*This post is in collaboration with Teesside University*
I love my area. I really do. I think the Teesside area has a lot to offer and is an ever-growing, ever-changing place.
I think that’s why my choice to stay at home and attend Teesside University was fairly easy. Why not enjoy both my home comforts and everything else the local area has to offer as a student?
I can see why some people are drawn to the big cities because they deliver excitement and individuality rolled into one, but so does Teesside.
You’ve just got to look for it and find those gems.
Wanna know what I’d recommend?
There’s a full range of places to eat in Middlesbrough, some more secret than others, but all tasty nonetheless.
& if food doesn’t excite you about coming somewhere new then, ahem, are you ok?
There’s nothing more I love when going to somewhere new, than checking out some of their most popular eateries and chowing down on some good food.
First up, is one of my favourite places that has ever graced Boro’s streets. The pizza king that is Barbarossa.
We’re talking sourdough wood-fired pizzas that are cooked to perfection, with a whole range of toppings to choose from. I’d 100000% recommend the nduja one, I could eat that on a weekly basis if I could.
If you’re in the area and you don’t get a Parmo (veggie and vegan options are out there!) then you’re doing Teesside a great disservice!
There are plenty of places to head to for a Parmo, you’ll find most places have them on their menu, but two of my favourites are from Central Park or from Manjaros. Manjaro’s also provide you with some unbelieeeeeeevable desserts.
Cookie dough guys. Insane.
Finally we have the little secret located near Cineworld that is Jamals, a real Indian experience.
Don’t be put off by the dated decor, the food is absolutely second-to-none. I don’t think I could go anywhere else for my Indian curry fix.
You don’t need to head off to a big city to see bands, comedians and other bits and bobs. There’s plenty of places within Teesside that you can head to for entertainment .
Middlesbrough Town Hall always has lots on. From local bands performing there like Cattle and Cane ,to plenty of comedians like John Richardson, Jimmy Carr and Jason Manford.
Just round the corner from the town hall, is the Empire. Another venue that music acts turn up to every now and then. I spent lots of time here growing up seeing some my fav at-the-time bands.
We’re talking You Me At Six and One Night Only, remember them?
Over Stockton way, is the Stockton Arc. A centre for alllll things entertainment. It hosts bands, comedians, theatre shows and much more. There’s also plenty of classes for you to get involved in.
There’s also been some big shows lined up at the Riverside Stadium, which is the local football ground. With Take That hosting a concert there last year and The Killers set up to play this summer.
Even though the centre of Middlesbrough can be a hustle and bustle of shopping, offices, restaurants and entertainment places, all it takes is a short car ride to get to some real beautiful outdoor spots.
Heading up to Great Ayton, you’ll be greeted with lots of lush outdoor space but there’s one special place you should be heading to… Roseberry Topping.
All you need is a nice (dry!) day, a few bottles of water, some snacks and some comfy trainers and it’s a great morning or afternoon out.
For those that aren’t familiar, Roseberry Topping is a lovely hill that you can walk up and down to get a gorgeous view of the local area. It’s surrounded by some other stunning walks and is super well known in the area.
I absolutely love it.
If you’re more of a beach person, head to Redcar or Saltburn for a lovely (yet cold. C’mon, it’s the North East!) walk along the sea front.
Ensure you head to Pacittos in Redcar for a Lemon Top ice cream. Or even a Strawberry Top if that tickles your fancy. I’m partial to the latter, but both are bloody delicious.
Man, I’m getting withdrawals thinkin’ about them.
If you’re into your sports, fitness or just like to get moving from time to time, there’s lots in the area to take advantage of.
Head to Billingham Ice Arena for a skate around. I haven’t been since I was a teen but I’m dying to get myself back there and hold onto the sides the entire way round like a pro, ha!
If you’re thinking about trying out a water sport like white water rafting, paddle boarding or kayaking, the Tees Barrage may be the place for you. It’s a real gem that not many people speak of, but is a fantastic place to go.
There’s a little hub with lots of activities available and it’s ideal for groups of friends, families or even as a little date day!
This is getting me all excited for when we’re out of this lockdown and I can go exploring my local area and get involved in some more activities, eat alllllll the food available.
What’s your favourite thing about Teesside?