Im going on a 1 month business trip to England. My base will be a town called Billingham which is next to Middlesbrough. I have no idea about the place except that their football team is relegated

I am already planning on taking the train to London for a weekend, and have been reccommended going up to Edinbrough (Scottland) as it apparently shits all over London.

Any other suggestions on what to do and places to see?
Most of my trips would be via train (long distance) but I have a driver for any city stuff.

Is it better to take a train or plane to Paris? (price wise)

ideas?????

cheers