Shay Given's Love For Geordieland!

Last updated : 14 September 2008 By Footy Mad - Editor
The Newcastle United goalkeeper and BBC Look North Presenter Carol Malia were asked to name their TOP TEN PLACES TO VISIT IN NEWCASTLE:

SHAY GIVEN:

10. Bamburgh
The North East coastline has many beautiful attractions but Bamburgh is possibly the jewel in the crown. The Castle sits impressively on the horizon as you drive in from the A1, whilst the village itself is quaint and dreamy. Budle Bay 'next door' is an outstanding beach whilst it boasts a magnificent golf course too.


9. Alnwick Garden
There are some places it's difficult to find the right words and the Alnwick Gardens is one of those places. It's got the lot really and makes for an absolutely fantastic day out for all the family.


8. Angel of the North
You can't help but like the Angel. The iconic landmark of Tyneside and it really is an awesome sight. Quite how it was built I don't know and I well remember the time that a huge black and white football shirt was seen draped around its shoulders!

7. The Discovery Museum
Set in the heart of Newcastle, this museum has something for everyone. Modern and well laid out, the Play Tyne area is ideal for children, the Science Maze has numerous educational attractions, you can walk through 100 years of local history, and there's much much more as well.

6. The Tyne Bridges
It's amazing to think there are seven bridges in such a small area, all with their unique character. Whether it be the older bridges which used to carry the great steam trains in and out of the central station, or the splendid blinking eye Gateshead Millennium Bridge, there's a favourite for everyone I'm sure.

5. Jesmond Dene
A fantastic little hideaway situated really close to the city centre. Some delightful walks through leafy shrub land, old mills, plenty of running water and falls and what's more Pets Corner, which is a haven of interesting birds and animals you don't often get a chance to see.

4. Tynemouth Priory and Beach
As I've said, we are blessed with a magnificent coastline. The Priory is a terrific attraction and from there it's just a short walk down on to Longsands which is a super walk any time of the year.

3. St. Mary's Lighthouse
I particularly like visiting the Lighthouse, that's if you time your arrival right on the causeway. It's a great walk over the cliffs, past the nature reserve, and then down to the Lighthouse itself. The rock pools are great too and round the back of the Lighthouse, there are a number of rocks it's great fun clambering over.

2. Belsay Castle and Gardens
Maybe one of the less well known attractions but a fine
one at that. The walk through the gardens to the Castle is tremendous with the caved sections particularly appealing. Nearby Bolam Lake is also a favourite haunt where you can also enjoy many types of wildlife.

1. St. James' Park
I'm finishing with my favourite! Our home ground is a magnificent stadium and when it's rocking full of 52,000 Geordies in full voice, there's no better place to be.
 
CAROL MALIA:

1. The City Hall
I think this is one of the most intimate venues in the city. It holds lots of teenage memories for me; particularly of seeing Japan in the mid-eighties! They were the heart throbs of the day if you were cool; I was amazed to see them in the flesh. I also had a good dance around to The Waterboys.

2. The Tyne Bridge
This is still the classic. Even with the quayside's regeneration which has created some new and impressive icons, the Tyne Bridge still holds its own. It is a testament to the design of the Tyne Bridge that after 80 years it is still the best.

3. Tynemouth Longsands Beach
Tynemouth is my hometown so I feel particularly proud of this beach. It is the best place for a breezy Sunday walk.

4. Jesmond Dene
I love walking here during my lunch hour. Of all the cities I have been to, I have never known another with a properly wooded, landscaped area. It's not just a park; it's a real destination that people flock to throughout the year.

5. Paradiso
Tasty light food, very friendly service and a great cocktail bar downstairs make Paradiso one of my favourite places to eat.

6. Fifiefofum Art Gallery
This gallery in Newton, near Stocksfield is a great place to buy local art. Its location also allows you to enjoy amazing views of the Tyne Valley.

7. World Headquarters
I've not been for years but out of all the bars and clubs in Newcastle this is the one I veer towards the most. It has great people, fabulous music and a great atmosphere.

8. Corbridge Village
Corbridge is a beautiful historic village that I frequently visit for its independent food shops. I especially love Corbridge Larder for cheeses and speciality biscuits - always great to spoil dinner guests with. The butchers is fantastic too, for weekend bacon sandwiches and fresh chicken for a Sunday roast.

9. Sunrise at Tynemouth Priory
Another one of Tynemouth's assets, the sun coming up over Tynemouth Priory is my favourite view in the North East.

10. Luccia's in Jesmond
I'm always in there picking up a huge takeaway salad or enjoying a cool glass in the summer - they even chill the glasses for your water!