Welcome to the North

If you need proof the north-south divide no longer exists head to Newcastle. This city was once the centre of northern depression after the coal industry, once the region's driving force, collapsed. But fast forward to 2011 and the city is thriving. So much so it's now stealing visitors from London, Brighton and Bath and even appeals to overseas travellers who now feel the drive up the M1 is worth it.

You won't be able to get bored in this northern gem. There is plenty to do, but the biggest draws are the city's sense of style evident in its fashions and architecture; its addictive nightlife that is now attracting more than just the stag and hen crowd and its sport scene: Newcastle United and Sunderland FC compete for your favour. The locals are another good reason to spend time in Newcastle.

Get to grips with the city and its innate sense of style with a walk along the banks of the River Tyne. It was this very river that help Newcastle develop as such as major trading city and why it was a favoured location of the Romans.

Both modern and old are evidenced along the riverside. However, modernity is best seen in the bridges from the Tyne bridge, the compression arch suspended bridge, famous around the globe and the Gateshead Millennium Bridge that periodically tilts letting ships pass beneath it.

Newcastle is a trendsetter and its art and fashion scene is thriving. It also likes to support homegrown talent, proof of which can be found at the Biscuit Factory. This is more of a shop than a gallery, but local artists also display their works here; it's also just a cool and trendy space to hang out in. It is a unique space, only comparable to a few locations in London.

Two theatres stand out in Newcastle. The first is Theatre Royal, which puts on in excess of 380 performances a year. What's more as it is the third home of the Royal Shakespeare company after London and Stratford, several of the great master's plays are also featured here throughout the autumn.

Option number two is the People's Theatre. It is the North of England's leading amateur theatre company and one of the largest and oldest in the country. It focuses on producing works from local producers, directors and actors.

Newcastle is not what it once was; it enjoying a renaissance that is attracting people from all over the world. Make use of the bank holidays and spend some time in this friendly, stylish city.