Moors covered in carpets of heather and a heritage coastline studded with fossils. The scenery in the North East is worthy of romantic Bronte sisters' novels and magical Harry Potter film sets. Starry nights sparkle over Northumberland National Park's clear skies, an astronomer's paradise. You'll always be looking up in York at the cathedral's epic stained glass and to medieval buildings that huddle over cobbled alleyways, or at Durham's World Heritage towers and turrets. Leap into the 21st century in Newcastle with its world-class music and arts venues overlooking the River Tyne criss-crossed with a family of impressive bridges.
North East England
Enjoy the ultimate free flying experience over North York Moors
If you’ve got a head for heights and the being ratcheted up to a thousand feet fills you with excitement, a gliding lesson might be just the ticket.
Location: Thirsk, North Yorkshire
Walk alongside Roman history at Hadrian’s Wall
Stretching across the North of England, Hadrian’s Wall is the best-preserved Roman monument in Britain. Get right up beside it in Northumberland.
Location: Tyne Valley, Northumberland
Get Active in Chevin Forest Park
Get outdoors and blow those cobwebs away in some beautiful Yorkshire countryside.
Location: Leeds, Yorkshire
Star gaze in Northumberland’s Dark Sky Park
Home to some of Europe’s darkest night skies, Northumberland has truly spectacular galaxy gazing from atmospheric locations and ancient Roman sites.
Location: Kielder Water & Forest Park, Northumberland
Go ghost hunting in Newcastle Castle
Uncover the horrifying history and hauntings of the castle from which Newcastle gets its name.
Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear
Cycle along the old coastal railway line to Whitby
Ride 21 view-filled and traffic-free miles along the ‘Cinder Track’, the old coastal railway line between Scarborough and Whitby.
Location: Whitby, Yorkshire
Sample the great outdoors in Nidderdale
The striking scenery, character, historic landmarks and wildlife of this Yorkshire Dales Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty are made for adventure.
Location: Pateley Bridge/Masham, North Yorkshire
Trek across the North York Moors with a team of huskies
Set out on an intrepid adventure holiday with Pesky Husky, an adrenalin-pumping experience for active types looking to feel the wind in their hair.
Location: Scarborough, North Yorkshire
Enjoy a river tour of Durham City
Set off in your very own rowboat on the beautiful River Wear or enjoy a guided river cruise aboard the Prince Bishops River Cruiser.
Location: Durham City
Learn about lively Huddersfield on a walking trail
Immerse yourself in this creative town, rich in culture, stories, international food and heritage. Grab a free walking trail and off you go!
Location: Huddersfield, West Yorkshire
May events: Put your best foot forward at WalkFest
Put a spring in your step over the spring bank holiday weekend at the North York Moors National Park’s annual walking festival.
Location: North York Moors, North Yorkshire
Mermaids, dinosaurs and pirate adventure on the Yorkshire Coast
Hunt for fossils on the beach or solve the mermaid mystery and sail on a pirate ship. Go on a dinosaur walk or explore the Maritime Trail.
Location: Scarborough, North/East Yorkshire
Blow away the cobwebs along the Northumberland coast
Get your walking boots on, pack a picnic and enjoy fresh air, stunning views and beautiful wildlife along the Northumberland Coast Path.
Location: Creswell, Northumberland
Discover your wild side at 'Beamish Wild' in Durham
Swing from the treetops in ancient woodland, but keep your eyes on the prize as a refreshing real ale awaits in the micro-brewery & restaurant below.
Location: Vale of Durham, Durham
Go wild camping in the Northumberland Countryside
Be close to nature as you enjoy an overnight camping experience with the experts at Badger and the Bear Outdoor Adventure Camp.
Location: Amble, Northumberland
Take a brisk winter walk and curl up in a cosy pub
Wrap up for a winter stroll, warm up in front of a real fire, have a great meal and then admire the starry skies.
Location: Appletreewick, Yorkshire Dales National Park
Enjoy a rural break in Hawes in Wensleydale
Head to Hawes the home of Wensleydale Cheese, admire Hardraw Force waterfall and watch ropes being made in the traditional way.
Location: Hawes, Yorkshire Dales National Park
Explore the natural wonders of Malham
Enjoy Malham in the Yorkshire Dales at its tranquil best, with many of England’s finest landscapes a short walk away.
Location: Malham, Yorkshire Dales National Park
Embrace the great outdoors in the Peak District
Set your pulse racing with an adventure amid rugged moorland, rolling dales, majestic rock faces and mysterious caves.
Location: Bamford, Derbyshire
Savour the wilds of the UK’s first national park
Relish windswept moors, ancient woodland, towering rock faces and rolling dales in the Peak District National Park.
Location: Peak District, Derbyshire
Journey underground at Castleton's Caves
Go underground and visit any of Castleton’s four spectacular show caves to experience the Peak District’s hidden underworld secrets.
Location: Castleton, Derbyshire
