Free places to visit in the North East this Easter

Keeping the kids entertained for 2 weeks can be an expensive business! Here is our guide to what's on across the North East FOR FREE! This guide covers weeks one, look out for part two next week.

First of all you can check out the FREE farms at Bill Quay Community Farm , Ouseburn and The Rising Sun Farm. These farms are not huge but they do all have a nice selection of animals and if you are in desperate need of some fresh air they are a great place to explore with little ones. You be lucky and spot a baby lamb being born or a chick hatching from it's shell. Also don't forget about the fantastic Pets corner in Jesmond Dene which is also free to explore.

If the weather isn't too promising, you could always visit the Metro Centre and catch their free performance of their Easter panto (or you could visit Woodhorn and explore their mining museum for free. There will also be a Spring craft activity to take part in (donation welcome)

The Baltic centre for contemporary art is free to visit and children will love the speedy glass lifts that take you to the viewing platform with fantastic views of the Tyne. Between 2-4pm everyday there is also a free drop in session where families can get hands on and help to create a giant suspended art island.

Saturday 5th April is the day that Wallsend parks are celebrating their recent restoration. There is lots going on including circus performers, falconry displays, live music, treasure trails, bouncy castle, animal holding, children's rides as well as brilliant evening entertainment. The family celebrations are taking place in Richardson Dees Park from 12noon - 5pm before moving to the Wallsend Hall and Promenade for evening entertainment from 5pm - 8pm. 

Saturday also will see the opening of Littlehaven Promenade and Seawell opening celebrations. Expect performers, gymnastics, a Punch and Judy show, musicians, kite flying and then a spectacular fireworks and light show at 8pm. Visit their website for more details.

On a Sunday 6th April, The Stephenson Railway museum is holding a Free engine power event. There will be steam, electric and Diesel engines parading around the yard for all to enjoy. This event is a must for children who are train mad!

There are lots of free activiities to enjoy at the Hatton Gallery this Easter including your chance to take part in a photo shoot like a real celebrity on Monday 7th April and create your own pop art masterpiece on Wednesday 9th April.

The Great North Museum welcomes Cbeebies star Tree Fu Tom on Thursday 10th April as part of their new magical worlds exhibition. Space is limited though so get down early if you want to meet the star! There are a lot of free events happening at this museum this week including a magician and birds of prey display. Check out their events page for dates and times.

Thursday 10th will also be the day that the discovery museum is transformed into a Mad Hatter's Hat parade! There is a free craft activity to create your own hat and you can view hats from across the ages.

There will be a Spring hog roast evening at Gibside on Friday 11th. There will be live music and face painting alongside beers and ales on sale. The kids can enjoy the small play area while you sit back and enjoy.

Everything in this article IS FREE unless stated otherwise. Please check direct with venue before making arrangements.