Pubs & Cafes with Outdoor Play Areas

There are plenty of great family-friendly pubs and cafes in the North East, and when the sun is shining there’s nothing nicer than finding somewhere with an outdoor play area so little ones and grown ups can both relax and have fun. There’s a handy list below of fantastic places with play areas that are officially open in the North East, all within around half an hour drive from Gateshead.

Government guidelines stated that outdoor play areas were permitted to re-open from 4th July, however in reality there has been a very gradual staggered opening as local councils and establishments have made their own risk assessments and put safety measures in place. For many popular places, play areas still remain closed. If in doubt check directly with providers before making plans to avoid any disappointment.

This list will be updated as more play areas open, so do check back. If you have any recommendations to add to the list, please do get in touch here🙂

Circumstances and guidelines are continually changing. Please do check full details of the measures in place and the latest updates directly with individual providers before making plans. Walk-ins may be welcome even if not specified below, but booking may help to avoid disappointment. Photos and menu links are for illustrative purposes only, there may be changes to menus and to play facilities to meet Covid-19 guidelines.

If possible avoid visiting at peak times and always follow the latest Government guidelines on social distancing and protective measures, particularly if you or a member of your household is in a vulnerable group. Do not leave home if you or anyone in your household has symptoms. Check the latest Government guidelines and updates here.

The Barley Mow Inn

📌 Birtley, Chester le Street, Durham, DH3 2AG
🍽 Pub classics
👉 View the menu, and call 0191 410 4504 to book.

Bee Happy Play Cafe

📌 26 Bracken Hill, South West Industrial Estate, Peterlee, Co. Durham, SR8 2LS
🍽 Breakfast, lunch and sweet treats
👉 View the menu, and book a 2 hour play session here
⭕ Registered for Eat Out to Help Out during August.

Coach & Horses

📌 Leybourne Hold, Birtley, Chester-le-Street, DH3 1QF 
🍽 Pub classics
👉 Booking preferred but not essential, message here.
📣 Re-opened 29th August under new management!

Cock Crow Inn

📌 Mill Lane, Hebburn, South Tyneside, NE31 2EY
🍽 Favourite pub classics
👉 View the menu, and call 0191 428 5730 to book
⭕ Registered for Eat Out to Help Out during August.

Dream Big Role Play Centre

📌 Grange Villa Community Centre, Chester-le-Street, Co Durham, DH2 3LN
🍽 Lunch, sweet treats and afternoon tea
👉 Find out more here, and call 0191 370 1320 to book
⭕ Registered for Eat Out to Help Out during August.

The Lakeside Inn

📌 East Fellgate Farm, Jarrow, South Tyneside, NE10 8YD
🍽 Gastro food
👉 Book a table here or call 0191 428 3030
⭕ Registered for Eat Out to Help Out during August.

Moorhouse Farm Shop & Coffee Shop

📌 21 Station Road, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 6DX
🍽 Breakfast, lunch and treats
👉 Find out more here. Walk-ins usually welcome, or call 01670 789 350
⭕ Registered for Eat Out to Help Out during August.

Poacher’s Pocket

📌 Market Lane, Whickham, Gateshead, NE16 4TJ
🍽 Currently drinks menu only. Look out here for updates on food menu returning.
👉 Find out more here, or call 0191 597 5454

Story Book
👦 Outdoor play area limited to a maximum of 6 children at a time.
📌 Boldon Leisure Park, Abingdon Way, Boldon Colliery, Sunderland, NE35 9PB
🍽 Pub classics and fresh daily carvery
👉 View the menu, and book a table
⭕ Registered for Eat Out to Help Out during August.

Miss Tina’s

📣 Indoor play space re-opened from 16th August!!
📌 Barmston Village Centre, Washington, Sunderland, NE38 8JA
🍽 Lunch and sweet treats
👉 Call to book on 01914472024, or just pop along. Open Wed-Fri, 10m-2pm.
⭕ Registered for Eat Out to Help Out during August.

– For more details on the Eat Out to Help Out scheme during August, and a list of other local pubs, restaurants, and cafes taking part click here.