Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art

The Baltic sits right on the Gateshead Quays, a converted flour mill that's been turned into one of the North East's most interesting art spaces. It's all raw brick, soaring ceilings and that brilliant industrial feel you get from proper old buildings given a second life. No permanent collection here - it's all temporary exhibitions, which means you'll get something different depending when you visit. Worth checking their website before you go because what's on matters.

You'll get the most from it if you actually care about contemporary art. Kids might find it hit or miss unless there's something interactive on, but older teenagers often surprise you. The real draw for a lot of people is the building itself and the views from the top floor - you can see right across the Tyne. The walk up is free and honestly a good shout even if you're not bothered about the current exhibition.

If you're staying at Beamish Holiday Park, it's about half an hour's drive north to Gateshead, so it's a decent day out rather than a quick visit. The quays themselves are worth a wander - Centre for Life, the Sage, restaurants, all that. You could easily spend three or four hours here if you're properly into it, or grab a coffee and a look round in ninety minutes if you're just passing through. Admission to exhibitions varies by show, but the building access and upper floors are typically free.