Rainy day activities for kids in the North East

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.

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 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.

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 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.

A free cultural venue and library overlooking the River Tyne, with books, interactive exhibitions, family activities, creative facilities and regularly changing events. There is also an on-site café, although its hours are slightly shorter than the main building's. Some workshops and ticketed events need to be booked separately. Check the events programme before visiting to see what is currently available.

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.

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 theatre and creative play venue designed especially for children and families. It offers changing play installations, performances, creative activities, a story corner and a family-friendly café. Visiting the building and some play activities can be free, while performances and bookable sessions have their own prices and times. Check the current programme before travelling.

A nature-themed soft-play area at Prudhoe Waterworld, with climbing, slides and a sensory space designed especially for younger children. Sessions are timed and should be booked in advance; check availability rather than relying only on centre opening hours.