 Stockton, Thornaby and Middlesbrough are to be found in the North East of England nestled along the banks of the historic River Tees. The region is one of surprising contrasts: within a distance of only a few miles you can stroll along the golden sandy beaches, cross the endless expanse of the beautiful moorlands and climb the heights of the Cleveland Hills.
For the urbanites, you are never far away from a successful days shopping. The Cleveland Shopping Centre has all of the major high street shops, whilst in Sockton the pedestrianised High Street is the home of the region's biggest street market which has traded here for nearly 700 years. The nearby village of Yarm has the most wonderful cobbled main street a truly unique shopping experience.
The title of "Birthplace of the Railways" has been claimed by Stockton and Darlington for it was the line connecting the two towns which in 1825 was the first ever railway used by the public. This heralded extensive railway building in Britain, providing a fast and economical means of transport and communication.
Have you ever wondered why one of the roundabouts in Stockton has a plastic match prominently displayed upon it? In 1827, John Walker, English chemist and apothecary, discovered that if he coated the end of a stick with certain chemicals and let them dry, he could start a fire by striking the stick anywhere. These were the first friction matches and Mr Walker was a former chemist at 59 High Street, in Stockton-on-Tees.
Premiership Middlesbrough Football Club offers regular action at the Riverside stadium to lovers of the beautiful game. Die hard fans can get a glimpse behind the scenes on a stadium tour. |
Local Guide
