The North East of England offers no shortage of fun for families looking to make memories. From outdoor adventures in national parks to hands-on history lessons at living museums, this region has an array of attractions to delight kids of all ages. Get ready for dragon quests, flying broomsticks, jousting knights, and more as you explore these 5 fun places for families to visit in the North East.
With coastlines, castles, and plenty of interactive activities, boredom is simply not an option for families holidaying in this scenic corner of England.
Northumberland National Park
Northumberland National Park is a must-visit for families and foster families living in this part of the world who are looking to enjoy the great outdoors. This scenic park offers stunning views of rolling hills, forests, and magical castles. If you are fostering with www.thefca.co.uk, your foster children will enjoy hiking, cycling, horse riding, or camping in the park. Don’t miss a visit to the iconic Hadrian’s Wall or take a boat trip out to the Farne Islands to see seals and puffins up close. The nearby Kielder Reservoir is great for watersports like sailing and kayaking too.
Beamish Open Air Museum
Step back in time at Beamish Museum – one of the region’s top family attractions. This interactive open-air museum tells the story of life in North East England during the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries. Families can explore the charming old town, historic farms, colliery village and more. Kids will love taking a ride on the steam train, old-fashioned carousel and seeing horses ploughing the fields. There’s plenty of hands-on activities too like baking, crafts, and old-fashioned games to keep the little ones entertained.
Alnwick Castle
Feel like royalty for the day with a visit to the iconic Alnwick Castle. Families can tour the majestic state rooms and see treasures from down the centuries. The interactive dragon quest will delight kids as they learn how to train their own dragon and explore the castle grounds. Don’t miss the knight’s tournament where you can cheer on jousting knights on horseback. For more fun, take a broomstick flying lesson on the Hogwarts film set or play in the adventure playground.
Seven Stories – The National Centre for Children’s Books
Let imaginations run wild at Seven Stories in Newcastle, the UK’s largest exhibition dedicated to children’s books. Families can step inside their favourite stories and meet beloved characters from books. There are interactive displays, costumes to dress up in, storytelling areas, and activity rooms where kids can illustrate their own tales. Fans of famous authors like David Almond, Judith Kerr, and Jacqueline Wilson won’t be disappointed. Seven Stories brings children’s literature to life.
Sunderland Airshow
Top off a day at the beach with the spectacular Sunderland Airshow. Taking place every July, this free event attracts thousands of families for two days of exciting flying displays and entertainment. Marvel at daredevil stunt pilots, formation flying, parachute teams, helicopters, classic aircraft, and more whizzing across the seafront. When you need a break from the aerial acrobatics, enjoy fairground rides, live music, and food stalls along the beachfront promenade at Roker and Seaburn.
And finally, don’t forget to pack a picnic and visit Bamburgh Beach. This spectacular beach is perfect for families. Bamburgh Castle is well worth a visit, too.
