Family-Friendly Fun in Newcastle: Top Spots for Memorable Adventure

Are you planning to stay at one of our properties in Newcastle? This vibrant city, with its rich history and lively culture, is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities. Whether your family loves exploring historical sites, diving into interactive learning experiences, or enjoying the great outdoors, Newcastle has something special for everyone. Here are the top spots in Newcastle for an unforgettable family adventure.

Discovery Museum

Located in the heart of Newcastle, the Discovery Museum is a paradise for curious minds. This interactive museum is dedicated to science, technology, and history, making learning fun and engaging for children and adults alike. With free admission, it's a budget-friendly option for a day out. Highlights include:

The Science Maze: A hands-on experience that challenges young minds with puzzles and experiments.
Turbinia: The world’s first ship to be powered by steam turbines, a fascinating display that brings history to life.
Play Tyne: A special water play area designed for younger children, offering hours of splashing fun.

Seven Stories, The National Centre for Children's Books

Seven Stories is a unique attraction that celebrates the magical world of children's books. Situated in Ouseburn Valley, this centre offers a multi-floor experience where literature comes to life. Must-sees include:

Exhibitions: Rotating displays that delve into the world of beloved authors and illustrators.
Storytelling Sessions: Interactive readings that engage children in the joy of stories.
Creative Workshops: Hands-on activities where kids can create their own stories, characters, and artwork.

Newcastle Castle

Step back in time at Newcastle Castle, the city’s namesake and a historical fortress with stunning views over the River Tyne. This well-preserved medieval castle includes:

The Castle Keep: Explore ancient chambers, climb spiral staircases, and discover the castle’s rich history through interactive exhibits.
The Black Gate: Learn about the castle's strategic importance during the Norman and medieval periods, and see artefacts uncovered during excavations.
Family-Friendly Tours: Engage in guided tours that bring history to life with tales of knights, battles, and the castle’s role in Newcastle's development.

Ouseburn Farm

For a slice of country life in the city, head to Ouseburn Farm. This community-led project is more than just a farm; it's a learning experience in sustainable living. Features include:

Farm Animals: Meet cows, pigs, goats, and chickens in a friendly and interactive environment.
Gardens and Greenhouses: Discover how food is grown, and even pick some fresh produce.
Workshops and Events: Participate in seasonal events, from gardening workshops to hands-on animal care sessions.

Jesmond Dene Park

Jesmond Dene Park is a picturesque haven of woodlands, waterfalls, and wildlife, perfect for family picnics, leisurely walks, and outdoor play. The park’s attractions include:

Pet’s Corner: A small animal farm that’s home to alpacas, goats, rabbits, and exotic birds—always a hit with younger visitors.
Nature Trails: Walk through the lush greenery, following trails that take you past waterfalls and historical sites like the Old Mill.
Playgrounds: Safe, well-maintained areas for children to enjoy swings, slides, and climbing frames.

Life Science Centre

The Life Science Centre is a hub of scientific discovery and fun. Located at Times Square, this centre offers an array of activities designed to ignite curiosity and imagination:

Planetarium: Explore the stars and planets in a state-of-the-art digital planetarium.
Experiment Zone: Get hands-on with real scientific experiments in a lab setting.
4D Motion Ride: Experience the thrills of a rollercoaster combined with a cinematic adventure.

Tynemouth Aquarium

Dive into an underwater adventure at Tynemouth Aquarium, located on the stunning North Tyneside coast. This attraction offers:

Ocean Tunnel: Walk through a glass tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and colourful fish.
Seal Cove: Watch playful seals swim and interact in a spacious enclosure.
Interactive Touch Pools: Get up close with starfish, crabs, and other sea creatures, making it a tactile learning experience.

Great North Museum: Hancock

Embark on a journey through time at the Great North Museum: Hancock. Situated near Newcastle University, this museum is a treasure trove of history and natural wonders:

Ancient Egyptian Gallery: Marvel at mummies and artefacts from the age of the Pharaohs.
Dinosaur Exhibit: Stand in awe before a life-size T-Rex skeleton and learn about the giants that once roamed the earth.
Planetarium: Enjoy shows that explore the mysteries of the universe, suitable for all ages.

BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art

Art enthusiasts will find a haven at the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art. Located in a converted flour mill on the Gateshead Quayside, this centre is perfect for families interested in exploring the world of modern art:

Family Art Days: Special events and workshops designed to inspire creativity in children.
Interactive Exhibitions: Touch, explore, and create within exhibits that are as engaging as they are educational.
Riverside Views: After exploring, take in panoramic views of the River Tyne from the viewing platforms.

Beamish, The Living Museum of the North

For an immersive historical experience, Beamish Museum is unmatched. This open-air museum, located a short drive from Newcastle, brings the past to life across several time periods:

1900s Town: Experience Edwardian life with shops, trams, and homes authentically recreated.
1940s Farm: Learn about life during wartime Britain, complete with working farms and period livestock.
Pit Village: Step into the shoes of coal miners and their families in a recreated mining village, with demonstrations and interactive exhibits.

Adventure Valley

Adventure Valley is the ultimate outdoor family adventure park, located just outside Durham. It's a must-visit for families seeking fun and excitement:

Outdoor Play Areas: Giant slides, zip wires, and climbing frames provide endless fun.
Indoor Play Zones: Perfect for rainy days, with soft play areas and themed adventure zones.
Farmyard Animals: Meet and greet animals in the petting zoo, or take a tractor ride around the park.

St. James' Park Stadium Tour

For football-loving families, a tour of St. James' Park, home of Newcastle United, is a thrilling experience. Located in the heart of the city, this iconic stadium offers:

Behind-the-Scenes Access: Visit the players' tunnel, changing rooms, and even sit in the manager’s seat.
Interactive Exhibits: Learn about the club's history and its place in Newcastle’s culture.
Panoramic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the highest points of the stadium.

Victoria Tunnel

The Victoria Tunnel is an extraordinary underground experience that takes you beneath the streets of Newcastle. Originally a coal wagonway, it was later used as an air raid shelter during World War II. Highlights include:

Guided Tours: Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours provide fascinating insights into the tunnel's history.
Interactive Exhibits: Experience what life was like during wartime Newcastle, with sounds, lights, and stories bringing the past to life.
Family-Friendly Exploration: Suitable for older children, the tunnel offers a unique way to explore Newcastle's hidden history.

Rising Sun Country Park

Located just a short drive from Newcastle city centre, the Rising Sun Country Park is a 400-acre green space offering a blend of nature and recreation:

Wildlife Walks: Spot deer, rabbits, and a variety of bird species as you explore the park’s extensive network of trails.
Lake and Wetlands: Perfect for picnics, fishing, or simply enjoying the tranquillity of nature.
Adventure Play Area: A well-equipped playground where kids can burn off energy.

Plan Your Perfect Family Getaway with Northern Staycations!

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Newcastle’s most delightful family attractions, and let Northern Staycations be your home away from home. Our centrally located, comfortable, and family-friendly short-term rentals offer the perfect base for your adventures. With easy access to museums, parks, and historical sites, you can spend more time exploring and less time commuting.

We understand that travelling with family means looking for spaces that cater to everyone’s needs. That’s why our properties are equipped with all the amenities to make your stay as relaxing and convenient as possible—because we believe your vacation should be about making memories, not worrying about the little things.

Book your stay now to unlock the best of Newcastle’s family-friendly activities right from your doorstep. Explore, unwind, and enjoy the comfort of knowing that at the end of the day, a cosy, welcoming space awaits you and your loved ones.