We live in a region blessed with some of the most spectacular views in Britain. Peter Barron, who was editor of The Northern Echo for 17 years and has lived in the North-East all his life, selects his favourites.

1. Saltburn: I was born in Saltburn and it remains one of my favourite places to visit. I could easily have chosen a view of the cliffs across the bay, or the Italian Gardens, which can be reached either on foot or by a lovely miniature railway on selected Summer Sundays or Bank Holidays. However, I’ve chosen the breathtaking view from the top of the Saltburn cliff lift, overlooking the pier. I’ve been going on the “funicular” railway – the oldest operating water-balance cliff lift in Britain – as long as I can remember, and it still gives me goose-bumps to gaze from the top.

2. High Force: High Force is not, as some believe, Britain’s highest waterfall, but it is certainly one of the most awe-inspiring. Again, I’ve been visiting the falls, near Middleton-in-Teesdale, since I was a child and I’ve never tired of walking along the footpath, hearing the rushing water, and then turning the corner to see the 29-metre drop in all its magnificence. It is truly good for the soul.

3. Bamburgh Castle: It may be something of a cliché but the view looking back along the beach to Bamburgh Castle is arguably the view most easily associated with the North-East of England. My wife Heather and I walked along the beach to Bamburgh from Seahouses earlier this year. The air was refreshing and the views were simply stunning. It’s something to experience at least once a year but, be warned, the wind can really whip up off the North Sea so make sure you dress for the occasion.

4. Roseberry Topping: I grew up in South Bank, Middlesbrough, where the only “countryside” was the slagheaps from the steelworks. As kids we’d escape on expeditions across the Cleveland Hills to Roseberry Topping. “Middlesbrough’s Matterhorn, with its familiar crooked peak, has always been one of those sights which makes me feel I’m home. There are many views of Roseberry captured on camera but this one captures the colours and the light superbly.

5. Wensleydale: As a racing enthusiast, I love to drive down to Middleham, in Wensleydale, to be amongst the horses and watch them go past on what have to be among the most beautiful gallops anywhere in the world. This sunrise picture captures the magnificence of the horses in a setting that could easily be a work of art. I thoroughly recommend Sun Hill Lodges, operated by racehorse trainer Ann Duffield, at Constable Burton, as somewhere to stay for a real treat. Beautiful log cabins, overlooking the gallops, and within easy reach of the Dales.

6. Durham from the train: The railway journey from Darlington to Edinburgh is a relaxing way to see some of Britain's most glorious countryside, and one of my favourite views is the one passing Durham City, with perhaps Britain’s most beautiful building, Durham Cathedral, providing the backdrop. If there happens to be a steam train, such as the Darlington-built Tornado, crossing the viaduct, the view becomes even more magical.

  • What are your favourite views of the north? I'd love to see your pictures and hear why they mean so much to you. Email me at peter.barron@nne.co.uk