Newcastle upon Tyne, clinging to the north bank of the River Tyne, grew around the Roman settlement Pons Aelius and was named after the castle built here in 1080 by William the Conqueror's eldest son, Robert Curthose. The port developed in the 16th century, quickly becoming one of the world's largest shipbuilding centers. Newcastle harbors a spirited mix of heritage and urban sophistication.
Among its ultra-modern structures, is the beautiful refined curve of the Gateshead Millennium suspension bridge, one of seven major bridges that cross The Tyne. The modern reflective, spherical-profile of the Sage Gateshead Concert Hall contrasts greatly with the distinguished vertical columns of the traditional-style Theatre Royal, located in Grainger Town, the historic center of Newcastle.
Other city highlights include the Great Northern Museum, The Castle Keep tower-fortification built in 1172, and stunning St Nicholas and St. Mary’s Cathedrals, built in 1091 and 1844. For nature lovers there is the serene landscape of Jesmond Dene Park with its verdant woodland, rock crags, tranquil pools and plunging waterfalls.
