The North East is said to be the friendliest of all regions in England. The region has boasts of theatre, historical architecture and various music and art venues accompanied by culinary delights. With warm, hospitable people and a diverse landscape interspersed by rich natural heritage, visitors are guaranteed a taste of pure British living.

The Durham Cathedral (founded in 1093 AD) is a fine example of Norman architecture, while the Hadrian’s Wall (a preserved Roman defensive fortification) remains one of the most popular tourist attractions in Northern England. The Gateshead Millennium Bridge is considered as a symbol of the United Kingdom, while the Housesteads Roman Fort and Lindisfarne Priory are mainstays of English Heritage. Also visit the Hartlepool Maritime Experience (an eighteenth-century seaport) and the Northumberland National Park.

One of the North East’s greatest events is the International Music Festival which takes place in August at Alnwick. The BUPA Great North Run in October is regarded as the world’s biggest half marathon, while the Billingham International Folklore Festival presents the best of folk dance and song with over 400 world artists in attendance. Other events include the three-month summer festival entitled South Tyneside Summer Festival and a celebration of colourful South Asian culture entitled SAMA Festival.