Student guide to North East England: top 10 things to do

Check upcoming open days and book your place

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

The original uploader was ChrisO at English Wikipedia., CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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

GlenBowman, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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

Photo © Malc McDonald (cc-by-sa/2.0)

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) Full Moon Market

Good for: Trying some new treats with foodie pals

What it is: A monthly evening market in Durham Market Place

Why you should go: Once a month, vendors from across the region gather in Durham for this quirky evening market. There’s a great atmosphere, with amazing street food, drinks and live music to enjoy. You’re sure to find something new to try with all dietary requirements catered for. Past markets have also seen circus performers, face painting and street walkers, making it a great evening out with friends in the heart of the city.

9) Angel of the North

saw2th, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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

Roger, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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 five universities, all featured in the 2023 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!

Thinking about studying in North East England but not sure what city you might want to live in? Read our city guides to learn more about where you could be studying.

Our cookies

Privacy overview

Manage consent preferences

Research and Prep

Student guide to North East England: top 10 things to do

Similar articles

Student guide to the West Midlands

Student guide to the East Midlands

Student guide to South West England

Student guide to South East England

YOUR UCAS POINTS 0