Things to do in  North East England

Originally built as a Norman defense in the 11th century, imposing Alnwick Castle has been expanded piecemeal over the years, and encompasses medieval, Gothic, and neoclassical elements. The castle—about 85 miles (137 kilometers) from Edinburgh—has caught the eye of location scouts, who picked it to serve as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films and Brancaster Castle inDownton Abbey.

One of the UK’s most majestic castles, Bamburgh Castle crowns a volcanic crag perched between a Northumbria sandy beach and the village of Bamburgh. Built in the 19th century on the site of an Anglo-Saxon citadel, the landmark lures visitors with stately halls, armor, a keep, and walls with epic coastal views.

The North York Moors have provided creative inspiration for a number of celebrated writers, including Bram Stoker, Sylvia Plath, and the Brontë sisters. Situated on England’s northeastern coast, the stunning landscape is wild and rugged with an untamed beauty that draws visitors from all over the world.

Newcastle’s oldest building, Newcastle Castle comprises a 12th-century keep and the 13th-century Black Gate gatehouse. Once part of a huge fortress, the two separate, restored fortifications offer the chance to roam ancient chambers, chart the castle’s and city’s history, and soak in sweeping views of Newcastle’s Quayside.

High on an escarpment on UNESCO-listed Hadrian’s Wall, Housesteads Fort is one of 16 forts along what was the Roman Empire’s stone-built north-western frontier. The ruins of the AD 123-built camp, and a museum and visitor center take guests back to the days of Roman Britain 2,000 years ago.

A tiny island just off the coast of the Isle of Arran, the Holy Isle (Eilean Molaise) has long been seen as a spiritual destination. The former residence of the 6th-century St. Malaise, and known for its Viking history and runes, the island is today home to the Centre for World Peace and Health, a Buddhist retreat and meditation center.

Built by the order of William the Conqueror in 1072, Durham Castle has stood the test of time and remains one of England’s most important Norman attractions, as well as a striking example of the elevated “motte-and-bailey” fortress style. While the structure is now home to university residences, history buffs will still enjoy the vast Great Hall, the 17th-century Black Staircase, and the Bishop’s Rooms.

Known as the home of Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland National Park in the northwest of England is dominated by incredible, untouched countryside—from the peaks of the Cheviot Hills to the lush heather-covered moorland—and a wealth of typical English towns and villages. Combining the ancient with the modern, there’s plenty to see and do, whether you prefer markets, hikes, or pints at the pub.

The National Museum of the Royal Navy Hartlepool gives visitors the chance to learn about sailors, life at sea, and the reality of war. Through immersive reenactments and exhibits, you can discover the history of HMS Trincomalee, the oldest warship still afloat in the UK, and witness live shooting demonstrations.