Conference 2026 Newcastle / Northumberland

Seaton Delaval was home to the larger than life Delaval family. Behind the formality of the classical facade is a story of theatricality and mischief. Known as the ‘Gay Delavals’ due to their flamboyant lifestyle. In an age of extremes of behaviour, they stood apart as the most notorious of all Georgian partygoers and pranksters.

The hall has recently undergone a renovation project, including a reimagining of the 1781 estate plan in the landscape, incorporating the reintroduction of historic path networks and improvements to visitor facilities including a new cafe, play area, accessible entrances and toilets. In addition, the hall’s collection has been re-interpreted to introduce the Delavals and tell their stories.

The Lighthouse is a major landmark situated north of Whitley Bay, and is accessible via a short causeway, is a popular part-time island with a rich history. You can climb the 137 steps to the top of the lighthouse for spectacular views of the North East coast. There is also an exhibition which explains the Lighthouse’s history and the wildlife of the nature Reserve.

The Lighthouse, built in 1898, served until 1984 when modern navigational techniques made it obsolete. Now, it and the former keepers’ cottages operate as a visitor centre by North Tyneside Council. The Nature Reserve includes rock pools, clifftop grassland, a beach, and new wetland habitats.

With a unique Greek Revival mansion, a medieval castle and 30 acres of gardens to explore, Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens is a grand day out.

See how the multi-million pound ‘Belsay Awakes’ project has enhanced this vast place, originally created by the Middleton family over seven centuries.

Interpretation panels guide you round the empty Belsay Hall, revealing how it was used by the Middleton family. The Castle is a complete contrast. Inside, a video recounts Belsay’s story as told by ‘the Wild Man’, a mythical figure inspired by the Middletons’ crest.

Wander the rocky ravines of the quarry garden between the hall and castle, and take the Wild Man Trail to the spectacular playground located near the Coach House Café. There is a even a second-hand bookshop!