The Best Activities to Do in the North East: A Local’s Guide to Adventure, Heritage & Coastal Magic

The North East of England is packed with wild coastal walks, historic landmarks, hidden foodie gems, and vibrant cultural scenes, all just waiting to be uncovered. Whether you’re craving windswept beaches, medieval castles, or indie cafés tucked into cobbled streets, the North East has it all.

At Treetops & Tides, we believe holidays are about soaking up a place like a local – so here’s our handpicked guide to the best things to do in Northumberland, Redcar & Cleveland, Durham, and Tyne & Wear.

Northumberland: Wild Beauty and Timeless Castles

Explore Bamburgh Castle & Beach

Standing tall over golden sands and crashing waves, Bamburgh Castle is the stuff of legends. Wander through grand halls and take in sweeping views from the ramparts. After, walk down to Bamburgh Beach—a vast, peaceful stretch ideal for dog walks, kites, or simply soaking up the North Sea air.

Walk Hadrian’s Wall

Step back nearly 2,000 years on a scenic walk along Hadrian’s Wall. The Sycamore Gap walk is a firm favourite for its dramatic views and cinematic scenery (yes, that Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves tree!).

Stargazing in Kielder Forest

Northumberland is home to Europe’s largest area of protected dark skies. Head to Kielder Observatory for a night of stargazing—planets, constellations, and maybe even the Northern Lights if you’re lucky.

Lindisfarne & the Holy Island Causeway

Only accessible at low tide, Holy Island is a magical day trip. Visit Lindisfarne Priory, enjoy a local crab sandwich, and watch the tide rise around the causeway as the island becomes cut off once more.

Redcar & Cleveland: Coastal Trails and Industrial Charm

Discover Saltburn-by-the-Sea

This Victorian seaside town has a bit of everything: a charming pier, a cliffside funicular railway, and excellent surf. Walk the Saltburn Valley Gardens, then reward yourself with a coffee from The Sitting Room or fish and chips from Seaview Restaurant.

Hike the Cleveland Way
The Cleveland Way

National Trail hugs the coastline and takes in cliffs, woodlands, and moorland. The stretch from Saltburn to Staithes is particularly beautiful, with dramatic sea views and quaint fishing villages along the way.

Redcar Beacon & Promenade

Take in panoramic views from the top of Redcar Beacon, then wander the prom with an ice cream. For little ones, there’s a great stretch of beach to paddle and play.

Eston Hills and Views of the Tees Valley

Often overlooked, the Eston Hills offer one of the best vantage points over the Tees Valley and North Yorkshire. It’s a rewarding walk with a local, off-the-beaten-path vibe.

Durham: History, Culture & Countryside Charm

Visit Durham Cathedral & Castle

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Durham Cathedral is breathtaking. Step inside for soaring architecture and peaceful cloisters. The nearby Durham Castle—now part of the university—offers guided tours into its Norman past.

River Walks & Rowing on the Wear

Stroll the Durham Riverside Walk for leafy views of the cathedral and castle across the water. You can also hire a rowboat for a peaceful paddle—especially beautiful in autumn.

Beamish Open Air Museum

Time travel through North East life at Beamish Museum. With trams, coal mining experiences, 1940s farmhouses and costumed guides, it’s immersive, educational fun for all ages.

Raby Castle & Deer Park

Drive out to Raby Castle, a perfectly preserved medieval fortress with 200 acres of deer park. Great for a family day out or picnic on a sunny afternoon.

Tyne & Wear: Urban Energy Meets Coastal Escape

Explore Newcastle’s Quayside

Stylish, artsy and historic all at once. Walk the Quayside, crossing the iconic Gateshead Millennium Bridge and pop into BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art. Saturday and Sunday mornings are perfect for the Quayside Market, packed with artisan food and local crafts.

Visit the Angel of the North

This modern sculpture by Antony Gormley is one of the UK’s most iconic public artworks. Standing 20 metres tall, it’s well worth a quick visit on the way into Gateshead.

Tynemouth Priory & Longsands Beach

Tynemouth is a dreamy coastal village with surf shops, a weekend market, and cliff-top ruins. Visit Tynemouth Priory, then hit Longsands Beach for sunbathing, surfing or even cold-water swimming.

Fish and Chips at South Shields

The Ocean Road is famous for its curry houses, but don’t skip the traditional seaside classic. Colman’s is a local institution for a reason—grab a takeaway and eat it by the sea.

Catch a Show at Sunderland Empire or Newcastle Theatre Royal

Finish your evening with a dose of culture. Big West End productions tour through the Empire, while the Theatre Royal in Newcastle is a Georgian gem with a packed calendar.

Final Tips for Exploring the North East Like a Local

Layer up

North East weather can change quickly—bring layers and a waterproof.

Travel smart

Many places are accessible by rail or bus, but a car unlocks the most scenic spots.

Eat local

From pan haggerty in Northumberland to parmos in Middlesbrough—try something regionally iconic.

Support small

Independent cafés, craft shops, and family-run pubs are the heart of the region.

Planning Your Trip?

Whether you’re dreaming of a windswept coastal cottage, or a chic city apartment, Treetops & Tides has stunning stays in the North East, to suit every style.