By: Beatrice Allen
Are you wondering what to do over the summer holidays? Trying to think of places to visit but to no avail? Look no further, this article has everything you need for an exciting break over the summer! From castles to ancient walls, you are sure to find something interesting and different from the conventional outings to museums and parks.
Discover the hidden side of Newcastle.
The Victoria Tunnel is a preserved 19th century waggonway that stretches under Newcastle. In the mid 1800s it served as a way to transport coal from the mines to the river but in 1939 it became an air raid shelter, protecting thousands of Newcastle citizens during World War II. Today, you can go on a guided tour of the tunnels and discover details of its fascinating past.
1. An imposing medieval castle in a deer park.
Raby Castle, though further away than most places on this list, is a beautiful castle on the inside and out that should be a key part of your summer. Enjoy a walk around the grounds where you can spot lakes, swans and deer or check out the stunning rooms inside this well preserved castle.
2. A living museum.
Beamish, the 'Living Museum of the North', is perfect for a day trip into the past. The various buildings let visitors relive life in the North East during the 1820s, 1900s, 1940s and 1950s. While you’re there, don’t forget to check out the new shops and farm buildings from post-war Britain.
Vindolanda.
Vindolanda, which was a Roman Auxiliary Fort, is well worth a day trip during the summer. It is just south of Hadrian’s Wall, which it pre-dates, and is accompanied by two award-winning museums, one of which being the Roman Army Museum. Full of artefacts and featuring ruins of structures lost centuries ago, this is definitely a worthy day out for all the family.
An iconic Cathedral
Although there isn’t much to do at Durham Cathedral, it is still a stunning structure with so much history. The Cathedral was built in the 12th Century and since then has stood at the heart of Durham for roughly nine hundred years. More recently, some of the scenes in the Harry Potter movies were filmed within the Cathedral. The building itself and Durham can make for a great day out, if you’re a fan of history.
Hexham Old Gaol.
The picturesque market town of Hexham lies just a few miles from Hadrian's Wall. It has a huge amount to offer and is well worth spending half a day to enjoy its splendour! Particularly, Hexham Old Gaol, which is reputed to be the oldest purpose-built prison in England. It was built in the 14th century to house criminals and today has some interesting exhibitions on what it would have been like to have been locked away inside the building.
READ MORE LIKE THIS...
READ MORE BY...