Hi
I'm a Geordie returning 6 weeks time, only been here nearly 2 years in NSW. I was back in January and loved it, shops were fantastic, & History & Culture, even saw some snow. You have everything on the doorstep Northumberland which is beautiful , Scotland, lakes,York . Somerset only 5 hours away. 2 hours flight to Europe.
I hope you have a wonderful time , best of luck. Oh I also live near the blue Mountains!!!