Newcastle, a vibrant city in North East England, offers a plethora of activities to keep children entertained during the summer month of August. From historical sites and interactive museums to exciting adventure parks and scenic outdoor spots, there’s something for every young adventurer. Here’s a guide to the best activities and attractions for kids in Newcastle this August.
### Outdoor Adventures
**Tynemouth Longsands Beach**: Just a short trip from the city center, Tynemouth Longsands Beach is perfect for a day of sandcastle building, surfing, and beach games. The golden sands and rolling waves make it a favorite summer spot for families.
**Jesmond Dene**: This beautiful park offers a peaceful escape with lush greenery, a tranquil stream, and a pet’s corner where kids can meet farm animals. It’s an ideal place for picnics, walks, and outdoor play.
**Exhibition Park**: Located near the city center, Exhibition Park features a boating lake, playgrounds, and plenty of space for running around. It’s a great spot for a relaxed family day out.
### Educational Visits
**Discovery Museum**: Engage young minds at the Discovery Museum, where science and local history come to life. With hands-on exhibits and interactive displays, kids can learn while having fun exploring topics from Tyneside’s maritime history to futuristic technology.
**Life Science Centre**: The Life Science Centre is a must-visit for curious kids. Featuring interactive science exhibits, a planetarium, and live science shows, it’s a hub of learning and discovery that will captivate children of all ages.
**Seven Stories**: As the National Centre for Children’s Books, Seven Stories is dedicated to the celebration of children’s literature. With interactive exhibits, storytelling sessions, and creative workshops, it’s a paradise for young book lovers.
### Adventure and Play
**Jump 360 Trampoline Park**: Let your kids bounce off the walls at Jump 360, an indoor trampoline park offering a range of activities from free jumping to foam pits and dodgeball. It’s an energetic and fun way to spend a few hours.
**Clip ‘n Climb Newcastle**: This indoor climbing center provides a safe and exciting environment for children to challenge themselves on various climbing walls. With different levels of difficulty, it’s suitable for all ages and abilities.
**Ocean Beach Pleasure Park**: Located in nearby South Shields, this amusement park features rides, arcades, and adventure golf. It’s an exciting day out that’s sure to be a hit with thrill-seekers.
### Wildlife and Nature
**Blue Reef Aquarium**: Dive into the underwater world at Blue Reef Aquarium in Tynemouth. Children can explore a variety of marine life, including a walkthrough tunnel where they’ll feel like they’re swimming with the fishes.
**Ouseburn Farm**: Situated in the Ouseburn Valley, this urban farm offers kids the chance to meet and learn about various farm animals. It’s a charming and educational experience in the heart of the city.
**Hancock Museum (Great North Museum)**: This museum is home to natural history exhibits, including dinosaur skeletons, ancient mummies, and a planetarium. It’s a fantastic place for kids to explore the wonders of the natural world.
### Festivals and Events
**Newcastle Mela**: Held annually in August, the Newcastle Mela celebrates South Asian culture with music, dance, food, and family-friendly activities. It’s a vibrant and colorful festival that offers a rich cultural experience for all ages.
**Summer in the City**: Throughout August, Newcastle hosts a range of events and activities as part of the Summer in the City program. From outdoor performances to family workshops, there’s always something happening to keep kids entertained.
**Northern Pride**: This inclusive festival celebrates LGBTQ+ culture with a variety of family-friendly events, including parades, live music, and funfair rides. It’s a joyful and welcoming event for all.
### Arts and Crafts
**The Biscuit Factory**: As the UK’s largest independent commercial art gallery, The Biscuit Factory in Newcastle offers creative workshops and activities for children. It’s a wonderful place to inspire creativity and appreciate contemporary art.
**Laing Art Gallery**: This gallery features a range of family-friendly activities and workshops alongside its impressive collection of art. It’s a great spot to introduce children to the world of fine art and artistic expression.
With its mix of outdoor adventures, educational experiences, and creative activities, Newcastle is an ideal destination for family fun this August. Whether your children are budding scientists, artists, or adventurers, there’s something here to capture their imaginations and create unforgettable summer memories.