Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, or just Newcastle, as it is more commonly known, has developed from an industrial city into a thriving metropolis. Successfully regenerated, Newcastle has now become a highly popular UK weekend destination, particularly with a younger crowd who flock to its bars, restaurants and nightclubs. A compact city with plenty to do, Newcastle is friendly to tourists and teeming with history and culture.<br /><br /> Situated on the River Tyne's north bank, the city boasts a 2,000-year history and a treasure-trove of architecture, with some of the most classically-styled buildings found anywhere in the UK. Although Newcastle really only reached prominence during the Industrial Revolution, it had long been a capital and a chief defensive point in the north of England for the Romans and Saxons respectively. The city's origins as a Roman town are still evident in Hadrian's Wall, the ruins of which can be seen stretching eastward to Wallsend.<br /><br /> Today, these Roman ruins and the grand elegance of areas such as the neoclassical Grainger Town in the city centre contrast with the ultra-modern buildings of the city's new Quayside development. Newcastle's waterfront features chic boutiques, excellent restaurants, stylish hotels and modern art. The Gateshead Millennium Bridge, a work of art in itself, arches across the River Tyne to link Newcastle to the Gateshead Quays.<br /><br />

Castle Keep and New Castle

Address: Newcastle-Upon-Tyne

Originally known as Monkchester, Newcastle only got its present name when Robert Curthose, son of the infamous William the Conqueror, built his 'New Castle' on the site of the Roman fort Pons Aeliu in 1080. Used as a point of defence, the castle was originally built of wood and timber, but was later rebuilt in stone. Today, visitors can explore the remains of the castle, as well as the Castle Keep built later on the same site by Henry II. The Castle Keep is acknowledged as one of the finest surviving examples of a Norman Keep in the country.<br /><br />

Hadrians Wall

Address: Newcastle-Upon-Tyne

In order to separate the Roman Empire in Britain from the native 'barbarians', Emperor Hadrian ordered the building of an impressive wall in the year 122. Taking approximately six years to complete, the wall stretches for roughly 80 miles (120km) from South Shields to Ravenglass, passing through present-day Newcastle. Dotted along it are several forts, temples, turrets and mile castles, and visitors can explore these fascinating 2,000-year-old remains, as well as the often stunningly beautiful surrounding countryside. Hadrian's Wall was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, and continues to delight and amaze historically-minded visitors to the north of England.<br /><br />

BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art

Address: Newcastle-Upon-Tyne

The BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Arts is a unique and fascinating collection of ever-changing exhibits, set in an old flourmill on the south bank of the River Tyne. The biggest gallery of its kind, the Centre allows visitors to explore the innovative and unusual world of top contemporary artists, both local and international. The BALTIC Centre also plays host to various performances, activities and talks, and visitors have the opportunity to interact with the current artist-in-residence. Some of the Centre's past and present exhibitors include Sam Taylor-Wood, Wang Du, Sofia Stevi, Susan Hiller and Keith Haring. Check out the official website listed below for details on what's showing during your visit.<br /><br />