This handy roundup has loads of ideas for great places to visit with kids in the North East, along with useful info and links. You can browse below for inspiration, or skip straight to your favourite sections here:
🐷Animals, Farms & More
🎡Fairgrounds
🌷Gardens & Grounds
🖼Museums & Attractions
👶Play/Craft Cafes, Play Groups & More
🧒Soft Play & Trampolines
⛳Sports & Games
If you have any recommendations to add let me know here🙂
You can also find lots of lovely Baby to Pre-school Classes in Gateshead and more ideas for fun family days out in our ‘Top 10s’ Guides. There’s a handy map and printable ‘Top 10s’ for favourite outdoors spots across the North East recommended by local parents, with parks, playgrounds and easy walks for bikes/scooters/prams. Plus favourite places perfect for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers.
Details are subject to change. Restrictions on some facilities and activities will apply in accordance with Covid guidelines. Please check the latest updates, safety measures, opening times & booking requirements directly with individual providers.
Adventure Valley, Durham
📌 Brasside, Durham, County Durham, DH1 5SG
📆 Mini golf open 29th March 2021, outdoors attractions open 12th April 2021, indoors from 17th May 2021.
🎫 Book here
▪ Soft play, undercover farmyard, creature corner and Wild West Saloon open, plus outdoor attractions including new Train Ride.
Beamish Museum
📌 Beamish, County Durham, DH9 0RG
📆 Grounds open from 12th April 2021, indoors open 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Indoors exhibits open, bus rides running and fairground rides on selected dates. Farm area initially closed (animals can be viewed around grounds), trams expected to begin running in Sep.
Bill Quay Farm
📌 Hainingwood Terrace, Bill Quay, Gateshead, NE10 0UE
▪ Bill Quay Cafe re-opened in Sep 2020 after the farm and cafe being closed for almost a year. The outside areas of the farm are open to visitors, with rare breed sheep, pigs, cows and birds. Free, no booking required.
Broom House Farm & Forest Adventure
📌 Near Witton Gilbert, Durham, DH7 6TR
📆 Coffee shop and outdoor seating open, Forest Adventure open from 17th April 2021
🎫 Book here for Forest Adventure
▪ Organic working farm with sheep, geese, goats and cattle. Coffee shop open and large play field with slide, swing, maze, dens, fort, sand pit and hay bales. Free, booking only required for Forest Adventure.
Castleside Alpacas
📌 Wesley Terrace, Castleside, Consett, Durham, DH89QB
📆 Open from 12th April 2021
🎫 Message here to book
▪ Meet the alpacas, Pygmy goats and poultry, admission limited to one group of visitors at a time and includes handling and feeding.
Down at the Farm
📌 Houghton-le-Spring, Sunderland, DH5 8JG
📆 Open from 17th April 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Outdoors play areas open and tractor rides, barrel rides and quad bikes running.
Hall Hill Farm
📌 Lanchester, Durham, DH7 0TA
📆 Outdoors attractions open 12th April 2021, indoors from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Soft play and outdoors play areas open as well as animal handling/feeding, tractor rides, barrel rides and sheep racing.
Jarrow Hall Anglo-Saxon Farm
📌 Village and Bede Museum, Church Bank, Jarrow, South Tyneside, NE32 3DY
📆 Farm and Anglo-Saxon Village open 13th April 2021, Bede Museum open 20th May 2021
🎫 Book here
Lanchester Garden Centre – Potters World
📌 Bargate Bank, Lanchester, Co Durham, DH7 0SS
📆 Open 17th May 2021
▪ Little Potter’s indoors play tunnel, plus free flying birds, Birds of Prey, reptiles, inveterate and fish. Aquatics centre with tropical fish within garden centre. No booking needed, check for updates here.
Moorhouse Farm
📌 Station Road, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 6DX
▪ Working farm with outdoor play area, no booking needed.
North East Falconry
📌 Heddon View, Ryton, Gateshead, NE40 3JB
🎫 Advance bookings only, contact info@northeastfalconry.co.uk or 07592 932 533
▪ Small group outdoors falconry experiences available, including new experience for 2021 here
Northumberland College Zoo (previously Kirkley Hall Zoological Gardens)
📌 Kirkley Hall, Ponteland, Northumberland, NE20 0AQ
📆 Open from 17th April 2021
🎫 Book here
Northumberland Country Zoo
📌 Eshottheugh Farm, Eshottheugh in Felton, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE65 9QH
📆 Open from 12th April 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Indoor nocturnal area and hothouse now open, as well as Bird of Prey indoor flying display and Minibeast Talks.
Ouseburn Farm
📌 Ouseburn Road, Ouseburn, Newcastle, NE1 2PA
📆 Open from 13th April 2021
🎫 Book here
Pets Corner
📌 Jesmond Dene, Jesmond, Newcastle, NE7 7DA
📆 Open from 10th May
▪ Free, no booking required. Open 11-2pm, check updates here.
Rising Sun Farm
📌 King’s Road North, Rising Sun Country Park, North Tyneside, NE28 9JL
▪ Working farm with sheep, goats, pigs, horses and poultry, plus Earth & Fire Bakery on site. Free, no booking required.
Tweddle Farm
📌 Filipoke Lane, Blackhall Colliery, Co Durham, TS27 4BT
📆 Outdoors attractions open from 12th April 2021, indoors open from 19th May 2021
🎫 Book here or call 0191 586 3311
▪ Under 5s soft play, play barn, indoor go karts, indoor animal barns and crazy golf open.
Tynemouth Aquarium
📌 Grand Parade, Tynemouth, North Tyneside, NE3O 4JF
📆 Seal cove and play area open from 12th April 2021
📆 Aquarium open 17th May 2021
🎫 Book online here
▪Day tickets can be booked online and are valid for up to 6 months with no need to pre-book a specific date, annual passes also available.
Wheelbirks Parlour
📌 Wheelbirks Farm, Stocksfield, Northumberland, NE43 7HY
▪ Working farm with cattle, donkeys and chickens offering ice cream, smoothies, milkshakes and desserts, with spacious orchard and play area. No booking required.
Whitehouse Farm Centre
📌 North Whitehouse Farm, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 6AW
📆 Open from 12th April 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Indoors picnic barn and seating in cafe now open.
WWT Washington Wetland Centre
📌 Barmston Lane, Pattinson, Washington, NE38 8LE
📆 Open from 12th April 2021
🎫 Book here
Brocksbushes Farm Fun Zone
📌 Brocksbushes Farm, Corbridge, Northumberland, NE43 7UB
📆 Open 22nd-23rd May & 29th May-6th June 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Pop-up fair with unlimited rides, bouncy castles, crazy golf, giant slides, garden games and more. Dinosaur meet and greets at intervals daily (excludes toddler days), selected days Animals About Town Petting Farm and Bubbleologist. £7.99 per session per child, adults 50p (booking fees apply).
Chester-le Street Riverside Park Funfair
📌 Riverside Park, Chester-le-Street, Co Durham, DH3 3SJ
📆 Open 1st May – 6th June 2021
▪ Pop-up fair with rides, big wheel, dodgems, Bungee trampolines, games and more. No booking needed.
Diggerland Durham
📌 Riverside Industrial Estate, Langley Park, Durham, County Durham, DH7 9TT
📆 Open from 12th April 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Construction-themed rides and experiences for digger lovers of all ages.
Hardwick Hall Hotel
📌 Sedgefield, Stockton-On-Tees, County Durham, TS21 2EH
📆 Rides from April – 16th May 2021
▪ Pop-up fairground rides, street food and beer garden with lovely countryside views over Hardwick Park. No booking needed.
Mini Hoppings at Nuns Moor
📌 Nuns Moor, Fenham, Newcastle, NE4 5 AH
📆 28th April – 5th May 2021
▪ Pop-up fair with rides, stalls and catering, plus on selected dates special guests including Bubbleman and dinosaurs. Free entry, no booking needed, cash or card accepted.
Ocean Beach Pleasure Park & The Dunes Adventure Island
📌 Sea Road, South Shields, NE33 2LD
📆 Funfair rides and stalls open from 12th April 2021
📆 Arcade, bowling and soft play open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here for soft play and bowling. Fun Cards for fairground rides available online here or at pay points in fair.
Rainton Arena Spring Fair
📌 Mercantile Rd, Houghton le Spring, Sunderland, DH4 5PH
📆 Open from 12th April – 9th May 2021
🎫 Book rollerskating here
▪ Pop-up fair with rides, rollerskating, outdoor beer garden and food stalls. General admission free, no booking needed apart from rollerskating.
Royal Quays Funfair
📌 Coble Dene, North Shields, NE29 6DW
📆 1st-3rd & 8-9th May 2021
▪ Pop-up fair with rides, stalls and bungee trampolines, with Star wars guests and start up market on selected dates. Free entry, no booking needed.
Spanish City Family Funfair
📌 The Links, Whitley Bay, North Tyneside, NE26 1PS
📆 29th May – 4th June 2021
▪ Pop-up fair with stalls, rides – including the Giant Mad Mountain Slide – and bungee trampolines. No booking needed.
Stanley Funfair
📌 Oakey Park, Stanley, Co Durham, DH9 8AW
📆 19th – 23rd May 2021
▪ Pop-up fair with rides, stalls and bungee trampolines. £1 entry, no booking needed, all rides £1.50 (excluding bungee trampolines).
The Alnwick Garden
📌 Greenwell Road, Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 1YU
📆 Open from 29th March 2021
🎫 Book here
Beamish Hall & Grounds
📌 Beamish Hall, Stanley, Durham, DH9 0YB
📆 Adventures in Wonderland woodland walk open March-June 2021
🎫 Book here
Beamish Museum
📌 Beamish, County Durham, DH9 0RG
📆 Grounds open from 12th April 2021, indoors open 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Indoors exhibits open, bus rides running and fairground rides on selected dates. Farm area initially closed (animals can be viewed around grounds), trams expected to begin running in Sep.
Belsay Hall Castle and Gardens
📌 Belsay, Northumberland, NE20 0DX (English Heritage site)
📆 Open from 29th March 2021
🎫 Book here
Birkheads Secret Gardens
📌 Birk Heads, Marley Hill, Gateshead, NE16 5EL
📆 Open selected dates from March 2021
▪ Check here for updates or call 07778 447 920
The Bowes Museum
📌 Barnard Castle, Co Durham DL12 8NP
📆 Grounds open, with woodland fairy trail and spring trails from 29th March 2021
🎫 More info here
Gibside
📌 Rowlands Gill, Burnopfield, Gateshead, NE16 6BG
📆 Grounds open
🎫 Book here (National Trust)
Lambton Park
📌 Chester-le-Street, Co Durham, DH3 4PQ
📆 Grounds open 29th May 2021
▪ Seasonal permissive access routes open daily 9am-6pm (last access 5pm) until 30th June 2021, after which open Sundays only until 30th Sep. Limited car parking in Bowes Business Park (£3 charge).
Tynemouth Priory and Castle
📌 Pier Road, Tynemouth, North Tyneside, NE30 4BZ
📆 Grounds open
🎫 Book here (English Heritage)
Wallington
📌 Cambo, near Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 4AR
📆 Grounds open
🎫 Book here (National Trust)
Arbeia, South Shields Roman Fort
📌 Baring Street, South Shields, NE33 2BB
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book free tickets here
▪ More info here to help plan your visit. Timequest and the West Gate will initially remain closed.
BALTIC
📌 Gateshead Quays, South Shore Road, Gateshead NE8 3BA
📆 Open from 19th May 2021
🎫 Book free tickets for gallery here, Learning Lounge here and Sensory Room here, or call 0191 261 3830.
▪ Booking recommended, visits on the day welcome depending on capacity.
Beamish Museum
📌 Beamish, County Durham, DH9 0RG
📆 Grounds open from 12th April 2021, indoors open 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Indoors exhibits open, bus rides running and fairground rides on selected dates. Farm area initially closed (animals can be viewed around grounds), trams expected to begin running in Sep.
The Bowes Museum
📌 Barnard Castle, Co Durham DL12 8NP
📆 Grounds open 29th March 2021, museum open 17th May 2021
🎫 Book museum entry here
▪ Woodland fairy trail and spring trails to enjoy in the grounds from March.
Discovery Museum
📌 Blandford Square, Newcastle, NE1 4JA
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book free tickets here
▪Free opening event outdoors in Rainbow Plaza on Sat 22nd May with crafts from Chalk. No booking needed.
▪ Some areas will initially remain closed, including Play Tyne water play, Play+Invent creative space, hands-on interactive displays in all galleries and soft play in Science Maze.
▪ Tickets are released Mondays (excluding for opening week), with Must-See Members benefiting from early bookings.
Great North Museum: Hancock
📌 Barras Bridge, Newcastle, NE2 4PT
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book free tickets here
▪ More info here to help plan your visit. Some areas will initially remain closed, including buggy parking, the under 5s’ gallery, planetarium, selected galleries and hands-on interactive displays in all galleries.
Jarrow Hall Anglo-Saxon Farm
📌 Village and Bede Museum, Church Bank, Jarrow, South Tyneside, NE32 3DY
📆 Farm and Anglo-Saxon Village open 13th April 2021, Bede Museum open 20th May 2021
🎫 Book here
Laing Art Gallery
📌 Newcastle, NE1 8AG
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here for Challenging Convention exhibition.
▪ More info here to help plan your visit. No booking needed for free displays. Booking recommended for special exhibitions, although there are also some walk up tickets available. The Under 5s area will remain closed initially.
Locomotion
📌 Dale Road Industrial Estate, Shildon, Co Durham, DL4 2RE
📆 Open from 19th May 2021
🎫 Book free tickets here
▪More info here to help plan your visit.
Science at Life
📌 Times Square, Newcastle, NE1 4EP
📆 Open from 10th July 2021
▪Full details here, tickets haven’t been released yet but join the mailing list here to keep updated.
Shipley Art Gallery
📌 Prince Consort Road, Gateshead, NE8 4JB
📆 Open from 18th May 2021
▪ More info here to help plan your visit. No need to book in advance. The lounge, study centre and workshop remain closed initially and the toddler toys and magic carpets aren’t available for use.
South Shields Museum & Art Gallery
📌 Ocean Road, South Shields, NE33 2JA
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book free tickets here
▪ More info here to help plan your visit. Creature Corner is open, where you can view snakes, spiders and lizards. Booking is recommended, although there will be some walk up tickets available.
Stephenson Steam Railway
📌 Middle Engine Lane, North Shields, NE29 8DX
📆 Open from 23rd May 2021
🎫 Book tickets here
▪ More info here to help plan your visit. Tickets include a heritage train ride followed by entry to the museum. Open Sundays, Bank Holiday Mondays, and Thursdays during school holidays.
Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens
📌 Burdon Rd, Sunderland, SR1 1PP
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
▪ More info here to help plan your visit. No booking required. Initially only the ground floor will be open, with the remaining areas due to open in the coming weeks.
Tanfield Railway
📌 Old Marley Hill, Gateshead, NE16 5ET
📆 Open from 17th April 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ More info here to help plan your visit. Steam trains will run on weekends and bank holiday Mondays from East Tanfield to Andrews House station (1h return journey). Tommy Armstrong Tea Rooms also open.
Victoria Tunnel
📌 Lime Street, Ouseburn Valley, Newcastle, NE1 2PQ
📆 Tours from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ One-hour Victoria Tunnel tours for single households (or support bubbles) of 2-6 people.
Woodhorn Museum
📌 Woodhorn, QEII Country Park, Ashington, Northumberland, NE63 9YF
📆 Open from 19th May 2021
▪ More info here to help plan your visit. No need to pre-book. The Pit Yard Play Area is open.
**Extra info & pics of some fab Play Cafes here**
BALTIC
📌 Gateshead Quays, South Shore Road, Gateshead NE8 3BA
📆 Open from 19th May 2021
🎫 Book free tickets for gallery here, Learning Lounge here and Sensory Room here, or call 0191 261 3830.
▪ Booking recommended, visits on the day welcome depending on capacity.
Blaydon Pre-School Toddler Club
📌 Blaydon Youth Centre, Shibdon Road, Blaydon, Gateshead, NE21 5QE
📆 Book from 7th May 2021
🎫 Book on 0191 414 5206 or email info@blaydonycc.org.uk
▪ Fun and friendly play sessions with activities, toys and games for 0-4 years, also providing an opportunity for parents and carers chat with the Blaydon Pre-School child care team. Monday mornings and Wednesday afternoons.
Dunston Centre – Monkey Madness Toddler Group
📌 Dunston Community Centre, Collingwood Terrace, Gateshead, NE11 9DU
📆 From 21st April 2021
🎫 Comment on post here if interested in attending
▪ Parent and toddler group with pop up soft play, Thursdays 9.30-11am
Dunston Centre – Riverside Delight
📌 Dunston Community Centre, Collingwood Terrace, Gateshead, NE11 9DU
📆 From 17th April 2021
🎫 Message here or call to book
▪ Outdoor Cake & Play sessions with toddler toys and ride ons with pop-up shop serving delicious treats from Riverside Delight. Fridays and Saturdays 10-11am, booking required. Indoor cafe play session with toys and soft play shapes, Sundays 2-5pm, no booking needed.
Gateshead Children’s Centres
📌 Multiple Gateshead locations here
📆 Sensory rooms open from 4th May 2021
📆 Sessions & classes from 17th May 2021
🎫 Call 0191 433 6439 / 433 5100 to book, or email: CCSensoryRoomBookings@gateshead.gov.uk
/ gatesheadchildrenscentre@gateshead.gov.uk
▪Sensory rooms available to book at Chowdene, Elgin Centre and Leam Lane, and a range of sessions across various centres, such as Baby Time, Massage, Toddler Time, Trike Time and pop up Soft Play & Bouncy Castle.
Kiddies Play Cafe
📌 High Street, Felling, Gateshead, NE10 9LU
📆 Open 22nd May 2021
🎫 Message here or call 07486 036 568
▪ Brand new cafe with youth drop in, craft sessions, young mums club, messy play, sensory sessions and parent & child classes.
The Kiln Pottery Studio
📌 Durham Road, Low Fell, Gateshead NE9 6HU
📆 Open 21st May 2021
🎫 Message here to book.
▪ Paint-your-own-pottery sessions
Lilyput Lane
📌 High Street, Felling, Gateshead, NE10 9LU
📆 Open 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here for role play sessions, look out for special events here
▪ Role play village, ride on toys, dress up area and designated baby area, with special events and meet and greets.
Lobley Hill Community Centre Playgroup
📌 Scafell Gardens, Lobley Hill. Gateshead, NE11 9LS
📆 From 20th May 2021
🎫 Call 0191 460 4280
▪ Parent and toddler group Thursdays 9-11am (term time only).
Marley Hill Community Centre – Noah’s Ark Baby & Toddler Group
📌 Church Street, Marley Hill, Gateshead, NE16 5DW
📆 From May 2021
🎫 Call 0191 265 4979 or email office@lifevineyard.church
▪ Parent and toddler group Fridays 10am-12pm (term time only).
The Nest Cafe
📌 Durham Rd, Low Fell, Gateshead NE9 5AN
📆 Open 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here for Boob Club, Babba Club and Toddle Club
▪ No booking needed for cafe and play area with toys. Booking required for weekly social and support groups below. Look out here for updates on additional groups and events.
Boob Club – support for breastfeeding mums, Thursdays 9.30-11am.
Babba Club – babies up to 12 months, Mondays 10-11.30am.
Toddle Club – 12 months to pre-school age, Mondays 12.30pm – 2pm & Fridays 10.45am – 12.15pm.
Pineapple and Bears
📌 Spa well Road, Winlaton, Gateshead, NE21 6RT
📆 Outdoor under 7s play area open from 20th April 2021
📆 Indoor play sessions from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Under 7s soft play, sensory room and outdoor play area (separate bookings required), with classes and special events.
Raven Valley Gym Club
📌 Raven Valley Gym Club, Riverside Park, Gateshead, NE11 9DJ
📆 Open 12th April
🎫 Call 0191 447 1720 to book classes or to pre-book soft play
▪ Raven Rascals casual parent & toddler sessions available (and structured gymnastics classes for all ages). Pop up soft play available from 17th May.
Springwell SVCV Toddler Groups
📌 Fell Rd, Springwell Village, Gateshead, NE9 7RP
📆 From 12th April 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ A local, parent-run baby and toddler group in the community centre, Little Wonders toddler group runs Mon AM/PM, Tues PM and Thurs PM, plus Twin-Tastic playgroup Fri AM.
Canny Crafty
📌 Salters Road, Gosforth, Newcastle, NE3 1DU
📆 Baby print appointments from 20th April 2021
📆 Pottery painting sessions from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Baby print keepsakes and sit-in pottery painting sessions, plus Canny Crafty takeaway kits to paint at home.
The Coffee Hideout
📌 Chillingham Road, Heaton, Newcastle, NE6 5QU
📆 Open 12th April 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Packed timetable of baby and toddler classes and groups available.
Craft House
📌 Park View, Whitley Bay, North Tyneside, NE26 3QL
📆 Open 14th April 2021
🎫 Booking recommended, message here to book
▪ Craft & create sessions for children and adults using a range of materials.
Littley Bay
📌 Marine Avenue, Whitley Bay, North Tyneside, NE26 1LY
📆 Opening date tbc (expected to be after 17th May)
🎫 Look out here for updates
▪Role play cafe, dress up and ride on toys.
North East Gymnastics Academy
📌 Newburn Activity Centre, Grange Rd, Newburn, Newcastle, NE15 8ND
📆 From 12th April
🎫 Book here
▪ Pre-school gymnastics Mondays & Sundays, Stay & Play sessions Mondays and Fridays.
The Owl Tree Childrens Cafe
📌 Kingston Park Road, Gosforth, Newcastle, NE3 2HY
📆 Classes & groups from 19th April 2021
📆 Indoor play sessions from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Themed play and activities in indoor and outdoor play areas, with toys, crafts, messy play, sensory play, role play and a designated baby area.
The Splat Centre
📌 Whitley Road, Whitley Bay, North Tyneside, NE26 2HU
📆 Open 17th May 2021
🎫 No booking needed, look out for updates here
▪ Soft play, toddler area and sensory areas, with a activity sessions for babies, toddlers and children of all ages, plus nursery childcare sessions.
Tumble Gymnastics and Activity Centre
📌 North Tyneside Industrial Estate, Benton, Newcastle, NE12 9SZ
📆 Sessions from 12th April 2021
🎫 Book here
▪Tumble Fun Time play sessions for 1-5 years with pop up soft play and gymnastics equipment.
Well Bee-ing Hub & Cafe
📌 84 Park Road, Wallsend, NE28 6QY (previously Tots Tea Rooms)
▪ Brand new community space and cafe opening soon . Look out for updates here.
Hedworth Gymnastics Centre
📌 Hedworthfield Community Association, Jarrow, South Tyneside, NE32 4QD
📆 Open from 12th April
🎫 Text 07388 331 873 to book
▪ Parents and Tots pop-up soft play sessions with focussed activities Mon-Thurs AM and Thurs PM.
It’s A Small World
📌 Donkin Road, Washington, Sunderland, NE37 1PF
📆 Open 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here for role play sessions, look out for special events here
▪ Role play village, ride on toys, soft play shapes and designated baby room, with special events and character meet and greets.
The Play Café Sunderland
📌 9-10 Station Rd, Sunderland, SR69AA
📆 Classes from 12th April 2021
📆 Indoor play sessions from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Play area with toys, role play and soft play shapes. Free stay and play sessions (booking and deposit needed) along with a packed programme of weekly sessions and events.
Silly Billy’s
📌 Herrington Burn, Houghton le Spring, Sunderland, DH4 4JW
📆 Open from late May 2021
▪ Soft play, messy play and role play cafe for 0-6 years old. Opening date delayed slightly due to water damage, check here for updates.
South Tyneside Gymnastics & Wellbeing Centre
📌 John Reid Road, South Shields, NE34 8QN
📆 Open 12th April
🎫 Message here
▪ To register for Play Tots sessions message Facebook page with your child’s name, contact number and any preferred days and times.
The Urban Factory
📌 Unit 6 Victoria Park Industrial Estate, Hebburn, South Tyneside, NE31 1UB
📆 TUF Time sessions from 19th April 2021
🎫 Message here for booking info
▪Under 5s TUF Time parent & toddler sessions available (and structured gymnastics classes for all ages)
Williby Roc’s CIC
📌 Bilton Hall Community Trust, South Shields, NE32 3RT
📆 Sessions from 19th April 2021
🎫 Message here
▪ Little Buds outdoors playgroup with water play, mud kitchen, bird spotting, bug hunting and more.
Woodland Play Patch
📌 10 Morton Crescent, Houghton le Spring, Sunderland, DH4 6AD
📆 Groups and exclusive use from 12th April 2021
📆 Indoor play sessions from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Open plan all wooden play area for babies and toddlers with toys and climbing frame, with play sessions and social sessions.
Bee Happy Play Cafe
📌 Bracken Hill, South West Industrial Estate, Peterlee, Durham, SR8 2LS
📆 Classes & outdoor play from 12th April 2021
📆 Indoor play sessions from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Indoors and outdoors play facilities suitable from birth to 5 years, with a packed programme of weekly activities and special events.
Bertie’s Play Barn
📌 Prince Bishops Shopping Centre, High Street, Durham, DH1 3UJ
📆 Open 17th May 2021
🎫 Updates here
▪ Interactive play village with role play areas, ride on toys and table-top toys.
Clart About Sensory Cafe
📌 Consett Industrial Estate, Co Durham, DH8 6SZ
📆 Classes from 10th May 2021
📆 Indoor play sessions from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Multi-sensory room, soft-play shapes, baby play area and role play area, with classes and support sessions for children and parents.
The Craft Cabin Northeast CIC
📌 Front street, Chester-le-Street, Co Durham, DH3 3AY
📆 Open 17th May 2021
🎫 Message here to book
▪ Craft activities from toddlers to teens, including: pottery painting, slime making, sand art, wooden item painting & decorating, fabric bags and pencil case decorating, t shirts & more.
Dragonflies Durham
📌 Dragonville Industrial Park, Durham, DH1 2XW
📆 Classes and baby sensory room open from 12th April 2021
📆 Soft play from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Soft play for up to 8 years old, with trampoline, football pitch and role play area, plus baby sensory room and classes.
Dream Big Role Play Centre
📌 Grange Villa, Durham, DH2 3LN
📆 Outdoor play, sensory snug and classes from 12th April 2021
📆 Indoor play sessions from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Role play centre with large outdoor play area and indoor sensory snug, with packed programme of weekly classes and a breastfeeding support group.
Lanchester Garden Centre – Potters World
📌 Bargate Bank, Lanchester, Co Durham, DH7 0SS
📆 Open 17th May 2021
▪ Little Potter’s indoors play tunnel, plus free flying birds, Birds of Prey, reptiles, inveterate and fish. Aquatics centre with tropical fish within garden centre. No booking needed, check for updates here.
Little Land of Adventures
📌 Beveridge Way, Newton Aycliffe, Co Durham, DL5 4DU
📆 Classes from 12th April 2021, play sessions from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Role play centre for 0-7 years, also with classes and special events.
Little Learners Playspace
📌 Cornmill Centre, Darlington, Co Durham, DL1 1LT
📆 Open 12th April 2021
🎫 Book here (special events here)
▪ Mark making messy play sessions.
Little Legz
📌 Church Street, Coxhoe, Co Durham, DH6 4DD
📆 Classes from 12th April 2021, play sessions from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪Soft play, play rooms, sensory room and classes.
Moobears
📌 Edwards Square, Low Chare, Chester-le-Street, Co Durham, DH3 3QF
📆 Open 17th May 2021
🎫 Call to book on 07517 258 494 / 0191 389 025
▪ Pre-school soft play area, role play, arts and crafts and sensory play, plus special events. Look out for new website here.
Oopsy Down Town
📌 Seaside Lane, Peterlee, Durham, SR8 3PF
📆 Open 17th May 2021
🎫 Message here to book
▪ Pre-school soft play area, role play village, crafts and sensory play, with classes special events.
Petite Street Playtown
📌 St Johns Road, Meadowfield Industrial Estate, Co Durham, DH7 8TZ
📆 Classes & outdoor play from 12th April 2021
📆 Indoor play sessions from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Role play town and outdoor play including sand pit and ride on ramp, with packed programme of weekly activities and special events.
Playdates Baby Lounge
📌 Church Street, Seaham Harbour, Co Durham, SR7 7HQ
📆 Classes from April 2021, indoor play from 19th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Indoor play area and packed programme of activities, stay & play sessions and special events.
The Play Place
📌 Pease Road, North West Industrial Estate, Peterlee, Co Durham, SR8 2RD
📆 Classes from 12th April 2021, indoor play sessions from 17th May 2021
🎫 Message here to book
▪ Cafe with baby and toddler toys and role play areas, with weekly classes and special events.
World of Make Believe Play Cafe
📌 203 Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland, Co Durham, DL14 7
📆 Classes from 12th April 2021, play sessions from 17th May 2021
🎫 Message here
▪ Play centre for 0-8 years, including sensory room and packed timetable of classes.
Gigglewicks
📌 Network Centre, Colburn Avenue, Cramlington. NE23 1WD
📆 Indoor play from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Indoor role play village for children 0-5 years old, with weekly classes and special events.
**Extra info & pics of some fab Play Cafes here**
@The Castle
📌 St Hildas Church, Stella Road, Blaydon, Gateshead, NE21 4NN
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Booking required on 0191 413 2311
Derwent Crossing, Brewers Fayre
📌 Derwent Haugh Road, Swallwell, Gateshead, NE16 3BJ
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Call 0191 414 6308 to book
▪ Maximum height restriction of 145cm. Kids under 90cm play for FREE!
Dunston Activity Centre Pop-Up Soft Play
📌 Ellison Road, Gateshead, NE11 9SS
📆 From 22nd May 2021
🎫 Call 0191 425 2222 to book
▪ Weekly pop-up soft play on Saturdays 10am-1pm, with soft play shapes, air track, giant inflatables and cafe.
Funshack Gateshead
📌 Team Valley Trading Est, Gateshead, NE11 0TU (previously Giant’s Den soft play)
📆 Opening late July 2021, check for updates here
▪Brand new Funshack soft play coming soon!!! Including soft play, toddler soft play & toddler village, trampolines, go karts, football courts, cannonball arena, volcano slide and rubber dingy slide.
Jump Giants
📌 Forge Road, Dunston, Gateshead, NE8 2RB
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Trampoline sessions and under 5s soft play area
Mister Twisters Jump Centre
📌 Unit 15E Follingsby Park, Wardley, Gateshead, NE10 8YG
📆 Supervised bounce activities open from 12th April 2021 (age 4-17)
📆 Soft play and **brand new laser tag!!** open from 17th May 2021
🎫Book here
▪ Soft play & trampolining, with Toddler Time discounts on selected days & times.
Namco Funscape
📌 Garden Walk, Metrocentre, Gateshead, NE11 9XY
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book bowling games here, to book soft play call 0191 406 1066
▪ Soft play sessions, bowling, dodgems, arcade and pool tables.
Ace Playce
📌 The Killingworth Centre, Killingworth, North Tyneside, NE12 6YT
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Soft play sessions, also playgroup sessions on Tuesday & Thursday mornings with toys, story-time, rhyme-time, crafts and soft play.
Captain Ted’s
📌 Old Church Hall, West Avenue, Gosforth, Newcastle, NE3 4ES
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Soft play sessions, also baby socials on Mondays and toddler group on Thursdays with games, Sticky Kids singing, dancing and soft play.
Funshack
📌 Unit A3, Benfield Business Park, Benfield Road, Newcastle, NE6 4NQ
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪Soft play sessions, also toddler time specials with discounted price Mon-Fri term times (last entry 2pm).
InflateSpace Newcastle
📌 Benfield Business Park, Newcastle, NE6 4NQ
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
Jump 360 Newcastle
📌 Benton Business Park, Bellway Industrial Estate, Newcastle, NE12 9SW
📆 Supervised sessions from 12th April 2021 (age 4-17), open sessions from 17th May
🎫 Book here
Kiki’s Kabin
📌 Albion Road, North Shields, North Tyneside, NE30 2RQ
📆 Open from 18th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Soft play set in an old church, with new kitchen, sports cage, traversing wall, bouncy castle and toddler village.
New Adventurelands
📌 Benton Road, Newcastle, NE7 7DT
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Every school day kids eat free day.
PaddlePod
📌 Silverbirch Drive, Killingworth, Newcastle, NE12 5AB
📌 New York Road, Shiremoor, North Tyneside, NE27 0NB
📆 Swimming from 12th April, soft play open 7th June 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ ‘Swim Eat Play’ with family swim sessions or lessons, cafe and under 5s soft play area. No booking required for Shiremoor soft play (check for updates here)
Round The Twist
📌 North Tyne Industrial Estate, Whitley Rd, Benton, Newcastle, NE12 9SZ
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ New sensory areas and role play village for 4 years and under, plus brand new crazy golf area. Free activities included in admission Mon-Fri term times.
Royal Quays, Brewers Fayre
📌 Coble Dene Road, North Shields, North Tyneside, NE29 6DL
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Call 0191 258 0287 to book
▪ Maximum height restriction of 145cm. Kids under 90cm play for FREE!
The Whitley Bay Treehouse
📌 Claremont Crescent, Whitley Bay, North Tyneside, NE26 3HL
📆 Open from 18th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Soft play for up to 8 years old, with main playframe, toddler soft play and dedicated baby area.
The Cinder Path, Brewers Fayre
📌 2 Hobsons Way, South Shields, South Tyneside, NE34 9PQ
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Call 0191 456 5500 to book
▪ Maximum height restriction of 145cm. Kids under 90cm play for FREE!
The Dunes Adventure Island & Ocean Beach Pleasure Park
📌 Sea Road, South Shields, NE33 2LD
📆 Funfair rides and stalls open from 12th April 2021
📆 Soft play, bowling and arcade open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here for soft play and bowling. Fun Cards for fairground rides available online here or at pay points in fair.
The Fun Jungle
📌 Sulgrave Road, Washington, NE37 3AZ
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Message here to book
Go Bananas
📌Whitburn Road, Seaburn, Sunderland, SR6 8AA
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
Jumbo Jims
📌 Garwood Street, South Shields, NE33 5AG
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
▪ Soft play for 0-8 years, no booking needed (check for updates here), daily activities included Mon-Fri 11am & 2pm (term time only), such as: Snack Club, Musical Movement, Arts and Crafts, and Fun With Food.
Millie’s Magical Garden
📌 Washington Millennium Centre, Concord, Washington, NE372QD
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Call 0191 561 3880
Tumbles
📌 Hylton Road, Sunderland, SR4 7XS
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪Soft play for 0-8 years with designated baby and toddler area.
Wacky Warehouse, Story Book
📌 Boldon Leisure Park, Abingdon Way, Boldon Colliery, Sunderland, NE35 9PB
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 No booking needed
▪ Soft play sessions with 1 hour play at peak times (excludes tots club)
The Wessington, Brewers Fayre
📌 Wessington Way, Castledown, Sunderland, SR5 3HR
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Call 0191 548 9384 to book
▪ Maximum height restriction of 145cm. Kids under 90cm play for FREE!
Adventure Valley
📌 Brasside, Durham, County Durham, DH1 5SG
📆 Mini golf open 29th March 2021, outdoors attractions open 12th April 2021, indoors from 17th May 2021.
🎫 Book here
▪ Soft play, undercover farmyard, creature corner and Wild West Saloon open, plus outdoor attractions including new Train Ride.
Dragonflies Durham
📌 35 Dragonville Industrial Park, Durham, DH1 2XW
📆 Classes & sensory room from 12th April 2021
📆 Soft play open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Baby classes, Fireflies Baby Hub sensory room and soft play sessions for up to 8 years.
Dunelm Ridge, Brewers Fayre
📌 Arnison Retail Centre, Pity Me, Durham, DH1 5GB
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Call 0191 383 9140 to book
▪ Maximum height restriction of 145cm. Kids under 90cm play for FREE!
Hall Hill Farm
📌 Lanchester, Durham, DH7 0TA
📆 Outdoors attractions open 12th April 2021, indoors from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Soft play and outdoors play areas open as well as animal handling/feeding, tractor rides, barrel rides and sheep racing.
Holmside Park
📌 Edmondsley, Chester le Street, Durham, DH7 6EY
📆 Outdoors events from 16th April, indoors attractions open 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ 20+ activities outdoors and indoors, including soft play, roller skating, archery, inflatables & more, plus special events such as Dino Experience days.
Infinite Air
📌 New Ferens Park, Belmont Industrial Estate, Durham, DH1 1GG
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪Jump sessions for age 6+ and tots sessions with soft play and trampolines.
Jumbo Jungle & Ultimate Bounce Zone
📌 Unit 40, No 1 Industrial Estate, Consett, County Durham, DH8 6TW
📆 Supervised sessions 17th April (4-17 yrs), open sessions from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book on 01207 500 007 / 07709 770 458
▪ Soft play and trampoline zone must be booked separately.
Krazy Kingdom
📌 Greencroft Industrial Park, Annfield Plain, Durham, DH9 7YB
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Book online for soft play, 30 minutes bowling sessions available to book on 01207 528 899.
Ruff ‘N’ Tumble Adventure World
📌 Millennium Way, Newton Aycliffe, Co Durham, DL5 6AR
📆 Open 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Soft play with dedicated areas for under 5s, bungee trampolines, climbing wall, ten pin bowling and sports courts.
Tweddle Farm
📌 Filipoke Lane, Blackhall Colliery, Co Durham, TS27 4BT
📆 Outdoors attractions open from 12th April 2021, indoors open from 19th May 2021
🎫 Book here or call 0191 586 3311
▪ Under 5s soft play, play barn, indoor go karts, indoor animal barns and crazy golf open.
Big Lick’s Soft Play (previously Diandjim’s Fun Station)
📌 Station Road, Prudhoe, Northumberland, NE42 6NP
📆 Open from 21st May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Soft play and ice cream parlour open.
Space to Play
📌 Barrington Industrial Estate, Bedlington, Northumberland, NE22 7DQ
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Under new management, with lots of changes to come including the brand new Snapdragon Cafe!
Angry Birds Adventure Golf
📌 intu Metrocentre, 56 Garden Walk, Gateshead, NE11 9XZ
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book online here
Battlezone Paintball Ltd
📌 Durham: Holmside Park, Edmondsley, Chester le Street, DH7 6EY
📌 Newcastle: Bygate Plantation, Black Heddon, Belsay, NE20 0JR
📆 Open from 29th March 2021
🎫 Book online here.
▪ Paintball, laser tag or mini paintball (8-11yrs), up to 30 people from different households can play at once!
Clip ‘n Climb
📌 Gateshead: The Yellow Mall, intu Metrocentre, NE11 9XY
📌 Newcastle: Benfield Business Park, Benfield Road, NE6 4NQ
📆 Open from 12th April 2021
🎫 Book online: Metrocentre / Newcastle
▪Opening date for Clip ‘n Climb at Gateshead Leisure Centre tbc.
Haven Point Swimming Pool
📌 Pier Parade, South Shields, NE33 2JS
📆 Open from 12th April 2021
🎫 Book on 0191 424 7800
▪ Water play area for younger children, and flume slide open at select times.
Hollywood Bowl
📌 Galleries Retail Park, Washington, NE38 7SB
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
Holmside Park
📌 Edmondsley, Chester le Street, Durham, DH7 6EY
📆 Outdoors events from 16th April, indoors attractions open 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ 20+ activities outdoors and indoors, including soft play, roller skating, archery, inflatables & more, plus special events such as Dino Experience days.
Mr Mulligans Newcastle
📌Newgate Street, Newcastle, NE1 5RZ
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Space themed crazy golf open.
Namco Funscape
📌 Garden Walk, Metrocentre, Gateshead, NE11 9XY
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book bowling games here, to book soft play call 0191 406 1066
▪ Soft play sessions, bowling, dodgems, arcade and pool tables
Ocean Beach Pleasure Park & The Dunes Adventure Island
📌 Sea Road, South Shields, NE33 2LD
📆 Funfair rides and stalls open from 12th April 2021
📆 Bowling, soft play and arcade open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here for soft play and bowling. Fun Cards for fairground rides available online here or at pay points in fair.
PaddlePod
📌 Silverbirch Drive, Killingworth, Newcastle, NE12 5AB
📌 New York Road, Shiremoor, North Tyneside, NE27 0NB
📆 Swimming from 12th April, soft play open 7th June 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ ‘Swim Eat Play’ with family swim sessions or lessons, cafe and under 5s soft play area. No booking required for Shiremoor soft play (check for updates here)
Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf
📌 Sea Road, South Shields, NE33 2LD
📆 Open from 29th March 2021
▪No booking required for pirate themed outdoor golf.
TopGear Karting
📌 Rennys Lane Industrial Estate, Durham, DH1 2rs
📆 Open from 17th May 2021
🎫 Book here or call 0191 3860999
▪ Suitable for adults and 8 years+ (min height 4’2)
Tynemouth Park
📌 Grande Parade Tynemouth, Tynemouth, North Tyneside, NE30 4JL
📆 Lost World Adventure Golf open & special events from 29th March 2021
📆 Maze and Jungle Wipeout outdoors inflatables open from 17th April 2021
▪ Book events here (pre-booking not required for other activities, time slots will be allocated on arrival).
War Room Laser Arena
📌 Rex Building, Harraton Terrace, Birtley, DH3 2QG
📆 Open from 22nd May 2021
🎫 Book here
▪ Brand new venue with laser tag and retro games, limited sessions available for opening weekend 22nd-23rd May, normal opening hours from 28th May.
Waves Swimming Pool
📌 The Links, Whitley Bay, North Tyneside, NE26 1TQ
📆 Open from 12th April 2021
🎫 Book on 0191 643 2600.
▪ Pirate ship area available for younger children, main slide and waves operating at select times. More info here.
Closure Announcements
One of the many impacts of Covid-19 has been the unprecedented financial challenges faced by many businesses. Sadly several much loved venues across the North East have closed during the course of the pandemic. Details are given below for completeness and to help avoid confusion.
The Ark @Crawcrook
📌 Main Road, Crawcrook, Gateshead, NE40 4UQ
▪ From 3rd April 2020 the soft play ceased to trade: ‘as a social enterprise the financial situation means the business is no longer viable in the present economic environment.’
Cafe At The Corner
📌 169 Sunderland Road, South Shields, NE34 6AD
▪ Announced on 19th February 2021 that the play cafe will not reopen due to the financial impact of the pandemic.
Crook Hall and Gardens
📌 Frankland Lane, Sidegate, Durham, DH1 5SZ
▪ Announced on 19th 2020 June 2020 that Crook Hall and Gardens will be permanently closed due to the financial impact of the pandemic. The business is going into liquidation with plans to sell.
Little Bee’s Cafe
📌 25 Beach Road, South Shields, South Tyneside, NE33 2QA
▪ Announced on 13th August 2020 that Little Bee’s play cafe will not re-open.
Pirates Cove
📌2 Rolling Mill Rd, Jarrow, NE32 3DP
▪ Announced on 15th August 2020 that Pirates Cove soft play will not reopen.
Pots-and Pancakes
📌 North Shields, North Tyneside, NE29 0BL
▪Announced 17th May 2021 that the cafe will not reopen for paint your own pottery sessions. However the good news is that the business will still be running as a takeaway service for crafts, including candle making, pottery wheel, mosaics, pottery packs and party packages.
Thought Foundation
📌 Clarity House, Durham Road, Birtley, Gateshead, DH3 2TB
▪ Announced on 26th July 2020 that the play cafe will not be reopening, as a CIC the financial situation and distancing measures means the business is no longer economically viable.
TJ’s Jungle
📌 Bassington Industrial Estate, Cramlington, Northumberland, NE23 8AD
▪ Announced on 3rd September 2020 that TJ’s Jungle soft play will not reopen, as with restrictions it would be a struggle to cope both financially and with meeting guidance rules to keep customers and staff safe.
Tots Tea Rooms
📌 84 Park Road, Wallsend, NE28 6QY
▪Re-opening as Well Bee-ing Hub & Cafe.
There’s plenty on Gateshead Mumbler to help keep little ones (and big ones!) busy, with our Days Out ‘Top 10s’ with handy map, Baby to Pre-school Classes in Gateshead, Afternoon Tea Deliveries & lots more!
If you’d like to keep up to date when new resources are added, please click here and like the Gateshead Mumbler Facebook page 🙂
