Castles Near Newcastle and Durham’s Unesco Monuments

The castle was owned by the Percy family, the same owners as Alnwick Castle. Its hilltop location overlooks the course of the River Coquet and its mouth to the sea.
Although part of the castle is in ruins, the tower of homage and some rooms remain.
In addition to the castle, you can take a boat trip along the river to the hermitage, a small temple, the special feature of which is that it is carved out of the rock.
Open Hours: Every day: 10:00 - 17:00.
There is parking next to the castle where you can leave your car.

It is time to approach the North Sea coast and see the ruins of a castle on the hill.
Leave your car in the parking and walk up the hill for about ten minutes to reach the site.

Its strategic location at the mouth of the River Tyne and the North Sea helped it to become one of the largest defensive fortresses in the United Kingdom.
Although what remains today are ruins of the castle, on the hill by the sea where it stands, you can enjoy a picnic while taking in the views of the surrounding countryside.
Open Hours: Every day: 10:00 - 17:00.

Time to arrive in Durham and explore the city's historic heritage on foot.
This parking is one of the best locations and allows you to walk to the attractions within minutes.

Burger joint with chicken and beef options, and even plenty of vegan alternatives. Located in the heart of Durham city centre.
Their desserts are a delight, such as the triple chocolate brownie or the Belgian waffle with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce.
It's the perfect place to grab a quick bite to eat and continue touring the city's monuments.
Open Hours: Sunday to Wednesday: 11:00 - 22:00. Friday and Saturday: 11:00 - 22:30.

An imposing cathedral and one of the most beautiful in the UK.
Norman in style, its exterior stands out among the city's historic monuments. If you want to have different views of its exterior façade, you have to see it from the front and the paths that run alongside the river.
Take your time to walk around the interior because you will have to stop every now and then. The stained-glass windows, the cloister where scenes from Harry Potter were filmed and the shrine of St Cuthbert are some of the most beautiful sights.
The cathedral's history can be seen in its museum, where you can tour the kitchen and rooms of the former monks. The religious site also has a dark history, as it was once used as a prison for Scottish prisoners.
Open Hours Monday to Saturday: 10:00 - 16:00. Sunday: 12:00 - 16:00.

Those who can really enjoy the castle all the time are the students of Durham University, as the educational campus is housed within the fortress. The courtyard and former outbuildings have been transformed into the dining hall and student rooms.
Guided tours are available outside term time in the afternoons and throughout the day during holiday periods. The students themselves tell the story and take you on a tour of the castle.
The tower of homage, the black staircase leading to the courtyard and its two chapels give an idea of how life was lived here centuries ago.
Check the opening times for the day and buy your ticket for the guided tour on the official Durham Castle website.

The culmination of the route is approaching. It is time to reach the destination city for dinner and rest.

Specialists in meats and with the Masters of Steak seal of quality. They offer steaks with different days of maturation, steaks, and beef burgers. You can choose the sauce you like the most to accompany the meat.
The desserts are tasty and homemade. Their lemon and raspberry cheesecake or the caramel biscuit cake with cinnamon, coconut and strawberries are a real delight.
Open Hours: Monday to Saturday: 12:00 - 23:00. Sunday: 12:00 - 22:00.

After four days in a natural park, castles and world heritage sites, the route comes to an end. If you have more days, you can explore the city of Newcastle.
If you want to stay for the night in Newcastle, check the available options via this link: Book Now