The Ouseburn Valley is perhaps Newcastle's best-kept secret: family friendly, a stone's throw from the city centre and stuffed full of characterful pubs, music venues, art galleries and culture hubs. It's got Seven Stories - the Centre for Children's Books - next to 36 Lime Street; a rabbit warren of artists' studios next to the Round; a brand new theatre in the round specialising in theatre for young people which is next to the Cluny, Newcastle's famous live music venue.

Up the hill is the Stepney Bank Stables, the City Farm is over the road, there's the anarchist cinema The Star and Shadow nestling up to the ArtWorks Gallery and the Tanners pub.

The river itself winds through the valley, passing most of the sights - a wander along the path next to it is a relaxing way to get your bearings.

The whole area is bursting with fun and unusual activities for all ages. Highly recommended, whether you want to enjoy a nice beer on the Green or spend a whole day exploring the best of Newcastle's culture.

Lime Street is the heart of the regenerated Ouseburn, slap-bang underneath Byker Bridge. Nearest Metro stops are Manors and Byker. Nearest bus stop is St Dominics (cross the road to the Tanners and head down Stepney Bank towards the massive factory chimney). The Q2 Yellow Bus stops at St Anne's Steps, a 5 minute walk from the Ouseburn.

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Great boozer - decent food - live music. Great in the summer for those lazy afternoons drinking in the sun.

The Cluny
Ouseburn Valley (under the byker bridge)

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The best bar in Newcastle. Great beer, relaxed atmosphere, thoroughly untrendy and well away from the harsh lights and hair-gel of the Quayside and Bigg Market.

Featuring a free jukebox and gigs in the summer, this is Newcastle at its down-to-earth best.

Malin Street, Newcastle; There's a map on the website (www.thetyne.com) which should make things easier. Walk about 1/2 a mile or so east along the river from the Quayside, past some modern apartments. Malin Street is on your left just past these apartment blocks, and the Tyne is located snugly under the conspicuous red brick bridge.

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