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The most popular historic site that is situated very close to Newcastle itself is that of Alnwick Castle. Built in the eleventh century, this country house has been home to numerous gentile families for centuries. After Windsor Castle, it is the second largest occupied house in England. Whilst part of this castle is still occupied by the current duke and duchess, it still prides itself in acting as a tourist attraction, welcoming thousands of visitors every day. Adorned with extravagant furnishings and paintings this castle has served not only visitors but also the movie scene for decades. Most famous for its place in Harry Potter, this castle has also been home to the set of Downton Abbey and Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.
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Another famous North Eastern landmark is Durham Cathedral. Durham itself is rich in both history and culture, with its cathedral bearing no difference. Also built in the eleventh century, this cathedral has always been the central attraction of this small market city. Serving as both a religious institution tourist site, Durham Cathedral attracts thousands of visitors from all around the globe every month. This cathedral has also collaborated in the Durham Lumiere scheme since its debut in 2009, augmenting its revenue and popularity particularly in recent years. A light festival encompassing the city every two years, Durham Lumiere sets its centre at the cathedral, promoting various artistic representations from the projections of the Lindisfarne Gospels on its walls to the manifestation of thousands of hanging clothes beneath its roof.
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The Victoria Tunnel that exists beneath the city of Newcastle is an attraction that despite being bathed in history is often neglected. Opening in 1842, this tunnel served to transport coal from the Town Moor to the River Tyne. Serving less than twenty years, the tunnel was unfortunately closed in 1860 until the beginning of the Second World War when it was re-opened to the public as an air-raid shelter. Spanning 2.4 miles, this tunnel is still intact today and still receives visitors yearning to learn more about our coal-mining region.
The North East of England is a beautiful region that often does not receive as much publicity as its competitors. We are incredibly fortunate to have a breath-taking coastline that most have access to within an hour’s drive. Our region is home to countless stately homes and castles that remind us of our past and heritage, as well as country parks and forest trails for nature lovers. Whether you love nature, sport or history, this region has so much to offer and really is the gemstone of this country.
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