Travel Guide to Newcastle England

5 Cultural Adventures to Take Near Newcastle

July 31, 2015

During my semester studying abroad in London, I took many weekend getaways throughout Europe. Yet, some of my favorite trips were the day excursions I took within the country. England is a treasure trove of quaint towns, impressive palaces and vibrant green landscape (one perk to all the rain)! Many travelers assume that London is the best spot for visiting nearby cities and towns, and in many ways that is true. However, for a more laid-back atmosphere, Newcastle is a great alternative. Here are 5 nearby cultural adventures you can take from Newcastle.

1) Go Camera Crazy in The Lake District

Is there anything more serene than a gorgeous lake? I think not. Located in the northwest corner of England, The Lake District National Park is comprised of valleys, mountains, small villages, picturesque coastline and, of course, lakes. There’s quite a lot to see and do here, so plan your trip wisely. Two stops I recommend are Ullswater, which is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in England, and Derwentwater for a stunning viewpoint from Friar’s Crag. Buttermere Valley is also quite beautiful, as it’s less crowded than other spots. Make sure to snap a photo of Scale Force. It’s the highest waterfall in the entire district. Grasmere village is a nice place to stop for lunch. If you’re a fan of markets, swing by the town of Keswick.

Travel Guide to Newcastle England — Coniston Water in the Lake District, an area of outstanding natural beauty and a national park. A ribbon lake formed in a valley in the Coniston Fells.

2) Trek alongside Hadrian’s Wall

Did you know that you could see Roman ruins in the heart of England? Look no further than Hadrian’s Wall. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is well deserving of its tile. Beside an impressively well-preserved Roman wall, you’ll see reconstructed buildings and live archaeology at the museums. The Birdoswald Trail, located by the River Irthing, showcases remains of the Roman frontier. For something tranquil, opt for The Chesters Roman Trail (think bath houses and bridges). One perk of traveling to Hadrian’s Wall Country with a group is that there is something for every type of traveler. From archaeology and expansive landscapes to exotic wildlife and quirky pubs, there’s enough appeal here to please the entire group.

5 Cultural Adventures to Take Near Newcastle — Hadrian’s Wall seen from Cuddy’s Crag, near Housesteads Fort. The ancient Roman fortification between England and Scotland. Britain 100.

3) Cast a Spell at Alnwick Castle

Calling all Harry Potter (and Downton Abbey) fans! If you can’t make it to Edinburgh castle in Scotland, which is said to have been the inspiration for J.K. Rowling’s Hogwarts, this is the next best thing. Scenes from the first two movies were filmed here, along with plenty of other productions like Downton Abbey and Robin Hood Prince of Thieves. From strolling through decadent staterooms to dressing up in medieval finery, this is definitely the place to unleash your inner child. Looking for a great lunch spot with a view? Alnwick Garden, which is famous for its treehouse restaurant (also the largest of its kind in the world), is only a five-minute walk away. Here you’ll find Britain’s largest fountain and themed gardens.

4) Time Travel in Medieval York

Speaking of medieval times, York is another easy day trip from Newcastle. I don’t know about you but I still have moments when I wish I could time travel to the Middle Ages. Everything from the vibrant costumes to lively festivals, this period is fascinating no matter how you look at it. Although York has certainly modernized since then, it still feels like a city trapped in time. The best view is from the top of York Minster, so get ready for a steep climb. When you’re ready to do some shopping, head to The Shambles and browse through stores selling everything from traditional crafts to fresh desserts and handmade soaps. You’ll also notice the 14th century Tudor buildings there, too. When you need a break from walking, cruise along River Ouse on a YorkBoat.

top attractions in York — York Minster, York, Yorkshire, England, UK

5) Museum Hop in Historic Durham

Home to Durham Cathedral and Castle UNESCO World Heritage Site, there are also plenty of museums and galleries worth visiting. Start your day at the award-winning Beamish Museum that recreates life in Northern England during the early 1800s and 1900s. If you resonate more with interactive exhibits, the Beamish is a must. Another top museum in Durham is the Bowes Museum. Dating back more than 100 years, here’s where you’ll see the greatest North England’s best collection of European fine art. History buffs will appreciate Durham University Oriental Museum, as it’s entirely dedicated to archaeology of the Orient. Fancy a garden view? Try the Eggleston Hall Nursery and Gardens or Crook Hall Gardens.

Things to do in Durham — View of the city of Durham with the tops of the Norman Cathedral and Castle in the distance and the River Wear running through the centre of the city., Durham, County Durham, England. Additional Credit: One North East

*This post is brought to you by our sponsor Visit Britain via Cooperatize.

Like me on Facebook and Tweet me: @BohemianTrails

Hi! I’m Megan,

a Scorpio sun and Libra moon who left her job in the music industry to travel and write full-time. Since then, i´ve explored more than 60 countries in the hopes that you will, too.

The world is made of magic and so are you!

Exploring Sicily’s Food and Wine Scene with WalkingWomen

22 November, 2023 No Comments

As someone who used to travel full-time, a lot has changed for me in the past few years. Pandemic aside, I’ve been more intentional about where, and how often, I travel. A big part of that has to do with finding beauty in what I used to view as mundane; things like a morning routine

Memories from My Childhood Summers in Charleston—Plus 5 Sights to See

4 May, 2021 No Comments

For about six or seven summers in a row, my family would make the car drive from our home in the D.C. suburbs to Charleston, South Carolina. While my dad’s family hailed from the Boston area, my mom’s family had southern roots and on summers when we couldn’t visit both sides of the family, we’d

Here’s Why Vacation Ownership With Hilton Grand Vacations is the Travel Solution You Need

8 March, 2021 No Comments

We’ve all stayed at a Hilton hotel at one point or another and, if you have not, you are at least familiar with the brand. The Hilton name has been around for more than 100 years and to date, there are more than 6,300 properties and resorts within the Hilton portfolio of brands.  One of these brands is Hilton Grand Vacations. Unlike a traditional fixed–week timeshare program, HGV

Here’s Why I Want to Visit Kerala (and you should, too)!

10 March, 2020 No Comments

Every so often, I write about a destination I haven’t been to. As much as I love recounting trips and sharing my experiences here on Bohemian Trails, I also love to dream; dream about people and places I’ve never crossed paths with. That’s the traveler in me, the explorer that believes in the magic of

My Favorite Caribbean Islands to Escape to This Winter

25 February, 2020 No Comments

Winter is in full swing, which means that there’s still time to plan that weekend getaway. An east-coaster from birth and having lived in New York for seven years, the Caribbean remains my go-to winter destination. In many cases, you’ll find direct flights (or nearly direct) and within a few hours, you are on a

Reflections on the Lake: Join us in Guatemala this New Years!

23 July, 2019 No Comments

Pack your bags, notepads and Yoga mats. We’re going to Guatemala! I am thrilled to announce that I’ll be co-leading another writing + wellness + wanderlust retreat over New Years! Mark your calendars for December 29-January 3. My co-leader, Heather Suzanne, is not only one of my favorite Yoga teachers I’ve had the pleasure of