Washington Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Washington. Plan your trip with our detailed itinerary, transportation options, and local tips.


Introduction to Washington

Washington is a town in Tyne and Wear, located in the North East of England. The town is known for its rich history, stunning natural landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene. Whether you are interested in museums, outdoor adventures, or local cuisine, Washington has something for everyone.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Washington. We will also provide you with an itinerary to help you plan your trip, transportation options, and local tips to make the most of your visit.

List of Places to Visit in Washington

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Washington Old Hall

Washington Old Hall is a 17th-century manor house that was the ancestral home of George Washington’s family. Visitors can explore the house and gardens, and learn more about the life of the first President of the United States.

National Trust’s Gibside

National Trust’s Gibside is an 18th-century landscape garden and park that offers beautiful scenic views, historic buildings, and plenty of trails for hiking and biking. This is a great place to spend a day outdoors with your family and friends.

Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens

Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens is a popular attraction that showcases the history and culture of Sunderland and the wider region. The museum has collections of natural history, art, and artefacts from around the world.

Natural Attractions of Washington: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

WWT Washington Wetland Centre

The WWT Washington Wetland Centre is a nature reserve that serves as a home to a variety of birds, mammals, and insects. Visitors can take a walk along the trails, watch birds, and learn more about the wetland ecosystem.

Penshaw Monument

Penshaw Monument is a landmark that sits atop a hill overlooking the town of Washington. The monument was built in 1844 and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can climb the steps of the monument to enjoy the views.

Herrington Country Park

Herrington Country Park is a 110-acre park that offers plenty of trails for hiking and biking, a lake for fishing and boating, and a skate park for kids. The park also hosts events and festivals throughout the year, so make sure to check the calendar before your visit.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Washington

There are plenty of hiking and biking routes in Washington that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Here are some of our favourites:

  • Washington Old Hall to Penshaw Monument: This route is 5 miles long and takes you through the scenic countryside of Washington.
  • WWT Washington Wetland Centre to Herrington Country Park: This route is 3 miles long and takes you through the wetlands and country park of Washington.
  • National Trust’s Gibside: This park has over 8 miles of trails that take you through stunning woodlands, gardens and countryside.

Best Things to Do in Washington: Activities and Tours

Beamish: The Living Museum of the North

Beamish: The Living Museum of the North is a unique attraction that offers visitors an opportunity to experience life in the North of England during the 1800s and early 1900s. The museum has a collection of historic buildings, vehicles, and artefacts, as well as costumed staff who bring the museum to life.

See the Sunderland International Airshow

The Sunderland International Airshow is a popular annual event that attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. The airshow features military and civilian aircraft performing aerial displays, as well as ground displays and activities for families.

Take a Ghost Tour in Washington

Washington has a spooky side and there are ghost tours that take you around the town’s most haunted sites. You can hear creepy tales of the town’s past, legends, and ghostly sightings from your knowledgeable tour guide.

Week-Long Itinerary for Washington

Day 1: Explore the Town of Washington

The town of Washington has a rich history and we suggest starting your trip by taking a Heritage Trail that will guide you into the past with notable landmarks. Later on, visit local shops for souvenirs and products.

Day 2: Take a Nature Walk

Start your day by exploring the Wetlands Reserve and the WWT Washington Wetland Centre. Afterward, grab lunch and take a stroll in the Penshaw Monument.

Day 3: Visit Museums and Historical Sites

Spend the day visiting cultural attractions such as the Washington Old Hall for historical landmark, the National Trust’s Gibside for its captivating landscape gardens, and spend the day at the Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens.

Day 4: Take a Bike Ride

Rent a bike and take a scenic route to Beamish: The Living Museum of the North. Get to know the history of North England.

Day 5: Explore the Outdoors

Visit the Herrington Country Park and experience the thrill of skate park with friends or family. Definitely pop into the park’s Lake and have a traditional British picnic!

Day 6: Local Market Tour

Visit the local market to explore the region’s cuisine and sample the many delicacies that the stalls have to offer. Buy souvenirs and local products before heading out on your next journey.

Day 7: Sunderland Air Show

End your week-long trip with an exciting air show experience. The air show offers ground activity throughout the day, and various events and displays from military and civilian planes.

Food and Drink Scene of Washington

Must-Try Dishes

Washington’s food scene is diverse and dynamic, offering everything from traditional English fare to international cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes are:

  • Fish and Chips: One of the most famous dishes in England, crispy fried fish served with chips, peas, and tartar sauce.
  • Sunday Roast: A traditional British meal served on Sundays, consisting of roasted meat, vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, and gravy.
  • Stottie Cake: A traditional bread that is baked flat and used to make sandwiches with bacon, sausages, or ham.

Local Beverages

  • Brown Ale: A dark, rich beer with a malty flavour that originated in Newcastle and has become popular across the region.
  • Newcastle Brown Ale: An iconic beer that is brewed in the region and is popular among locals and visitors alike.
  • Sloe Gin: A gin-based liqueur that is typically made by steeping sloe berries in gin and adding sugar.

Where to Stay in Washington: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The George Washington Hotel

The George Washington Hotel is a luxury hotel that offers comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness centre. The hotel is located close to cultural attractions and is perfect for those looking for a luxurious stay.

Premier Inn Washington

Premier Inn Washington offers budget-friendly accommodations, clean and well-maintained rooms, and an on-site restaurant. The hotel is located close to major attractions and offers great value for money.

The Three Horse Shoes

The Three Horse Shoes is a cozy guesthouse located in the town centre. The rooms are spacious and comfortable and the guesthouse has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

What to Buy in Washington: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Mackem Dictionary: Take a piece of Washington back home by learning the local jargon commonly used by the locals.
  • Traditional Northumberland tartan: purchase a skirt or a kilt made from Northumberland’s historic and iconic tartan fabric.
  • Tyne & Wear Merchandise: you can find ‘‘Geordie’’ merchandise, including T-shirts, hats, and mugs.

Local Culture and Customs of Washington

Washington is part of the North East region of England and is known for its warm and welcoming culture. The locals are friendly, and the town has a strong sense of community. It is also known for its love of music and sports.

Best Time to Visit Washington

The best time to visit Washington is between the months of May and September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the outdoor attractions are open. Washington experiences mild winters, but the attractions are closed during that time, so it is best to visit during the summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Washington

Do:

  • Be polite and friendly to the locals.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Explore the town’s natural and cultural attractions.
  • Take a ghost tour to learn the town’s spooky tales.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter the town’s streets, the town is known for being pristine and clean and it should stay that way.
  • Do not take photographs of people without their permission, it is not polite.

Safety and Health

Safety in Washington

Washington is a safe town, and visitors can feel secure when walking around the town centre and its attractions. As with any urban area, tourists need to follow the basic rules such as staying in well-lit areas at night, keeping their belongings safe, and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Washington

Washington has prime healthcare facilities. For tourists who fall ill, it is suggested to visit the Washington Primary Care Centre during the morning hours. They also have a Walk-in Centre to attend minor injuries.

Getting to Washington: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Washington

The closest international airports to Washington are Newcastle International Airport and Durham Tees Valley Airport.

Bus Stations Near Washington

The local bus station is The Galleries, which connects Washington to major towns and cities in North East England.

Other Options

If you’re coming from Newcastle, Tyne & Wear Metro is a convenient and inexpensive way to get to Washington. The line A bus runs frequently from Newcastle to Washington, and the journey takes around 30 minutes.

How to Get Around Washington

The town of Washington is small, and visitors can easily explore the town centre on foot. However, for those who want to explore the surrounding countryside, we recommend renting a bike or hiring a car.

Where to Go Next from Washington: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Newcastle

Newcastle is a city located just 8 miles from Washington. Known for its vibrant nightlife, cultural attractions, and world-renowned heritage, Newcastle makes an excellent day trip from Washington.

Durham

Durham is a historic city located 15 miles from Washington. Home to Durham Cathedral and Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Durham is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Washington combines its rich history with its unique outdoor landscapes and splendid culture. The town has plenty of attractions, activities, and natural landmarks for visitors of all ages, making it the ideal destination for a family vacation, group or solo trip. We hope this travel guide has given you some ideas for your trip to Washington and that your visit to this charming town is unforgettable.

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