61 things to do in Tyne and Wear

Welcome to Tyne and Wear, a metropolitan county located in the North East region of England, encompassing five boroughs including Newcastle, Gateshead, Sunderland, North Tyneside, and South Tyneside.

Newcastle upon Tyne, often referred to as simply Newcastle, is a lively and bustling city known for its iconic bridges, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife. Take a stroll along the Quayside and marvel at the Tyne Bridge and Gateshead Millennium Bridge which both light up at night, creating a beautiful sight. For history buffs, the city’s Castle Keep and the Discovery Museum are must-visit attractions.

Gateshead, situated on the south bank of the River Tyne, is home to the world-famous Angel of the North statue which stands at 20 meters tall and has a wingspan of 54 meters. The Sage Gateshead is a popular music venue with a stunning design that’s definitely worth checking out.

Sunderland is a coastal city with a long and rich history. Its most famous attraction is the Sunderland Empire Theatre which hosts a wide range of shows and performances throughout the year. The city also boasts beautiful parks and gardens such as the Mowbray Park and the Herrington Country Park.

North Tyneside is a borough located to the east of Newcastle. It’s known for its picturesque coastline, which includes the popular seaside resort of Whitley Bay. Tynemouth is another must-visit destination, with its charming village and stunning priory ruins.

South Tyneside is home to the seaside town of South Shields, which offers miles of sandy beaches, a pier, and an amusement park. The town is also famous for its annual Great North Run, a half marathon that attracts thousands of runners from all over the world.

Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, music, or just soaking up the atmosphere, you’re sure to have a fantastic time in this beautiful region of England.

Here are some fun things to do in Tyne and Wear

  • Visit the Angel of the North – this iconic statue is one of the most popular attractions in the region. It stands 20m tall and is located in Gateshead.
  • Explore Newcastle’s Quayside – take a stroll along the River Tyne and enjoy the picturesque views of the city’s bridges and architecture.
  • Discover the history of Sunderland – visit the Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens, which showcases the region’s rich history and culture.
  • Go to the beach – Enjoy the stunning coastline of Tyne and Wear, with beaches such as Tynemouth Longsands and Seaburn Beach being popular choices.
  • Visit the Great North Museum: Hancock – this museum is a must-visit for those interested in natural history, with exhibitions on everything from dinosaurs to ancient civilizations.
  • Take a tour of St James’ Park – for football fans, a tour of the home of Newcastle United is a must-do.
  • Enjoy some nightlife in Newcastle – the city has a reputation for its lively nightlife, with countless bars, pubs, and clubs to choose from.
  • Explore the Northumberland coast – just a short drive from Tyne and Wear is the stunning Northumberland coast, with quaint villages, historic castles, and beautiful beaches to explore.
  • Visit the Gateshead Millennium Bridge – this innovative bridge is not only a feat of engineering but also a stunning work of art.
  • Go shopping – the region has a wide range of shopping options, from the high-end boutiques of Newcastle to the discount stores of the Metrocentre shopping mall.

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