Monday 25 March 2013

Top 5 countryside attractions to enjoy walking in the north-east

Top 5 countryside attractions to enjoy walking in the north-east


Top 5 Countryside Attractions To Enjoy Walking In The North-East
If you're planning a trip to the north-east of England, make sure that you include a couple of its countryside attractions in your itinerary. There are so many of these to discover that it'd be a shame to miss them - plus, with everything from high ropes courses to spectacular gardens to enjoy, there really is something for everyone.
I've put together a list of my favourite countryside attractions in the north-east. I've tried to include a decent mix, so you should come across options great for families, walkers, history lovers and much more. And, if you fancy finding out more about places you can stay and other pretty spots to visit, you can click here.

Top 5 countryside attractions to enjoy walking in the north-east - Jesmond Dene
Top 5 countryside attractions to enjoy walking in the north-east - Jesmond Dene
1) Jesmond Dene
The first place on my list is the gorgeous Jesmond Dene, which is famous for its natural beauty. Situated in Jesmond, just north of Newcastle city centre, this wooded valley stretches for approximately 3 km, following the River Ouseburn.
An amazing area for wildlife spotting, it is home to fascinating creatures like kingfishers and the rare red squirrel, so I think coming here is an absolute must for nature lovers. What is particularly exciting about Jesmond Dene, in my opinion, is that it sits in the heart of all the hustle and bustle of Newcastle, so one minute you can be in a bar and the next out exploring some incredible landscapes.
2) Beamish Wild High Ropes course
My next top countryside attraction is one that's ideal for families. Beamish Wild High Ropes course is fantastic if you're travelling with adventurous kids aged ten or over - or just if you're off on a break with intrepid friends!
You'll find this attraction in Stanley, where rope bridges, zip wires and a leap of faith await you high up in a forest canopy. And, as an added bonus, when you've finished you can pop next door to the Stables Pub & Restaurant, which has a lovely rustic interior and - more importantly! - delicious ales and food. In fact, there is even a microbrewery onsite where they make their own beer.

Top 5 countryside attractions to enjoy walking in the north-east - Saltwell Park
Top 5 countryside attractions to enjoy walking in the north-east - Saltwell Park
3) Saltwell Park
Located in Gateshead, Saltwell Park is somewhere that I think all holidaymakers can really enjoy. One of the best examples of a Victorian Park in the whole of the UK, it spans 55 acres and includes a maze, play areas, ornamental gardens and a lake, to name but a few.
So, it's as easy to come here for a relaxing, tranquil afternoon as it is to let the kids burn off a little energy! Highlights of the park include the Rose Garden, which is at its heart, and going boating on the lake - something that's available in the spring and summer months.
4) The Alnwick Garden
Situated, as you may have guessed, in Alnwick, the Alnwick Garden is an absolutely stunning place to explore. Boasting a modern design, it is home to a host of gardens with exciting and different themes.
You'll be impressed as soon as you step through the gate, since you'll be greeted by the endlessly impressive Grand Cascade, which acts as the site's centrepiece. One of my particular favourites, however, is the Ornamental Garden, which is wonderfully tranquil.
Also well worth exploring are the Cherry Orchard, the Poison Gate and, if you're travelling with children, the Treehouse.

Top 5 countryside attractions to enjoy walking in the north-east - Hadrians Wall
Top 5 countryside attractions to enjoy walking in the north-east - Hadrians Wall
5) Hadrian's Wall
Last on my list is one of the nation's most famous attractions. Hadrian's Wall is, arguably, the north-east's most notable and important landmark, snaking through the countryside for 73 miles; so, a list of the region's top countryside attractions wouldn't seem complete without it!
As well as giving you the chance to see an important slice of British history, a walk along part of Hadrian's Wall also allows you to plunge yourself into rural life. Hadrian's Wall Path runs for 84 miles, so you could easily spend the bulk of your holiday walking here if you wanted to!

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