North-east of England film and TV itinerary

Packed with beautiful architecture, lively entertainment and great dining options, this historic quarter is a must-visit on any Newcastle break – and is one of the city’s top shopping spots. Take your pick from designer boutiques, high street favourites and independent retailers, and don’t miss the Victorian-built Grainger Market, with its family-run florists, jewellers and cafes. While it’s normally a pretty peaceful spot, both Grey Street and Grainger Street were the setting of an action-packed car chase in Transformers: The Last Knight (2017).  

This bustling marketplace has been doing business for nearly 200 years, and features more than 100 independent retailers under one roof. The shops and stalls are piled high with everything from artisan pies and freshly baked bread, to hand-made crafts and small-batch gins. Whether you’re searching for unique souvenirs or a gourmet lunch on the go, you’ll find treasures galore in this historic spot.

Learn about Newcastle’s seven bridges, spot its old town wall and admire Europe’s largest timber structure on this pedal-powered tour of the city. Newcastle Cycle Tours provide your bike, helmet and an expert local guide – all you need to bring is your sense of adventure. You’ll be regaled with tales of the city’s most notable inhabitants, and there’ll be plenty of stop-offs for photos along the way. 

Immerse yourself in the club’s heritage on a tour of St James’ Park stadium, home to the team since 1892. Or head up on a rooftop tour for stunning views of Tyneside.

Newcastle has a rich beermaking tradition – so it’d be rude not to experience it for yourself, right? Brinkburn St Brewery is a relative newcomer to the scene, opening in 2015, but it’s grown to become a popular taphouse and restaurant in buzzing Byker. Lift the curtain on the brewing process on a behind-the-scenes tour, or treat yourself to a tasting flight. Pair your beer with a dish from the extensive menu – think black pudding bon bons or a chicken parmo burger.  

Unmissable in every sense, this magnificent concert venue hosts live performances of every musical genre. Catch opera, pop, folk, classical, and much more – with famous names and new talents alike. The building itself is also impressive, built from sparkling glass and steel. 

Rafting, powerboating, paddlesports – it's all on the agenda at the Tees Barrage International White Water Centre. The whole family can take advantage of these world-class facilities, which have also been seen on screen in wartime epic 1917 (2019). 

A showstopper of a bishop’s palace, uncover history in the Throne Room, St Peter’s Chapel and the transformed state rooms of Auckland Palace. The castle sits at the heart of The Auckland Project and opens from late-February to late-December.

If this medieval castle could talk it would tell tales of Vikings, battles and dynasties. Visit now to see wild deer in the park and art collections inside the castle. For an insider view on the estate that dates back to the 11th century, embark on a 60-minute guided tour that picks out some of the castle’s highlights. It’s also a favourite with filmmakers – see where Oscar-winning 1917 (2019) was filmed in its grounds. 

A highlight of the North Pennines National Landscape, Low Force waterfall is a spellbinding spot. The area is also a Dark Sky Discovery Site, so paradise for stargazing. While it may not be as dramatic as nearby High Force, this series of fast-flowing cascades is well worth a visit. Start your walk to the falls at the Bowlees Visitor Centre, which hosts displays from local artists. It’s another one of the filming locations for war epic 1917, and you may also know it from The Witcher, which follows a monster-hunting Henry Cavill.

From food to shopping, this ‘living history’ museum recreates English life in the 1820s, 1900s, 1940s and 1950s. Maybe you’ll try old-style fish and chips, meet a pit pony, or take a spin at the funfair? Beamish was also used as a filming location for Downton Abbey, and is set in 300 acres of countryside in County Durham.

It’s hard to believe this peaceful stretch on the Durham Heritage Coast, blooming with wildflowers, was once on the fringes of Durham’s mining industry. In fact, its name comes from the blast furnaces which once stood nearby. Today, it’s enjoying a new lease of life as a plant haven – look out for the fantastically named bloody cranesbill and dyer’s greenweed. Blast Beach is also a bit of a local celebrity thanks to its big-screen appearances. Spot it in the opening scenes of Alien 3 (1992) and stepping in for an Icelandic beach in The Last Kingdom series two (2017). 

There’s over 1,000 years of history to discover at Durham Cathedral. Book your spot on a cathedral tour to hear the stories of the people who have influenced its history, before heading up the 325 steps to the top of the central tower. Harry Potter fans will recognise several spots in the cathedral that doubled as Hogwarts locations in the first two films (2001–2002) – but did you know that parts of Avengers: Endgame (2019) were filmed here too?  

A foodie’s haven, dip into the flavours of Durham on a food tour that visits the city’s famous indoor food market and popular eateries. Triple A Food Tour’s offer a journey through Durham’s local produce, alongside a Gin Tour where you’ll sample gins with cheese and charcuterie. 

Three fantastic attractions in one, Belsay will keep you busy. Although empty, the stunning Greek revival-style hall is still breathtaking, with its ornate pillars, while the 14th-century Belsay Castle offers a peek at a different period of British history. If you’ve still got some energy, the 30 acres of gardens are well worth exploring.  

Step into more than 1,350 years of history at this Northumbrian abbey, one of the earliest seats of Christianity in England. Don’t miss its treasures like the ancient stone Frith Stool and Saxon Crypt (which has a small charge to enter). The Big Story exhibition takes you behind the scenes of the abbey’s past – and young visitors can even dress up as an Augustinian Canon.  

Uncover the stories of Britain’s Roman past at our most complete Roman fort. Can you imagine that 1,000 soldiers were once stationed here? Glimpse into their lives at the museum, where kids will love dressing up like the fort’s former residents. From the fort’s north wall, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Hadrian’s Wall, the northern frontier of the Roman Empire. Fun fact: Game of Thrones author George RR Martin came up with ‘the Wall’ in his series after a visit to Hadrian’s Wall. 

A haven for hikers, cyclists and art lovers, this wild nature reserve has an outdoor sculpture trail and stargazing observatory. As England’s largest forest and the biggest man-made lake in northern Europe, it has plenty of space to explore – with rare ospreys, red squirrels and more. Just watch out for zombies – film crews for 28 Years Later (2025) have been spotted here. 

Part of the Dark Skies project, the award-winning Kielder Observatory wants as many people as possible to experience the night sky in its purest form. The main evening event is perfect for ages 12 and up. Visitors will get a tour of the observatory, a presentation and the chance for star gazing along the way. Learn about the secret life of stars, the origins of the universe and our celestial neighbours. 

The camera loves Alnwick Castle. Having starred as Hogwarts in two Harry Potter films, as well as featuring in lots of other productions, this Northumberland-based screen star doesn’t stop there. Its lively events include outdoor theatre, wand-making workshops and sorcery performances, as well as cannon shooting, falconry flights and roaming jesters. You can even try your hand at a broomstick flying class! 

Ad Gefrin has breathed new life into the Northumbrian tradition of whisky distilling, creating Northumberland’s first single malt whisky. Tour its distillery to find out more about its spirits success, or delve into the area’s fascinating history in its immersive museum dedicated to Northumbria’s Golden Age. 

Where to hide from a zombie apocalypse? The Holy Island of Lindisfarne, which becomes inaccessible to the rest of the world twice a day, is a good shout. Danny Boyle agrees, as filming for his zombie thriller 28 Years Later (2025) took place here. In reality, this tranquil island escape is completely zombie-free (thankfully) and sits proudly off the coast of Northumberland. Take a tour led by island local Mary Gunn, and explore its ancient priory, brave the castle teetering on the edge of the coastline, and become acquainted with its vibrant community. 

Overlooking the golden sands of Bamburgh beach, this magnificent fortress is one of Britain’s biggest inhabited castles. As well as exploring its historic exhibits and stunning sea views, you can stay overnight in its apartments: a little slice of history, all of your own. Did you know – you’ll be following in the high-octane footsteps of Indiana Jones? The opening scenes of Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023) were filmed at the castle.  

With its golden-sand beach, thriving foodie scene and mighty hilltop castle, Bamburgh is not to be missed. Maybe you’ll enjoy long walks, swimming and sandcastles in summer – or cosy up with seafood suppers and festive markets in winter? Local watersports include surfing, paddleboarding, sea kayaking and more. A fittingly dramatic spot, Bamburgh Beach has made cameos in Transformers: The Last Knight (2017) and Macbeth (2015).