PICTURE a city with cobbled streets running past a mix of Georgian, Edwardian and Victorian buildings.

A river flowing under seven city centre bridges which between them boast more than 200 years of history and showcase some of the most innovative feats of engineering.

History and culture are intertwined with a combination of cathedrals, churches, an old monastery set against the backdrop of one of the UK’s largest football stadia.

Where are you?

You’re in the North East’s favourite city, Newcastle upon Tyne, of course.

For too long, visitors have flooded in to the Toon keen to shop till they drop and drink till they actually drop but with more investment being ploughed in to Newcastle the city is keen for travellers to open their eyes and take note of its unique mix of culture and heritage.

Locals smile through gritted teeth at the mention of MTV’s Geordie Shore which is associated by some with catapulting the 2,000-year-old city once invaded by the Romans to the partying hall of fame.

But since missing out on the 2008 City of Culture status to its northern counterpart, Liverpool, Newcastle has seen a surge in developments ranging from hospitality complexes, leisure facilities and the arts in the form of the Baltic art gallery and the Sage music venue.

Only got a day to spare?

The only place to check into on arrival to make sure you are fully immersed in the heart of the city is Newcastle’s sumptuous Malmaison hotel.

Poised next to the Millennium Bridge, overlooking the Tyne and the Baltic, this is one of the few hotels which lets you stay within spitting distance (yes that’s an actual Geordie phrase) of an area which was once the lifeblood of the city – the Quayside.

The hotel boasts 122 rooms which are so comfy you might not want to leave and staff who know every inch of the place.

The hotel’s brasserie overlooks the river and offers a delicious selection of food and drinks with dynamite mojitos.

After checking in head along the Quayside, taking in the views of the Millenium, Tyne and Swing bridges before visiting Bessie Surtees’ house. The 16th century Jacobean building belongs to Historic England and is the backdrop to Newcastle’s own Romeo and Juliet .

In 1772, Bessie, the daughter of Aubone Surtees, eloped to Scotland with the son of a local coal merchant before remarrying in Newcastle when their families reconciled. Stop for a cuppa and a cake at the Great British Cupcakery on Queen Street before power walking up Dean Street, into the city centre, enjoying the views of Grey Street, home to the Theatre Royal.

Grey Street, designed by architect John Dobson has won many accolades over the years including most picturesque and prettiest street in Europe.

Browse the shops in Eldon Square and Northumberland Street before stopping for food at one of the many eateries in the city centre.

More than a day to spare?

After a long day shopping and Instagramming the gorgeous architecture, head to No 28 in Blackett Street for two hours of tapas and free flowing prosecco, book ahead to avoid disappointment.

Sip a range of artisanal gins from Pleased to Meet You in High Bridge, the city’s first gin bar – non smokers venture outside, this is one of the best beer gardens in town.

Hungry? Head back to Malmaison for a savvy steak before relaxing.

Get up nice and early and take in breakfast at cosy cafe Quay Ingredient before heading back in to then centre. For art lovers check out the free exhibitions at the Baltic (modern art) or Laing art galleries.

For a dose of history check out the Discovery Museum or Great North Museum and sports lovers can take a tour of St James’ Park, following in the footsteps of Magpie legends like Shearer and Jackie Milburn.

Feeling fit? Head to the Centre for Life for some festive ice skating and wander to China town afterwards via former monastery Blackfriars to scoff either dim sum, Chinese BBQ chicken or all you can eat buffets.

As the sun sets, take a stroll to the eponymous New Castle, built originally in 1080 by one of William the Conqueror’s son from timber, it was rebuilt in stone between 1168 and 1178. The castle keep and Black Gate have benefitted greatly from a recent injection of lottery funding to the tune of £1.67m.

For years now, Newcastle has had much to offer visitors. This small city boasts a wealth of cuisine, from high end scallops to £2 chips, dirty pints to bottles of Bollinger. There’s something for everyone.

Best bars?

No 28, chilled, fairy lights and prosecco

Vineyard, wine and salsa music

Alvinos, amazing heated roof terrace and cocktails galore

New Bridge, cosy pub

Best day trips

Tynemouth: Take the metro to Tynemouth for fish and chips, a stroll along to the beach to Tynemouth’s famous priory and shop in the markets.

Alnwick castle and gardens: Home to Newcastle’s own Royals the Percy family, the castle opens up to visitors in the summer months and recently to fame as the backdrop in the flying car scene in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.

Hadrian’s Wall and Vindolanda: The Roman fort predates the wall built by Hadrian and an estimated 15,000 men to keep out the enemies.