Family days out are the perfect way to spend the weekend. Take a look at this list we have put together to keep the whole family entertained.
Seasider Open Top Bus Excursion
Approx. 7 minutes from the Tyne Tunnels
Go on a journey with the Seasider Bus!
Traveling between North Shields and Whitley Bay on weekends, bank holidays, and school holidays from late March to September.
Experience the breathtaking vistas along the way. Only £8 for a family ticket, covering 2 adults and 3 children!
Plessey Woods
Approx. 19 minutes from the Tyne Tunnels
Discover the enchanting Plessey Woods, a cost-free countryside park nestled within Northumberland.
Enjoy the new adventure playground, find a sculpture trail that winds through the woods, and stop off at their cozy café.
Hall Hill Farm
Approx. 45 minutes from the Tyne Tunnels
Hall Hill Farm in County Durham was 2022’s Farm Attraction of the Year and has 75% TripAdvisor “excellent” reviews.
From Alpacas to tractor rides, animal feeding, and more.
Hall Hill Farm promises to be a fun day out for all.
Diggerland Durham
Approx. 36 minutes from the Tyne Tunnels
Diggerland offers excitement for all ages! Experience the full-sized JCB and compete on Go-Karts.
Additional attractions include driving mini–Land Rovers, guiding 1-tonne dumpers, a JCB carousel, and more.
Accessibility is prioritised, with disabled access, convenient parking, complimentary carer admission, and pathways for easy movement.
A newly introduced Sensory Room caters to children with autism, enhancing the inclusive experience.
Raby Castle
Approx. 58 minutes from the Tyne Tunnels
Raby Castle is an impressive intact medieval fortress in Northern England, built during the 14th century by the Neville family.
Steeped in history, it was the home of Cecily Neville, mother to two English kings.
The castle played roles in events like the plotting of the Rising of the North and the Civil War.
The site also features a deer park, adding to its appeal.
Beamish, The Living Museum of the North
Approx. 30 minutes from the Tyne Tunnels
Beamish is an outdoor museum that brings the history of North East England to life.
With recreations like an 1820s village, 1900s town and pit village, 1940s farm, and more, it’s like stepping back in time.
Staff in period clothing add to the authenticity.
Explore life during WWI, visit a colliery, ride a tram, and experience a variety of historical settings.
Derwent Reservoir and The Boat Shack
Approx. 45 minutes from the Tyne Tunnels
Derwent Reservoir offers a cost-free outing perfect for all.
Take a stroll around the reservoir or take the kids to play at the adventure playground!
There are also designated BBQ/picnic spots as well as:
The Boat Shack, providing stunning reservoir views from Pow Hill and milkshakes to die for.
Northumberland Country Zoo
Approx. 32 minutes from the Tyne Tunnels
Northumberland Country Zoo is a family-operated, non-profit zoo.
The 17-acre park offers showcases 100+ animal species.
From wallabies and porcupines to tarantulas and snow leopards, a diverse range captivates visitors.
Engaging experiences include:
animal presentations at the Wild Theatre and informative keeper talks on otters and Scottish wildcats.
For parents seeking respite, the admission covers access to the indoor Bear Falls Soft Play, perfect for relaxation while the kids play.
To find out what else is happening in the North East, check out our Explore the North East page here.