Nothing lasts forever, though, and some of the area’s biggest attractions over the years are now just memories.
But what fantastic memories they are. From fairgrounds and zoos to the UK’s largest indoor waterpark, they were the scene of countless unforgettable days and nights out.
These are just some of the lost attractions, also including shops, pubs, clubs and music venues, which will have you pining for the North East of yesteryear.
How many of these did you visit and which would you most like to see brought back?
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13. Drink at famous pub where Dickens stayed
The old King's Head pub and hotel on Barnard Castle's Market Place is name-checked in the Charles Dicken's novel Nicholas Nickleby, in which Newman Noggs refers to it serving 'good ale'. Dickens reportedly stayed there in 1838 while working on the novel and clearly enjoyed his time there. It has since been converted into a care home. | Google Photo: Google
14. Visit Geordie the giraffe at winter zoo
Newcastle Town Hall stood for more than a century, from 1863 to 1973, when it was demolished. During the 1960s it hosted a winter zoo, with lions, tigers, monkeys and more. Two of the most fondly remembered characters there were Geordie the giraffe, and Fred the Indian elephant. | Newcastle Libraries Photo: Newcastle Libraries
15. Go ice skating at popular leisure centre
Crowtree Leisure Centre in Sunderland, pictured here in 1981, boasted a swimming pool, ice rink, indoor bowls and much more. It was sadly demolished in 2013. | National World Photo: Sunderland Echo
16. Visit famous department store with its own currency
Joplings department store served generations of customers in Sunderland from 1804 to its closure in 2010. Among other things it was known for its own in-store currency, known as Joplings Money. | National World Photo: National World