Salute Roman Centurions at Housesteads

This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the best spots to not only see Hadrian's Wall but also learn plenty about it, too. Once an auxiliary fort believed to have been built in AD 124, visitors here are able to wander through what remains of the barracks that once housed 800 soldiers, along with the hospital, granary, Commander's house, and even the former toilets.
You'll also get fabulous views east along the wall itself, while the Housesteads Museum showcases some of the archaeological finds discovered on the site, and a film that recreates life on the fort.
Entry tickets can be bought on the day, though advance purchases are often cheaper. You can book tickets here.

Just five minutes away by car, and certainly worth visiting to take a picture of an unlikely Hollywood star, is the Sycamore Gap tree.
Made famous by its appearance in 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, it is one of the most photographed trees in the UK.

Once you've finished pretending to be Kevin Costner it's time for lunch, and again you don't have to drive far to get there.
As you can imagine, given its proximity to Hadrian's Wall, the best thing about this pub is the epic scenery in every direction. Thankfully, the menu lives up to the views, dishing up classic country pub fare like steak and ale pie, hunter's chicken, and the aptly-named Maximus burger.
If you devoured the hearty Northumberland breakfast this morning and you're only after a lighter lunch, the light bites menu - featuring sandwiches, toasties, and grilled paninis - is the smart move. There's also a kids' menu and a generous dessert selection.

Corbridge is a quaint and quiet Northumberland town that began life as a Roman settlement. There's something charmingly throwback about its quirky pubs and independent shops, and on a sunny afternoon, it makes for a pleasant stroll.
Park here and make the short walk over the bridge to town.

If you'd rather stop for refreshments than shop for souvenirs, the Pele in Market Place is the ideal spot.
Housed in a 14th century tower that was originally used to protect the town from the raiding Border reivers, the Pele is now a pub and microbrewery offering locally-brewed ales and lagers.

Take the short walk back to your car and say goodbye to Corbridge and Roman architecture. For it's time to head to an impressive man-made structure from modern times.

When you arrive at Derwent Reservoir, you can park up right alongside the dam. Note it closes to visitors at 5pm, so you shouldn't need to pay for any longer than an hour on the meter.

Derwent Reservoir, which borders County Durham and Northumberland, was opened by Princess Alexandra in 1967, after seven years in the making. It is over 3.5 miles long, covers an area of 4km squared, and holds up to 11m gallons of water.
Visitors are welcome to admire this structural marvel, and the nature and wildlife that it attracts, with a pleasant (if sometimes blustery) walk along the pedestrian paths.
The Derwent Waterside Park is a hit with kids, and there's a cafe nearby. There's also a sailing club, which puts on a variety of events throughout the year including triathlon and windsurfing competitions.

After 5pm, head back to your car to make your final stop on this three-day trip.

This trendy gastropub in County Durham is from the team behind North East faves Sorella Sorella (in Newcastle) and Sale Pepe (in nearby Shotley Bridge). Despite the modern stylings, the pub retains a homely vibe, and the menu prioritises well-executed homemade comfort food.
The deep-friend breaded camembert is the pick of the starters, though the Tuscan pork & fennel sausage meatballs give it a run for its money, while if you're not tempted by the rustic pizzas, the vegetarian risotto and beef yakisoba are other main menu highlights.
What's more, the little ones have not been forgotten, with a comprehensive kids' menu including mini starters and even Sunday roasts.
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, you can reserve a table in advance via their website.