A tree full of shoes. No, this hasn't been sanctioned by the powers that be - in fact, they've removed the shoes in the past. But still they keep appearing - and make for quite a surreal sight.

Armstrong Park, in Heaton. I'm not going to tell you exactly where as part of the fun of the shoe tree experience is finding it!

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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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A small lake in which you'll see a quite preposterous number of toads in the springtime (April/May). An unusual sight given that it's so close to the city centre.

Why not help a few across the road before they're killed by passing cars?

You can stop in the bar for a drink on your way back, warm in the knowledge that you've just saved a few amphibious lives!

Go to Belmontas on the eastern edge of the city (5 minutes by taxi from the centre, or a nice cycle ride on a sunny afternoon). Here you'll find a newly-built and rather spectacular riverside complex, consisting of outdoor bars, cafes and restaurants.

Cross the river via the bridge and walk along the adjacent road northwards, away from the river. It shouldn't be long before you see/hear the toads! After a couple of hundred metres you'll come across a lake on the right - this is where they're heading to breed.

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