My Newcastle by Jill Halfpenny Monday 01 February 2010

Fresh from rehearsals for Legally Blonde, The Musical, the Geordie actress picks her favourite spots in Newcastle

Angel of the North

'There was a lot of controversy when the Angel was first unveiled back in 1998, but I personally love it - it's a stunning landmark which makes the area instantly recognisable. It's also spurred me to see more of Anthony Gormley's work, which I've become a big fan of.'

VISIT NOW: gateshead.gov.uk, antonygormley.com

Popolo

'This Italian bar and restaurant attracts a great crowd. The staff are always welcoming and the place itself has a cool, chilled-out atmosphere, with retro décor and cocktails to die for!'

VISIT NOW: popolo.co.uk, 0191 232 8923

The Biscuit Factory

'This art gallery is the perfect place to mooch around with a friend. There are lots of different exhibitions on all year round and everything you see displayed is for sale. There is also the lovely Byker Vista Café, if you fancy a cuppa...'

VISIT NOW: thebiscuitfactory.com, 0191 261 1103

Saltwell Park

'In Gateshead, just across the river from the city, is Saltwell Park which I used to love playing in when I was little. It's a gorgeous Victorian park with loads of space, a boating lake and play areas - now I take my own son there.'

VISIT NOW: 0191 433 5900

Journal Tyne Theatre

'I've got fond memories of all the theatres in Newcastle but the Journal Tyne is where I cut my teeth as a kid in shows like Annie and The Sound of Music. That's where
I got the theatre bug - being on stage in front of a live audience is like nothing else.'

VISIT NOW: thejournaltynetheatre.co.uk, 0844 493 9999

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