5 date days with a difference in the North East

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When it comes to planning dates, we get sick of going to the same old places – that’s where North East public transport routes come to our rescue.

From a romantic sunset cruise in Northumberland to a food tour and rowing boat experience in Durham – our local transport links have got your date day covered.

But what we love are the great deals (who doesn’t love a good bargain?) Adults can travel across the North East with a TNE Day Saver for just £6.80 and young people aged 21 and under can get around from just £1. 

Oh, and it doesn’t stop there either. If you’re planning on spending a day in just one area check out the Durham Day Rover (£4), Northumberland Day Rover (£5), and Tyne and Wear Day Rover (£6)

To save the argument of who will drive, how about getting the bus to travel to your next date? From being affordable to avoiding traffic jams – *cough* Tyne Bridge repairs – buses are a quick, easy and greener way to get around our region.

As always, we’ve got you covered. Here are some date day ideas with a difference in the North East…

High Life North

FOR THRILL-SEEKING COUPLES WHO LIKE A TOUCH OF LUXURY…

A tree tops course with an afternoon tea and spa treatment in Northumberland

Closest bus stop: Black Bull (a 23-minute walk)

Bus: 74 Tynedale Links (Eldon Square, Stand J)

Duration: 1 hour 19 minutes

Frequency: every 3 hours

If you’re an adrenaline junkie who loves a bit of luxury, this date day is for you. Kick off your date by hopping on a bus to Ponteland and grabbing brunch and coffee at NUMBER9 to fuel up.

After brunch, catch the bus to Black Bull and take a 23-minute walk to Go Ape Matfen – a perfect warm-up. Then, swing from the treetops and laugh your heart out.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Matfen Hall for a delicious afternoon tea. And since your muscles will need some TLC after all that fun, why not indulge in a spa treatment while you’re there? (Just remember to book in advance)

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High Life North

FOR COUPLES WANTING TO TRY SOMETHING NEW…

Riverside walk, pub grub and a murder mystery night in County Durham

Closest bus stop: Riverside Cricket Ground (a 4-minute walk)

Bus: 21 Angel (Eldon Square, Stand G)

Duration: 47 minutes

Frequency: every 10 minutes

A visit to Chester-le-Street might not be your first thought, but if you’re up for exploring somewhere new, it’s a must. Hop on a bus to Chester-le-Street and head to The Lambton Worm for some delicious food and drink. Enjoy a cocktail or two to get some courage for your murder mystery night.

Afterwards, hop back on the same bus and walk off your meal at Riverside Park, enjoying the artist-designed gardens and the scenic River Wear. Check out St. Cuthbert’s Walk Shopping Centre for some retail therapy if it’s raining.

Finally, walk over to Lumley Castle for an unforgettable murder mystery night. Why not make a night of it by staying at Lumley Castle?

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High Life North

FOR THE TRADITIONAL ROMANTIC COUPLE…

An enchanting castle and sunset cruise in Northumberland

Closest bus stop: King Street (a 6-minute walk)

Bus: X15 MAX (Haymarket, Stand Q) then X18 MAX (Alnwick Playhouse)

Duration: 2 hours 32 minutes

Frequency: every 2 hours

If you’re a traditional romantic at heart, this date day is for you. Break up your journey with a stop at Alnwick for breakfast at Olive Branch Café – it’s one of our faves.

Next, hop on the X18 MAX bus to Craster. You can’t visit Craster without trying their famous kippers. Take a walk to Dunstanburgh Castle, soaking in the sea views, then relax in the beer garden at The Jolly Fisherman.

As the day draws to a close, enjoy the highlight of the day – a sunset cruise. Catch the X18 MAX to Serenity Farne Island Boat Tours and, if you’re lucky, you’ll witness a magical sunset over Bamburgh Castle from the water – you can’t get more romantic than that?

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High Life North

FOR THE FOODIES AND FUNLOVING COUPLES….

A food tour followed by rowing boats in Durham

 Closest bus stop: Durham (a 7-minute walk)

Bus: X21 X-lines (Eldon Square, Stand F)

Duration: 55 minutes

Frequency: every 20 minutes

Foodies, looking for the perfect date day in Durham? This one’s for you. Meet Triple A Food Tours at 11:30am at the marketplace (opposite Boots) in the heart of the city. Explore Durham’s charming, cobbled streets and riverside as you’ll dive into an eclectic mix of dining styles.

You’ll stop at four top restaurants and check out Durham’s famous indoor market, sampling delicious food and drinks from local producers. Take in the breathtaking views of Durham Cathedral and Castle.

After the tour, enjoy some quality time with a relaxing boat ride from Browns Rowing Boats. Finish off your day with a coffee or something stronger at The Boat Club, complete with stunning river views.

HLN TOP TIP: Book Triple A Food Tour in advance.

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High Life North

FOR THE ANIMAL-LOVING AND ECO-CONSCIOUS COUPLE…

Sustainable shopping followed by a day at the zoo in Northumberland

Closest bus stop: Road End (a 25-minute walk)

Bus: X15 MAX (Haymarket, Stand Q)

Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes

Frequency: every 60 minutes

Looking for a wholesome date? Hop on the bus at Haymarket and head to Morpeth for a delightful day. Start at The Market Place, where you can enjoy sustainable shopping, refillable options, and a delicious new brunch menu.

After brunch and some retail therapy, head to Northumberland Zoo. You’ll love seeing everything from snow leopards to lions and otters, plus the falconry show is a must-see.

And the best part? Taking the bus is a greener way to travel. It’s a winner.

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VISIT NORTH EAST COMBINED AUTHORITY’S WEBSITE

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Rachael Ellis
Creative Solutions Manager

After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…

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