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 Roman fort with fully reconstructed gateway |
Baring Street Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE33 2BB United Kingdom +44 191 456 1369 |
The continuing excavations at Arbeia have revealed the remains of an important Roman fort and supply base near the eastern extremity of Hadrian's Wall. The Romans had a fort on the site from the first to the fourth century AD. Archaeologists have also found the remains of an Iron Age settlement that was there before the Romans and of two people who died violently during the Dark Ages. The life-size replica of the West gate was built on the site of the original gate and is an ideal introduction to what a fort's wall and defences were like. Plans are being made to rebuild the entire fort in something close to its original condition. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Step back in time at Beamish |
8 miles south west of Newcastle upon Tyne Stanley Newcastle upon Tyne, County Durham DH9 0RG United Kingdom +44 191 370 4000 http://www.beamish.org.uk |
The open air museum offers a living, working experience of life in the region in the Edwardian era, and has something for all ages. Staff in period dress welcome visitors and demonstrate life in period homes and workplaces including the popular Beamish sweet factory and traditional Co-op Shops. You can buy sweets at the Jubilee Confectionery, visit two farms, ride a tram, go down a real drift mine, see a newspaper being printed, or enjoy a drink in the Sun Inn. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Arthur Saddington |
 Photo: Phil Thornton |
 Photo: Brian Burt |
 Photo: Arthur Saddington |
 Photo: Brian Burt |
 Photo: Harriet's Father |
 Photo: Marc Sargent |
 Photo: Darren Payne |
 Photo: broadsview |
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Living history from the golden age of Northumbria |
Church Bank Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE32 3DY United Kingdom +44 191 489 2106 http://www.bedesworld.co.uk |
Bede (AD673-735) was one of Europe's greatest scholars and the first person to record the history of the English nation. He lived and worked as a monk at Jarrow, just over the river from Newcastle. But don't think that Bede's World will be as dry as old books. It's a rich and varied exploration of the golden age of Northumbria which will keep you occupied for many hours. You can visit the 1300 year old St Paul's church and monastic site, Gyrwe, a working Anglo Saxon farm with its timber buildings and rare animal breeds, Jarrow Hall, a late Georgian house, and a museum that reveals the world in which Bede lived. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Hume |
 Photo: Matt Jones |
 Eclectic collection in chateau-style building |
Newgate Newcastle upon Tyne, County Durham DL12 8NP United Kingdom +44 1833 69 0606 http://www.bowesmuseum.org.uk |
From the outside it looks like a magnificent French chateau, and it was designed by a French architect called Jules Pellechat, but Bowes was in fact opened in 1892 as a purpose built museum and art gallery. On three floors, the museum houses a wide and eclectic collection of art and artefacts. In the realm of fine art there is an enviable collection of European paintings, with the emphasis on French and Spanish artists. There is also a suite of period English rooms complete with preserved furnishings and decorations. The local history gallery contains many archaeological finds from the surrounding area. And the toy gallery is a big hit with children and adults alike. Combine all this with the many occasional exhibitions, and the musical and theatrical events that take place in the grounds, and there is probably something at Bowes to interest everyone. It is not easily accessible by public transport. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alden Chadwick  |
 Photo: Philip Gosling |
 Photo: Dora Colley |
 Photo: Kurt Blythman |
 Photo: Richard Winskill |
 Photo: TREACLE JON |
 Photo: kate |
 Photo: Carole Jeffery |
 Photo: sherpa nick |
 Photo: Michael Schuyler |
 Photo: Thomas van Deventer |
 Photo: Catherine Maryon |
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An educational and fun day out |
Springwell Village Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE9 JQJ United Kingdom +44 191 416 1847 http://www.bowesrailway.co.uk |
The Bowes Railway is the only working preserved rope-hauled railway in the world. Educational and fun visitors can ride the steam trains from Springwell to Blackham's Hill, and watch two working inclines (designed by George Stephenson) in operation. Bowes is an enthusiast's dream. It houses a comprehensive collection of steam locomotives, colliery wagons, and industrial diesel locomotives, and has featured in a number of period television programs. There is free parking and entry is very reasonably priced. The site is open for visitors to view the exhibits Monday to Friday, but do please note, rides on trains are available only on specified operating days. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: micks pics |
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Birthplace of Thomas Bewick |
Station Bank Mickley Newcastle upon Tyne, NBL NE43 7DD United Kingdom +44 1661 84 3276 http://www.nationaltrust.org.u... |
The renowned naturalist, artist, and wood engraver Thomas Bewick (particularly famous for his fine woodcuts of wild birds) was born just a few miles west of Newcastle city centre. Rural Northumberland, from where Bewick took much of his inspiration, is as wild and beautiful today as it must have been at the turn of the 19th century when he was doing his major works. Cherryburn farmhouse and gardens, as well as being a picturesque setting in their own right, also contain an exhibition on the life and works of Bewick. Prints of his engravings can be bought from the gift shop. Engraving, printing, and bookbinding demonstrations can sometimes be seen, and the house is occasionally used for musical events. Wheelchair access is possible, but wheelchair users may need help to access some parts of the house and farmyard. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fun museum of history and technology |
Blandford Square Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE1 4JA United Kingdom +44 191 232 6789 |
The Discovery Museum has been one of Newcastle's less lauded tourist attractions. Once located slightly off the beaten track, the museum is now centred in the middle of exciting city regeneration works and is set to benefit from this upsurge in retail and residential interest. Located in a huge Victorian warehouse, the Discovery has several permanent exhibitions: "Live Wires" features robots, the Web and the latest hi-tech gadgets. "Turbinia", once the world's fastest vessel, is docked in a hands-on maritime gallery. There's the Science Factory, Fashion Works, a Pioneer Gallery and 200 years of military history in "A Soldier's Life". The Discovery has an exciting programme of exhibitions and one-off events for all the family. Every Sunday is a family day with free activities. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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The citys premier museum |
Barras Bridge Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE2 4PT United Kingdom +44 191 222 6765 |
The City's premier museum and one which definitely merits multiple visits. Opened in 1884 and named after celebrated local naturalists, the Hancock has undergone a major revival over the last decade, helped in no small way by populist exhibitions. What cannot be denied is that kids love it and it makes for a great day out. Major permanent exhibitions include the ever popular Land of the Pharaohs - which explores life and death in Ancient Egypt, including a reconstructed tomb, an embalmers tent, and two mummies; Earthworks - an interactive/traditional look at the evolution of the Earth; Living Planet - explores life on earth, its diversity, ecology, and fragility. The Museum can be booked for parties, conferences etc. Admission: adults £3.95, children & concs £2.50. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Good collection of military hardware |
The Pavilion Exhibition Park Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE2 4PZ United Kingdom +44 191 281 7222 http://www.military-museum.org.uk |
The building might look as if it has seen better days, but as it was originally designed as a pavilion for the North East Coast Exhibition of 1925, and was only meant to last for six months, it is doing very well. For anyone interested in military history this museum is a treasure house. Inside you will find more than 50 vehicles, covering everything from bicycles to armoured cars, and spanning the entire 20th century, although most exhibits are pre-1945. There is also a collection of uniforms and military equipment. The collection on display is regularly changed, so multiple visits need not be boring. Note that from November to March the museum is only open weekends and school holidays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Intriguing and unusual collection of instruments |
Morpeth Chantry Bridge Street Newcastle upon Tyne, NBL NE61 1JP United Kingdom +44 16 7051 9466 |
This unusual attraction is the only bagpipe museum in the country, and may be the only one in the world. It is situated in a 13th century chantry in the rural market town of Morpeth a few miles north of Newcastle. The museum's aim is to chart the history and development of the Northumbrian pipes, and it does this by placing them in context with the history of pipes from all over the world (pipes from every continent are on display). The oldest instrument in the museum is a set of sixteenth century French pipes. An ingenious sound system allows visitors to hear a sample of the music of whichever pipes they are looking at through a set of personal headphones. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The Region's main museum of archaeology |
The Quadrangle University Of Newcastle-upon-Tyne Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE1 7RU United Kingdom +44 191 222 7849 http://museums.ncl.ac.uk/archive/ |
The museum's collection covers the period from 6000BC to 1600AD. Its specialism, however, is the Roman period - with finds from all along Hadrian's Wall. The Director, Lindsay Allason-Jones, is often seen on TV with Channel Four's Time Team as their Roman finds expert. The museum's displays are well presented and easily understood. A group of altars to the mysterious Roman god, Mithras, which were found on Hadrian's Wall, are central to the museum. A reconstruction of what a Mithraic temple was like can be seen at the museum. Admission: free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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See working machinery and go underground |
Cowshill Newcastle upon Tyne, County Durham DL13 1AR United Kingdom +44 13 8853 7505 |
This museum is based around a renovation of a genuine lead mine high in the Pennines (less than an hour's drive from Newcastle), that was worked during the late 19th century. On the surface you can see working mining and refining machinery, including a water-wheel, and a trip down the mine itself gives at least a hint of the harsh conditions the miners faced. The museum is 450 metres above sea level, so you are advised to dress in warm and waterproof clothing. The mine itself is rather wet, and you are advised to bring wellington boots if you intend to go below ground, although the museum has a limited number of pairs available to borrow. The museum is closed from November to March. Children under four are not allowed underground. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Museum of Greek art and archaeology |
Armstrong Building University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE1 7RU United Kingdom +44 191 222 7971 http://www.ncl.ac.uk/shefton-m... |
One of the foremost museums of Greek art and archaeology in the country, the Shefton is to be found within the precincts of Newcastle University's main city centre campus. The museum houses collections of weapons and armour, art and sculpture, and pottery and other artefacts from the classical period in Greece's history. The Shefton is a scholarly museum that regularly hosts conferences and symposia around its specialist academic area. Despite this, however, the museum offers a fascinating insight into ancient Greek art and culture that will delight even those with just a casual interest in the subject Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Steam trains to see and ride on |
Middle Engine Lane North Shields Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE29 8DX United Kingdom +44 191 200 7146 |
Learn about the great days of steam railways in this fascinating museum, and on weekends ride on a working steam train. A number of steam and electric powered locomotives can be seen, including George Stephenson's Billy, a forerunner of the more famous Rocket. If you are feeling peckish enjoy a pot of tea and a snack in the traditional Victorian Tea Rooms. A number of special family events are arranged throughout the year, including story telling days, and Wildlife Wanders for people who want to combine the pleasure of an easy country stroll with the thrill of a steam train ride. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The history of the River Tyne |
29 Broad Chare Quayside Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE1 3DQ United Kingdom +44 191 2614691 |
This museum, devoted to the River Tyne's maritime history, is appropriately located in the Quayside area. Taking pride of place amongst the centre's many exhibits are a range of finely crafted model ships - colliers, tankers, sailing ships, and warships - realized in minute detail by shipyard workers. There is also a scale model of the Quayside area itself as it looked in the late 18th century; a prosperous time for Newcastle as a trading port. Refreshments are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Volunteer Life Brigade Museum at Tynemouth |
Spanish Battery Tynemouth Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE30 4DD United Kingdom +44 191 257 2059 |
Built in 1887, the distinctive wooden Watch House stands guard at the mouth of the Tyne, a symbol of local men's bravery at sea, and the home of the UK's first Volunteer Life Brigade. The unpaid volunteeers continue to provide coastal search and rescue to this day. The novel The Watch House by Robert Westall (a famous children's author) casts the building at the heart of a ghost story. And with reason! The Museum allows a step back in time: wooden figureheads from the age of sail, and ghostly photographs of ships and seamen involved in famous disasters on the Tyne are just some of the exhibits in this small museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |