Top Newcastle-upon-Tyne Shore Excursions

Reaching Bamburgh Castle and the "Holy Island" of Lindisfarne from Newcastle by public transit involves multiple buses and tight, tide-dependent timing for the Lindisfarne causeway. This small-group full-day tour simplifies logistics with hotel pickup in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, a guided walk through Bamburgh's fortress and village, and a guided visit to Lindisfarne Priory, so you cover both Northumberland landmarks without having to coordinate the connections yourself.

Forget hours of independent research and explore Newcastle-upon-Tyne in an easier and more rewarding way: on a small-group guided walk. Follow a time-efficient route that reveals all the must-sees; admiring everything from the handsome Georgian architecture of Grainger Town to the China Garden, Castle Keep, and Quayside. As you walk and talk, learn history and personal insights into Newcastle’s past and present culture you’d likely miss if exploring alone.

Step into the elegant world of Earl Grey – not just the tea, but the man himself. This exclusive experience invites you to follow in the footsteps of one of Northumberland’s most distinguished figures, discovering the landscapes, heritage, and flavours that shaped his legacy. Departing from Newcastle, your journey unfolds along the breathtaking Northumberland Coast. At the heart of your day lies a visit to Howick Hall Gardens, the beloved family home of the 2nd Earl Grey and the birthplace of the world-famous tea. Wander through beautiful seasonal gardens and soak up the serene atmosphere before enjoying a traditional afternoon tea — naturally, accompanied by a cup of Earl Grey in the place where it all began. This tour offers a rare blend of storytelling, scenery, and taste — a refined and quintessentially English experience that connects past and present in one unforgettable day.

This very special private tour based out of Newcastle takes you to some of the lesser visited but in someways most impressive historical monuments and buildings. First of all we will go a short distance to Tynemouth, a beautiful little town on the coast full of fine places to eat and drink but we are off to visit Tynemouth Priory and Castle with a truly long history and fantastic dramatic views everywhere you look. After seeing the monument to local hero Admiral Collingwood we will drive a few miles to Jarrow, once one of the most important Christian sites in the British Isles and home to all things Bede. From a Holy man to an Angel, visit the most viewed (and likely biggest Angel) public artwork in Europe and symbol of Tyneside. Finally to Washington Old Hall, ancestral home of George Washington (in the real original Washington too!!). See how his family lived with lots of original pieces and artefacts as well as some beautiful gardens. It all makes for a grand day out!

In three unforgettable days, immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Northumberland. From the Roman heritage of Hadrian’s Wall to the sweeping forests of Kielder and the castles along the coast, this is the perfect mix of history, landscapes, and adventure. All enjoyed from behind the wheel of a legendary Land Rover Defender with comfortable 4-star accommodation along the way. Trip Highlights • Explore some of the most beautiful roads in England in a legendary Land Rover Defender • Walk along Hadrian’s Wall and explore Vindolanda • Discover the beauty of Kielder & the Borderlands • Visit Holy Island & Lindisfarne • Step into history at Bamburgh & Alnwick Garden • Enjoy a seal & seabird cruise to the Farne Islands • Relax in handpicked 4-star accommodation Inclusions • Insurance for two drivers • 4* Accommodation inc. breakfast • Full 3-day itinerary with routes, dining & attractions • 3 attraction entries included • Support & guidance throughout

Get to know Newcastle better on a private walking tour. Avoid the stress of large-group tours where you can’t hear your guide, and get the chance to ask questions. Learn more about Newcastle’s long history and its present as a vibrant cultural hub. Add any museums or other sites of interest to the customizable itinerary.

The industrial Newcastle of old has turned into a vibrant metropolis that’s still deeply proud of its history. On this private walking tour, delve deeper into Newcastle and Gateshead—south of the Tyne—and their heritage with a guide for insight you’d miss out on if exploring alone. Pass St. James’ Park football stadium and Grey’s Monument; and admire the futuristic Sage, Baltic, and bridges overlooking the legendary Tyne River.

Discover a violent history of conquest, resistance, and aristocratic power in this exciting exploration of two of Northumberland’s most iconic medieval fortresses. Introduced to the English landscape after the Norman conquest in 1066, castles stood at the centre of medieval society, politics, and warfare in the region. The primary seats of power for the aristocratic Percy family – the real ‘Kings of the North’ – both Alnwick and Warkworth served as magnificent theatres of power for the Percys and focal points of the bloody violence which defined feudal politics. Join us as we take a detailed look at their design, function, and dramatic histories in the medieval period.