLACE MUSEUMMiddlesbrough, 01642 311 211www.captaincook-ne.co.uk The museum, which is close toCook’s birthplace, tells the story ofone of the world’s greatestnavigators and mariners throughthemed displays, temporaryexhibitions and activities.

� MIMA: MIDDLESBROUGHINSTITUTE OF MODERN ART01642 803 434 www.visitmima.com Housed in a stunning new buildingin Middlesbrough, mima’s collectionof fine art and craft from the early20th century features over 1,500works. Mima is home to formal andopen galleries, café-bar and roofterrace and conservation suite.

County DurhamThis is a land of contrastsfrom the wilds of thePennines to its ruggedcoastline. It is known as theLand of the Prince Bishopsin recognition of thepowerful Bishops who incenturies gone by wieldedas much power as themonarchs of the day. As ournear neighbours, its so easyto reach by road or rail.

� DURHAM CASTLE ANDCATHEDRAL0191 334 3800 / 0191 386 4266www.durhamcastle.com /www.durhamcathedral.co.uk Just 10 minutes from NewcastleCentral Station, Durham is easilyaccessible for a great day out.Durham Castle and Cathedral is a

World Heritage Site and towersover the roofs of the city. The 11thcentury Cathedral provides anunforgettable picture of what isthought by many to be the finestexample of Norman churcharchitecture in England.

� BOWES MUSEUMBarnard Castle, 01833 690 606www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk The Bowes Museum houses one of the country’s greatestprivate collections of fine anddecorative art and offers anacclaimed exhibition programme,alongside special events andchildren’s activities.

� BEAMISH MUSEUM0191 370 4000www.beamish.org.uk Beamish is a unique open airmuseum that takes you back intime to experience life in the Northin the early 1800s and 1900s. Agreat day out for all the family, taketime to explore the town, workingfarm, colliery and Masonic hall, andride on the working trams.

Around the RegionA visit to Tyne & Wear means you’re ideally placed toexplore the whole of the North East England; you’ll find awealth of hidden treasures, just waiting to be discovered.

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Hotel categories

HOTELS have a minimum of sixbedrooms, but more likely to have20+ rooms.

SMALL HOTELS have amaximum of 20 bedrooms andlikely to be more personally run.

COUNTRY HOUSE HOTELS haveample grounds or gardens, in arural or semi-rural location, withemphasis on peace and quiet.

TOWN HOUSE HOTELS are in acity/town centre location and areof high quality with a distinctivestyle. High ratio of staff to guests.

METRO HOTELS are found incity/town centres, offering fullhotel services, but no dinner. Willbe within easy walking distance ofa range of places to eat.

BUDGET HOTELS are part of achain of branded hotels offering

clean and comfortable en-suitefacilities, 24 hour reservations anda consistent level of facilities. Theyare not awarded a star rating.

Hotels have to provide certainadditional facilities and servicesat the higher star levels. Theseinclude:

� Dinner served fivenights a week.

�� Dinner available everynight of the week.

�� All bedrooms en-suite(i.e. no privatebathrooms). Roomservice available.Permanently staffedreception.

�� 24-hour room service.50% of all en-suiteswith bath and shower.

�� Some permanentluxury suites.Enhanced servicessuch as concierge.

ACCOMMODATION RATINGS EXPLAINED

Guest accommodationcategories

GUEST ACCOMMODATION is thecategory which encompassesanything from one-room bed andbreakfasts to the larger placesfound in our coastal resorts,which may offer dinner and maybe licensed. Bed and Breakfastsgenerally accommodate no morethan six people. It’s like staying asa special guest in someone’shome. Farmhouses offer bed andbreakfast and sometimes dinner,always on a farm.

GUEST HOUSES tend to havemore than three rooms and mayoffer dinner to their guests. Somemay be licensed.

RESTAURANTS WITH ROOMSare just that. The restaurant is themain business and they will belicensed. They generally offer asmall number of bedrooms withall the facilities you would expectand breakfast.

INNS ARE PUBS WITH ROOMSwhich serve food in the evenings,as well as breakfast. Sometimesaccess to guest accommodationmay be restricted during the day,but you will be advised on booking.

GUEST ACCOMMODATION tendsto be personally run by the owners.Guest accommodation owners haveto provide certain additionalfacilities and services at the higherstar levels. These include:

�� Bathroom/showerrooms cannot beshared with theowners. If bedroomnot en-suite, thenwash basin inbedroom

�� At least 50% ofbedrooms en-suite orprivate bathroom

�� All bedrooms en-suiteor private bathroom

CAMPUS Enjoy England’scampus scheme covers theuniversities and colleges that areable to accommodate visitorsduring the vacation periods on a

bed and breakfast basis. Generallythe rooms are en-suite and therewill be plenty of single rooms, solarge groups will not present aproblem. Campus accommodationis star-rated one to five, reflectingthe quality of theaccommodation.

HOSTELS provide safe, budget-priced accommodation for youngpeople, families and larger groupsand are star-rated. Higher ratedaccommodation often providesen-suite rooms.

For more information

If you would like to confirm a rating please visit:www.enjoyEngland.com ortelephone VisitBritain on 0208 563 3309 or email: [email protected]

For AA ratings, visitwww.theAA.com or telephone:01256 844455 or email:[email protected]

Please be aware that ratings maychange throughout the year.


All the accommodation featured in this guide has been qualityassessed by either VisitBritain or the AA, or has recentlyapplied for a rating and is awaiting assessment.All the national assessing bodies (VisitBritain, VisitScotland, Visit Walesand the AA) now assess hotels and guest accommodation (including B&Bs)to the same criteria and award one to five stars. The star ratings reflectthe overall quality of the experience.

For serviced accommodation, there are two separate schemes - onefor hotels and one for guest accommodation.

Quality Assured

Choosing youraccommodation

Tyne & Wear has a great selectionof quality accommodation. We'vecolour coded our accommodationlistings overleaf to help you makeyour choice.

COLOUR CODING

NewcastleGateshead

North Tyneside

South Tyneside

Sunderland

ABBREVIATION REFERENCEVB Visit Britain assessed

AA AA assessed

AG Awaiting grading

BH Budget Hotel

IIS Internal Inspection Scheme

PEN Pennant Rating Scheme

QA Quality Assurance

9190

ACCOMMODATION LISTINGSFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

CitiesName Location Email Website Telephone GradingAcorn Guesthouse Sunderland [email protected] 0191 514 2170 VB ��

A1 Summerville Guest House Whickham [email protected] www.a1summerville.co.uk 0191 488 3388 VB ��

Adelphi (The), Jesmond Newcastle [email protected] www.adelphihotelnewcastle.co.uk 0191 281 3109 VB ��

Albatross Newcastle [email protected] www.albatrossnewcastle.com 0191 233 1330 VB ��

Alexandra Guest House Gateshead www.alexandraguesthouses.co.uk 0191 478 1105 VB ��

Angel View Inn Gateshead [email protected] www.angelviewinn.co.uk 0191 410 3219 AA ��

135 Audley Road, Gosforth Newcastle www.audleyroad.co.uk 0191 285 6374 VB ��

Avenue (The), Jesmond Newcastle [email protected] 0191 281 1396 VB ��

Best Western New Kent Hotel, Jesmond Newcastle [email protected] www.newkenthotel.co.uk 0191 281 7711 AA/VB ��

Bewick (The) Gateshead [email protected] www.bewick-hotel.com 0191 477 1809 VB ��

Bowes Incline (The) Birtley [email protected] www.bowesinclinehotel.co.uk 0191 410 2233 VB ��

Bowsden Court (Newcastle University) Summer only, Gosforth Newcastle [email protected] 0191 270 1165 AGBraeside Holiday Guest House Sunderland [email protected] www.the20thhole.co.uk 0191 565 4801 VB ��

Brandling Guest House, Jesmond Newcastle [email protected] www.brandlingguesthouse.co.uk 0191 281 3175 VB ��

Britannia Hotel Newcastle Airport Newcastle [email protected] www.britanniahotels.com 0191 401 9988 VB ��

Brighton (The) Newcastle [email protected] 0191 273 3600 VB ��

Brookside B&B Sunderland [email protected] www.brooksidesunderland.co.uk 0191 565 6739 VB ��

Cairn Hotel, Jesmond Newcastle [email protected] www.cairnnewcastle.com 0191 281 1358 AA/VB ��

Caledonian Hotel (The), Jesmond Newcastle [email protected] www.caledonian-hotel-newcastle.com 0191 281 7881 AA ��

Campanile Hotel & Restaurant Washington [email protected] www.campanile.com 0191 416 5010 AA BHCarlton Hotel, Jesmond Newcastle [email protected] www.carltonnewcastle.com 0191 281 3361 VB ��

Castle Leazes (Newcastle University) Newcastle [email protected] www.ncl.ac.uk/conferenceteam 0191 222 8306 AGClifton House Newcastle [email protected] www.cliftonhousehotel.com 0191 273 0407 VB ��

Copthorne Hotel Newcastle, Quayside Newcastle [email protected] www.millenniumhotels.com 0191 222 0333 AA ��

Dene (The), Jesmond Newcastle [email protected] 0191 281 1502 VB ��

Dorset Arms (The), Wallsend Newcastle [email protected] www.dorsetarmshotel.co.uk 0191 209 9754 VB ��

Elephant on the Tyne Gateshead [email protected] www.elephantonthetyne.co.uk 0191 495 0282 VB ��

Eslington Villa Hotel Gateshead [email protected] www.eslingtonvillahotel.co.uk 0191 487 6017 AA ��

Express by Holiday Inn City Centre Newcastle [email protected] www.hiexpressnewcastle.co.uk 0870 428 1488 AA BHExpress by holiday Inn Metro Centre Gateshead [email protected] www.hiexpress.co.uk 0870 720 0951Felicitations Sunderland [email protected] www.felicitations.biz 0191 522 0960 VB ��

Gibside Hotel Whickham [email protected] www.gibside-hotel.co.uk 0191 488 9292 AA ��

Greenholme Newcastle [email protected] www.greenholmeguesthouse.co.uk 0191 267 4828 VB ��

Grey Street Apartments Newcastle [email protected] www.93agreystservicedapartments.co.uk 07766 008 498 VB ��

Hawksley House Sunderland [email protected] www.hackettpropertyservicedapartments.com 0191 510 9950 VB ��

Henderson Hall, University of Newcastle Newcastle [email protected] www.ncl.ac.uk/conferenceteam/henderson-hall.php 0191 266 6321 AGHilton Newcastle Gateshead Gateshead [email protected] www.hilton.co.uk/newcastlegateshead 0191 490 9700 VB QA HotelHoliday Inn Newcastle (Seaton Burn) Newcastle [email protected] www.newcastle.holiday-inn.com 0870 787 3291 AA ��

Hotel du Vin, Quayside Newcastle [email protected] www.hotelduvin.com 0191 229 2200 VB ��

Innkeeper's Lodge Newcastle, Airport Newcastle [email protected] www.innkeeperslodge.com 0870 243 0500 AA BHInnkeeper's Newcastle/Gosforth Newcastle www.innkeeperslodge.com 0870 243 0500 AA BHJesmond Dene House, Jesmond Newcastle [email protected] www.jesmonddenehouse.co.uk 0191 212 3000 AA ��

Jesmond Hotel, Jesmond Newcastle [email protected] www.jesmondhotel.co.uk 0191 281 5377 VB ��

Jesmond Park, Jesmond Newcastle [email protected] www.jesmondpark.com 0191 281 2821 VB ��

Jurys Inn Newcastle Newcastle [email protected] www.jurysinns.com 0191 201 4400 AA ��

Kenilworth Hotel, Jesmond Newcastle [email protected] www.thekenilworthhotel.co.uk 0191 281 8111 VB �Kensington House Aparthotel, Jesmond Newcastle [email protected] www.kensingtonaparthotel.com 0191 281 8175 VB ��

Lynnwood (The) Newcastle [email protected] www.thelynnwood.co.uk 0191 273 3497 VB ��

Malmaison, Quayside Newcastle [email protected] www.malmaison.com 0191 245 5000 AA ��

Mowbray Apartments Sunderland [email protected] www.hackettproperty.com 0191 510 9950 AGNew Northumbria Hotel, Jesmond Newcastle [email protected] www.newnorthumbriahotel.co.uk 0191 281 4961 VB ��

Newcastle Marriott Hotel Gosforth Park Newcastle [email protected] www.newcastlemarriottgosforthpark.com 0191 236 4111 AA ��

Newcastle Marriott Hotel Metro Centre Gateshead [email protected] www.NewcastleMarriottMetroCentre.co.uk 0191 493 2233 AA ��

Newcastle YHA, Jesmond Newcastle [email protected] www.yha.org.uk 0191 281 2570 VB ��

Northumbria University Newcastle [email protected] www.northumbria.ac.uk/conferences 0191 227 4717/4499 VB ��

Novotel Newcastle Airport Newcastle [email protected] www.novotel.com 0191 214 0303 AA ��

Osborne Hotel, Jesmond Newcastle [email protected] www.theosbornehotel.co.uk 0191 281 3385 VB ��




Name Location Email Website Telephone GradingPremier Apartments Newcastle, Quayside Newcastle [email protected] www.premierapartmentsnewcastle.com 0191 279 7900 VB ��

Premier Inn Newcastle (MetroCentre) Gateshead www.premierinn.com 0870 197 7283 VB BHPremier Inn Newcastle (Team Valley) Gateshead www.premierinn.com 0870 423 6454 VB BHPremier Inn Newcastle (Airport) Newcastle www.premierinn.com 0870 197 7190 VB BHPremier Inn Newcastle City Centre (Millenium Bridge), Quayside Newcastle www.premierinn.com 0870 238 3318 VB BHPremier Inn Newcastle (Airport South) Newcastle www.premierinn.com 0870 990 6338 VB BHPremier Inn Newcastle City Centre (New Bridge Street West) Newcastle www.premierinn.com 0870 850 6336 VB BHPremier Inn Newcastle Quayside Newcastle www.premierinn.com 0870 990 6530 VB BHPremier Inn Newcastle South Gateshead www.premierinn.com 0870 990 6590 VB BHPremier Inn North West Sunderland [email protected] 0870 990 6514 VB BHPremier Inn Sunderland West Sunderland [email protected] 0870 197 7245 VB BHProperties Unique, Quayside Newcastle [email protected] www.propertiesunique.com 0191 490 0789 VB ��

River View at Three Indian Kings, Quayside Newcastle [email protected] www.cottageguide.co.uk/threeindiankings 0114 268 2200 VB ��

Royal Station Hotel Newcastle [email protected] www.royalstationhotel.com 0191 232 0781 VB ��

Shaftesbury Guest House Gateshead [email protected] 0191 478 2544 VB ��

Sunderland Self Catering Sunderland [email protected] www.sunderlandselfcatering.com 0191 372 7865 VB ��

St George's Guest House Sunderland [email protected] www.abingdonguesthouse.co.uk 0191 514 0689 VB��

Town House (The), Gosforth Newcastle [email protected] www.thetownhousehotel.co.uk 0191 285 6812 AGThistle Newcastle Newcastle [email protected] www.thistlehotels.com 0870 333 9142 AA ��

Travelodge City Centre Sunderland www.travelodge.co.uk AA BHTravelodge Gateshead Gateshead www.travelodge.co.uk 0870 085 0950 AA BHTravelodge Newcastle Central, Quayside Newcastle www.travelodge.co.uk 0870 191 1664 AA BHTravelodge Newcastle East Wardley www.travelodge.co.uk 0870 191 1665 AA BHTravelodge Newcastle North, Gosforth Newcastle www.travelodge.co.uk 0870 191 1666 AA BHTravelodge Washington Northbound Birtley www.travelodge.co.uk 0191 410 9265 AA BHTravelodge Washington Southbound Birtley www.travelodge.co.uk 0191 492 2809 AA BHVermont Hotel, Quayside Newcastle [email protected] www.vermont-hotel.com 0191 233 1010 AA ��

Victoria Inn (The) Washington [email protected] www.victoriainnwashington.com 0191 417 2526 VB ��

Week2Week, Quayside Newcastle [email protected] www.week2week.co.uk 0191 281 3129 VB ��

CoastName Location Email Website Telephone GradingAbbey & Areldee Guest House Sunderland [email protected] 0191 514 1971 VB ��

Abingdon Guest House Sunderland [email protected] www.abingdonguesthouse.co.uk 0191 514 0689 VB ��

Ainsley Guest House South Shields [email protected] www.ainsleyguesthouse.co.uk 0191 454 3399 VB ��

April Guest House Sunderland [email protected] www.aprilguesthouse.com 0191 565 9550 VB ��

Ashborne (The) Sunderland [email protected] www.ashborne-guesthouse.co.uk 0191 565 3997 VB ��

Atlantis Guest House South Shields [email protected] www.atlantisguesthouse.com 0191 455 6070 VB ��

Avalon Whitley Bay [email protected] www.theavalon.co.uk 0191 251 0080 VB ��

Balmoral Guest House Sunderland [email protected] www.thebalmoral.supanet.com 0191 565 9217 VB ��

Beach Haven Apartment South Shields 0191 456 1802 VB ��

Beaches Guest House South Shields [email protected] www.beachesguesthouse.gbr.cc 0191 456 3262 VB ��

Beechwood Guest House South Shields [email protected] www.beechwoodguesthouse.com 0191 454 1829 VB ��

Bede's Well Guest House Jarrow [email protected] www.bedeswellguesthouse.kk5.org 0191 428 4794 VB ��

Belmont Guest House Sunderland [email protected] www.belmontguesthouse.com 0191 567 2438 VB ��

Best Western Roker Hotel Sunderland [email protected] www.tavistockleisure.com 0191 567 1786 AA ��

Best Western Sea Hotel South Shields [email protected] www.seahotel.co.uk 0191 427 0999 AA/VB ��

Britannia Guesthouse South Shields [email protected] www.britanniaguesthouse.co.uk 0191 456 0896 VB ��

Cara (The) Whitley Bay [email protected] www.caraguesthouse.co.uk 0191 253 0172 VB ��

Chaise Guest House (The) Sunderland [email protected] www.activehotels.com 0191 565 9218 VB ��

Chedburgh (The) Whitley Bay [email protected] www.chedburgh-hotel.co.uk 0191 253 0415 VB ��

Clifton Guest House South Shields [email protected] www.theclifton.co.uk 0191 455 1965 VB ��

Collingwood House Tynemouth [email protected] www.coastal-apartments.co.uk 0191 259 5698 VB ��

Eccleston Road South Shields 0191 456 1802 VB ��

Esplanade Lodge Whitley Bay [email protected] www.esplanadelodge.co.uk 0191 251 7557 VB ��

Forest Guest House South Shields [email protected] www.forestguesthouse.com 0191 454 8160 AA/VB ��

Graham House Holiday Cottages Tynemouth [email protected] www.tynemouthholidaycottages.co.uk 0191 213 6836 VB ��

Grand Hotel Tynemouth [email protected] www.grandhotel-uk.com 0191 293 6666 AA ��

Hartington Terrace South Shields [email protected] 01845 578 657 VB ��


Name Location Email Website Telephone GradingHazelmoor Hebburn [email protected] www.stayinbritain.com/hazelmoor 07941 611 551 VB ��

Hill Head Farm South Shields [email protected] www.hill-headfarm.co.uk 0191 529 2076 VB ��

Lemonfield Guesthouse, Seaburn Sunderland [email protected] www.lemonfieldhotel.com 0191 529 3018 VB ��

Lighthouse Guest House Whitley Bay [email protected] 0191 252 2319 VB ��

Lindsay Guest House Whitley Bay [email protected] www.lindsayguesthouse.co.uk 0191 252 7341 AA/VB ��

Little Haven Hotel South Shields [email protected] www.littlehavenhotel.com 0191 455 4455 VB ��

Lizard Lane Camping & Caravan Site South Shields [email protected] 0191 454 4982 AA PEN ��

Magpies Nest (The) South Shields [email protected] www.magpies-nest.co.uk 0191 455 2361 VB ��

Marlborough (The) Whitley Bay [email protected] www.marlborough-hotel.com 0191 251 3628 VB ��

Marina Guest House South Shields [email protected] 0191 456 1998 VB ��

Martineau Guest House Tynemouth [email protected] www.martineau-house.co.uk 0191 296 0746 VB �� SilverMayfield Guesthouse Sunderland [email protected] www.themayfieldguesthouse.co.uk 0191 529 3345 VB ��

Mill View Whitburn [email protected] www.stayinsunderland.co.uk 020 8850 4863 VB ��

No.61, Guest House & Tea Rooms Tynemouth [email protected] www.no61.co.uk 0191 257 3687 VB ��

Northumbria (The) Whitley Bay [email protected] www.northumbria-hotel.co.uk 0191 252 5265 VB ��

Oaktree Lodge Whitley Bay [email protected] www.oaktree-lodge.co.uk 0191 252 8587 VB ��

Ocean Breeze Guest House South Shields [email protected] www.oceanbreezeguesthouse.co.uk 0191 456 7442 AA ��

Once Upon a Tyne South Shields [email protected] www.once-tyne.co.uk 0191 454 3119 VB ��

Premier Inn Newcastle (Holystone) Newcastle www.premierinn.com 0870 197 7189 VB BHPremier Inn North Shields North Shields www.premierinn.com 0870 850 6348 VB BHPremier Inn South Shields South Shields [email protected] www.premierinn.com 0870 111 2852 VB BHQuality Hotel Boldon [email protected] www.hotels-sunderland.com 0191 519 1999 IIS ��

Rex Hotel Whitley Bay [email protected] www.rex-hotel.com 0191 252 3201 VB ��

Sandhaven Beach Chalets South Shields [email protected] www.sandhavenchalets.co.uk 0191 455 8319 VB ��

Sandhaven Holiday Park South Shields www.northumbrianleisure.co.uk 01670 860 256 AA PEN ��

Sandsides Guest House Whitley Bay [email protected] 0191 253 0399 AA ��

Saraville Guest House South Shields [email protected] www.geocities.com/saravillehouse 0191 454 1169 VB ��

Seabreeze Guest House South Shields [email protected] www.seabreeze-guesthouse.co.uk 0191 455 8772 AA/VB ��

Seafront Apartments Cullercoats [email protected] www.seafront.info 07977 203 379 VB ��

Southcliff Apartments Whitley Bay [email protected] www.southcliffapartments.com 0191 251 3121 VB ��

Sunderland Marriott Hotel, Seaburn Sunderland [email protected] www.marriott.co.uk 0191 529 2041 AA ��

Terrace Guest House Sunderland [email protected] www.thebalmoral.supanet.com 0191 565 0132 VB ��

22 Topcliff Sunderland [email protected] www.stayinsunderland.co.uk 0208 850 4863 VB ��

Tynemouth Luxury Holiday Apartments Tynemouth [email protected] www.tynemouth-holiday-apartments.co.uk 0191 296 0746 VB ��

Whitley Bay Holiday Park Whitley Bay [email protected] www.park-resorts.com 0871 664 9800 VB ��

York House Whitley Bay [email protected] www.yorkhousehotel.com 0191 252 8313 VB ��


CountrysideName Location Email Website Telephone GradingBeamish Park Hotel Marley Hill [email protected] www.beamish-park-hotel.co.uk 01207 230 666 AA ��

Bobby Shafto Caravan Park Stanley [email protected] www.bobbyshaftocaravanpark.co.uk 0191 370 1776 AA Pen 3 VB ��

Burnview B&B Rowlands Gill [email protected] 01207 544 014 PENBurradon Farm Houses and Cottages Cramlington [email protected] www.burradonfarm.co.uk 0191 268 3203 VB ��

Chilton Country Pub and Hotel Houghton Le Spring [email protected] www.chiltonlodgehotel.co.uk 0191 385 2694 AA ��

East Byermoor Guest House Whickham [email protected] www.eastbyermoor.co.uk 01207 272 687 VB ��

George Washington Golf & Country Club Washington [email protected] www.georgewashington.co.uk 0191 402 9988 AA/VB ��

Gibside Estate Bunkhouse Rowlands Gill [email protected] www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-gibside 01207 279 940 PENHedgefield House Blaydon on Tyne [email protected] www.hedgefieldhouse.co.uk 0191 413 7373 VB ��

Hedley Hall Gateshead [email protected] www.hedleyhall.com 01207 231 835 AA ��

Hedley Hall Country Cottages Marley Hill [email protected] www.hedleyhallcountrycottages.com/ 01207 231 835 VB ��

Holiday Inn Washington Washington [email protected] www.ichotelsgroup.com 0870 400 9084 AA ��

Keelman's Lodge (The), Newburn Newcastle [email protected] www.keelmanslodge.co.uk 0191 267 1689 VB ��

Park Farm Gateshead [email protected] www.park-farm-hotel.co.uk 0191 482 4870 VB ��

Premier Inn Washington Washington [email protected] www.premierinn.com 0191 519 1999 IISPuffing Billy Cottage Newcastle [email protected] www.puffingbillycottage.co.uk 0191 267 2648 VB ��

Riding Farm (The) Gateshead [email protected] www.ridingcottages.co.uk 0191 370 1868 VB ��

Riding Farm House (The) Beamish [email protected] www.ridingfarmbedandbreakfast.co.uk 0191 370 1868 VB ��

Rural Retreats Chopwell [email protected] www.ruralrestreats-ne.co.uk 01207 560 881 PENStables Lodge (The) Lamesley [email protected] www.thestableslodge.co.uk 0191 492 1756 AA��

Swallows' & 'Woodpeckers' Marley Hill [email protected] www.hedleygrange.co.uk 01207 232 959 VB ��

Three Arch Cottage Beamish [email protected] 0191 370 0296 VB ��

Ye Olde Cop Shop Washington [email protected] 0191 416 5333 VB ��


� 2 - 17 MAYEAT! Across NewcastleGateshead Annual food and drink festivalshowcasing the very best localproduce in a series of events acrossthree weekends in May.

� 9 – 13 MAY13th UNIVERSITY BOAT RACENewcastleGateshead quaysideSet against the spectacularNewcastleGateshead quayside,watch as Newcastle and Durhamuniversities battle it out to see whowill win this year’s title.

� 15 - 16 MAYTHE LATE SHOWSAcross NewcastleGateshead Do something different! Museums,galleries and attractions notnormally open to the public willstay open late into the night with arange of unique events andentertainment.

� 22 - 25 MayEVOLUTION NewcastleGateshead quaysideThe largest music festival in theNorth East. Great bands, greatatmosphere and great value formoney at just £10 per day.

� JUNE, JULY & AUGSOUTH TYNESIDE SUMMERFESTIVALThis FREE festival features adazzling line up. Choose from thelive music season, hilarity at familyfavourite Tommy's Parties or the

popular Sunday music concertswith a host of big names.

� 19 - 27 JUNTHE HOPPINGSNewcastle Town MoorEurope’s largest travelling funfaircomes to town.

� 4 - 5 JULSUNDERLAND INTERNATIONALFRIENDSHIP FESTIVALSunderlandIn 2009, this FREE festival willcelebrate its 24th anniversary withkite flyers from all over the worldfilling the skies with a stunningarray of kites.

� 11 - 12 JUL MOUTH OF THE TYNE FESTIVALTynemouth and South ShieldsThe riverside and seafront will buzzwith a mix of street theatre,comedy and live music, all with aninternational flavour.

� 17 - 26 JULSUMMERTYNEAnnual music festival celebratingthe start of summer with a seriesof events and performances on theNewcastleGateshead quayside.

� 25 - 26 JULSUNDERLAND INTERNATIONALAIRSHOW SunderlandThe coastline at Seaburn and Rokerin Sunderland will be filled with thesights and sounds of one of thelargest FREE air shows in Europe.

98 NewcastleGateshead South Tyneside SunderlandNorth Tyneside

EventsWith a year-long programme of events, ranging fromfamily festivals to sporting events, must-see displays toexciting markets, there’s always something going on.Some dates are still to be confirmed. For full details visitwww.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

EVENTS

Official Pocket Guide 99

� 31 JUL - 2 AUG GATESHEAD SUMMERFLOWER SHOWGateshead Central Nursery Gateshead will be in full bloom asthey play host to one of the NorthEast’s most popular events.

� 31 AUG AVIVA GRAND PRIXGateshead InternationalStadiumSee the homecoming for oursuccessful athletes. Anestablished date in the worldathletics calendar, the AvivaGrand Prix is just 7 days after the2009 IAAF World Championshipsand the perfect place to enjoyGold medal winners in action.

� 19 - 20 SEPTGREAT NORTH RUN 50,000 runners tackle theworld’s biggest half marathon,from Newcastle to South Shields.Don’t miss Saturday’sprogramme of events on theNewcastleGateshead quayside.

� 24 - 25 OCTXPERIENCE ‘09TynemouthExtreme sports festival at thecoast where surfers, BMXers,inline skaters and snow sportsstars will show off their skills.

� 22 OCT - 8 NOVJUICE NewcastleGatesheadAnnual festival for children andyoung people. Two weeks of fun-packed events, performancesand activities, taking placeduring the October half-term.

� � DECEMBERNEWCASTLEGATESHEADAND SUNDERLAND WINTERFESTIVALSThe annual NewcastleGatesheadand Sunderland Winter Festivalswill bring 2009 to a close with ahost of seasonal family events.The cities will be transformedinto a winter wonderland with aseries of special events that willenchant and amaze people of all ages, along with regularwinter activities such as ice-rinks, pantomimes, theatre,concerts, light switch-ons andwinter markets.

TYNE & WEAR MAPFind out more at www.visitnewcastlegateshead.co.uk

Official Pocket Guide 101100 Official Pocket Guide

pocket guide - beach hut resort accommodation to book, rent in

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