What is there to do for families in Newcastle upon Tyne?

We’re a fantastic family destination whether you’re here for the weekend or looking to become a long-term adopted Geordie; there are a whole host of ways to enjoy the Toon with the kids. 

Here is a top ten roundup of some of our best things to do with kids in and around Newcastle: 

1. Life Science Centre 

Life Science Centre in Newcastle is an award-winning visitor attraction a short walk from Newcastle Central Station. Families, science enthusiasts and visitors who are looking for things to do in Newcastle will be able to spend a packed day exploring the must-see attraction - where one ticket gets you everything! 

2. Seven Stories 

Seven Stories is The National Centre for Children's Books and can be found in the heart of Newcastle's cultural quarter, Ouseburn. The book-lover's paradise is committed to preserving British literature heritage for children and future generations and is guaranteed to spark creativity and imagination in all ages.

3. Ouseburn Farm

Ouseburn Farm is a community-led project located in the Lower Ouseburn Valley, just a mile from Newcastle city centre. The purpose-built barn and the farm's fields and meadows provide the perfect urban home for sheep, goats, pigs and chickens. You’ll never tire of visiting Ouseburn Farm due to its regular event schedule which includes animal petting and feeding sessions, drawing classes and child-friendly activities to entertain and educate during school holidays. 

4. BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art

BALTIC is the biggest gallery of its kind in the world. Housed in a historic, renovated flour mill on the Gateshead bank of the River Tyne, BALTIC present a dynamic, diverse and international programme of contemporary visual art, with an ever-changing calendar of exhibitions and activities for the whole family. 

5. Discovery Museum

Discover all about life in Newcastle and North East England at Discovery Museum, from the area's renowned maritime history and world-changing science and technology right through to fashion through the eras and military history. The museum is bursting with interactive displays, which makes it the perfect place to learn and have fun. 

6. Tynemouth Aquarium 

Situated on the striking North East coast, Tynemouth Aquarium is the perfect seaside family attraction. Enjoy close encounters with hundreds of incredible aquatic creatures from adorable seals to sharks, clownfish, seahorses and stingrays.

7. Newcastle Castle

Newcastle Castle is a must-visit attraction in Newcastle upon Tyne which not only explores the rich history of the city but also offers incredible views from its rooftop. There is much to discover about the history of Newcastle Castle, from which the city gained its name many centuries ago. 

8. Alnwick Garden

Head further afield to Alnwick Garden, home to the world’s largest Tai Haku Cherry Orchard, explore 12 acres of meandering gardens and let the kids run free amongst water sculptures and a secret maze. Check out Alnwick Castle, famous for being one of the filming locations for Harry Potter. Take in the historical magnificence and even try your hand at Broomstick Training lessons.

9. WWT Washington Wetland Centre

The award-winning WWT Washington Wetland Centre is a favourite North East attraction for bringing people closer to nature. Open 364 days, visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery, unforgettable wildlife encounters and special events all year round. Explore a diverse mix of wetland, woodland, wildflower meadows and nature reserve home to a collection of exotic birds including Chilean flamingos, Asian short-clawed otters, flocks of wild waders, grey herons, woodland birds, insects and amphibians. 

10. Angel of the North

Since spreading its wings in February 1998, Antony Gormley's Angel of the North in Gateshead has become one of the most talked-about pieces of public art ever produced. Rising 20 metres from the Earth near the A1 in Gateshead, the Angel dominates the skyline, towering above all those who come to see it, and has become a symbol of home for many Geordies. There are plenty of seaside activities too, from coasteering and visiting the local seals at St. Mary’s lighthouse, to learning all about sea life at Tynemouth Aquarium. 

To find out even more family activities, check out our family-friendly activities hub.