Whether you are visiting for the day or spending a weekend break in Newcastle, there are lots of things to do with the kids rain or shine. In this city guide, I will highlight the best activities in Newcastle you could do with children including toddlers or teenagers.
Newcastle upon Tyne is one of the largest cities in North East England located only less than 50 miles from the Scottish borders. The town sits close to the county of Northumberland and has a population of over 300,000 inhabitants.
if you visit the city of Newcastle for the first time with the family, you have to dedicate some time in the old town called Grainger Town.
FUN FACT: Newcastle shares the same latitude as Copenhagen in Denmark. However we haven’t yet seen any gnomes wandering around except in some house front gardens
Without further do, let’s explore the city and discover our favourite things to do in Newcastle with kids. Bear in mind that we also include great attractions in the neighbouring town of Gateshead too. Let’s go!
1. Baltic Centre for Contemporary Arts
The Baltic Centre for Contemporary Arts is a world-renowned art gallery that has something for everyone. With ever-changing exhibitions, there is always something new to see at the Baltic. Art works that you can find at the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Arts include paintings, sculptures, photographs, and installations from both local and international artists.
The gallery also offers family-friendly activities and tours, making it the perfect place to spend a day with the kids. In addition, Baltic has a social space called The Kitchen, where you can purchase hot food, drinks and snacks throughout the day.
You can also bring your own food and sits at the Baltic’s Front Room where free hot drinks, squash drinks and fruits are available to pick.
There is also a shop on site where you can purchase unique gifts and souvenirs.
Address: South Shore Road, Gateshead NE8 3BA
2. The Great North Museum
The Great North Museum is a must-visit for any family visiting Newcastle which has something for everyone, with exhibitions on natural history, archaeology, and astronomy. The museum is also home to a planetarium, making it the perfect place to spend a day learning about the universe.
The museum offers many family-friendly activities, including drop-in workshops and hands-on exhibits. There is also a café on site where you can grab a bite to eat or a drink.
Address: Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4PT
3. Life Science Centre
The Life Science Centre is an excellent place for children including to learn about science in an interactive way. There are over 80 exhibits to explore, a planetarium, and a hands-on laboratory. The planetarium is a particularly popular attraction, and it’s a great way for kids to learn about the stars and planets.
The laboratory is also a lot of fun, and children can learn about the different chemicals and how they react with each other. The Centre also offers a range of workshops and events throughout the year.
So whether your kids are budding scientists or just have a curiosity about the world around them, they’re sure to enjoy a visit to the Life Science Centre.
Address: Life Science Centre, Times Square, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4EP
4. Heaton Park
Heaton Park is a great place to take the kids for a day out. There are plenty of open spaces to run around, including a playground, a paddling pool, and a café. The 13th century ruins of King John’s Palace is also a popular spot for kids to explore.
The park also has a variety of events throughout the year, including an Easter Egg Hunt and Halloween activities. So if you’re looking for somewhere to take the family for a picnic or just to spend some time outdoors, Heaton Park is the perfect spot.
Address: Heaton Park, Newcastle upon Tyne NE6 5JS
5. Pets’ Corner at Jesmond Dene
Pets’ Corner is an excellent place for kids to meet and interact with animals. There are rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, ducks, and goats to pet and feed, as well as a playground and a café. Pets’ Corner is located in Jesmond Dene, a beautiful parkland with rivers and waterfalls.
The perfect place for a day out with the family! Entry to Pets’ Corner is free, but there is a small charge for animal food.
Address: Red Walk, Newcastle upon Tyne NE7 7BQ
6. Discovery Museum
Discovery Museum is a great place to take the kids to learn about Newcastle’s history. The museum has interactive exhibits on topics such as transport, industry, and life in the city. Children can learn about how Newcastle has changed over time and see some of the city’s historic buildings and objects.
There are also regular events and workshops for children of all ages. Discovery Museum is free to enter, making it a great value day out for the family.
Address: Blandford Square, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4JA
7. Seven Stories
Seven Stories is the UK’s only Centre dedicated to children’s literature. It’s a great place for kids to learn about books and writing, with interactive exhibits and workshops. The Centre also has a cafe and a shop, making it the perfect place to spend a day with the family.
This indoor venue is located in Ouseburn, an up-and-coming Newcastle area with many independent shops and cafes.
Address: 30 Lime Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 2PQ
8. Ouseburn Farm
Ouseburn Farm is a working city farm located in Ouseburn Valley. It’s a great place for kids to meet animals and learn about where their food comes from. The Farm offers regular events and workshops, as well as school trips and birthday parties.
Entry to the Farm is free, making it a great value day out for the family. In addition, Ouseburn Farm has a care program for adults with learning disabilities, difficulties and ASD (autistic spectrum disorder) that provides training and work experience in a real working farm environment.
Address: Ouseburn Farm, Ouseburn Road, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 2PA
9. Tour of St James’ Park Stadium
A tour of St James’ Park Stadium is a must for any Newcastle United fan. This tour takes you behind the scenes of the stadium, and you even get to sit in the Director’s Box! You’ll learn about the history of Newcastle United and see some of the club’s trophies up close.
The tour is suitable for all ages, and there are discounts available for families.
Address: Barrack Road, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4ST
10. Newcastle Castle
Newcastle Castle is a must-see for any history lover. The castle has a rich and fascinating history, dating back to the 11th century. You can explore the castle’s grounds and buildings and learn about its role in the English Civil War.
This historic venue is also home to the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers Museum, which tells the story of the regiment from its formation in 1674 to the present day. The castle is located in the Centre of Newcastle, making it easy to reach by public transport.
Address: The Black Gate, Castle Garth, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1RQ
11. The Town Moor
The Town Moor is a large open space in the Centre of Newcastle, and it’s a great place to take the kids for a walk or a picnic. The moor is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including ducks, geese, and swans. You can also see cows and sheep grazing on the moor.
The Town Moor is also host to many events throughout the year, such as the Hoppings funfair and the Great North Run.
Address: Grandstand Road, Newcastle upon Tyne
12. New Adventurelands
New Adventurelands is an indoor play centre located in Gosforth. It’s a great place to take the kids on a rainy day, with lots of fun activities to keep them entertained. Activities include soft play, climbing, trampolining, and slides.
In addition, the ever popular Astra Slide is not to be missed! There’s also a cafe for adults to relax in while the kids play. The cafe has a range of hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals.
New Adventurelands is open seven days a week, making it a convenient option for families.
Address: 24 Benton Road, Newcastle upon Tyne NE7 7DT
13. Jump Giants
Jump Giants is an indoor trampoline park located in the south of Newcastle. It’s a great place to let off some steam, with over 50 interconnected trampolines to jump on. There’s also a foam pit, dodgeball courts, and a cafe.
Activities that you can sign up for include basketball, dodgeball, battle beams and so much more. Jump Giants is suitable for all ages, and there are discounts available for families.
Address: Forge Road, Dunston, Gateshead NE8 2RB
14. Fun Shack
Fun Shack is the North East’s leading family entertainment centre and is an excellent option for those looking for things to do in Newcastle with kids. They have a huge soft play area, an arcade, bumper buggies, and much more.
Bumper buggies is a great activity for kids of all ages, and the arcade has a wide variety of games that everyone in the family can enjoy.
Prices start at just £11 per child, making it a great value option for a day out. Just remember to make your booking in advance to avoid disappointment.
Address: Unit A3, Benfield Business Park, Benfield Road, Newcastle upon Tyne NE6 4NQ
15. Inflate Space Newcastle
Inflate Space is an inflatable theme park which is great for children of all ages. With over 15 different inflatables, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Themed around popular TV shows and movies, Inflate Space is a great place to take the family for a day out.
The inflatables are also great for adults, so if you’re looking for something fun to do with the family, Inflate Space is the perfect place.
Address: Benfield Business Park, Unit A4-A5, Benfield Road, Newcastle upon Tyne NE6 4NQ
CONCLUSION
I hope you have found this article useful during your day out in Newcastle with the kids. Newcastle Upon Tyne is a city that is well known for its nightlife and culture. However, there are many family-friendly activities to enjoy in Newcastle as well! From exploring the city’s history to getting outdoors and enjoying nature, there is something for everyone in Newcastle. Happy Travels!
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15 FUN Things to Do in Newcastle with Kids
- Baltic Centre for Contemporary Arts
- The Great North Museum
- Life Science Centre
- Heaton Park
- Pets’ Corner at Jesmond Dene
- Discovery Museum
- Seven Stories
- Ouseburn Farm
- Tour of St James’ Park Stadium
- Newcastle Castle
- The Town Moor
- New Adventurelands
- Jump Giants
- Fun Shack
- Inflate Space Newcastle
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