Europe largest out of town shoppping centre is situated at Gateshead, not far from Newcastle. It is easy to reach by train, metro (from Newcastle), service bus (from Newcastle) or road (via the A1 western bypass).

Inside this giant complex you will find all the usual big stores including Woolworths, Dixons, BT Shop, Waterstones, etc but there is also a good range of smaller speciality shops selling everything from Egyptian art to Italian leather goods. There is an antiques village which houses craft and antique shops as well as a water wheel and ponds with carp in them. (This particular feature is getting a facelift over the next few months.)

For the children you will find both Warner Brothers and Disney Shops and a creche. You can also hire little carts in the shape a car that you can wheel you around in. Metroland offers all the fun of the fair.

There are dozens of places to eat and drink including Burger King, MacDonald's and even the Metro Centres own 'Queen Vic Pub'.

Other facilities include a cinema and superbowl and a host of other large stores outside the main building but in the same complex. There is a mini bus service to Ikea which is just ten minutes away close to Office One and Matalan.

This huge shopping centre is worth a visit but allow yourself plenty of time if you want to see it all.