you're heading into the city centre on business, or looking to explore the Northumberland countryside, you'll find the road easy to navigate.

Newcastle's roads and the surrounding county routes, like those across the UK, are well-maintained. Three main routes divide the county of Northumberland - the A1 north to south, the A697, north-west to south-east, and the A69, which runs almost parallel to Hadrian’s Wall dissecting the country from west to east.

For those drawn to the beauty of the open road North East England is a veritable smorgasbord of gorgeous routes, each one punctuated by interesting sights. Northumberland National Park spreads out from the Scottish border south to encompass an area of some 400 square miles.

Lose yourself in the history-drenched Northumbrian coast, stopping off to enjoy places like Bamburgh with its dramatic castle, the quaint fishing village of Seahouses or the bustling town of Alnmouth.

To the north, the Cheviot Hills close to the Scotland / England border, roll attractively. To the west are the forestry plantations of Kielder, where those with an interest in astronomy will find some of the country’s darkest skies, and at the extreme south of the park is Hadrian’s Wall Country, which is a mix of rugged moorland and sheltered green valleys.

In central Newcastle, you'll find you need to take bridges across the River Tyne to reach the north and south sides of the city.

The UK is left-hand drive and speed limits are strictly enforced. The national speed limit is 60mph on single-carriageway roads and 70mph on dual carriageways or motorways. In built-up areas the limit drops to 30mph, or 20 mph in certain areas.

Newcastle is the beating heart of North East England, a region that’s rightly proud of its distinctive character, friendly population and stunning landscapes. The city itself, compact and easy to navigate, is an energetic place and is grounded in history, with many Grade I and II listed buildings dotted across area. Travel beyond the city walls and you’ll fast find yourself in unspoiled Northumberland, which is dotted with castles and country houses galore. Miles of rugged coastline, a double offer of UNESCO heritage sites and incredible Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty complete the offer.

Exploring the region's rich history

Hadrian’s Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site originally erected by Roman Emperor Hadrian in 112 AD. It stretches right across England, from the Cumbrian coast in the west, to its finish at Wallsend, around five miles from Newcastle. Along its 84-mile length, there are a number of forts, museums and ruins to visit, offering a fascinating insight into the life of a Roman soldier. The region’s second UNESCO World Heritage Site is in the city of Durham, around 20 miles from Newcastle. Durham Cathedral is just one of many fabulous sights in this ancient city, which is well worth a day or two of exploring.

Coastal and countryside retreats

One of the great things about Newcastle is its easy proximity to both the rolling green countryside of Northumberland and to the drama and escape of England’s north east coast. From Newcastle, travel west along the Tyne Valley to visit historic towns and villages like Corbridge and Hexham, which each boast a proliferation of vintage tearooms, craft shops and fashionable boutiques. Or, how about a trip to the seaside? Make it Whitley Bay for classic fish and chips, or neighbouring Tynemouth with its broad bay for some great North Sea surfing.

Art and architecture

The iconic BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art lies on the Gateshead side of the Tyne, overlooking Newcastle Quayside. Once a flour mill, this huge brick building now houses some of the country’s most cutting edge modern art with a rolling programme of exciting exhibitions. A stone’s throw from the BALTIC, is The Sage Gateshead. Another eye-catching building, this time in undulating metallic form with enormous glass panels, this is a world-beating live music venue that welcomes the cream of global musical talent through its doors every year. Perhaps the best-known architectural highlight in Newcastle itself is Grey Street. This magnificent Georgian boulevard meanders from the main thrust of the shopping area, down to the Quayside and is lined with places to eat.