40 Fabulous Days Out For Families This Spring
Getting out and about this spring?
Kielder Forest
Kielder Forest is home to one of England’s largest mountain bike trail networks. Whether you’re getting lost in the Minotaur Maze or strolling along the unique Lakeside Way, there’s plenty to see and do in England’s largest forest. It’s a haven for wildlife as England’s most important red squirrel reserve (home to the largest remaining population of red squirrels in the country) and from April to August live camera footage is shown daily from Northumberland’s only breeding osprey population, which is now the largest natural colony in the UK. Plenty of special events take place throughout spring including the Kielder Forest Rally on 18th April and in summer, Kielder Castle will reopen to the public.
Kielder NE48 1ER
0300 067 4228
forestryengland.uk
Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art
On the banks of Gateshead Quayside, Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art has four floors of art to discover. Its ever-changing exhibitions mean each visit is unique, and there’s something for everyone including a sensory room, the library which holds more than 13,000 books on contemporary art and visual culture, and terraces to take in the Quayside views. As We Fade (until 7th June) is the first solo exhibition in a UK institution by artist and filmmaker Saodat Ismailova (a leading voice in Central Asian art), and Transformation No. 4 (until 7th June) is a new lightbox commission by Nadia Huggins exploring the marine environment in the Caribbean. Head to the viewing platform to see the colony of nesting kittiwakes.
Gateshead Quays, South Shore Road, Gateshead NE8 3BA
0191 478 1810
baltic.art
Segedunum Roman Fort
Built around AD125, Segedunum (meaning strong fort) was part of an extension to Hadrian’s Wall. Today visitors to the fort explore the Roman, coal mining and shipbuilding history of the area outdoors and within the museum building. The Roman Gallery displays archaeological finds from the site, visitors can see the excavated remains of the original Roman bath house and Roman herb garden, and there’s also a children’s play area. From 28th March don’t miss Following the Eagle, a new exhibition showcasing rare Roman military diplomas inscribed on bronze and exploring themes of identity, service, and travel within the Roman army. Free family activities are taking place on 6th and 13th April this Easter.
Buddle Street, Wallsend NE28 6HR
0191 277 1499
segedunumromanfort.org.uk
Diggerland
Ever dreamt of getting behind the wheel of a real JCB? You can ride, drive and operate real diggers and excavators at Diggerland where there’s also indoor and outdoor play areas. Take a spin on Spindizzy, enjoy the views on the Skyshuttle or go off-road on the Groundshuttle. There are go-karts, dodgems, coin operated rides and mini Land Rovers – endless fun for kids and big kids.
Langley Park, Durham DH7 9TT
01634 711711
diggerland.com
Alnwick Castle
Reopening on 27th March, explore grand State Rooms, walk ancient battlements, and experience more than 900 years of history through immersive tours, family-friendly activities, seasonal events and breathtaking views at the mighty Alnwick Castle. Owned by the Percy family since 1309, and having served as a military outpost, a teaching college, a refuge for evacuees, and, of course, a family home, the castle is full of fascinating tales. A popular filming location, it most famously stood in for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the first two Harry Potter films. This spring don’t miss live music and performances in April, and falconry demonstrations and canon firing in May.
Alnwick NE66 1NQ
01665 511100
alnwickcastle.com
Arbeia, South Shields Roman Fort
Arbeia guarded the main sea route to Hadrian’s Wall, a key garrison and military supply base to other forts. As an important part of the history of Roman Britain, it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Reopening from 30th March, head to Arbeia to discover the two galleries: Set in Stone looks at the buildings on the site themselves, as well as religion, while Amazing Finds focuses on the objects left behind by the people living in the fort. Visitors can also explore two headquarters buildings, two gateways, several granaries, towers and a tile kiln. In the Easter holidays don’t miss free craft activities for the kids.
Baring Street, South Shields NE33 2BB
0191 277 1410
arbeiaromanfort.org.uk
Hamsterley Forest
At County Durham’s largest forest, a 2,000 hectare oasis, there’s plenty to get involved in – from spring strolls to mountain biking and wildlife watching. Children might want to have a go at disc golf, join the interactive family trail packed with Room on the Broom-themed activities, or test themselves to build the perfect den. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for the Gruffalo!
Bedburn, Hamsterley DL13 3NL
01388 488312
forestryengland.uk
Auckland Palace
At the heart of Bishop Auckland, Auckland Palace, once the seat of the Prince Bishops of Durham, is one of the best-preserved Bishop’s palaces in the whole of Europe with a story spanning almost 1,000 years. The pretty pink throne room has been restored to its Georgian Gothic glory and in The Long Dining Room Zurbarán’s 13 paintings of Jacob and his Twelve Sons have encircled the table for 250 years. The Faith Museum, in a newly-designed wing of the Palace, is a must visit. It explores the way faith has shaped lives across the country with an impressive collection of treasures.
Market Place, Bishop Auckland DL14 7NR
aucklandproject.org
Kielder Observatory
In some of the darkest skies in Europe and the third-largest protected Dark Sky reserve in the world, Kielder Observatory promises astonishing views of Northumberland’s starry skies. The observatory hosts events each month to encourage visitors to observe and engage with the night sky, from talks and activities to telescope observing sessions. The Space Kids sessions introduce the night sky to young explorers and Late Night Discovery, held during the darkest hours of the night, is always popular.
Black Fell, Off Shilling Pot, Kielder NE48 1EJ
0191 265 5510
kielderobservatory.org
The National Museum of the Royal Navy
Experience life at sea more than 200 years ago in Hartlepool at Europe’s oldest floating warship, HMS Trincomalee, and explore the recreated Georgian Quayside to hear the cannon and muskets being fired. There’s an outdoor adventure playship for the kids too. They’ll love the hands-on displays and interactive exhibits in the Horrible Histories: Pirates exhibition, and you can learn about the underwater excavation of HMS Invincible in Diving Deep: HMS Invincible 1744.
Jackson Dock, Maritime Avenue, Hartlepool TS24 0XZ
nmrn.org.uk
Tees Barrage International White Water Centre
On the River Tees between Stockton and Middlesbrough, Tees Barrage International White Water Centre is a thrilling day out for adrenaline junkies. The watersports facilities, including the real-life rapid river experience, are world-class whether you’re having a go at raft building, white water rafting or stand-up paddleboading. Next to the 300-metre white water course you’ll also find the UK’s largest climbing adventure course – Air Trail – with balancing beams and swinging bridges to tackle.
Tees Barrage Way, Stockton TS18 2QW
01642 678000
tbiwwc.com
Discovery Museum
Scientific collections and rotating exhibitions mean there’s always something new to see and learn about at the Discovery Museum. Known best for housing Turbinia, a 34-metre steam ship that was once the fastest in the world, here you can learn about the city’s history. Steam to Green, Discovery Museum’s exhibition and event programme exploring the story of energy in the North East, continues until next year, as does Jewish Industrialists on the Team Valley which explores the impact Jewish light industries had on the development of the Team Valley Trading Estate.
Blandford Square, Newcastle NE1 4JA
0191 232 6789
northeastmuseums.org.uk
Beamish
The world-famous open-air Beamish museum brings the history of North East England to life. Volunteers in costume have plenty of tales to tell and there’s so much to discover, from 1820s Pockerley to the 1940s Farm and the 1950s Town and cinema. Discover the story of North East mining at the 1900s Colliery and don a safety helmet and head down the Mahogany Drift Mine. No visit to Beamish is complete without a trip to Jubilee Confectioners for cinder toffee.
Beamish DH9 0RG
0191 370 4000
beamish.org.uk
Chillingham Castle
Are you brave enough to enter Britain’s most haunted historic castle? Explore the fascinating state rooms, including a torture chamber complete with executioner’s block and torture devices, and you can even stay the night and join a ghost hunt if you dare to face some of the highest levels of paranormal activity in the country. By day, stroll through the gardens and grounds and take in the stunning countryside views. A walk to the lake sees the woodland carpeted with flowers in spring and early summer. The castle and gardens will reopen on 30th March.
Chillingham, Northumberland NE66 5NJ
01668 215359
chillingham-castle.com
Heugh Battery Museum
Hartlepool’s Heugh Battery Museum (the only First World War battlefield in the UK) is a unique attraction with friendly volunteers keen to share the story of the Bombardment of the Hartlepools. Explore the collection of military artefacts and artillery pieces from throughout history, and throughout spring there’s a pirates/sea shanty-themed day, car boot sales and craft fayres.
Moor Terrace, Headland, Hartlepool TS24 0PS
01429 270746
heughbattery.co.uk
Bamburgh Castle
Discover more than 3,000 years of history and play King and Queen at the award-winning Bamburgh Castle. Standing guard above the Northumberland coastline, Bamburgh is one of the largest inhabited castles in the country, and from Anglo-Saxon artefacts to battle-scarred weapons there’s plenty to explore inside. Fans of the Netflix series The Last Kingdom can see exclusive costumes and props on display, and the new Tails & Tales indoor sculpture trail inspired by familiar sayings is running until November.
Bamburgh NE69 7DF
01668 214208
bamburghcastle.com
Hopetown
Celebrating Darlington’s position as a pioneer of the modern railway, Hopetown is a go-to day out for train buffs. The North Road Station Museum is housed in a Grade II*-listed Victorian station, there’s a railway-themed time travel experience ride and a railway-themed immersive outdoor adventure play park for the kids. There are ever-changing exhibitions in the Carriage Works and you can see a collection of 30,000 railway items in The Stores. Don’t forget to check out Skerne Bridge, the oldest operating railway bridge in the world. There’s a Classic and Vintage Vehicle Rally on 23rd May and kids will love the dinosaur-themed day on 21st June.
McNay Street, Darlington DL3 6SW
01325 405060
enjoydarlington.co.uk
Lilidorei at The Alnwick Garden
At Lilidorei, the largest play structure in the world, it’s Christmas all year round. The eight invisible clans who live there spend 11 months of the year preparing for the big day and their king rules the village from his tower at the very top of Elfwin Drin. Children’s imaginations can run wild at this totally unique and magical destination as they peek through the windows of the clan houses, listen to the immersive sounds and interact with the elves.
Gardeners Cottage, Greenwell Road, Alnwick NE66 1HB
01665 511350
lilidoreialnwick.co.uk
WWT Washington Wetland Centre
Washington Wetland Centre is the perfect place to reconnect with nature, with wetland wildlife encounters all year round. You’ll discover wetlands, woodlands and meadows, home to rare wildfowl, flocks of waders, and Asian short-clawed otters (the smallest of all 13 otter species). Head to Ganderland, home to a variety of geese from around the world, and let the kids run wild in the nature-based play area.
Pattinson, Washington NE38 8LE
0191 416 5454
wwt.org.uk
Serenity Farne Island Boat Tours
The most famous seabird sanctuary in the British Isles is off the Northumberland coast at the rocky Farne Islands. Join a puffin cruise from 1st April to see thousands of Atlantic puffins and their fellow seabirds, or hop aboard a sunset cruise (from 17th May) during the spring breeding season to see the jumplings (guillemot chicks) leave their nests, and keep your eyes peeled for the adorable colony of grey seals which live on the island.
01665 721667
farneislandstours.co.uk
Butterfly World
You can see butterflies from all around the globe at Butterfly World in Preston Park. In the Butterfly House, home to 140 different species of butterfly and hundreds of beautiful tropical host plants, hold still and they might land on you! But that’s not all – mischievous meerkats live in the Animal & Reptile House alongside Pygmy marmosets (the smallest monkeys in the world) and a Diamond Jungle Jaguar Carpet Python, insects, reptiles and fish.
Preston Park, Yarm Road, Stockton TS18 3RH
butterflyworld.uk
Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens
A stunning Greek Revival mansion and medieval castle is enough to tempt you to visit Belsay Hall, but there are also 30 acres of gardens to explore here. Wander the rocky ravines of the Jurassic-style Quarry Garden between the hall and castle which has its own microclimate, and take the Wild Man Trail to the playground with the kids. Don’t miss the Easter Quest until 19th April. In spring, see Siberian squill, a bright blue spring bulb, in the Terrace Garden and dog’s tooth violets and spring snowflakes on the edges of the surrounding wood.
Belsay, near Morpeth NE20 0DX
01661 881813
english-heritage.org.uk
Go Ape
Thrill-seekers and adrenaline-junkies love facing their fears at Matfen’s Go Ape. You can challenge yourself in the treetops with ziplines including their famous skateboard zip, as well as obstacles and crossings to navigate, or stay firmly on the ground and have a go at target practice with axe throwing, all within a stunning country estate.
Matfen NE20 0TE
01603 895500
goape.co.uk
Cragside
Britain’s original smart home sits at the heart of a stunning garden estate. Head inside the iconic house to see Lord Armstrong’s impressive inventions before exploring the Rock Garden (which from the the end of the May and into June puts on a colourful rhododendron show). Marvel at the famous Iron Bridge, towering Pinetum and man-made lakes. Children won’t want to miss the play area and den-building area.
Rothbury, Morpeth NE65 7PX
01669 620333
nationaltrust.org.uk
RSPB Saltholme
Water rails, reed warblers, dragonflies and moths are attracted to the wetlands at Saltholme, and visitors who head along to see them can try pond dipping and meadow sweeping. There are various wildlife viewing hides to help you get closer to wildlife and in early spring to mid-summer, plants and flowers bloom in the walled garden. One of the UK’s largest inland breeding colonies of Common Tern arrives here each spring, nesting on the islands in the open pools, whilst lapwing and wigeon seek out minibeasts. Join the birdwatching for beginners event on 17th April and families will love the playground and accessible trails.
Seaton Carew Road, Middlesbrough TS2 1TU
rspb.org.uk/saltholme
Ushaw: Historic House, Chapels and Gardens
Ushaw was opened in secret more than 200 years ago as a religious community for training priests. An historic house surrounded by beautiful grounds and chapels, today it’s home to collections of historic artefacts and treasures and a library with more than 50,000 books, paintings and sculptures. Ushaw also hosts events and exhibitions throughout the year, including a new exhibition of more than 70 wedding dresses dating from the 19th century from 28th March, and a classic car and bike show on 23rd May.
Woodland Road, Ushaw Moor DH7 7DW
0191 373 8500
ushaw.org
Adventure Valley
Adventure Valley, the North East’s biggest family adventure park, hosts both indoor and outdoor activities, rides with play zones, animal encounters and themed events throughout the year. Meet the llamas, start a race on the go karts, and take the younger kids to the sensory play room. There’s also a football pitch, adventure golf, tractor rides and bouncing pillows to keep the kids entertained for hours. Don’t forget to meet Bertie, officially the world’s fastest tortoise according to the Guinness Book of World Records.
Union Hall, Durham DH1 5SG
0191 386 8291
adventurevalley.co.uk
Woodhorn Museum
In what was once the largest pit village in the world, this former colliery is now home to a popular visitor attraction which celebrates Northumberland’s proud mining heritage. Explore the original buildings from Woodhorn Colliery, and the Ashington Group Collection of artworks, commonly known as the ‘Pitmen Painters’, reputed to be the first collection of amateur art to go on permanent display anywhere in the world. The annual Northumberland Open at Woodhorn Museum is the largest exhibition of its type in Northumberland. Don’t miss your chance to see this popular art exhibition until 10th May.
Queen Elizabeth II Country Park, Ashington NE63 9YF
0191 277 2410
woodhornmuseum.org.uk
Tynemouth Aquarium
Meet the charming sea creatures at Tynemouth Aquarium, from both local shores and tropical seas including turtles, seals, starfish and Lesser Spotted Catshark. If you head to their sea-view restaurant, it’s the perfect spot from which to look for wild bottlenose dolphins. Talks and feeds (including a seal show) take place throughout your visit, and don’t forget to visit the Seal Hospital to learn how the aquarium take in seal pups who have been left injured and nurse them back to health.
Grand Parade, Tynemouth NE30 4JF
0191 258 1031
tynemouthaquarium.co.uk
Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens
Sunderland is known for its rich history of industry and that’s celebrated across this museum’s four floors – shipbuilding, coal mining, glass making and pottery. Sunderland Museum is also home to Wallace the Lion, who was part of a touring wild animal show which visited Sunderland during 1868. The collection dates back to 1846, and the art gallery features works by LS Lowry, so there’s plenty more to see too. The Winter Gardens is a tropical paradise in a glass rotunda, home to koi carp and more than 2,000 plants. Take it all in from the treetop walkway with views across Mowbray Park.
Burdon Road, Sunderland SR1 1PP
0191 561 2323
sunderlandculture.org.uk
The Plotters’ Forest
Within Raby Castle’s Christmas Tree Plantation, The Plotters’ Forest is an adventure playground encouraging outdoor play where children can climb, slide and jump to their heart’s content in nature. Various themed trails take place throughout year to keep children busy, and parents can relax among the treetops on the deck of T he Plotters’ Pantry.
Staindrop DL2 3AH
01833 660202
raby.co.uk
The Bowes Museum
In the heart of Teesdale, The Bowes Museum houses historic art, fashion and design from around the world and is the vision of Joséphine Bowes and her husband John. The Bowes collected more than 15,000 objects for the museum, including the spectacular Silver Swan – a life-sized replica of a female swan containing 2,000 moving parts, including 139 crystal rods and 113 neck rings, which you might be able to see ‘perform’ during your visit. Until September you’ll see fashion designer Meg Fletcher’s new installation of three specially-designed flags displayed on the museum’s terrace linking the legacy of Vivienne Westwood with the pioneering vision of Joséphine Bowes, as well as the museum’s most ambitious Vivienne Westwood exhibition to date. Don’t forget to explore the grounds too.
Barnard Castle DL12 8NP
01833 690606
thebowesmuseum.org.uk
Seaton Delaval Hall
Known for theatricality and drama, the 18th-century Seaton Delaval Hall was once home to the devilishly devious Delaval family and hosted extravagant parties where outrageous pranks were played on guests. Although the hall was almost completely destroyed by a fire in 1822, careful and extensive restoration has returned it to its former glory. Meet the family through the Hall’s portraits, see the surviving architecture, and explore the stunning surrounding gardens. Children love the Dealaval Playdium play area in the North West Woods. The hall, Sir John Vanbrugh’s final architectural masterpiece, will take centre stage this year as one of six national sites celebrating Vanbrugh 300 – the tercentenary of England’s boldest Baroque architect. From 25th March, a new exhibition invites visitors to explore Vanbrugh’s life, work, and lasting influence.
The Avenue, Seaton Sluice NE26 4QR
0191 237 9100
nationaltrust.org.uk
Ouseburn Farm
Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, Ouseburn Farm is both a charity and working community farm where visitors are invited to learn about nature, animals and growing – and meet the pigs, sheep, chickens and Willow the cow. Various events and activities, including lamb feeding and pond dipping, take place at weekends and in the school holidays, and there are opportunities to feed the animals too.
Ouseburn Road, Newcastle NE1 2PA
0191 232 3698
ouseburnfarm.org.uk
Ocean Beach Pleasure Park
The rides have now reopened at Ocean Beach Pleasure Park, a fabulous family day out on the coast. Get dizzy on the waltzers, challenge your friends on the dodgems, hop aboard the pirate ship, or take to the skies on Waveswinger, then join a laser tag battle.
Sea Road, South Shields NE33 2LA
0191 456 1617
oceanbeach.co.uk
Trinity Square Gateshead
Whether you fancy an evening at the cinema or a catch up with friends over a coffee, a trip to Trinity Square promises a fun-filled day out, with all your favourite shops for essentials and special treats. VUE has cutting-edge screens with 3D technology and a giant Xtreme screen to super-size the latest blockbusters. Don’t miss Trinity Square’s free Easter panto (Cinderella) on 3rd April and look forward to a street circus, a fair, and the return of Trinity’s Got Talent this summer.
Trinity Square, Gateshead NE8 1AG
0191 500 7050
trinitysquaregateshead.co.uk
Wallington
The impressive home of Sir Charles Philips Trevelyan (house reopening on 30th March) today displays huge pre-Raphaelite paintings and treasured collections throughout its rooms, and its 13,500-acre estate is a haven for wildlife. Spot butterflies and bees in the hidden walled garden nestled in the woods, there are four play areas in East Wood, and cycle trails to explore the estate on two wheels.
Cambo, near Morpeth NE61 4AR
01670 773606
nationaltrust.org.uk
Tanfield Railway
Recently announced as Railway of the Year at the Heritage Railway Association Annual Awards, and originally built to transport coal from collieries in the Tanfield area to the River Tyne, today visitors to Tanfield Railway can discover the North East’s rich railway heritage. Take a look inside the world’s oldest working engine shed, then journey on a vintage steam train on the world’s oldest railway. Bring the whole family along on 2nd May to meet Hey Duggee, after a vintage steam train journey complete with a storybook, activity sheet and snack for the kids.
Gateshead NE16 5ET
tanfield-railway.co.uk
Roker Pier Tours
Roker Pier and its lighthouse have protected the entrance into Sunderland’s harbour for more than 100 years. Henry Hay Wake’s engineering masterpiece with its distinctive red and grey granite hoops was built when Sunderland was a major British port, and has been restored over the years (along with the pier and its tunnel) and now visitors to the coast can take guided tours of the tunnel and lighthouse to learn all about its history. Following recent storm damage repairs, tours will reopen this spring.
Adventure Sunderland, Marine Walk, Roker SR6 0PL
rokerpier.co.uk
Northumberland Zoo
From fluffy snow leopards to the tiniest Harvest mice, the family-run Northumberland Zoo is home to a wide range of animals, and it’s a hub for wildlife conservation. There are plenty of chances to get up-close with some of the animals including joining the keepers in the Lemur Woods, learning all about the world of bees at the honeybee apiary, or feeding the capybara in their enclosure. In the Wild Theatre, you’ll see some of the birds of prey in action, and don’t miss your chance to meet the critically endangered Livingstone’s fruit bats, and one of the newest members of the zoo, Sally, a Linne’s two-toed sloth.
Eshottheugh Farm, Felton, Morpeth NE65 9QH
01670 787778
northumberlandzoo.co.uk
