Urban Culture

Things to see and do in North East England are so diverse you'll have an unforgettable cultural experience. Discover thought-provoking art and glorious theatre, world class events and must-have shopping in one holiday.

Experience innovative and provocative new art at the BALTIC, Centre for Contemporary Art, then take a stroll across the award winning Gateshead Millennium Bridge and enjoy the Quayside café culture before taking in the amazing architecture of Newcastle's Grey Street. At mima, Middlesbrough Institute for Modern Art, more thought provoking pieces await, including works by Tracey Emin and LS Lowery.

If you take your retail therapy seriously, then North East England is the place to visit. We've got Europe's largest shopping centre with Gateshead's MetroCentre, which houses over 300 stores, from high-street names to specialist emporiums. Browse the elegant boutiques of Yarm or head to Darlington, Jesmond or Corbridge for designer labels, antiques and original art.

With a dazzling calendar of cultural events, there's always something going on in North East England. And, with such an illustrious sporting tradition as ours, there's plenty of opportunity to catch a sporting event, from premiership football at Newcastle, Middlesbrough and Sunderland to world class cricket at Durham County Cricket Ground, in its spectacular riverside setting overlooked by Lumley Castle. Alternatively, enjoy a day at the races at one of our four racecourses.

After a day of soaking up culture, start your evening in one of our many polished restaurants or laid-back café bars. Once you've re-charged your batteries, take your seat for a West End show at the Sunderland Empire, a Royal Shakespeare Company performance at Newcastle's Theatre Royal or some exciting new writing at Alnwick Playhouse or Durham's Gala Theatre.