Kate Atkin
19 April 2018
One of Newcastle’s best attributes is its proximity to Tyneside and Northumberland’s countryside. Whether you’re looking to stay in a rural retreat on the outskirts of the city or keep things central and venture out to the surrounding Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) on a day trip, our wide range of city centre and countryside self-catering accommodation options offer the perfect home from home holiday experience.
We’re bringing you a couple of Newcastle’s nearby rural hot spots, providing some travel inspiration for your next country break.
The Derwent Valley
The River Derwent runs north, crossing the border between County Durham and Tyne and Wear to join the River Tyne in Gateshead. The picturesque river is flanked by greenery on both sides, making the Derwent Valley and Derwent Walk Country Park popular destinations with walkers and cyclists.
The nearby towns, villages and neighbourhoods of Rowlands Gill, Whickham and Winlaton Mill are ideally positioned for both city breaks in Newcastle upon Tyne and a rural escape to the surrounding countryside.
Start your rural retreat by taking in the Derwent Walk Country Park; if you’re lucky, you may spot the local population of Red Kites majestically flying overhead. After you’ve stretched your legs, stop for a hearty lunch at The Red Kite Pub in Winlaton Mill, a favourite with locals and visitors alike. A trip to Gibside is also a must. Adjacent to Rowlands Gill, The National Trust’s Gibside Estate is a haven for nature lovers - with 18th century landscaped gardens, trails and extraordinary architecture to explore.
If you want to travel further afield, why not step back in time at Beamish - The Living Museum of the North? This open-air museum is the perfect family day out, where you can explore the Victorian and Edwardian shops and ride the tram around this perfectly preserved monument to the region’s past.
Head west and you’ll find the charming market towns of Corbridge and Hexham on the banks of the Tyne. These charming towns are a favourite with walkers and those seeking an authentic countryside pub lunch - with the ruins of Hadrian’s Wall just a short drive away.
Due to the Derwent Valley’s proximity to Newcastle and Gateshead, there’s no excuse to miss out on an evening in the city. Whether you want to shop ‘til you drop at the nearby intu Metrocentre (the largest shopping centre in the UK) or soak up the sights of Newcastle’s glittering Quayside, both are easily accessible by car or public transport.
Knitsley
A stone’s throw from the town of Consett, Knitsley is a small and quaint North East hamlet. Known for its award-winning farm shop which is brimming with locally sourced produce, this sparsely populated area of County Durham is the perfect place to pitch up for a quiet, secluded break away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Ponteland
Situated near Tyne and Wear’s border with Northumberland, Ponteland is just a 15-minute drive from the city centre - making this parish a favourite with city workers who prefer the rural life. Its proximity to Newcastle International Airport also makes it a popular location for international visitors to the region, with Ponteland cottages providing an ideal alternative to the busy hotels near Newcastle Airport.
If you’re looking for things to do in Ponteland, you’ll be spoilt for choice. This cosmopolitan melting pot is filled with upmarket boutiques, fine dining options and quality pubs - a popular place of residence for Newcastle’s top footballers and local celebrities.
Enjoy a delicious pub meal
Northumberland College Zoo, situated at beautiful Kirkley Hall, is a family favourite. The zoo is just an eight-minute drive from Ponteland and is home to over 150 species of animals.
Holiday cottages near Newcastle
Why not combine a vibrant city break with a relaxing rural escape? City Breaks in Newcastle has a wide range of self-catering city centre apartments and countryside holiday cottages in Newcastle and its neighbouring areas. From traditional cosy cottages with roaring fires on the outskirts of the city to beautifully furnished luxury city centre apartments, you can experience a city break with a difference.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.