Best Tours & Sightseeing in North East England: 2025 Visitor’s Guide

Looking for unforgettable day trips, castle tours, and coastal escapes in North East England? Whether you're exploring Roman ruins, sailing with puffins, or chasing TV filming spots, this 2025 guide highlights the region’s best guided tours, family-friendly adventures, and scenic excursions. Discover top-rated sightseeing tours in North East England for 2025 — including Hadrian’s Wall, Alnwick Castle, Holy Island, and puffin cruises. Family-friendly, historical, and nature-filled trips await.

🏛️ Hadrian’s Wall Tours: Roman Ruins & Fort Walks

Step into history with immersive full-day tours of Hadrian’s Wall. Walk ancient Roman paths, explore Housesteads Fort, and snap photos at Sycamore Gap.
When: April–October
Price: From £50
Start: Newcastle or Hexham
Includes: Fort entries, museum passes, and local guide

🏰 Castles & Cathedrals: Medieval Sightseeing Tours

Northumberland and County Durham are home to some of England’s most dramatic castles. Don’t miss:

• Alnwick Castle – Harry Potter filming site

• Bamburgh Castle – Seaside fortress

• Durham Cathedral – UNESCO World Heritage site
  When: Year-round (best in July–August)
  Price: From £45–£65 (including entry)

🏝️ Holy Island of Lindisfarne: Tidal Island Exploration

A one-of-a-kind day out accessible only at low tide. Explore the ancient priory, sip local mead, and walk windswept coastal paths.
When: Tours run daily (check tide times)
Price: From £30
Departure: Berwick or Seahouses

🐧 Farne Islands Wildlife Cruises: Puffins, Seals & Sea Birds

Sail from Seahouses on a boat trip packed with wildlife. Spot puffins, grey seals, and guillemots. Choose between landing and non-landing cruises.
When: March–August
Price: £20–£35
Where: Seahouses Harbour
Best Time: May–July for puffin season

🎬 Vera Filming Location Tours: TV Lovers’ Delight

See the scenic crime scenes from the hit ITV series Vera. This fan-favourite tour includes stops in Tynemouth, Wylam, and Newcastle.
When: Fridays & Saturdays, June–September
Price: From £40
Departure: Newcastle City Centre

🕯️ Ghost Walks & Haunted Tours: After-Dark Adventures

Hear chilling tales of plague, punishment, and paranormal activity in the region’s most haunted spots.
When: Evenings (Friday–Sunday)
Price: £12–£18
Where: Durham, Newcastle Quayside, Whitby
Age: Recommended for ages 12+

🚂 Steam Train Rides: Nostalgic Countryside Views

Step back in time aboard historic locomotives for a scenic ride through the countryside.
When: Weekends & holidays
Price: £10–£20 return
Where: Tanfield Railway, Weardale Railway
Extras: Optional afternoon tea

🌿 Countryside & Coastal Walks with Local Guides

Ideal for hikers and nature lovers. Explore dramatic coastlines, castle ruins, and hidden moorland paths.
When: May–October
Price: From £25
Popular Routes: Craster to Dunstanburgh, Cheviots, Kielder Forest
Highlights: Red squirrels, coastal views, dark skies

🌌 Stargazing & Observatory Visits

Northumberland offers some of Europe’s darkest skies. Join stargazing events with telescopes, expert guides, and night sky talks.
When: Year-round (clear evenings)
Price: From £10
Where: Kielder Observatory or popup events

🎡 Family-Friendly Sightseeing: Kids Welcome

Perfect for days out with children of all ages.

• Whitehouse Farm: Animals, reptiles, and tractor rides

• Miniature Railways: Steam rides at South Shields

• Dino Trails: Interactive outdoor storytelling adventures
  When: Daily during school holidays
  Price: £6–£15 per child

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top sightseeing tours in North East England?
Top options include Hadrian’s Wall Roman tours, Alnwick and Bamburgh Castle visits, Holy Island trips, and Farne Islands wildlife cruises.

When is the best time to visit the Farne Islands?
The best months are May to July when puffins nest. Cruises run from March through August, departing from Seahouses.

Are there sightseeing tours for families with children?
Yes! Visit Whitehouse Farm, take a mini steam train ride, or join themed castle tours with activities for kids.

Where can I take a ghost tour in the North East?
Durham, Newcastle, and Whitby offer spooky evening ghost walks with local historians and storytellers.