- Play Hard
- 10th Jan 2025
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Team HLN’s 2025 North East bucket list

As we kick off 2025, we’re diving headfirst into a year of adventure, self-care, and making the most of everything that the North East has to offer (spoiler, there’s a lot).
From heart-pumping activities like skydiving and helicopter lessons to hiking and chasing sunrises, our team has curated a bucket list packed with inspiration.
Whether you’re craving adrenaline, a connection with nature, a new foodie spot to try or a bit of luxury, our list has something for everyone.
Here’s what we’re planning – we’d love to hear yours in the comments…

Rachael’s 2025 adventures
- Run, Rachael, run: Building up stamina for the Great North Run by starting regular Park Runs at Town Moor. Find a Park Run near you.
- Chasing sunsets and sunrises: Experience the region’s magic at dawn and dusk from a different location every week. Her itinerary includes kayaking down the River Tyne with CBK Adventures and a sunset cruise to the Farne Islands with Serenity Farne Island Boat Tours.
- Monthly hikes: Swap screen time for green time, with hikes across the Cheviot Hills, Craster, Simonside Hills, and Catbells. Explore hiking routes in Northumberland.
- Cold water dips: Embracing the chill, do The Dip Club for invigorating sea dips at Whitley Bay and Tynemouth. Learn more about The Dip Club.
- Girls’ trip to Go Ape: A day of adventure with friends at Go Ape, Matfen Hall.
Charlotte’s thrill-seeking list
- Skydive in Durham: Take to the skies for an unforgettable experience with Sky High Skydiving.
- Surfing in Tynemouth: Master the waves with lessons at Tynemouth Surf Co.
- Exploring Stump Cross Caverns: Venture underground to explore the stunning caves of North Yorkshire. Plan your visit.
- Wholesome fun at Dog and Scone: Enjoy some furry company at Newcastle’s dog-friendly cafe, Dog and Scone.
- Helicopter Lessons: Learn to fly with Northumbria Helicopters at Newcastle Airport.


Beth’s nature-inspired plans
- Sunrise at King Edward’s Bay: Inspired by Rachael, greet the day at this iconic spot.
- Attend a RESINN pop-up: Discover handcrafted treasures with Resinn.
- Climb the Cheviots: Conquering the peaks of the Cheviot Hills. Start your climb.
- Explore Kielder Forest: Immersing herself in the beauty of Kielder Forest.
- Sheepfolds Stables in the sun: Visit this fun new space in Sunderland during summer.
Rosie’s 2025 ticks
- Grey’s Monument tours: See Newcastle from a new perspective with Grey’s Monument Tours.
- Try Project Padel: Join the padel tennis craze at Project Padel.
- Get a new tiny tattoo: Add to the collection with a visit to Blades and Needles.
- Explore more National Trust sites: Visit some of the many beautiful National Trust sites in the North East.
- Walk Roseberry Topping: Climb for the views at the top of this iconic hill.


Laura’s 2025 Plans
- Finally eat at The Small Canteen: one that has been on my list since it opened… try the seasonal dishes at The Small Canteen in Sandyford.
- Walk the hydro-power trail at Cragside: Exploring the fascinating history of hydroelectricity on this six-mile walk at Cragside.
- Rise Reformer Pilates: Commit to two weekly sessions at Rise Reformer Pilates.
- Salt and Steam: Relax and recharge on the beach spa, Steam and Salt in Tynemouth.
- Have a 120-minute ‘Warm Up and Wind Down’ massage: Indulging in ultimate relaxation at Sammy Anne’s.
What’s on your 2025 bucket list?
Inspired by our plans? Whether you’re chasing thrills or seeking moments of calm, the North East has so much to offer. Let us know what’s on your 2025 bucket list in the comments below.
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