Attractions in Newcastle
Castle Keep and New Castle
Originally known as Monkchester, Newcastle only got its present name when Robert Curthose, son of the infamous William the Conqueror, built his 'New Castle' on the site of the Roman Fort, Pons Aelius in 1080. Used as a point of defense, the Castle was originally built of wood and timber, but was later rebuilt in stone and today, visitors can explore the remains of the Castle, as well as the Castle Keep built later on the same site by Henry II.
Hadrian's Wall
In order to separate the Roman Empire in Britain from the 'Barbarians,' in AD122 Emperor Hadrian ordered the building of an impressive wall. Taking approximately six years to complete, the Wall stretches for roughly 80 miles (120km) from South Shields to Ravenglass, passing through present-day Newcastle. Dotted along the Wall are several forts, temples, turrets and milecastles and visitors can explore these fascinating 2,000-year-old remains, as well as the surrounding countryside. Hadrian's Wall was declared a UNESCO World Heritage
BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art
The BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Arts is a unique and fascinating collection of ever-changing exhibits, set in an old flourmill on the south bank of the River Tyne. The biggest gallery of its kind, the Centre allows visitors to explore the innovative and unusual world of top contemporary artists, both local and international. The BALTIC Centre also plays host to various performances, activities, talks and visitors have an opportunity to interact with the latest artist-in-residence. Some of the Centre's past, present and future exhibitors include Sam Taylor-Wood, Wang Du, Susan Hiller and Keith Haring.
Bessie Surtees House
Two five-storey 16th and 17th Century merchant’s houses are some of the finest examples of preserved architecture from this period in the whole city. With splendid interiors, furnished with furniture from the era, the buildings offer a chance for visitors to lose themselves in a time gone by. The buildings are also in part used as the regional headquarters for English heritage that is charged with the responsibility of the upkeep of the structure.
Centre for Life
There’s always something new at the Centre for Life. Meet your 4-billion-year-old family, explore what makes us all different, test your brainpower, take a tour like no other in The Dome, take part in a live science show at the Life Theatre and enjoy the thrill of the Crazy Motion ride. You can even look into the future of science in the Our Future exhibition or become a weather forecaster for the day.
Discovery Museum
The Discovery Museum is one of the cultural keys to Tyne and Wear and finding out more about this region of England and how it and its people have developed over the last few hundred years. Filled with interesting artifacts and featuring a host of interactive exhibits, the museum is one of the most well loved attractions in the area and attracts a great many visitors throughout the year.