We’re proud to be based within the North East at Homes by Carlton. In our eyes, this region - starting at the very top of Northumberland on the Scottish border down as far as the beginning of the North Yorkshire Moors - is the ideal location for new home buyers.
Whether you enjoy scenic, coastal walks or luxury dining and spa days, the North East offers it all. Being a short two-hour train journey to Edinburgh, two hours and thirty minutes to London by train and just a 90-minute car journey away from the tranquil Lake District, the North East is a truly convenient location whatever your tastes.
And so with such a huge variety of places to visit and things to do in and around the area, we’ve picked out 20 of our favourite reasons why the North East is the perfect place to buy your next new home.
1. Bamburgh is a truly idyllic village
The historic coastal village of Bamburgh is situated in Northumberland. It is famous for its beautiful castle and beach and with plenty of restaurants, shops and cafes at your disposal, Bamburgh makes the perfect destination for a family day trip. However, if you are wanting a longer stay, Bamburgh offers a wide range of holiday cottages - from charming barn conversions to contemporary lodges, you can be sure to find somewhere for a relaxing weekend stay.
2. Alnwick boasts the stunning castle and gardens
Alnwick - a market town also located in Northumberland - is home to the beautiful Alnwick Castle and Gardens, which are especially well-known for their appearance in the Harry Potter film series. The castle is hugely popular with families and provides lots of activities and entertainment for children.
3. Newcastle is the North East hub of shopping and nightlife
One of the main cities in the North East, Newcastle is a brilliant opportunity for shopping, dining and exciting nightlife. The superb rail connections make the journey from Darlington to Newcastle a short 30 minutes. A few highly recommended restaurants are House of Tides, which recently gained a Michelin star and is owned by renowned chef Kenny Atkinson; Chaophraya, if you enjoy Asian cuisine; and The Botanist, a great family friendly restaurant.
4. Beamish, known as the Living Museum of the North
Near the town of Stanley in County Durham is Beamish, a fascinating open air museum. It explores how life in the North East would have looked between the 1820s and 1940s. It’s extremely popular with families and makes a fun yet educational day out.
5. Durham is home to the World Heritage Cathedral and Castle
Durham is a historic city located in between Newcastle and Darlington. The city offers one of the country’s best universities and many historic attractions. Some examples are UNESCO World Heritage Sites Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle. In contrast to the traditional aspect of the city, there are plenty of shops and restaurants, giving it the perfect balance of culture and entertainment.
6. Enjoy Durham's interestingly beautiful Botanic Garden
Set amongst stunning, mature woodlands on the southern outskirts of Durham city, you can find Durham’s Botanic Garden. A trip here is a great idea if you love nature or are simply looking for a peaceful day out.
7. You can experience a two Michelin Star restaurant - The Raby Hunt
Situated in Summerhouse, near Darlington, The Raby Hunt is the North East’s first and only two Michelin Star restaurant. Owned and run by one of Britain’s most innovative young chefs, James Close, this restaurant is the epitome of fine dining. A tasting menu of fourteen or more courses is available, guaranteed to be an exciting culinary experience. Alternatively, you can book a seat at the Kitchen Table. This includes champagne on arrival and the opportunity of watching your meal being prepared right before your eyes.
8. Explore the historic market town of Yarm
Yarm is a hidden gem. It boasts many excellent restaurants, coffee shops and clothing stores. Perfect for brunch or a sophisticated meal, Yarm makes a brilliant destination for a relaxing venture out.
9. The stylish and grand Wynyard Hall has everything you need to relax and unwind
The stunning Wynyard Hall is a four-star hotel surrounded by 150 acres of historical landscape. It offers a two AA rosette restaurant, The Wellington, and the gorgeous Lakeside Spa. Wynyard Hall is a beautiful location to spend the day relaxing and indulging, and alongside dining and spa treatments, you can spend time exploring the gardens and woodland. Whilst bringing a picnic and enjoying the Woodland Walk and children's playground makes a memorable family day out, Wynyard Hall also provides accommodation of five luxury cottages and 19 exclusive bedrooms and suites if you prefer a longer stay.
10. Hardwick Park is the perfect picnic location for couples and families alike
For a scenic walk or quality family time, Hardwick Park is the home of beautiful ponds and lots of land for you to enjoy. With a wide range of family-based activities planned year round, it’s impossible to get bored. The park provides an interactive exhibition space, playgrounds, a cafe, weekly park runs and many picnic areas, ideal for children of all ages. The family-favourite Gruffalo Trail also has to be mentioned - an exciting activity designed for younger ones to explore the woodlands, inspired by the famous story of ‘The Gruffalo’ by Julia Donaldson.
11. Appreciate the panoramic views from Roseberry Topping
A distinctive landmark with fine views across North Yorkshire and Cleveland, the National Trust site of Roseberry Topping is one of the North East’s most famous hills. For a weekend hike this is an excellent destination; the view from the summit is extremely rewarding. If you need recharging after the long walk, there are several cafes and farm shops nearby. Whether you are wanting an escape from reality or simply some fresh air, Roseberry Topping is the perfect place to visit.
12. Barnard Castle offers historic beauty and renowned art
Barnard Castle is a market town situated in Teesdale. Local treasures include the Bowes Museum, which has a nationally renowned art collection, the fascinating ruins of Egglestone Abbey, and the Barnard Castle itself, built in the Medieval period. This town is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and well-worth a visit. Many shops and cafes can be found in the town centre, ensuring Barnard Castle offers something for everyone.
13. Indulge at the luxurious Grantley Hall
A hidden jewel found in the Yorkshire Dales, this stunning destination is located just outside of the North East. Grantley Hall offers three stylish bars, four indulgent restaurants, a wellness retreat and exquisite guest accommodation. Delight in a quintessentially British afternoon tea, relax and unwind at the Three Graces Spa or benefit from a Wellness Day Package in the Elite Gym. Grantley Hall is the definition of luxury.
14. The North Yorkshire Moors National Park offers fine views and countryside treasures
The North Yorkshire Moors National Park is a local gem. The amount of land and towns to explore are limitless. Some especially popular destinations for you to discover are Cod Beck Reservoir, Sutton Bank, Castle Howard, and market towns Helmsley and Malton. You could spend weeks exploring the different destinations of the North York Moors, but living in the North East, these stunning locations are right on your doorstep. You could be enjoying the authenticity of North Yorkshire whenever you choose.
15. The Medieval city of York is full of character
One of the main cities in Northern England is York. You can catch a train at Darlington station and arrive in York within 30 minutes, which makes it the perfect place for a day out. Hundreds of restaurants, cafes and shops can be explored, but what makes York different from most other cities are the winding streets known as ‘The Shambles’ and the small local stores which are full of character and charm. For a night out, shopping day, educational trip or venture to York Races, you’re sure to enjoy this historic city.
16. Vibrant and picturesque village of Robin Hood’s Bay
Located just outside of the North East, on the Heritage Coast of the North Yorkshire Moors, Robin Hood’s Bay is a picturesque fishing village that radiates natural beauty. This seaside destination is extremely popular with North East residents. It’s easy to get to and has so many things for you to enjoy. The sandy beach and rock pools are family and pet-friendly, along with many local pubs, restaurants, cafes and small shops. The vibrant village offers beautiful coastal and country walks, cycle-paths and bridleways, enabling you to absorb and appreciate the authentic scenery of Robin Hood’s Bay.
17. Whitby is the classic seaside location
Another seaside destination that’s slightly further afield (but definitely worth a visit) is Whitby. The English Heritage site of Whitby Abbey and the Captain Cook Memorial Museum are among some of the historic treasures located in this coastal town. Countless restaurants and shops are scattered throughout Whitby and a delicious portion of fish and chips followed by an ice cream are a must when visiting this town.
18. Enjoy the tranquility of the Lake District National Park
Technically, the Lake District isn’t situated in the North East, but being only a short drive away, it’s an extremely popular destination for people living in this region. This area of the country is known for its glacial ribbon lakes, rugged fell mountains and historic literary associations. Each breathtaking lake and valley has a distinct character of its own. Many activities and scenic walks are easily accessible, designed to maximise the beauty and charm of the Lake District. Rowing, kayaking, paddleboarding and boat tours are a few of the watersports available. Plenty of market towns are nearby, along with beautiful accommodation, ideal if you are planning on a weekend getaway in the tranquility of The Lakes.
19. Hawkshead is a charming and quiet village
Also located in the Lake District, cars are banned from this small village (a large car park can be found upon entry), Hawkshead is a truly peaceful destination. Beautiful houses, archways, squares, inns, guesthouses and tea shops come together to make this village a remarkable yet modest tourist attraction. Fascinatingly, it was the childhood home of author and illustrator, Beatrix Potter.
20. Harrogate is a unique Victorian spa town
The final destination on our list is Harrogate. Living in the perfectly placed North East region, it's delightfully easy to explore the surrounding towns and cities. This Victorian spa town is located South of the North East border and it always offers something interesting. Traditional dining, history and shopping are key aspects of this unique town. For family days out in the Harrogate area, you could visit Newby Hall, Lightwater Valley Theme Park or Brimham Rocks.
We could talk endlessly about the truly fantastic sights of our region and the surrounding area, but simply put, the North East offers it all.
Coast, country or national parks, whether you are relocating to this region or already live here, this is a gentle reminder of just some of the places within close proximity that you could enjoy whenever you please.
From young couples to growing families, we’re confident that a new home in the North East can be the perfect place for you.
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