Now the kids are back at school and many of us are returning to the office, it’s the perfect time to start making plans for weekends off or an autumn break.

Here are just five reasons why Tees Valley is the perfect place to enjoy all the things you have missed during lockdown.

For more and to plan your visit head to enjoyteesvalley.com.

1. Get outdoors

Getting outdoors feels more important than ever, whether you are heading out with the family or exploring solo, Tees Valley provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy some fresh air outdoors.

Plan your next adventure at Guisborough Forest & Walkway, take the bikes, or enjoy the walk through the archways of never-ending trees, head to Hartlepool Headland for breathtaking coastal views and to take on a section of The Way of St Hild or breathe in the sights and sounds among the blossoming Gardens at Wynyard Hall or explore the Woodland Walk.

2. Enjoy a family day out

Whether you are planning on heading back to your favourite Tees Valley attraction or discovering somewhere different, many museums, parks and gardens are now ready to welcome you back*.

Walk along the authentic Victorian Street at Preston Park Museum, meet the animals at Newham Grange Farm in Middlesbrough, get up close to the Locomotion No.1 at the Head of Steam Railway Museum in Darlington or climb aboard the impressive HMS Trincomolee at the National Museum of the Royal Navy, Hartlepool.

3. Try something new

Now could be the perfect time to try something new, fulfill that wish to take up a new activity or enjoy something that you already love doing in a new location.

For adrenaline-fuelled activities head to Tees Barrage to take on the Olympic-standard White Water Rafting course or scale the UK’s biggest high ropes course – Air Trail. Try Stand up Paddleboarding at Hartlepool Marina or head to the coast to catch some waves at Saltburn-by-the-Sea.

4. Eat out

If the Eat Out to Help Out scheme has whet your appetite for heading back to your favourite restaurants, bars and cafés, there are lots to try in Tees Valley.

As well as being the home of the famous Parmo, Tees Valley is fast becoming a haven for foodies with everything from fine dining restaurants including the only two Michelin star restaurant in the North East – The Raby Hunt to excellent independents such as Baker Street Kitchen in Middlesbrough (pictured), quirky cafés and country pubs, you’ll be spoilt for choice of where to go.

5. Treat yourself

It has been a difficult few months for many of us and an escape might be just what is needed.

You can stay in the ultimate luxury of the five-star resort of Rockliffe Hall with award-winning spa, an 18-hole championship golf course and the 3AA Rosette Orangery restaurant.

Spend the night at Wynyard Hall in one of its 19 grand rooms or treat yourself to one of the self-catering cottages equipped with private hot tubs. While away the hours in the lakeside spa or enjoy Afternoon Tea and magnificent views on the terrace.

For a country escape head to Gisborough Hall, which is perfectly positioned to explore the North York Moors.