10 Things to do Good for a Rainy Day in Newcastle and Gateshead That You Shouldn't Miss

Guided tours of the fully preserved 19th century coal waggonway and WW2 air-raid shelter. Pre-booking is essential and tickets can be booked online through our website or by telephone during office hours. Tours every day, check the website for details. Our extensive Covid-19 precautions have been assessed by Visit Britain and we have been awarded "Good to Go" certification.

Re-opening on Monday 10 August 2020. More details at www.laingartgallery.org.uk. The Laing is home to an impressive collection of art and sculpture and its exhibition programme is renowned for bringing the biggest names in historic, modern and contemporary art to the North East. The Gallery has a packed programme of free events including gallery talks, family activities and artists’ events. Free entry.

Following new advice in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Shipley Art Gallery Gallery will be closed from 4pm on Wednesday 4 November until 2 December 2020. Please sign up to our emails at mustseemuseums.org.uk and check our social media channels and website so we can keep you up to date with what’s going on. Thank you for your support and understanding at this challenging time. Stay well and we look forward to welcoming you back in due course.

Newcastle Cathedral holds the story of the City in its stones and monuments. Located in the heart of Old Newcastle, it is a medieval church building of architectural interest with a spectacular lantern tower and filled with a superb collection of monuments, ledger stones and stained glass describing interesting people and events of importance to the history of the city and the region. The collection contains work by nationally and internationally reputed sculptors and craftspeople, including glass artist Leonard Evetts, 19th century woodcarver Ralph Hedley, and sculptor EH Bailey who was also responsible for Grey's Monument, and illustrates many of the ways in which contemporary local, regional and national culture has been shaped. Look out for mermaids, wild men, Roman senators, romantic ladies or even a precious medieval stained glass portrait of Mary and the infant Christ. Open: Sun 7:30am-5:30pm; Mon-Fri 7am-6:30pm; Sat & Bank Holidays 8am-4pm. Free entry; suggested donation £5pp.

Steeped in history this imposing Norman fortress, in the centre of Newcastle upon Tyne, is 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, the reason the city got its name and has the most commanding views over the city and the River Tyne. Open for the public to explore and enjoy our rich and varied history Newcastle Castle takes the safety of public and staff very seriously. Due to the Coronavirus pandemic we have introduced a number of measures to keep you safe whilst you explore, discover and enjoy.

It’s free to get in to Discovery Museum, which is a massive space showcasing the best of Newcastle’s heritage over three floors and extensive galleries crammed with inventions, world-firsts, model ships and interactive activities for curious kids – and adults! Telling the story of Newcastle and its people from Roman times through to the present day Discovery Museum champions the spirit of the north east area. With events on all year.

Delve into Newcastle United's history all the way back to the late 1800s by joining us on a tour of the iconic St James' Park. Accompanied by a tour guide you will visit areas of the ground reserved for players and officials only, including the Home Dressing Room, Media Suite, Director's Box, and more. Tours last approximately 90 minutes, and run daily at 11.30, 12.30, And 14.30, At a cost of £15 an adult, £12 a concession, and £8 a junior.