Often seen as one of the UK's most neglected regions, the North East of England contains some of the most spectacularly beautiful scenery in the country, as well as some of its most hospitable inhabitants. Here are five great holiday destinations in the North East:

The lively city of Newcastle-Upon Tyne. Arguably the most vibrant city in the region, modern Newcastle is an effortless fusion of its historic past as a major port and centre of the shipbuilding industry and its present as a thoroughly modern city break destination. Take a stroll through the city centre and the trendy Quayside bar and shopping area, take in the view from the incredible Blinking Eye bridge, or take some time for yourself along Newcastle's miles of quiet coastline.

The historic delights of Durham. If Newcastle is a historic city turned modern metropolis, then Durham remains a picturesque piece of history. It has one of the most arresting skylines of any European city, dominated by its spectacular cathedral and castle, it is also packed with specialist boutiques, shops and traditional markets, hidden away in its winding mediaeval lanes.

The Isle of Lindisfarne. Famed for its monastery, founded in 635AD by St. Aidan of Iona, Lindisfarne was for many centuries a centre of scholarship and learning and remains a centre of pilgrimage, with visitors flocking to the island every year to enjoy its peacefulness, spirituality and rugged natural beauty. Unwind in this peaceful haven in the heart of Northumberland.

The Lake District. A world of beauty in itself, this part of Cumbria is England's largest national park and contains its highest mountain and its deepest lake, plus a wealth of wildlife, attractions and activities. Book into one of the many cosy hotels in the Lake District and venture forth to discover the country that inspired Wordsworth.

The unspoilt Northumberland coast. A wonderful destination for a meandering walking or driving holiday, the coastline of Northumberland features miles upon miles of unspoilt beaches and picturesque villages. Travel from the historic town of Berwick upon Tweed in the north, to the village of Tynemouth, famed for its golden sands and rolling surf in the south.

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