36 Lime Street

36 Lime Street is the largest artists’ studio group in the north-east, representing an eclectic mix of some of the best artists, designers, makers, performers and musicians in the region. Visits welcome by appointment.This gallery is a participant in the Arts Council’s “Own Art” scheme which aims to make it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary works of art. For more information please visit: http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/ownart

Alan Reed Studio and Gallery

The Alan Reed Studio & Gallery opened in January 2003 to provide Alan with a place to paint and exhibit some of his original paintings and limited edition prints in a relaxed and informal atmosphere. It's a place where you can meet Alan to discuss commissions and other painting projects or simply browse at your own leisure. You can buy greetings cards, a small gift, or commission Alan to paint your favourite place as a personal treat to yourself or loved one for that special occasion. This gallery is a participant in the Arts Council’s “Own Art” scheme which aims to make it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary works of art. For more information please visit: http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/ownart

Arbeia Roman Fort and Museum

One of the few sites where you can actually watch excavations in progress throughout the summer months. There is a fine reconstruction (full size) of the fort's West Gate, and on some of the special event days you can sample Roman food or watch re-enactments of training. Open: April-Oct 10.00am-5.30pm Mon-Sat, 1-5pm Sun, Nov-March 10.00am-3.30pm Mon-Sat. Sun closed. Time Quest closed at weekends during Winter. Exhibitions: Free. Time Quest: Adults £1.50, Concs/Children 80p.

Arc

Groud floor gallery and ARTSPACE. Open all day. Free admission. ARC displays ever-changing exhibitions aiming to display high quality and unique art. ARC exhibits work from the best local artists found across Tees Valley. Original artwork is displayed on all floors, so your eye can wander with your legs.

Art Evolution

Art Evolution is the North East largest online gallery promoting over 1200 piece of contemporary artwork by some of the regions most talented artists. Our gallery, www.artevolution.co.uk, is open 24hours a day, 365 days per year. The gallery exhibits a wide range of artwork, across painting, photography and sculpture, which is available to rent or buy.

Bailiffgate Museum

The local history museum of Alnwick and District is attractively situated in the former St. Mary's Church, dating from 1836. Bailiffgate Museum brings to life the people and places of North Northumberland. Temporary history and art exhibitions are staged throughout the year with complementary workshops and events. Open: April-Oct 10am-5pm daily. Nov-Easter 10am-4pm Everyday except Monday. Adults £2.90, Senior £2.50, Children (age 5-16) £2.10, under 5’s free, Students £2.10, Family ticket (2 + 1) £6.70 or (2+2) £7.60

BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art

Mon-Sun 10am-6pm (Tues 10.30am-6pm). Free BALTIC is a major international centre for contemporary visual art, situated on the Gateshead side of the river Tyne. The landmark building (formerly the Baltic Flour Mills, a disused 1950s grain warehouse) has been transformed into a leading contemporary visual art gallery; one of the biggest temporary art spaces in Europe. It's also a place to socialise, relax and revel in the artistic atmosphere within, with great areas where you can have food or get a drink.

Beamish -The North of England Open Air Museum

This unique, open-air museum provides a living, working experience of life as it was in north-east England between the early 1800s and early 1900s and is set in over 300 acres of beautiful countryside. Replete with working trams, replica streets and more. Open: April 4–Nov. 1 10am-5pm (daily) / Jan 3.-April 3. 10am to 4pm (closed Mons. and Fris.). Closed December . Adults £16 / Students and 60+ £13 / Children £10 / Family tickets £32/£46 in summer. Winter prices are reduced.

Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens

A remarkable estate with 14th century castle, 17th century manor house and 19th century neoclassical hall set in 30 acres of landscaped gardens and grounds. The hall was designed by the legendary architect , John Dobson . Its present unfurnished state gives even greater emphasis to its bold architecture which is now regularly used to display fashion and contemporary artworks. 1 -18 Apr 10am-6pm daily 1 May - 26 Sep daily 10am-6pm 1-31 Oct 10am-4pm daily 1 Nov-31 Mar 10am-4pm Thu-Mon, Open February half-term for snowdrop displays - 6.80Adult/5.80Concession/3.40Child/17.00Family 

Berwick Borough Museum & Art Gallery

Explore the old garrison town and its surroundings through the sights and sounds of Window on Berwick. From sea breezes to the dimly-lit coal mine, its all here. The museum includes a remarkable collection of over 300 items given to the town by Sir William Burrell, who lived in nearby Hutton Castle. That's not all, you'll also discover dragons, medieval chalices, ancient Roman glass, Turkish tiles and a working telephone exchange.

Billingham Art Gallery

Open: Mon-Sat 10am-4.30pm Free. Temporary exhibition space from both local and international contemporary artists featuring everything from social history to photography to ceramics to paintings.

Bishop Auckland Town Hall

This Grade II listed building occupies a prime site in the Market Place in Bishop Auckland and is the premier arts venue for the people of South West Durham and beyond. Every strand of the arts is represented in our comprehensive programme - theatre, music, literature, dance, visual arts and practical craft workshops are all featured on a regular basis. The best in small-scale professional touring theatre – Hull Truck, NTC, Quondam, Reform and many more - visit to delight audiences in our very own Eden Theatre where we also screen films on a regular basis. Music features strongly and is always well received with artists of the calibre of Snake Davis and Vin Garbutt regular visitors. The McGuinness Gallery offers high quality, regularly changing exhibitions, while our award winning 'Book It' programme offers a variety of author and literary events.

Border History Museum

The museum has reopened, following significant building works. Full access now to all parts of the building, via a glass lift. The Old Gaol is the earliest documented purpose-built prison in England. It was built by order of the Archbisop of York 1330-33. It held prisoners from Hexhamshire, and in the C16th from the English Middle March, before their trial in the nearby Moothall Court Room.Collections include of Archaeology, Archives, Costume and Textiles, Law and Order, Music, Photography, Social History, Weapons and War. Adults £3.80, OAP £3, Child £2, Family (two adults and up to four children) £10. Open: April-Sep 9.30-5.00pm daily. Oct-Mar 10am-4pm. Jan and Dec by appointment only

Bowes Railway

Mon-Fri 10am-3pm. Free (charges apply on special days). This railway is the only preserved standard gauge rope haulage railway in the world. The oldest part of the line dates from 1826, designed by George Stephenson. Visitors can see the historic workshops and visit the permanent exhibition.

Butterfly World

February - October Daily 10.00am - 4.30pm (last entry 4pm). £3.50 adults, £3.00 Children / Concessions, Family ticket £10.50 - 2 Adults and up to 3 Children. Butterfly World is full of creepy crawlies. If you can catch a spider and not wince at the thought of it wriggling around in your clasped hands, then you will enjoy this tropical and unusual experience with its many endangered species of insects.

Captain Cook's Birthplace Museum

March-October Tues-Sun 10am-5.30pm, November-February Tues-Sun9am-4pm. Closed Mondays.This is a fantastic and interactive museum for children and adults alike. It focuses on the life of Captain James Cook and delves into the world of one of the greatest navigators through permanent and temporary exhibitions. It goes onto explore into the life of a seaman in general and the difficulties that were attached; the truth behind the wooden legs and bottles of rum, if you will... and all for free.

Centre for Life

Mon-Sat 10am-6pm; Sun 11am-6pm. Adults £8 / Concs £6.95/ children £5.85 One of Newcastle's most popular attractions, this is a huge, complex towards the bottom end of town which examines the building blocks of life in a fun, hands-on way, with plenty of interactive exhibits. Terrific fun.

Chesters Fort and Museum

One of the largest forts on Hadrian's Wall, CHesters also houses the extensive Clayton Collection of alters and sculptures from the Wall. There's also the remains of a military bathhouse which is one of the best examples in the country. Open: March–Sept daily 10am-6pm. Oct-March 10am–4pm daily Adult £4.80, Conc £4.10 Child £2.40.

Childhood Memories Toy Museum

Those with a nostalgic streak should visit the Childhood Memories Toy Museum, which exhibits toys from every era. There’s something slightly creepy yet oddly comforting about the mix of Tiny Tears dolls from the 1980s and highly unsavoury Gollywogs from the 1880s. Open: April-May 10.30am-5.00pm weekends only, June-Sept 10.30am-5.00pm Tues-Sun, Sept-Nov 10.30am-5.00pm weekends only. Adults £1.50, Child/Conc.75p

Cleveland Ironstone Mining Museum

The mining museum is a tribute to one of the aspects of industry that Teesside is renowned for. It is based on the site of a Loftus Mine, but you won’t hear of any dwarves singing as they were digging for diamonds. It informs you of the skills and the customs of mining Victorian and Edwardian England. You can also dare to submerge yourself into the depths of Loftus in an authentic underground mining experience. Please note that as this Museum is staffed by volunteers it is recommended that you call first to confirm opening times and prices. Open: April-Oct 1.00pm-3.30pm daily.

Colliers

A great selection of paintings and prints particularly concentrating on local artists. They're quite hot on abstract and contemporary stuff, but if it's traditional that you're looking for they've got that too. This gallery is a participant in the Arts Council’s “Own Art” scheme which aims to make it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary works of art. For more information please visit: http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/ownart

Connell & Hart

As well as making several different ranges of jewellery Connell & Hart also make interior items such as clocks, mirrors and panels as well as their extremely popular Crystal Imprints which are impressions of hands, feet or paws cast in glass. This gallery is a participant in the Arts Council’s “Own Art” scheme which aims to make it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary works of art. For more information please visit: http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/ownart

Corbridge Roman Site Museum

Originally a fort, Corbridge evolved into a prosperous town. The large modern museum contains many interesting items of Roman daily life found around the site, including armour, weapons, inscriptions and sculpture. Open: 1 Apr-30 Sep 10am-5.30pm daily (last admission 5pm), 1 Oct-31 Oct 10am-4pm daily, 1 Nov-31 Mar 10am-4pm Sat-Sun, Closed 24–26 Dec and 1 Jan . Adult £4.80, Conc. £4.10, Child £2.40.

Crown Studio Gallery

Darlington Arts Centre

Monday- Saturday 9am- 8pm. The centre features local arts in “The Lounge Gallery” and touring exhibitions in the “Myles Meehan Gallry”. It also offers adult courses, holiday workshops and arts management apprenticeships, all the while hoping to get children involved with the new ArtsSpark programme. There’s something for everyone.

Designed & Made

Wed–Sat 12.30pm to 6pm; Sunday 12pm – 4pm Part of the Live Theatre complex, here you can catch up on all the latest cutting edge design.

Dial Gallery

This gallery is a participant in the Arts Council’s “Own Art” scheme which aims to make it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary works of art. For more information please visit: http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/ownart

Diggerland

Less museum and more theme park, Diggerland offers visitors the unique opportunity to ride in dumper trucks and – unsurprisingly – diggers ‘til their heart’s content. Amateur construction workers are also afforded the chance to take photos and learn about the metallic contraptions that they’re driving. On-site too is The Dig Inn, a restaurant to grab a bite in between bouts of digging and generally mucking around. Open: Summer 10am-5pm. Telephone for winter opening. Prices: Adult/over threes £15/ OAPs £7.50; carers and Under-3s free.

Discovery Museum

Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 2-5pm. Free Newcastle's largest museum is a veritable treasure trove of exhibitions (both permanent and temporary), regarding life on Tyneside. From the area’s renowned maritime history to world-changing science and technology it has something for everyone. One of the prized exhibits is the record-breaking vessel, Turbinia. Built in 1894 it became the fastest ship in the world at the time.

Dorman Museum

Tues-Sun 9.30am-5pm. Closed Monday. The Dorman Museum was opened in 1904 and began life as a natural history museum. However, it is now much more diverse as it uncovers different cultures, items of local interest, the fields of archaeology and of geology. This is all within its eight themed galleries, its varied programme of changing exhibitions and its family friendly workshop. The educational experience of the Dorman Museum is the proof in the pudding that you can teach old dogs new tricks.

Durham Heritage Centre and Museum

This Medieval church retained its original purpose until the 1960s but now plays host to a wide variety of historical pieces from the locality, including a cell from Durham jail. Durham’s only dedicated local history museum. Open: June-Sept. 11am-4:30pm (daily) / Oct. 2pm-4:30pm (weekends) / April-May 2pm-4.30pm (weekends and Bank Hols.) £0.50-£1.50

Durham Light Infantry Museum and Art Gallery

The DLI Museum and Durham Art Gallery is one of Durham’s most rewarding family attractions. The museum tells the proud story of the Durham Light Infantry - County Durham’s own regiment - over 200 years and especially during WW1 and WW2. Durham Art Gallery shows an exciting programme of contemporary art from regional, national and international artists, complimented by a range of artists talks and workshops. Open: April-Oct. 10am-5pm (daily) / Nov.-March 10am-4pm (daily) Adults £3.25 / Concessions £2.15 / Kids £1.35

Durham University Oriental Museum

Full of fascinating objects from Japan, Mesopotamia and Syria to name but a few regions. Highlights include amazing jewellery, plates, paintings and animal carvings. Also hosts temporary art exhibitions with an Oriental theme. Open: 10am-5pm (Mon.-Fri.) / 12pm-5pm (weekends and Bank Hols.) Adults £1.50 / Children £0.75 / Families £3.50.

FiFieFoFum Gallery

Fifiefofum offer for sale fine art paintings, ceramics, glass, sculpture, woodcraft, jewellery, prints, giclées and showcase a diverse programme of exhibitions.This gallery is a participant in the Arts Council’s “Own Art” scheme which aims to make it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary works of art. For more information please visit: http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/ownart

Fowler's Yard

The Yard comprises of an historic group of buildings overlooking the River Wear in the centre of Durham. The site has been refurbished as a unique development with nine creative workshops for professional artists, craftspeople and creative businesses.

Fulwell Windmill

The Fulwell Windmill opened in 1808 and recently restored. It now boasts a new visitor’s centre, a guided tour and various special events throughout the year. Open: 12pm-4pm. 
See www.fulwell-windmill.com for specific dates.

Fusiliers Museum of Northumberland

This fascinating local regimental museum can be found within the magnificent Alnwick Castle. Entrance is included in the castle entrance fee. You'll discover artefacts, uniforms, medals, silver, weapons and souvenirs from campaigns that were fought across the globe from 1674 to the present day.

Gallagher & Turner

This gallery is a participant in the Arts Council’s “Own Art” scheme which aims to make it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary works of art. For more information please visit: http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/ownart

Gallerina

Self-described as a northern showcase of affordable, collectable, sometimes challenging, always exciting, award winning fine art from around the world. This gallery is a participant in the Arts Council’s “Own Art” scheme which aims to make it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary works of art. For more information please visit: http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/ownart

Gallery North

The School of Arts and Social Sciences has opened its very own contemporary exhibition space – Gallery North – offering formidable opportunities for exhibitions in the contemporary arts. Home to the school’s range of practice-led undergraduate and postgraduate activities as well as a venue for curated exhibitions of work by national and international artists, the Gallery is a dynamic new addition to Newcastle’s burgeoning art scene. Mon-Thurs 10-5pm; Fri 10-4.30pm. Free

Gateshead Heritage @ St Mary's

Come and discover a bit about Gateshead's history in this lovely medieval Grade 1 listed former church. Lots of activities throughout the year with free guided walks every Saturday & Sunday 2.30pm. You can also come and research your family history here with weekly family history surgeries taking place from October. Open every day except Monday from 10am-4pm.

Gateshead Library Gallery

Mon-Fri 9am-7pm (Wed 9am-5pm); Sat 9am-1pm. Free Local artist forum and host to many touring exhibitions. Excellent ceramic and painting sales at Christmas time.

Globe City Gallery

Wed-Sat 11.30am-5pm (and evenings as advertised on a show by show basis). Free An arts venue atop the famous night-club World Head Quarters. Globe Gallery is an independent contemporary art gallery showing the work of emerging and established artists. The gallery’s two venues (it has a sister gallery in North Shields) are spaces of cultural exchange providing a welcoming, informative, challenging and accessible dialogue between artist, artwork and audience.

Globe Gallery

The Globe has an innovative and continuous programme of contemporary art often giving valuable and much needed space to graduating students. Aproximately 15 minutes from Newcastle, the Globe is well worth the trek. Open: 11.30am-5.00pm Wed-Sat (other times by arrangement). Free

Grace Darling Museum

Grace Darling was a famous local girl, who with her father rescued shipwrecked sailors in a small open boat at the height of a storm, she died aged 26. The museum commemorates her achievement. It is currently undergoing redevelopment so phone for opening times. Open Easter–Oct 10am-5pm daily

Great North Museum: Hancock

Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 2pm-5pm The Great North Museum: Hancock is an exciting and innovative world-class visitor attraction. Highlights of the new £26 million museum include a large-scale, interactive model of Hadrian's Wall and major new displays showing the wonder and diversity of the animal kingdom, life and death in Ancient Egypt, and spectacular objects from the Ancient Greeks. There is also a planetarium, a life-size T-Rex dinosaur skeleton and much more…

Guisborough Museum

April – October every Thursday and Saturday. Free Admission. Guisborough Musuem relies solely on voluntary workers, and it is built within an old stable block. It was established in 1989 to preserve Guisborough’s heritage and to inform the locals of how the town developed, with over 1,000 objects displayed that best symbolise the town’s past to the people of its future.

Harperley POW Camp Museum

Originally designed to house low-risk Italian and German prisoners during WW II, the camp now boasts a caravan site, restaurant, farm shop gift shop as well as the museum itself. Virtually all of Harperley’s original structures remain, rendering the site unusual among British former concentration camps. Open: 9am-5pm (daily)

Hartlepool Art Gallery

10am-5.30pm Tues-Sat; 2am-5pm Sun Free. The exhibition programme, changing every six weeks, aims to have a wide appeal, showing family exhibitions, but also including challenging contemporary art.

Hartlepool's Maritime Experience

If you like the sound of the Museum of Hartlepool, then feed your seafaring interests by taking the Maritime Experience. A full day’s admission will pay for you to discover Hartlepool’s Historic Quay, to discover the HMS Trincomalee aka Britain’s oldest warship still afloat! Canons at the ready, quayside steady, fire! April - October: 10.00am - 5pm, November - March: 10.30am - 4pm daily (except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day). Adults £7.75, Children: £4.75, Unwaged: £4.75, Over 60s: £5.75, Family ticket (2 adults and up to 3 children): £20.00 , Travel Trade Groups: £3.85, School Groups: £3.30, Other Groups (Adults): £7.00, Other Groups (Child): £4.00 , Other Groups (Over 60's) £5.00

Head of Steam Darlington Railway Museum

Adult - £4.95 per visit, Over 60s - £3.75 per visit, 6 - 16 years - £3.00 per visit, 5 years and under – Free. Family Pass, 2 Adults and up to 4 children per visit - £10.00 £1.7 million has been invested into this museum and it was re-launched in April, but it promises to keep developing significantly within the next 12 months. The traditional locomotives continue to be the backbone of the museum but the flesh and organs that complete the body are the new and interactive displays. If you feel yourself losing your “steam” (pun intended), you can refuel in the new and improved cafe.

Heatherslaw Cornmill

Want to know how wheat was traditionally milled? Visit the restored and operating 19th century undershot watermill. You can see wheat milling daily, water levels permitting. You'll find exhibitions and demonstrations of all processes from the wheel to finished flour.

Helix Arts

A commisioning and placements agency - opened by the Queen no less. Helix enables artists to work within the community (usually in residencies).

HM Bark Endeavour

Booked guided tours by appointment only. Prices vary. Take a walk on the Cook side of life by booking a guided tour on a full-size replica of his ship, “The HM Bark Endeavour”.

Killhope Lead Mining Museum

A restored and complete leadmining operation with a most impressive 32ft water wheel. Vistors can walk down the original tunnel of the Park Level Mine and dicover working conditions of 19th century miners, with superb guided talks. Surrounded by good walking areas, there's also a cafe if you need refreshment to restore your constitution. 'Santa in the Mines' at the begining of December ia a big hit with the kids.

Kirkleatham Museum

Summer Tuesday- Sunday 10am-5pm winter Tuesday- Sunday 10am- 4pm. Closed Mondays except Bank Holidays. Free Admission This is a favourite museum for many Teessiders, as it details the history of Redcar and Cleveland and the people who lived there. It provides activities for the kiddy-winks during the school holidays. Plus, there is a drop-in crafts workshop between 10am-12am and 1pm-4pm.

La Boca

Gay friendly cafe and art gallery with free Wifi.

Lady Waterford Hall

A 19th century former village school beautifully decorated with biblical murals by Louisa, Marchioness of Waterford.All the faces were modelled by local villagers from the Ford and Etal estate. Open: Daily, 21 March - 30 October (2005) 10:30am - 12:30pm, 1:30pm - 5:30pm, Nov-Mar by appointment only. Admission £1.75. (2005).

Laing Art Gallery

Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 2-5pm. Free The Laing is the major public art venue in Newcastle. There's a comprehensive permanent collection, including some impressive Pre-Raephelite works, as well as work by John Martin and Henry Moore. There’s also a continuing programme of temporary exhibitions. Thankfully the Laing isn't afraid to embrace new ventures and happily includes the work of artists who explore new avenues in art as well as showcasing work by Britain's hip young art warriors.

Lazarides 77 Quayside

Tues-Sat 12pm-6pm. Free A new gallery showing contemporary paintings, prints, sculptures etc from the hipper end of the market. And if you see anything you like, chances are they’ll let you have it (if you give them some money).

Life Science Centre

Mon-Sat 10am-6pm; Sunday 11am-6pm; adults £8.00; children £5.85 (under 4, free); family ticket £24.20 An award-winning attraction which is full of hands-on exhibitions and activities. Watch out for their friendly ‘science explainers’ who really add to the experience. Life’s also home to the region’s biggest planetarium theatre.

Locus+

An arts commissioning agency that presents new projects by visual artists outside of the traditional gallery space.

Mary Ann Rogers Studio

Mary Ann Rogers, watercolour artist, works from her recently built studio at her home in Redesdale, Northumberland. The building of the studio was the subject of the Discovery Channel programme ‘Designer Homes’, & Mary Ann's paintings and prints are regularly exhibited in the UK and overseas, including the Royal Watercolour Society. This gallery is a participant in the Arts Council’s “Own Art” scheme which aims to make it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary works of art. For more information please visit: http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/ownart

McGuinness Gallery

Named in honour of renowned local mining artist Tom McGuinness, the gallery provides a splendid loction for artists to display their artistic talents.Exhibitions are programmed to run for 3 weeks at a time and selection is made by a panel of experts from Durham Art Gallery, who encourage a wide diversity of styles and exhibitions. This gallery is a participant in the Arts Council’s “Own Art” scheme which aims to make it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary works of art. For more information please visit: http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/ownart

Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art

Free Admission. Tues, Weds, Fri and Sat 10am-5pm, Thurs 10am- 8pm, Sunday 12am- 4pm. Closed Monday, except Bank Holiday Mondays where Sunday hours will apply. mima is Middlesbrough’s newest art gallery, which specialises in the presentation of Modern Art from 1900 to the present. It has been extremely well received and has had a huge influence over raising the visual standard of the area around Central Square. It sets the tone for a new and more cultured Middlesbrough.

Monkwearmouth Station Museum

With a one million refurbishment to the building’s former glory, new galleries have formed. The museum is housed in an original Victorian station building that was commissioned by the famous railway entrepreneur George Hudson. New interactive galleries have been developed as part of the recent development of the museum, making learning about the history of travel and transport in Tyne and Wear fun and exciting for children of all ages. Open: Mon–Sat 10am–5pm. Sun 2pm–5pm. Free..

Museum of Antiquities, Alnwick Castle

The museum is situated within the magnificent Castle of Alnwick, home of the Percys, and is included in the castle entrance fee. There are artefacts and remains of the prehistoric, Roman, Saxon, Viking and medieval periods, some of which were found on the ducal estates in Northumberland and elsewhere - and some with Percy family associations. Free within entry to Alnwick Castle: Adult £8.50 Apr - Oct daily 11am - 5pm

Mushroom Works

Wed-Sat 12-5pm. Free Located in the Ouseburn Valley, the Mushroom Works has 12 artists studios and a gallery which hosts an exciting and diverse programme of contemporary exhibitions and events. It’s also a great place to buy and commission work direct from the artist.

Myles Meeham Gallery

Open: Mon-Sat 9am-9pm. Free. Featuring touring and local exhibitions as well as workshops, lectures and seminars. The Gallery also has a 'Craft Window' where local craftspeople can show their work. Open to proposals from emerging artists and ready to embrace experimental installations.

National Glass Centre

A contemporary building with unique glass roof that you can walk over, situated on the banks of the River Wear, housing an exciting and thought-provoking programme of exhibitions, workshops, courses, talks and events inspired by glass. Also home to glass production facilities with live demonstrations, craft & design shop, artists studios, function suites and café/restaurant. Open: Mon-Sun 10am-5pm. Free.

Newcastle Arts Centre

Mon-Fri, 9am-5.30pm; Sat, 9am-5pm. Free These artists' studios stage fantastic exhibitions, touring and one-offs, with some challenging work being shown, which is quite often for sale. The ideal place to catch some up and coming, as well as more established, artists.

Newcastle United Stadium Tour

Taking you on an amazing journey through the history of Newcastle United. The knowledgeable guides will show you areas that fans wouldn’t usually see as well as some very famous ones! Admission charges apply.

North East Aircraft Museum

Houses a collection of military and civilian aircraft (35 aeroplanes in total) displays wreckology and an assortment of engines from 1908. Open: Daily 10am-5pm, £4 adults, £2 children/OAPs.

Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art

A fantastic major contemporary art space based right in the heart of the city, 50m from Sunderland train station and Metro. The NGCA shows an ambitious programme of contemporary photography, video, painting, installation, sculpture and new media both from around the world and from the north-east. The Project Space provides an important spring-board for new talent, featuring emerging artists alongside established names. And with regular previews, talks, tours, an education room and a new family area, The Drawing Room, the NGCA is definitely worth a look. Open: Mon/Wed 9.30am-7.30pm, Tue/Thurs/Fri 9.30am-5.00pm, Sat 9.30am-4.00pm. Free

Northern Print

Wed-Sat 12pm-4pm. Free Northern Print is the centre for contemporary printmaking in the north-east and have a beautiful and welcoming space devoted to showing the very best in printmaking. This gallery is a participant in the Arts Council’s “Own Art” scheme which aims to make it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary works of art. For more information please visit: www.artscouncil.org.uk/ownart

Northern Rock Foundation Gallery

The gallery is open during the dates and times of the Peoples theatre productions. Viewing outside of these times can be arranged by contacting the venue manager, Kevin Saint Tel 0191 2759875

Northumbria University Gallery

Mon-Thurs 10am-5pm, Fri/Sat 10am-4pm. Free Presents a programme of temporary and touring exhibitions by artists of national and international reputation as well as exhibitions by lesser known, but promising, artists.

Old Fulling Mill Museum of Archaeology

The University Archaeological Museum houses ancient pottery and inscribed slabs as well as hosting changing exhibitions on such topics as the archaeology of Durham Cathedral and medieval cloth making. Permanent exhibitions include explorations of the Stone Age, Roman, Medieval and Tudor periods in Durham. Open: April-September 11am-4pm, Oct-March 11.30am-3.30pm. Prices: £0.50-£2.50.

Opus Art Gallery

Mon-Sat 9am-5pm. Free Browse and buy original art, prints and photography from some of the world’s best modern artists.This gallery is a participant in the Arts Council’s “Own Art” scheme which aims to make it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary works of art. For more information please visit: http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/ownart

Ormesby Hall

The 300yr old Hall is a spot of rural splendour amidst Teesside’s urban chaos (you know it has to be good when the National Trust puts its name on it!) The decor of the home is a testament to the 18th Century and the grounds make the average garden look like a humble plant pot in comparison.

Preston Hall Museum & Park

Admission 4.00pm.Adults- £1.30, Children 60p. Family/group concessions available. The museum in this site is enveloped by 100 acres of rolling landscape, better known as Preston Park. The park is home to an exotic bird aviary, a wildfowl pond and many riverside and woodland paths.

Python Gallery

The python gallery is a creative development in the heart of the Middlehaven area of Middlesbrough. Launched in July 2007, by Middlesbrough based development company pythonproperties, the gallery provides quality exhibition space and delivers a rolling programme of shows and events, which have included visual two-dimensional and three-dimensional, performance, installation, multi and time based media. Delivering the very best examples of creativity from this region and beyond, the python gallery is establishing itself as a positive venture that engages, inspires and provides a rewarding experience for all who visit.

Queen’s Hall Arts Centre

The Queen’s Hall Arts Centre is a magnificent early Victorian building which faces Hexham Abbey in the centre of Hexham. The theatre started life as a music hall and became a cinema in the 1920’s. It now boasts two galleries, a 350-seat theatre, function rooms, an artist loft and various work rooms. Queen’s Hall Arts Centre has established itself as a strong base for an extensive range of artistic activity, attracting the best international and national artists from music, drama, dance, art, comedy and national touring to non professional shows performed by local community groups. This gallery is a participant in the Arts Council’s “Own Art” scheme which aims to make it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary works of art. For more information please visit: www.artscouncil.org.uk/ownart

Reg Vardy Gallery

The very varied programme instigated here aims to reflect developments in the arts locally, nationally and internationally. Open: Tues 10am-8pm, Wed-Fri 10am-6pm. Free.

Regimental Museum

Open: April-Sept 10am-5pm Wed-Sun. Closed: 1st Oct–31st March. Adults £3.50, Conc. £2.80, Child (15yrs and below), £1.80 Under Four go free.

Roman Army Museum

At the Roman Army Museum you can view Roman boots, shoes, armour, jewellery and coins. Open: Feb-March 10am-5pm. April-Sept 10am-6pm. Oct-Nov 10am-5pm. Closed Dec to early Feb. Adult £5.20, Student/OAP £4.30, Child £3, Family (2+2) £14.50

Ryhope Engines Museum

Two fine old beam engines demonstrate the best in Victorian engineering along with displays and exhibitions of Victorian and water-related articles. The engines are actually 'in steam' on Bank Holidays only. Open: Easter-December Sundays only 2.00pm-4.30pm. Call for further details. Free.

Saltburn Gallery

The Saltburn Gallery exhibits a wide variety of different art forms from a range of artists and aims to create an inspirational environment for artists, curators, educationalists and the community.This gallery is a participant in the Arts Council’s “Own Art” scheme which aims to make it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary works of art. For more information please visit: http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/ownart

Saltburn Smugglers Heritage Centre

Smuggling was like ye old DVD piracy, and in this museum you will learn of John Andrew ‘King of the Smugglers’. If he was alive today, he would be the fellow in the back of the cinema with a video camera in his top hat. The museum is set in an ancient fisherman’s cottage and it adjoins The Ship pub, so when you’ve finished with the smuggling, you can begin the guzzling. Open: July-Aug 10am-6pm daily. Sept 10am-6pm Wed-Sun. Adult £1.95, Child £1.45, Family £5.80.

Segedunum Roman Fort, Baths & Museums

Discover what life was like at the last outpost of the Roman Empire. Displays chronicle the changes at Wallsend from Roman times to present day. Segedunum features not only the only reconstructed bath-house in the country, but also provides a chance to see the original remains of Hadrian's Wall or even take a peek at archaeologists at work. Open: April-Oct 10am-5pm daily, Nov-Mar 10am-3pm daily. Adults £4.50, Conc. £2.50, under 16s free.

Seven Stories

Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 10am-4pm. Adults £6, child/conc £5, Family ticket £17. Seven Stories is Britain’s first museum dedicated to children’s books, situated in an imaginatively converted Victorian mill. Discover exhibitions, events and activities inspired by children’s books and the centre’s growing collection of original manuscripts and illustrations. A thoroughly entertaining experience. Includes a bookshop and café.

Shipley Art Gallery

Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 2pm-5pm. Free The Shipley houses the most comprehensive display of contemporary craft in the north of England, together with collections of old masters and Victorian paintings. A continuous exhibition programme of crafts, fine art and social history is supported with activities for schools and family visitors.

Shire Pottery Gallery & Studios

Side Gallery

Tue-Sat 11am-5pm. Free Since opening in 1977, Side Gallery has achieved a legendary reputation in documentary photography. Alongside the exhibition of international work by many of the world's leading photographers, the gallery continues to commission an unparalleled documentation of northern lives and landscapes. Exhibitions are often accompanied by talks and events.

South Shields Museum & Art Gallery

Open: April-Oct 10.00am-5.30pm Mon-Sat, 1pm-5pm Sun. Nov-March 10am-5pm Mon-Sat. Sun closed. Free entry

Stephenson Railway Museum

Explore the history of railways from steam to coal to electricity through interactive media and 'hands-on' exhibits. There's also the chance to re-live the days of the steam railway and take a ride on a real steam train. Open: April-Nov weekends from 11am-4pm, open at different times over Bank Holidays, School Holidays and Christmas contact Museum for further details. Free

Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens

Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens combines a museum, art gallery, exhibition space and Winter Gardens to create a stunning visitor attraction in the heart of the city centre. The stunning Winter Gardens stimulate the senses with over 2,000 flowers and plants brought together in a spectacular showcase of the world's natural beauty. Open: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 2pm-5pm. Free.

Tallantyre

Located 10 miles north of Newcastle in the picturesque market town of Morpeth, Tallantyre Gallery has a long history of selling original fine art and can boast a fantastic collection of over 800 original pieces of art from oil paintings to sculpture.This gallery is a participant in the Arts Council’s “Own Art” scheme which aims to make it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary works of art. For more information please visit: http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/ownart

The Art Studio

You can't miss The Art Studio on St Michaels Way in Sunderland. Primarily established to enable people, with mental health problems to develop their skills. There are some magnificent pieces of work on show and workshops and open days where everyone is welcome. Open: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm. Free.

The Art Works Galleries

Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 11am-4pm. Free The Art Works Galleries house five dynamic galleries where exhibitions change every month. It's a new type of gallery where artists rent space and since there is no commission taken it's more affordable for artists to exhibit and to buy contemporary British art. In-house curating coupled with artists’ autonomy ensures all exhibitions are inspired, relevant and constantly changing.

The Biscuit Factory

Sun/Mon 11am-5pm; Tues-Sat 10am-6pm. Free The Biscuit Factory is Britain's biggest original art store. 35,000 square feet with two floors of exhibition spaces and two floors of artists studios. Selling paintings and prints, ceramics, glass, sculpture and furniture, from over 100 local, national and international artists. This gallery is a participant in the Arts Council’s “Own Art” scheme which aims to make it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary works of art. For more information please visit: http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/ownart

The Bowes Museum

Housed in a replica 18th century French chateau, the museum has a magnificent collection of European art, design artefacts, and even a two-headed calf. It also has the country's finest collection of Sevres porcelain. The highlight though must be the beautiful silver swan automaton, which performs twice daily - check with the museum for exact times. And if this isn’t enough you could visit Barnard Castle on a Wednesday and catch the market itself. Open: Mon-Sun 10am-5pm (4pm Nov-Feb). Adults £6.35, Conc. £5.45.

The Buddle Arts Centre

As well as holding many theatrical and musical events, the Buddle's gallery has imaginative programming, managing to show some of the more interesting exhibitions in the area. Mon-Tues 9.30am – 7pm; Wed 9.30 – 9pm; Thurs 9.30am – 5pm; Fri 9.30am – 5pm; Sat 1pm – 5pm

The Customs House

Sandford Goudie Gallery at The Customs House showcases the very best of national, international and regional contemporary arts practice. With a changing programme of nine exhibitions a year, it is the only contemporary gallery space in South Tyneside, enabling the broadest spectrum of audiences and communities to participate and engage with contemporary art. Daily 10am – 8pm; 11am Sunday and Bank Holidays.

The Green Dragon Studio

Nestling among the narrow cobbled alleyways and historic warehouses of old Stockton, the Green Dragon Studio, houses the Focus photography gallery which provides a showcase venue for a wide range of photographic exhibitions.

The Hatton Gallery

Mon-Sat 10am-5pm. Free The Hatton boasts the internationally renowned Schwitters' Merzbarn, which was described by art critic Andrew Graham-Dixon (in a History of British Art, Channel 4) as 'the seminal piece of 20th century British art'. It also houses a permanent African collection, as well as temporary exhibitions.

The King's Own Scottish Borderers Museum

The history of the Regiment from 1689 to the present day is traced through displays of uniforms, badges, medals, weapons and relics from the various campaigns in which it has been involved. Tableaux and dioramas dramatically bring to life the Regiment’s battles and aspects of the soldier’s profession. Adults £3.40 Concessions £2.60 Children under 16 £1.70 Children under 5 free

The Museum of Hartlepool

Open daily from 10.00am to 5.00pm (including Bank Holidays). Do you think that sea monsters and lighthouses are a combination for Disney only? Think again! Hartlepool’s awarding winning museum has a fishing coble, a Celtic round-house building and the fully restored paddle steamer, the “PPS Wingfield Castle.” However, don’t forget to take your sea legs with you!

Vane

Wed-Sat 12noon-5pm (during exhibitions). Free Having staged exhibitions around Newcastle since 1997 Vane opened a permanent gallery space in 2005. They present around six exhibitions a year of work by emerging and established contemporary artists from the region, UK and internationally. They also hold talks and other events. This gallery is a participant in the Arts Council’s “Own Art” scheme which aims to make it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary works of art. For more information please visit: http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/ownart

Waygood Gallery And Studios

Artist-led Waygood will re-open its major new city centre cultural venue in early 2010 after a multi-million pound redevelopment. An exciting programme of contemporary art in its public galleries, artists’ studios and creative facilities will form an exciting new place for art and artists in the heart of Newcastle.

Weardale Railway

All aboard! County Durham’s heritage railway offers young and old alike the chance to experience the golden age of rail. Take a trip on a steam or diesel locomotive between Stanhope and Wolsingham within the Northern Pennines. Booking in advance is strongly advised. Adults £5-10 / Seniors £4-8 / Children £2-6

Williamson Brown

Established now for 8 years and set within the village of Jesmond, amongst several design-orientated shops, Williamson Brown leads the field with it’s stunning collection of contemporary jewellery from over 80 English and European jewellers in precious metals. This gallery is a participant in the Arts Council’s “Own Art” scheme which aims to make it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary works of art. For more information please visit: http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/ownart

Winkies Castle Folk Museum

This is a re-dressed period museum of the history and heritage of Marske. It was founded by a local cobbler in the 1970s and it displays many hand-crafted items that have passed through the palms of the locals. I bet they would high-five the museum now with those same hands to congratulate its success. 11.30am to 4.30pm Thursday, Saturday & Sunday from April to September. Other times, Under 16 - £0.75, Under 5 – FREE Family £4.00.

Woodhorn Colliery Museum

The Colliery was a working pit from 1894 until 1981 and restored as a museum in 1989. The original building gives a unique insight into pit life. This social history museum of mining is also part of a lush country park with lake and woodland where you can fish, picnic and ramble.

Workplace Gallery

Tuesday-Sat 11am-5pm (when exhibiting). Free This gallery presents challenging exhibitions by north-east based artists and established international artists.

Zetland Lifeboat Museum

The Zetland is the world’s oldest fishing boat and it spends its retirement in this lifeboat museum in Redcar. The boat was built in 1802 and has saved 500 lives in its lifetime. It saved an extra life when the museum opened because it allowed local maritime history to be given a second chance. May 1st - September 30th Mon - Fri 11am - 4pm, Sat & Sun 12 noon - 4pm. Free admission.