North East England is a treasure trove of activities for families with children, especially in the summer month of August. From historical sites and educational museums to exciting adventure parks and beautiful natural landscapes, there’s something for every young explorer. Here’s a roundup of the top activities and attractions to keep your kids entertained this August.
Outdoor Adventures
**Alnwick Garden**: Start your adventure at the stunning Alnwick Garden. This sprawling garden boasts a mesmerizing grand cascade, the intriguing Poison Garden, and a magical treehouse restaurant. It’s an enchanting place for children to explore and let their imaginations run wild.
**Beamish Museum**: Take a step back in time at the Beamish Museum, an open-air museum that vividly brings history to life. Kids can experience what life was like in the 19th and early 20th centuries, with interactive exhibits and live demonstrations.
**Kielder Water & Forest Park**: For families who love the great outdoors, Kielder Water & Forest Park offers a wealth of activities. From cycling and walking trails to watersports, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this beautiful landscape.
**Tynemouth Longsands Beach**: Nothing says summer like a day at the beach. Tynemouth Longsands Beach, with its golden sands and excellent surfing waves, is perfect for a fun and relaxing family day out.
Educational Visits
**Durham Cathedral**: A visit to Durham Cathedral is both educational and awe-inspiring. Children can marvel at the stunning architecture and learn about the cathedral’s rich history.
**Discovery Museum, Newcastle**: This hands-on science and local history museum is fantastic for curious minds. With interactive exhibits, the Discovery Museum makes learning fun and engaging for kids of all ages.
**Life Science Centre, Newcastle**: At the Life Science Centre, children can enjoy interactive science exhibits, live shows, and even a planetarium. It’s a perfect place to spark a love for science and technology.
Adventure and Play
**Lightwater Valley Theme Park**: If your kids are thrill-seekers, Lightwater Valley Theme Park is the place to go. The park features a variety of rides and attractions suitable for all ages, ensuring a day full of excitement.
**Diggerland Durham**: For a unique experience, head to Diggerland Durham where children can drive and operate real diggers and construction machinery. It’s a one-of-a-kind adventure that’s sure to be a hit.
**Jump 360 Trampoline Park**: Let your kids burn off some energy at Jump 360, an indoor trampoline park that offers a fun and energetic experience for all ages.
Wildlife and Nature
**Blue Reef Aquarium, Tynemouth**: Dive into the wonders of marine life at the Blue Reef Aquarium. With a variety of marine species and a spectacular walkthrough tunnel, it’s an educational and fascinating visit for children.
**Northumberland National Park**: This national park is ideal for nature walks, picnics, and wildlife spotting. It’s a great way for families to enjoy the beauty of nature and perhaps even spot some local wildlife.
**Sunderland’s Washington Wetland Centre**: For a closer look at birdlife, the Washington Wetland Centre offers excellent bird-watching opportunities and nature trails that kids will love to explore.
Festivals and Events
**Durham Lumiere**: While the dates may vary, the Durham Lumiere is a must-see light festival. The event transforms the city with stunning light installations, creating a magical atmosphere that children will adore.
**Newcastle Mela**: Celebrate South Asian culture at the Newcastle Mela. This vibrant festival features music, dance, and delicious food, providing a cultural feast for the senses.
**Great Northumberland**: Throughout August, Great Northumberland hosts a variety of cultural and family events across the county. From arts and crafts to performances and workshops, there’s always something happening to engage young minds.
Arts and Crafts
**Seven Stories, Newcastle**: As the National Centre for Children’s Books, Seven Stories offers interactive exhibits and storytelling sessions. It’s a wonderful place to nurture a love for reading and creativity.
**The Biscuit Factory, Newcastle**: This art gallery not only showcases contemporary art but also offers workshops and activities for children. It’s a great spot for kids to get creative and learn about art.
With such a diverse range of activities, North East England is an ideal destination for family fun this August. Whether your children are adventurers, history buffs, or budding scientists, there’s something here to capture their imaginations and create lasting memories.