Tyne and Wear Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit and things to do in Tyne and Wear, as well as tips on where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around. This comprehensive travel guide has everything you need to plan your trip to North East England.


Introduction to Tyne and Wear

Tyne and Wear is a metropolitan county in North East England, consisting of five boroughs: Newcastle upon Tyne, Gateshead, North Tyneside, South Tyneside, and Sunderland. The county is named after the two rivers that flow through it: the River Tyne and the River Wear. It is a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, offering visitors a unique experience of North East England.

List of Places to Visit in Tyne and Wear

If you’re planning a trip to Tyne and Wear, here are some of the best places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art: A converted flour mill turned contemporary art gallery, located on the banks of the River Tyne.
  • Discovery Museum: A museum located in Newcastle upon Tyne that explores the region’s engineering, scientific, and technological achievements.
  • Tyne and Wear Archives and Museums: A group of museums and galleries across Tyne and Wear, including the Great North Museum, the Laing Art Gallery, and the South Shields Museum and Art Gallery.
  • Victoria Tunnel: An underground tunnel in Newcastle upon Tyne that was used during World War II as an air raid shelter.

Natural Attractions of Tyne and Wear: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Angel of the North: A public art sculpture of an angel with wings measuring 54 feet, located in Gateshead.
  • Northumberland Coast: A coastal area in Northumberland, located north of Tyne and Wear, boasting beautiful beaches and picturesque villages.
  • Sunderland Coastline: A scenic coastline that stretches from Sunderland to Whitburn, offering stunning views of the North Sea.
  • Northumberland National Park: A vast expanse of unspoiled countryside, located north of Tyne and Wear.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tyne and Wear

Tyne and Wear offers a variety of hiking and biking routes for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Hadrian’s Wall Path: A 84-mile trail that follows the ancient Roman wall from Wallsend in Newcastle upon Tyne to Bowness-on-Solway in Cumbria.
  • Coast-to-Coast (C2C) Cycle Route: A 140-mile cycling trail that crosses the country from Whitehaven in Cumbria to Tynemouth in North Tyneside.
  • Waskerley Way Trail: A 10-mile walking and cycling trail that follows the route of an old railway line through the Derwent Valley.

Best Things to Do in Tyne and Wear: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for things to do in Tyne and Wear, here are some suggestions:

  • St. James’ Park Tour: Take a tour of Newcastle United’s football stadium, St. James’ Park, which offers stunning views of the city skyline.
  • Segedunum Roman Fort Tour: Explore the ruins of a Roman fort in Wallsend, Newcastle upon Tyne, and learn about the history of the Roman Empire.
  • Newcastle Castle: Visit the iconic castle in Newcastle upon Tyne, which dates back to the 12th century.
  • Tynemouth Market: Browse the eclectic mix of stalls at Tynemouth Market, offering everything from vintage clothing to artisanal food.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tyne and Wear

If you have a week to spend in Tyne and Wear, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit Discovery Museum and BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art
2 Hike Hadrian’s Wall Path
3 Take a tour of Newcastle Castle and St. James’ Park
4 Visit Victoria Tunnel and the Tyne and Wear Archives and Museums
5 Cycle the Coast-to-Coast (C2C) Cycle Route
6 Explore Northumberland Coast
7 Visit Sunderland Coastline and Segedunum Roman Fort

Food and Drink Scene of Tyne and Wear

Tyne and Wear boasts a vibrant food and drink scene, with a range of local dishes and beverages to try.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Stottie Cake: A flatbread that is a staple in the North East, often filled with ham, pease pudding, or bacon.
  • Singin’ Hinnies: A type of scone that is fried rather than baked, and served with butter or jam.
  • Pan Haggerty: A traditional dish made with thinly sliced potatoes, onions, and cheese, layered in a pan and baked in the oven.

Local Beverages

  • Newcastle Brown Ale: A dark ale that is brewed in Newcastle upon Tyne, and is popular across the UK.
  • Broon Coo: A cider made from apples grown in Cumbria, and fermented in Newcastle upon Tyne.

Where to Stay in Tyne and Wear: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tyne and Wear offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences.

  • Jesmond Dene House: A luxurious hotel located in Newcastle upon Tyne, offering elegant rooms and fine dining.
  • YHA Newcastle Central: A centrally located hostel offering affordable accommodation and a social atmosphere.
  • The Little Haven Hotel: A beachfront hotel in South Shields, with views of the North Sea.

What to Buy in Tyne and Wear: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to bring home, here are some ideas:

  • Newcastle Brown Ale merchandise: T-shirts, glasses, and other memorabilia featuring the iconic ale.
  • Mackem and Geordie merchandise: T-shirts and other items featuring the local dialects of Sunderland and Newcastle upon Tyne.
  • Local art and crafts: Visit one of the many galleries and markets in Tyne and Wear to find unique pieces of art and crafts by local artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Tyne and Wear

Tyne and Wear has a distinct culture and identity, shaped by its history, geography, and people. The region is known for its warm and friendly locals, its passion for football, and its lively music and arts scene.

Best Time to Visit Tyne and Wear

Tyne and Wear can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the region’s outdoor attractions are at their best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tyne and Wear

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine, especially stottie cake, pan haggerty, and singin’ hinnies.
  • Do visit the local museums and art galleries, which offer a window into the region’s history and culture.
  • Do explore the great outdoors, by hiking, cycling, or walking along the coast.

Don’t:

  • Don’t miss the chance to see a football match at St. James’ Park or the Stadium of Light.
  • Don’t forget to sample the local beer and cider, especially Newcastle Brown Ale and Broon Coo.
  • Don’t underestimate the importance of warm clothing, even in summer, as the weather can be unpredictable.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tyne and Wear

Tyne and Wear is generally a safe region to visit, but it is important to take usual safety precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings when out and about at night.

Health in Tyne and Wear

Tyne and Wear has a good healthcare system, with several hospitals and clinics located throughout the county. Visitors to the UK should have comprehensive travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies.

Getting to Tyne and Wear: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tyne and Wear is easily accessible by air, rail, and road.

Airports Near Tyne and Wear

  • Newcastle International Airport: The main airport for the region, with connections to major UK and European cities.

Bus Stations Near Tyne and Wear

  • Newcastle Coach Station

Other Options

  • London to Newcastle rail services: A frequent and efficient rail service, connecting London to Newcastle.

How to Get Around in Tyne and Wear

Tyne and Wear has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, metro, and trains. It is also easily explored on foot or by bike.

Where to Go Next from Tyne and Wear: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore North East England, here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Durham: A historic city located south of Tyne and Wear, home to Durham Cathedral and Castle.
  • Alnwick: A market town located north of Tyne and Wear, with a medieval castle and beautiful gardens.
  • Kielder Water and Forest Park: A nature reserve located to the north of Tyne and Wear, offering hiking, cycling, and water sports.

Conclusion

Tyne and Wear is a fascinating and beautiful region, with a rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in history and museums, outdoor adventures, or local cuisine, there is something for everyone in Tyne and Wear. With this comprehensive guide, you can plan your visit to North East England with confidence, and enjoy everything that this unique region has to offer.

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