The most beautiful places to visit in the North East
Tour the beauty spots of North East England, where history and nature collide. From cathedrals to coastlines, there's always something new to discover.
The North East is a gem within England's crown.
Here, you'll find the ethereal landscapes of the Northumberland Coast, where castles stand guard against the crashing waves of the North Sea. You'll feel the mystical embrace of the North York Moors, where heather dances against endless skies. And you'll discover the ancient city of Durham, whose cathedral towers majestically over winding, bric-a-brac streets.
Each corner of the North East unveils a unique charm. So join us on a voyage of discovery as we tour the most beautiful spots in this very beautiful area.
Bamburgh Castle
The most fitting place to start our spectacular journey is Bamburgh Castle. This award-winning castle perches on the rugged Northumberland coast, where its ancient red bricks stand in stark contrast to golden sand dunes and the turbulent North Sea.
Weathered by centuries, the castle's walls whisper tales of conquests and legends. If you stand on the battlements where those venerable soldiers once stood, you can see all the way to the hauntingly beautiful Farne Islands.
A living chronicle of times gone by, Bamburgh Castle invites you to immerse yourself in an ancient gem and enjoy a day of timeless charm.
Lindisfarne (Holy Island)
Lindisfarne, also known as Holy Island, is a tidal island nestled off the northeast coast of England.
With its ancient monastery – founded in 635 AD – this tiny outcrop has historical and spiritual significance for many. Visitors from all over the globe flock to walk among the relics of a medieval past and soak in the island's serene atmosphere.
The monastery isn't the only sight worth seeing. Lindisfarne is also home to a rich variety of wildlife, as well as a picture-postcard village, where quaint cottages stand against the backdrop of the dramatic North Sea.
Lindisfarne Holy Island will captivate you with its blend of history, spirituality and breathtaking scenery giving you an experience you will never forget. Just be careful to check tide times before you head off – the island is only accessible via a causeway, which is flooded when the tide is high.
Saltburn-by-the-Sea
The North East is hardly the most famous surfing spot in the UK – but Saltburn bucks the trend. This seaside town has become the place to be if you're seeking adventure on the water.
Every year, scores of surfers head to Saltburn to catch some waves or learn the ropes. And it's been this way for decades – the town has hosted a surf school since way back in 1983.
If the thought of the North Sea's cold embrace is a bit too chilling for you, grab yourself some fish and chips and take in the scenery. It's always a delight to watch the surfers riding against the backdrop of beautiful beaches and unique striped cliffs.
For a touch of nostalgia, take a stroll along the picturesque pier or visit Saltburn's historic cliff lift: one of the oldest water-powered funiculars in the world. Nature lovers, meanwhile, can breathe in the beauty of the breathtaking cliffs and the Valley Gardens' luxuriant greenery.
If you're seeking a beautiful coastal retreat, Saltburn-by-the-Sea is a shoo-in. It's an intoxicating destination that blends the ancient and modern with nature and architecture.
Roseberry Topping
Roseberry Topping is a distinctive hill – and a local favourite in North Yorkshire. Its silhouette, which looks like a rosebud, captivates the visitor's eye against the vast expanse of the moors.
Fancy a hike? The ascent toward its peak weaves through heather-dotted paths and twists and turns that lead to a rewarding view. Atop this 320-metre hill, panoramic vistas unfold, unveiling a tapestry of rolling hills and verdant valleys. The crisp wind only adds to the tranquillity and untamed beauty of its vista.
Roseberry Topping is a timeless natural monument that will embrace you with its sense of solitude and boundless wonder. If you're travelling through North Yorkshire, we highly recommend taking a trip to this beloved landmark.
Hadrian's Wall
Hadrian's Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that invites visitors to step into history and wonder at its tales of conquest. The wall marks the boundary of the ancient Roman Empire, which once stretched its tentacles across much of Europe.
Stretching out over 73 miles of England's rugged terrain, this beautiful site invites you to witness the remains of this great engineering masterpiece.
The ancient walls entwine seamlessly with picturesque landscapes and stunning vistas of the English countryside. As you stroll around the walls, you really get a feel for a bygone era.
So, take a trip to this iconic landmark where you'll take a journey through time and witness the legacy of a once-great empire.
Northumberland National Park
Spanning over 400 square miles, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a sprawling expanse of natural beauty. Home to Hadrian's Wall, its diverse landscape mingles with history to weave a tapestry of rolling moorland, ancient forests and captivating valleys.
Enchanting villages dot the periphery and trails for hiking, cycling and exploring wind seamlessly through the rolling landscape. Keep an eye out for rare wildlife too, including red squirrels and otters.
Northumberland National Park is also an International Dark Sky Park, making it ideal for a spot of stargazing. On clear nights, scores of visitors gather to marvel at the heavens and their glorious celestial displays. It's not unusual to be able to see the Andromeda galaxy and millions of stars with the naked eye.
Kielder Water and Forest Park
Located in Northumberland, Kielder Water and Forest Park is a stunning place to visit for action and nature seekers alike.
It's famous as the home of Europe's largest man-made woodland, as well as Kielder Water: the largest artificial lake in the country. This makes it perfect for outdoor activities among breathtaking landscapes and serene waters.
There really is something for everyone here. Visitors enjoy cycling along scenic trails, taking part in water sports like sailing or kayaking or simply walking and enjoying the scenery.
The futuristic Kielder Skyspace art installation sets the scene for when the sun sets and the mesmerising dark sky becomes perfect for stargazing. Once you've witnessed its curious light show, you can head to Kielder Observatory to take advantage of the park's minimal light pollution and enjoy a unique stargazing experience.
Now we've whetted your appetite for the beautiful wonders of the North East, why not hire a car in Newcastle and embark on the road trip of a lifetime? Here at MVH Rental, we've offered high-quality, affordable rental vehicles since 2002.
