Family days out in Newcastle and Gateshead

A free family museum in Newcastle with local history, science and hands-on displays to explore at your own pace. It is a useful indoor option for a rainy day and works well for families who want plenty to discover without needing to plan a full-day visit.

An interactive science centre with hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, experiments, making activities and the North's largest planetarium. The programme changes throughout the year and frequently includes activities designed for preschool children, families and teenagers. Standard admission includes the principal science-centre activities and planetarium shows, although spaces are allocated on a first-come basis. Term-time hours may differ from the current summer schedule.

Explore natural history, ancient cultures and the stories of the North East at this family-friendly museum. Children can discover fossils, animals, mummies and hands-on displays while adults enjoy the wider collections and changing exhibitions.

A city-centre art gallery with paintings, watercolours, sculpture and decorative art, including work connected with Newcastle and the wider North East. General admission is free, while some temporary exhibitions charge an entrance fee. Family trails, creative activities and dedicated play installations are available at selected times, so check the current programme before visiting.

A welcoming city-centre library with children’s books, quiet spaces, family activities and regular events. It is a useful indoor stop for reading, relaxing and finding something creative to do in Newcastle.

Climb through Newcastle’s medieval castle complex and imagine life in the city centuries ago. The keep and Black Gate offer historic rooms, dramatic views and an engaging short heritage visit in the heart of Newcastle.

Meet friendly farm animals in the heart of Ouseburn, with hands-on experiences, gardens and a relaxed setting for families. Entry is free with donations welcome, while events and some activities may have separate arrangements.

A brilliant home for children’s books and storytelling in Ouseburn. Families can explore interactive floors, discover new stories and join performances, workshops and events designed to make reading and imagination come alive.

Explore contemporary art across the galleries of BALTIC, with changing exhibitions and striking views over the River Tyne. The open spaces, family activities and creative displays make it an accessible cultural visit for adults and children alike.

See paintings, sculpture and design from the gallery’s collection, with displays that make art approachable for families. Look out for changing exhibitions and activities that encourage children to notice, imagine and create.

A large city park beside Newcastle's Town Moor with a lake, open lawns, paths, a children's playground, skatepark, outdoor gym and free tennis courts. It is suitable for a short playground visit, picnic or longer walk around the park and Town Moor. The park itself is free to visit. Café availability has recently been subject to change, so do not rely on it being open without checking first.

Escape into the wooded valley of Jesmond Dene with riverside paths, bridges, waterfalls and wildlife to discover. Families can visit the free Pets Corner, use the play area and enjoy a picnic or café stop among the trees.

Let children burn off energy at Fun Shack’s indoor adventure play centres, with climbing, slides and active play for different ages. Sessions and site arrangements vary, so check the specific centre and book ahead during busy school-holiday periods.