Castle Keep and New Castle

Originally known as Monkchester, Newcastle only got its present name when Robert Curthose, son of the infamous William the Conqueror, built his 'New Castle' on the site of the Roman Fort, Pons Aelius in 1080. Used as a point of defence, the Castle was originally built of wood and timber, but was later rebuilt in stone and today, visitors can explore the remains of the Castle, as well as the Castle Keep built later on the same site by Henry II.

 
Hadrian's Wall
 
In order to separate the Roman Empire in Britain from the 'Barbarians,' in AD122 Emperor Hadrian ordered the building of an impressive wall. Taking approximately six years to complete, the Wall stretches for roughly 80 miles (120km) from South Shields to Ravenglass, passing through present-day Newcastle. Dotted along the Wall are several forts, temples, turrets and milecastles and visitors can explore these fascinating 2,000-year-old remains, as well as the surrounding countryside. Hadrian's Wall was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art

 
The BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Arts is a unique and fascinating collection of ever-changing exhibits, set in an old flourmill on the south bank of the River Tyne. The biggest gallery of its kind, the Centre allows visitors to explore the innovative and unusual world of top contemporary artists, both local and international. The BALTIC Centre also plays host to various performances, activities, talks and visitors have an opportunity to interact with the latest artist-in-residence. Some of the Centre's past, present and future exhibitors include Sam Taylor-Wood, Wang Du, Susan Hiller and Keith Haring.