Castle & The Coastline

Two days back at work, and what a struggle it’s been after the lovely long weekend we've had. The gorgeous weather Sheffield is currently experiencing isn't helping either. It seems such a waste to be sat inside when the sun is shining, us Brits know only too well it wont last! Is it sunny where you are? How did you spend your Easter?

As planned Neil and I headed up to Newcastle on Friday to visit his parents, the drive up was a little miserable combining rain and roadworks, and it was a relief to get there. I always feel very welcome in the Dixon household and as I've said before get treated like a princess! The evening was spent relaxing, eating and catching up with some of Neil's friends. Waking up on Saturday morning we headed out early and set off on route to the coast with his family. I love how easy it is to get to the sea when we're up there!

Our first stop was Bamburgh Castle which dates back to 500 AD, situated 150 feet up on the cliffs above the beach this historic structure has a very formidable approach.

We wandered around admiring the architecture and after a flask of tea and a scone each we headed down to the nearby fishing village of Seahouses for some fish and chips by the sea; it doesn't get more British than that does it?

Bamburgh Castle in the distance.

After a lovely family meal, Neil and I headed into the city for a night of cocktails, so we started off in The Botanist. This place is fantastic and the roof terrace is so different, you have to check it out if you're about in Newcastle! I think its my new favourite bar! 

It's not often you get a tree growing out of the bar!

We moved on to a German themed bar which Neil had heard about, and to be honest I'd been picturing something very authentic and quite sophisticated, but boy was I wrong...

The Bier Keller is based underground, these cellars are filled with lines of long tables and benches which of course everyone is up dancing on. This is the perfect place for a student night out, or with a large group of friends, it's not really a couples night out if I'm honest. We did get in the spirit though and each had a stein, though it was nearly bigger than me!! 

Sunday morning we woke to glorious sunshine and without a hangover which was a nice surprise so we took a little trip over to The Angel of the North before heading home. 

  

xx

Wey Aye Man!

I went on a little adventure last weekend! As I have a Geordie man in my life I thought it was about time I ventured ‘Up North’ to see the great Newcastle! The drive up was less than enjoyable with a road closure adding a nice hour onto our already long journey, but once I set my eyes on the mighty ‘Angel of the North’ standing strong and proud, I knew we had finally arrived.

You really don't realise the sheer scale of the sculpture until you get up close, its an incredible feat of art and engineering, of which I couldn't resist getting up close and tickling its feet!

On Saturday I was introduced to the nightlife up there and given the full Geordie experience, I must admit I struggle enough understanding one Geordie never mind a city full, but after a few drinks the universal language of alcohol kicked in and it didn't seem to matter.

Waking up on the Sunday morning feeling a bit worse for wear we wrapped up and headed to the coast. What better cure for a hangover than the cold, fresh North Sea breeze? I had missed the seaside, living in the middle of the country means trips to the beach are few and far between. (I've made a mental note to visit the coast more often.)

Both wearing our hand knitted hats, courtesy of my Nana. 

Have to say I'm quite pleased with the perfectly timed seagull in this photo.

After the tranquility of the beach, it was back to the city to explore where we wandered down to the Quayside through the bustling Sunday market, and along the Millennium Bridge to the Baltic Art Gallery. From the top you get a great view of the city and the gallery itself is a towered blend of varied artists with something for everyone's taste.

We popped into the BrewDog for half a Pumpkinhead Ale before arriving back at his parents house for a lovely family meal. 

Newcastle truly is a beautiful city... I'm already planning my next visit.

xx