T

hey always say that Geordies are some of the friendliest people in England – and if you glance up at the scenery as you pass through Low Fell in Gateshead, it certainly seems that way.

Standing on top of the hill with outstretched arms is the 20-metre tall sculpture known as the Angel of the North, which sets the tone for the rest of the week.

This vast steel statue was built created by Antony Gormley, and if contemporary art is your thing, then you’re in the right area. Make a beeline for the Baltic centre of contemporary art, on the banks of the River Tyne, and you can check out work by leading artists like Anslem Kiefer, Sam Taylor-Wood, Anish Kapoor and loads of others.

If oldeworlde is more your style, though, then nip over to Durham for the day, and take a look at the cathedral. Seem familiar? Maybe that’s because you saw it featured as Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films; or perhaps you’ve just seen it in a programme about the world’s most beautiful buildings – it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site after all.

There’s tons to do in this part of England, but if you’re more in the mood for a hike than a stroll, why not grab a backpack and explore Hadrian’s Wall? Built by the Romans and still standing strong – up to three metres high in places – this amazing structure stretches across the Northumbrian countryside for miles on end.

If you’re keen there’s a marked trail (The Hadrian’s Wall Path) that follows much of the route for around 84 miles. Best pack plenty of snacks then…