Last year a friend and I took a trip to Newcastle (a city in the north of England) and Durham, a charming town that's close by. It was my first visit to both places, and I really enjoyed myself. I had been particularly looking forward to seeing Durham, as I had often seen the famous images of the cathedral and the river, and knew it to be an attractive place with some 'Olde English' charm. However, I was also very impressed by Newcastle, which seemed a very vibrant city with some lovely architecture.
The photo above is a picture from the Quayside, an area that has been extensively redeveloped in modern years. Once a run-down industrial area, it is now an inviting open expanse boasting nice restaurants and bars. Definitely a lovely place to stroll.
This is the Gateshead Millennium Bridge up close. So-called because it was put in placed at the beginning of the Millennium, opening for the public in 2001.
This is the Tyne Bridge, one of the more recognisable symbols of Newcastle, opened in 1928 by King George V.
The Quayside Globe. I thought it was pretty!
The first thing we did on arrival was take a look at the Angel of the North (an imposing construction in Gateshead), designed by Antony Gormley and finished in 1998. Visible from the train, the Angel stands tall, overlooking the streets, and radiating comfort. In better light, the picture would be nicer, but it's quite grand as it is.
Standing on the bridge, you can gaze out across the city - including a view of the castle.
My next post will include photos from the city centre, primarily the Grainger Town area, which is where many of the city's historical buildings are located. If you liked these, do check back!