Discover an imposing Norman fortress in the center of Newcastle upon Tyne, a rugged reminder of northern England's turbulent history. This was no baron's stately home. Newcastle Castle is a grim reminder of royal authority where armies gathered and criminals were imprisoned and executed. It is where the story of Newcastle began and the reason the city got its name. During your visit, enjoy the most commanding views over the city of Newcastle and the River Tyne. See Newcastle's most historic buildings, the Castle Keep and its 13th-century gatehouse the Black Gate, which were once part of a much larger fortress. Marvel at how much of Newcastle Castle has remained intact despite its tumultuous history. Today, you can explore the ancient passageways and chambers where kings walked and villains were imprisoned. Find the marks left by the inhabitants through the ages and learn the fascinating story of the Castle Garth community that grew up around the ruins. The two buildings that remain were cut off from each other by the Victorian railways of the 19th century — an unfortunate side effect of the North East's trailblazing role in the Industrial Revolution. Exhibits guide visitors through the Castle's history over the years: from settlement in Roman times, to medieval stronghold, to use as a modern day museum and everything in between.

Discover the historical highlights of Newcastle on a walking tour. As you stroll, learn about the city’s Roman, Norman and mercantile history. Admire Grey’s Monument, Grey Street, the Castle Keep, and more. Hear about the Victorian entrepreneurs who made Newcastle an Industrial Revolution powerhouse, and discover churches, hidden stairways, and a medieval monastery. Take in the revamped Quayside, where cutting-edge venues overlook the River Tyne, and absorb the city’s vibrant atmosphere, rooted in the famously friendly natures of the "Geordie" locals.

Travel to Hadrian's Wall with this tour from Newcastle. Stroll along a piece of history as you learn more about the Roman period. Eat a delicious lunch at Twice Brewed. Choose from group and private options that are with or without pickup and drop-off. Journey from Newcastle to Hadrian's walk. Start your tour at Steel Rig and walk the 2 1/2 miles to the Roman fort of Housesteads. See milecastles and the wild geography of the region as you walk. Get a view of what Roman life was like at Hadrian's when you visit the Roman fort of Housesteads. Find out more about the history of this fort, including its old name and how it was fortified by Germanic troops from Belgium and the Netherlands. Stop for lunch at Twice Brewed for some fantastic local food. Proceed to Vindolanda, an old Roman supply base that has been extensively excavated.

Find out more about the Romans and Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World-Heritage Site, on this half-day tour. Head to the frontier of the Roman Empire while being close to an urban center on a guided tour that focuses on the east end of the wall, Segedunum, now called Wallsend. Visit the Great North Museum as well and discover its varied artifacts. After meeting your guide at Newcastle Central Station, make your way to Segedunum, a fort home to fantastic reconstructions of the Roman way of life, such as a section of the wall which can be viewed and walked along. Once there, step into the Roman world and learn about this fantastic, ruthless but creative culture that conquered much of the known world. Following your fort visit, go to the Great North Museum in Newcastle, which has one of the largest collections of Roman artifacts in the north of Britain. As your guide interprets them, get an insight into Roman life at the northern frontier of the empire. After your guided tour of the museum, you'll be taken back to central Newcastle where you will be able to enjoy the city center. Your guide will be happy to point you in the direction of key sites or cafes and restaurants. This half-day tour can be taken in the morning or afternoon.