{"id":123,"date":"2021-07-15T12:26:48","date_gmt":"2021-07-15T11:26:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.ncl.ac.uk\/nuparents\/?p=123"},"modified":"2021-07-16T15:18:32","modified_gmt":"2021-07-16T14:18:32","slug":"a-quick-guide-to-free-activities-in-newcastle-and-nearby","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.ncl.ac.uk\/nuparents\/2021\/07\/15\/a-quick-guide-to-free-activities-in-newcastle-and-nearby\/","title":{"rendered":"A Quick Guide to Free Activities in Newcastle and Nearby."},"content":{"rendered":"\n

With COVID-19 restrictions easing but summer holidays still up in the air you might be wondering what activities can you find to keep the kids entertained! Planning affordable activities can be tricky, that\u2019s why we have list of activities which are free of charge right here in the heart of Newcastle City Centre. All of these activities are for children of all ages, and range from indoors to outdoors, meaning our rainy weather won\u2019t ruin your day out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don’t forget to add your own recommendations in the comments! We love to hear them!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Click the buttons to take you directly to the area you want!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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City Centre<\/span><\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Gateshead<\/span><\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Tyneside<\/span><\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Sunderland<\/span><\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Durham<\/span><\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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NEWCASTLE CITY CENTRE<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n

Jesmond Dene Pets Corner<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Jesmond Dene, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear, NE7 7BQ<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image from https:\/\/www.jesmonddene.org.uk\/pets-corner\/<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Jesmond Dene Pets Corner is the perfect place in the heart of Jesmond Dene to educate your children about various animals. From alpacas to pot-bellied pigs and local farm animals as well as rabbits and birds there is a range of animals waiting to be seen. It is open every day from 11am to 2pm (restricted hours due to coronavirus restrictions) and nearby is a play area for children below 8. Millfield House Caf\u00e9 and toilets nearby in case of any hangry children and ones busting for the loo. So why not plan a picnic and afterwards head over to the Pet\u2019s Corner for a fun filled day with the animals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Please be aware that Pet\u2019s Corner can be shut at short notices due to staff emergency\u2019s but don\u2019t let that deter your visit. Also, as the animals are on special diets please do not bring for the animals. As Pet Corner is managed by volunteers, entry is free but if you really enjoyed your visit why not consider donating to support this amazing attraction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ouseburn Farm<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ouseburn Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 2PA<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image from https:\/\/www.ouseburnfarm.org.uk\/<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Ouseburn Farm is a charity and community city farm which has been open since 1976. Currently it is a farmyard filled with animals and lush gardens. It\u2019s open from 10am to 3pm, although entrance is free please make sure to book your ticket in advance to make sure you won\u2019t be disappointed. There is a caf\u00e9 which is open only on weekends and school holidays. Entrance is free but if you really enjoyed your visit why not consider donating to support this lovely farm. Head out to their website to check out more and to book your tickets https:\/\/www.ouseburnfarm.org.uk\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Parks<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image taken by Peter Scott<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

With the summer weather looking favourable one of the best ways to relax during summer is a day at the park. So, pack a picnic and grab a few toys and head to either Leazes or Richardson Dees Park. Leazes Park is open for 24 hours from Monday to Sunday. However, there are no toilets in the park itself but the park is very close to city centre which has toilet access. Richardson Dees Park is open every day from 6:30am to 6:30pm, with its toilets open from 10am to 4pm. In the park there is also a caf\u00e9 open from 10am to 5pm, bandstand and if you know how to hit a ball there is a tennis court (to use for free) for players above the age of 12.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Museums and Galleries<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The last three items on our list is the Laing Art Gallery, Discovery Museum and the Great North Museum: Hancock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Laing Art Gallery, New Bridge St W, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8AG<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image taken from https:\/\/laingartgallery.org.uk\/whats-on\/18-and-19-century-gallery<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

The Laing Art Gallery is open from Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4:30pm. It holds regular exhibitions from local artists to nationally-recognised paintings, as well as a children\u2019s area for dressing up and interactive learning. Activities for children of all ages to enjoy. There are accessible toilets on the ground and first floor. There is also a caf\u00e9 available in case you would like to sit down and have a cuppa. Check out more at https:\/\/laingartgallery.org.uk\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Image taken from https:\/\/discoverymuseum.org.uk\/about-us\/about-discovery-museum<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

The Discovery Museum, Blandford Square, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4JA<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Discovery Museum chronicles science and engineering triumphs, with a particular slant on what the North East has contributed to the world. It\u2019s a great way for children to learn about the achievements from home. The museum is open from 10am to 4pm on weekdays and 11am to 4pm on weekends. You do need to book your tickets in advance so please do so at the link https:\/\/discoverymuseum.org.uk\/<\/a>. The Turbinia Caf\u00e9 will reopen on the 17th<\/sup> of July, accessible toilets are available as well on the different floors, and baby changing rooms are available.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Great North Museum: Hancock, Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4PT<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image taken from https:\/\/greatnorthmuseum.org.uk\/free-tickets-announced-for-dippys-newcastle-visit<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

The Great North Museum: Hancock was revamped in 2009 and now houses everything from natural history collections and a reconstruction of Hadrian\u2019s Wall to Egyptian mummies and a life-size Tyrannosaurus Rex replica \u2013 plenty to keep the children occupied. Its open weekdays from 10am to 5pm, Saturday from 10am to 4pm and on Sunday at 11am to 4pm. Like the others it is free but you will need to book tickets in advance https:\/\/greatnorthmuseum.org.uk\/<\/a>. There are accessible toilets on the ground, first and second floors of the museum. The accessible toilet at the rear of the museum on the ground floor has a shower with a seat and an adult changing table.They also hold autism-friendly openings during school holidays, dates for these are advertised on the museum website  \u2018Whats On\u2019 page as they become available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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GATESHEAD<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Angel of the North<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The Angel of the North. Photograph: Murdo Macleod\/The Guardian<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

How can we not include our iconic Angel of the North, which is a symbol of Gateshead and the North East which was created by artist Antony Gormley. It is a public art installation open 24\/7. There are 26 car parking spaces and four disabled car parking bays. However, there are no toilets. It is one of our North East most beloved icons so why not take a trip down with the kids of all ages to enjoy this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Saltwell Park<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Saltwell Park, E Park Rd, Low Fell, Gateshead NE9 5AX<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image from https:\/\/www.gateshead.gov.uk\/article\/6621\/Getting-to-Saltwell-Park<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

In the heart of Gateshead sits a beautiful Victorian park which has lots of green space, a lake, a maze, two playgrounds, bandstands and Saltwell Towers, a gothic mansion that has been turned into a caf\u00e9. There is also a pet\u2019s corner in the park itself. The park is open Monday to Sunday from 7am to 7:30pm. There is a tearoom but it is only take-away at the moment. There are toilets beside the lake and beside the tearooms. So not to fret if your kids need the loo or a snack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n


The Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, S Shore Rd, Gateshead NE8 3BA<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image from https:\/\/getnorth2018.com\/venues\/the-baltic-centre-for-contemporary-art\/<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

The Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art is a contemporary art gallery in Gateshead, with a various activity for young people. However, you will need to book these in advance on their website (https:\/\/baltic.art\/visit<\/a>) to avoid disappointment. It\u2019s open Wednesday to Sunday, 10:30am to 6pm, last entry 5pm. There are also multiple baby changing rooms located in BALTIC\u2019s Learning Lounge (Level 2), Event space (Level 1) and on the Ground Floor, where there is a singular baby change room as well as baby change facilities in both the female and male bathrooms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bill Quay Community Farm<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bill Quay Community Farm, Hainingwood Terrace, Bill Quay, Gateshead NE10 0UE<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Bill Quay Community Farm is a treasured green space in the East of Gateshead. It was opened in 1986 as a partnership between the Bill Quay Community Farm Association and Gateshead Council and now It is a thriving community leisure project. Not only can you enjoy observing the farm animals but you can also feed them! A lovely place experience for your children. It is open fro9am to 5pm, Monday to Sunday. Toilets are available and there is a restaurant on site but you are welcome to bring in your own food and snacks!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

INTU Metrocentre<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Metrocentre, Gateshead NE11 9YG<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lastly, we have our lovely INTU Metro centre which is open weekdays from 9am to 9pm, Saturday from 9am to 7pm and Sunday 11am to 5pm. It\u2019s the perfect place for a day out during the rain with the kids. There\u2019s a small free toddler area with soft play shapes upstairs in the Forum, and a free outdoor play area outside the Qube entrance for ages 3 to 10 years old. Additionally, \u2018Fun Buggy\u2019 ride-on cars can be hired from customer service desks. For older children there are bungee trampolines in Exhibition Square, and you can also take a train drive around the center. There are also a few toilets and various food outlets available within the Metrocentre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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TYNESIDE<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Arbeia Roman Fort<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Arbeia Roman Fort, Baring St, South Shields NE33 2BB<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image from http:\/\/www.castlesfortsbattles.co.uk\/north_east\/arbeia.html<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

The Arbeia South Shields\u2019 Roman Fort was built to guard the main sea route to Hadrian\u2019s Wall. It\u2019s open on Weekdays from 10am to 5pm, Saturday from 11am to 4pm and Sunday from 1pm to 4pm. The historical stories are brought to life at Arbeia through a variety of events and displays including gladiator battles, falconry displays, Roman re-enactments, storytelling and more. There are toilets on the ground near the museum, there are baby changing facilities available in the female accessible toilet. Come take a look at one of the North East\u2019s captivating historical sites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chopwell Woods<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image from https:\/\/www.forestryengland.uk\/chopwell-wood<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Open 24\/7, Chopwell Wood is a 360-hectare mixed woodland set right on the fringe of Gateshead. No two parts of this varied woodland are the same and you can enjoy spectacular views of the River Derwent and North Pennines. Horse riders are also welcome. They have easier trails for the little ones and also have a picnic area which is perfect for a lovely day out in the sun. We\u2019re not too certain if there are toilets available but as the woods are near the towns of Chopwell and Highfield which have cafes and petrol stations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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SUNDERLAND<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, Burdon Rd, Sunderland SR1 1PP<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image from https:\/\/artuk.org\/visit\/venues\/sunderland-museum-winter-gardens-3694<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

The Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens is one of Sunderland\u2019s famous attractions. Open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm (keep in mind the Art Gallery is open 11am to 3pm, and the Treetop Walkway is currently closed) this municipal museum is home to the only known British example of a gliding reptile! There are over 2,000 plants thriving in the glass rotunda and from the tree top walkway victors can enjoy a bird\u2019s eye view of the beautiful Mowbray Park. The buildings have a museum shop, Bennelli\u2019s Caf\u00e9 and accessible toilets with changing rooms. Head to their website to find out more about the attractions and what is on https:\/\/sunderlandculture.org.uk\/our-venues\/sunderland-museum-winter-gardens\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Roker and Seaburn Beaches<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image from https:\/\/www.thebeachguide.co.uk\/north-east-england\/tyne-and-wear\/roker.htm<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Roker and Seaburn Beaches are Sunderland\u2019s blue flag award winning beaches, it is an absolute must visit for locals and visitors. These beaches are perfect for a family day out as it is a place for nice walks, water sporting activities and dining. Although open 24\/7 food stalls and other kiosks have their own set opening times. Safety is always important and there are lifeguards patrolling up and down the beach every day from 10am to 6pm. The beach also has dog-friendly areas so why don\u2019t you bring your pooch along too. Unfortunately, there are no toilets on the beach but a quick trip to town and there are cafes and shops which may be able to help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Barnes Park<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

7 Barnes Park Rd, Sunderland SR4 7PY<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image from https:\/\/www.gonortheast.co.uk\/barnes-park<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The largest park in Sunderland, and has since opening has been home to a large range of wildlife. With nesting boxes set up breeding birds have regularly returned to the park over the years. Meaning that this is an exciting place for bird watchers, which would be a fun activity for children young and older. The park is open from 9am to 5pm with accessible toilets available within the park to the left of the main vehicle entrance. There is also a small play area and tennis courts which are available to use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mowbray Park<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mowbray Park, 6 Burdon Rd, Sunderland SR1 1QB<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image from https:\/\/www.parksandgardens.org\/places\/mowbray-park-sunderland<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Open daily, Mowbray park has acres of garden and a lake with plenty of ducks, children’s play area and pieces of public art for you to admire. One of the oldest municipal parks in the North East it is home to William Hall Drinking Fountain, Victorial Hall Disaster Memorial, the statues of Henry Havelock, Jack Crawford and John Candlish. Interestingly the famous author Lewis Carroll drew inspiration from the sights of Sunderland in his work, which is commemorated with a themed play area. This also includes a walrus sculpture by the lake. There are toilets to the east side of the park and baby changing facilities in the toilets. There are many nearby pay and display car parks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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DURHAM<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Durham Cathedral<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image from https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Durham_Cathedral_from_Palace_Green.jpg<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

How can we talk about Durham without mentioning the iconic Durham Cathedral? The Cathedral Church of Christ, Blessed Mary the Virgin and St Cuthbert of Durham, commonly known as Durham Cathedral and home of the Shrine of St Cuthbert, is a cathedral in the city of Durham, England. It\u2019s open Monday to Sunday from 9:30am to 6pm and on Sunday from 12:30pm to 5:30pm. It\u2019s a lovely place to go visit for the scenery, there are some tours which have a small fee but this can all be checked out at https:\/\/www.durhamcathedral.co.uk\/visit-us<\/a>. There is one accessible toilet within the Durham Cathedral Museum and the main cathedral toilet block near the Shop and Restaurant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Riverside Walk<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Green Lane, Durham, Co Durham, DH1 3UW<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image from https:\/\/www.livingnorth.com\/northeast\/people-places\/walk-way<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

A wonderful 3-mile walk (mainly flat with a few inclines) where you can take in the breath-taking views of Durham City Riverside Scenery, the route is circular and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. It also passes a few cafes so you can always stop for a quick break. This trail takes you through both greenery and a few old buildings, it\u2019s a wonderful place for a stroll with the family and perfect for picture taking opportunities. Although, there are no toilets on the trail itself, its close proximity to city centre means that you can run into town for if someone needs the loo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Locomotion<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dale Road Industrial Estate, Shildon DL4 2RE<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image from https:\/\/www.locomotion.org.uk\/about-us<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

A railway museum which boasts a large collection that is very loved. It\u2019s open Wednesday to Sunday from 10:30am to 4pm. Tickets need to be pre-booked on the website https:\/\/www.locomotion.org.uk\/home<\/a> and you can also find out if any special exhibits are on. There are accessible toilets and changing rooms which are available. The museum has been shortlisted for on the final five contenders for the Gulbenkian Prize which is the largest arts prize in the United Kingdom. It\u2019s a lovely place to see the history of trains and is enjoyable for the whole family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Old Durham Gardens<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image from https:\/\/olddurhamgardens.co.uk\/<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Older than the City of Durham itself, it was once part of the Roman Empire, and received its name in the 12th<\/sup> century. Established more than 350 years ago, this garden is a beautiful place for everyone to enjoy. It\u2019s less than a mile away from Durham City Centre, so if you are ever in need of the loo or food a quick trip down will do you good. The Lower Gardens and orchards are open to the public at all times but the walled garden and gazebo will be open from 2pm and 4pm on Thursdays and Sundays till October 28th<\/sup> 2021. Entry to this historical site is free however, donations are always welcome. More information can be found on https:\/\/olddurhamgardens.co.uk\/nearby\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don’t forget to add your own recommendations in the comments! We love to hear them!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Written by Sandhaya Sritharan and Niamh Foy<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

With COVID-19 restrictions easing but summer holidays still up in the air you might be wondering what activities can you find to keep the kids entertained! Planning affordable activities can be tricky, that\u2019s why we have list of activities which … Continue reading →<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10343,"featured_media":6,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[10],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-123","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-activties"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ncl.ac.uk\/nuparents\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/123","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ncl.ac.uk\/nuparents\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ncl.ac.uk\/nuparents\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ncl.ac.uk\/nuparents\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/10343"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ncl.ac.uk\/nuparents\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=123"}],"version-history":[{"count":32,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ncl.ac.uk\/nuparents\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/123\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":247,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ncl.ac.uk\/nuparents\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/123\/revisions\/247"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ncl.ac.uk\/nuparents\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ncl.ac.uk\/nuparents\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=123"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ncl.ac.uk\/nuparents\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=123"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ncl.ac.uk\/nuparents\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=123"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}