Newcastle upon Tyne commonly known as Newcastle, is a city in Tyne and Wear, North East England, 103 miles (166 km) south of Edinburgh and 277 miles (446 km) north of London on the northern bank of the River Tyne, 8.5 mi (13.7 km) from the North Sea. Newcastle is the most populous city in the North East and Tyneside the seventh most populous conurbation in the United Kingdom. Newcastle is a member of the English Core Cities Group and is a member of the Eurocities network of European cities. Newcastle was part of the county of Northumberland until 1400, when it became a county itself, a status it retained until becoming part of Tyne and Wear in 1974. The regional nickname and dialect for people from Newcastle and the surrounding area is Geordie.

Whatever you're into Newcastle Gateshead offers a superb range of activities to banish boredom for good. Highlights include Life Science Centre where the wonders of modern science are revealed, or Great North Museum: Hancock where you can explore 350 million years of evolution, complete with a life-size dinosaur skeleton!’ This innovative museum set in Newcastle's Life Science Centre celebrates all things scientific. There's always a packed programme of science activities for all ages, lots of hands on exhibits, simulators, films and regular exhibitions. There is even an ice rink during the winter months.

Newcastle and its neighbour across the River Tyne, Gateshead, together offer a diverse and vibrant destination for visiting families. From world class culture and a fascinating array of museums, through to riverside walks, cycling and sprawling parks - you'll find something everyone will enjoy. The Quayside is a fantastic cultural quarter, with with riverside walks, fantastic architectural buildings, public displays of art and often free concerts. Visit the Sage, watch the famous Millenium bridge tilting or take a river cruise on the Tyne. There's a craft and food market on Sundays and plenty of eateries if you’d like to stop a while and take in the views.