Newcastle is not one of the most well-known UK cities, at least not internationally, but it certainly has a lot to offer. Its history dates back to 200 AD, when the Roman emperor Hadrian established it. Nearly a 1000 years later the invading Normans pretty much wiped it off the map, but it was re-built by the son of William the Conqueror, who recognized its strategic importance. He built a wooden castle on the spot where the ravaged town used to be, which led to it being New Castle (which over time was merged into a single word).
Newcastle has a rich and diverse history that will appeal to everyone. It offers a great mix of fun and historical significance. Alongside its modern attractions are architectural treasures and monuments. Some of the most famous attractions are listed below:
- Before he originally built the city now known as Newcastle, Hadrian built a wall out of stone and timber across the width of northern England. Opinions differ on the subject, but the majority of people believe that it was constructed to define the frontier of Roman land of England, and as a defendable barrier against the Scots. The city sits alongside the wall and it is still clearly visible today.
- Grainger Town is an area of Newcastle designed and built by the celebrated builder and developer Richard Grainger. It has a central conservation area of about 36 hectares which contains around four hundred and fifty buildings, of which, two hundred and forty four are listed, twenty nine are grade one and forty nine are grade two. It is the most scenic area of the city and one particular street, Greys Street, has been voted as the most beautiful street in Britain.
- Towering over Newcastle is a huge steel sculpture of an angel, which is aptly named the Angel of the North. Anyone visiting Newcastle cannot fail to see it, simply because it is visible from all around the city. For this reason, it is one of the most viewed pieces of art in the whole world, with more than thirty million people seeing it on an annual basis. It looks impressive all the time, but especially so at dusk and dawn, when the rising / falling sun really brings it to life.
There are also a number of museums, theatres and other amenities for people of all ages and cultures to enjoy. Whether you want a fun, relaxing weekend, or a weekend of learning about history and culture, you will not be disappointed with a visit to Newcastle.
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