Newcastle has undergone something of a transformation during the last decade and it is now the leading center for tourism and business in the north east of England. It has had millions of pounds of investment to encourage companies into the area and to completely redevelop the city centre making it one of the best places in the UK to live and work. Newcastle’s position as one of the best places in the uk to visit is confirmed by the fact that it’s won the Guardian best city break for the last four years. In fact Newcastle offers so many great attractions it is hard to know where to begin but why don’t we start with sport. It is widely recognized that the north east is really a hotbed of sporting fanaticism and seeing that Newcastle United are back again in the Premier league there are guaranteed to be thousands of soccer fans from around the nation making the journey to St James’s Park. The Great North Run which is held every year is another event that attracts thousands of participants and spectators and raises hundreds of thousands for charity. Shopping in Newcastle is something of a pastime for its inhabitants and it is easy to work out why. The MetroCentre has the biggest shopping centre and complex in Europe with a host of prime name brands in one location. With the Newcastle Quayside Market opening up in July 2010 and the already established Grainger market, Jesmond market and also the Farmers & Country market you’ll be hard pressed not to get a bargain somewhere. Newcastle’s nightlife is famous all over the UK and there’s something for everybody to enjoy. The Bigg Market and Quayside bring in a young energetic crowd and for a rather more refined night out you will find dozens of top quality dining places, theatres and traditional bars. And needless to say no visit to Newcastle would be complete with out trying the legendary Newcastle Brown Ale at least once. There is a choice of excellent hotels in Newcastle to stay in while you’re enjoying your trip to the city. You can find everything from five star hotels to small bed and breakfasts and guest houses.