Hi there, I'm Luna.
I'm a bit like an AI, except instead of making pictures of people with 16 fingers, I can help you find the perfect course and uni.
Would you like some help in your search?
As well as excellent universities, North East England offers loads to see and do. There’s buzzing nightlife, chilled country walks and lots of history to discover. Keep reading for our top things to do for students in North East England.
1. Roker and Seaburn Beaches
Good for: Admiring the north eastern coastline.
What it is: Sunderland’s sandy beaches.
Why you should go: The beach might not be the first thing you think of when planning what to do in North Eastern England, but Sunderland's twin beaches at Roker and Seaburn are the perfect places to unwind. There’s miles of beautiful coastline to walk or relax in, and maybe even sunbathe if you’re lucky enough to be there on a hot summer day. Each beach has plenty of pubs, cafes and restaurants nearby, so if you’re brave and have a swim you’ll find somewhere to warm up with a hot chocolate or a pint.
2. The Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art
Good for: Art lovers and panoramic views.
What it is: A major contemporary art gallery on the River Tyne.
Why you should go: This art gallery is right in the heart of Gateshead. It’s a huge industrial building that’s home to an ever-changing calendar of exciting and international art exhibitions and events. As well as four floors of art to explore, there’s a community cafe, library, archive and gift shop all free to visit, so you’re sure to have a cultural and thought provoking day. After admiring the art, take a trip up the scenic lift to enjoy panoramic views of the River Tyne.
3. Raby Castle and Deer Park
Good for: History lovers.
What it is: One of England’s finest mediaeval castles.
Why you should go: Raby Castle was built in the 14th century and there’s lots to discover about its past. When you visit, friendly staff are on hand to answer all your historical queries and there’s plenty of green space to explore and look for deer. There are loads of events throughout the year, including an outdoor cinema, wild deer trail run, seasonal markets and Christmas festivities. To get there you can hop on a bus from nearby Darlington in County Durham.
4. Silksworth Sports Complex
Good for: Getting your adrenaline pumping.
What it is: Outdoor ski slopes and lessons for all abilities.
Why you should go: Silksworth is one of the UK’s best skiing and snowboarding centres, perfect for some faux snow fun when your budget doesn’t stretch to a trip to the Alps! There are three slopes to try, the longest being 160m. Whether you’re a complete newbie or experienced with snowsports, lessons are available for all abilities. Or, hire a snow tube for a thrilling but more comfortable ride down.
5. Beamish Museum
Good for: A unique historical day out.
What it is: An open-air museum telling the story of North East England.
Why you should go: This ‘living museum’ brings the past to life through sights, sounds, smells and delicious tastes. You’ll feel like you’re in Downtown Abbey as you explore different shops, businesses, homes and schools from the 1820s to the 1950s. There’s also a photographer’s studio if you like playing dress up! With so much to see and do you’ll struggle to fit it all in, but make sure to pop into the sweet shop for some traditional treats and get around the site on the old school buses and trams.
6. The Stand Comedy Club
Good for: Laughing your socks off with your housemates.
What it is: This Newcastle comedy club hosts hilarious acts seven nights a week.
Why you should go: If comedy, good food and a few drinks is your kind of thing then look no further. The Stand is one of punters' favourite comedy clubs in the North of England, and has hosted some of the biggest names including John Bishop, Rhod Gilbert, Sarah Millican and Frankie Boyle. There’s a ‘Red Raw’ new material night every Wednesday and five acts a night every weekend, so no matter when you visit you’ll be treated to side-splitting comedy in a cool, intimate venue. Sit in the front row if you dare…
7. Sunderland Empire Theatre
Good for: Enjoying the best drama, comedy and musicals.
What it is: The region’s top venue for smash hit West End theatre.
Why you should go: If you’re into musicals, ballet, comedy, drama, or anything in between, the Sunderland Empire should be your first point of call. You’re in for a dazzling night of pure entertainment, with the stage recently hosting productions like Matilda the Musical, War Horse and Wicked. The beautiful interior has four levels of seating and a range of ticket prices to suit all budgets. Getting there is just 30 minutes from Newcastle on the Metro.
8. Saturday Outdoor Market
Good for: Trying some new treats with foodie pals.
What it is: A weekly market in Durham Market Place.
Why you should go: Every Saturday, vendors from across the region gather in Durham for this quirky market. There’s a great atmosphere, with amazing street food, drinks and plenty of different types of items on sale.
9. Angel of the North
Good for: Admiring an impressive artwork and breathtaking views.
What it is: Antony Gormley's iconic sculpture in Gateshead.
Why you should go: This massive artwork is seen by more than one person every second – over 33 million people every year – and is the UK’s most famous work of art. Taller than four double decker buses and with a wingspan as big as a jumbo jet, it is HUGE. Because of the size, it’s easy to spot when driving nearby, but you can also park, or catch a bus, and walk to view it up close. The sculpture has become a landmark and important representation of the region’s culture, so if you’re a student in the area it’s a must see before you finish uni.
10. Grainger Market
Good for: Shopping ‘til you drop.
What it is: A buzzing traditional indoor market.
Why you should go: This market in Newcastle’s centre has been going for nearly 200 years. Today, it’s home to over 100 traders and is the go-to place for independent shopping in the city. You’ll find craft stalls, plant sellers, mini bazaars, jewellers and clothing stands, as well as amazing food, with butchers, fresh fish, artisan bakers, street food traders, coffee shops and cafés. Lunch spot Nan Bei Dumpling and the clothing stand Yesterday Vintage Boutique are always worth a browse.
Key info about North East England
North Eastern England has six universities, all featured in the 2025 Complete University Guide’s top 100 UK unis.
In particular, Durham University has a reputation as an outstanding centre for teaching and research, known for courses in economics, law, physics and psychology. Both Durham and Newcastle universities are part of the elite Russell Group, and Northumbria offers a real international student experience with opportunities to study abroad at its Amsterdam campus.
The North East is known for a low cost of living compared to the rest of England, with lower rental prices and cheaper nights out. You might find a round of drinks costs less than one or two drinks in London!
NEXT:
Student city guide to Durham: top 10 things to do
Student city guide to Newcastle: top 10 things to do
.jpg){kind=link}
.jpg){kind=link}