Carlisle, The Great Border City
At Carlisle Castle, founded in 1092, you can explore the imposing dungeons and labyrinths, find the licking stones which gave prisoners life-saving moisture and look for the prisoners' carvings. You can also discover how the castle was captured in 1746 by Bonnie Prince Charlie. The splendid cathedral has superb oak carvings and a famous 14th century stained glass window.

The Citadel, built by Henry VIII as a prison with 'twin drum' bastions, is an interesting place to spend time. At the award-winning Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery, discover thousands of years of Carlisle and Border history, with ever-changing exhibitions and special events for children. July sees the annual Festival of Nations in Carlisle, a celebration of world culture with music, food and dance. Carlisle is also acclaimed as a vibrant and convenient shopping destination, so why not bag a bargain on your travels with Northern!

Brampton
Explore the north Cumbrian countryside from the pretty town of Brampton. St Martin's Church houses treasures from the Pre-Raphaelite era, whilst the centre of the town is home to the octagonal Moot Hall, built in 1817. This now houses the Tourist Information Centre. Close by, experience the beauty and serenity of Lanercost Priory, founded by Augustinian monks in 1169.

Haltwhistle
The market town of Haltwhistle lies between the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Hadrian's Wall World Heritage Site. With the Hadrian's Wall Country Bus connection you can visit the Roman Army Museum and take an eagle's eye virtual reality tour of Hadrian's Wall or visit the extensive remains of the fort and civilian settlement at Roman Vindolanda, including the famous Roman writing tablet and live digs from April to October.

Bardon Mill
A visit to Bardon Mill is not complete without a visit to the Errington Reay Pottery which produces a range of traditional salt-glazed stoneware for the home and garden. Perched higher up on the hillside are the settlements of Henshaw and Thorgrafton which include traditional Northumbrian bastle houses, some of which are still inhabited. Fine walks can be taken to both Roman Vindolanda and the National Trust woodland of Allen Banks.

Hexham
Close to Hadrian's Wall, Hexham is steeped in history. One of the old town's medieval towers now houses the Border History Museum, telling the bloody story of the Reivers and Moot Hall, which was once the administrative centre for the medieval county of Hexhamshire.

Corbridge
Since Roman days, Corbridge has been a Tyne crossing place, with the present bridge standing from 1674. In Roman times it acted as a garrison town for the central section of Hadrian's Wall. Extensive remains can still be seen at Corbridge Roman Town. It is also noted for its quaint village atmosphere and specialist shops.

Stocksfield
A leafy, suburban village, it developed in the 1830s with the arrival of the railway. Stocksfield was the birthplace of Thomas Bewick, Northumbria's greatest artist, naturalist and wood engraver. The Thomas Bewick Birthplace Museum houses a small exhibition on Bewick's life and work. You can also visit the Highland Cattle Centre and have a coffee whilst the children enjoy the pets' corner.

Prudhoe
Explore the past at Prudhoe Castle, with the gatehouse and keep dating back to the 12th century, making them amongst the oldest in the country. Cool down at Prudhoe Waterworld whilst sliding down a 40m aqua slide or relax in the spa pool. Alternatively, take a stroll along the riverside at the Tyne Riverside Country Park.

Wylam
'The Father of the Railways', George Stephenson was born in Wylam in 1781. With both the Wylam Railway Museum and George Stephenson's Birthplace Museum, Wylam is a must for train enthusiasts of any age. Wylam railway station is one of the oldest in the world and is still in use by passengers today.

Newcastle-upon-Tyne
The world's first tilting bridge, the Millennium Bridge, gives you stunning views of the Tyne and the Newcastle and Gateshead quaysides. Close by is the Baltic Centre, Britain's newest national art gallery, and the striking Sage Music Centre. You can also hop on the Newcastle Metro to Wallsend and visit Segedunum Roman Fort, Baths and Museum. Make sure you take advantage of the 35m-high viewing tower, providing outstanding views across this World Heritage Site. Whatever your age, if you are curious about the world around you, there is something for you at The Centre for Life. Children can experience Life for free with every paying adult when you travel with Northern!