This post covers April 2024. If you'd like to see what's on over March (including Good Friday and Easter Sunday), please check our our March What's On Guide below:
🦌 Raby Castle Deer Park 🦌
An Easter Family Fun Trail will run across the 14th century estate’s parkland daily from 23 March - 14 April.
Discover farmyard animals including Ducks and Swans as well as Raby’s famous Fallow and Red Deer. Collect a trail sheet from the arrival kiosk - it’s included with admission. Dogs on leads are welcome to join you in the deer park and the paths are surfaced / accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. It’s a stunning walk and one of our favourites.
🪺 Plotters’ Forest 🪺
At the Plotters’ Forest, families will have the chance to seek out colourful Easter Eggs hidden in Raby’s wooden adventure playground as part of their ‘Eggcellent Eggs in the Plotters’ Forest’ event. From 23 March - 14 April, visitors can collect the clues to spell out the Easter Bunny’s new name. This trail is included with Plotters’ Forest admission.
🏰 Kids Go Free - Raby Castle 🏰
As an extra special treat, throughout the holiday period, kids can visit Raby Castle FOR FREE with a valid Plotters’ Forest and Deer Park ticket. This is a lovely opportunity to explore inside the castle walls - don’t forget to collect your Castle Quest sheet on arrival.
🐰High Force Waterfall & Hotel 🐰
Enjoy a fun and friendly ‘Bunny Hop Trail’ at the stunning High Force Waterfall from 23 March - 14 April. Follow the bunny footprints to find the High Force Easter Bunny. This trail is included with waterfall admission and dogs on leads are welcome. Why not pop to the High Force Hotel for lunch or drinks afterwards?
Pre-booking is recommended for all of the above, however walk-ins may be available subject to availability. It’s quick and easy to book ahead online, even on the same day, and I would recommend this to avoid disappointment.
Find out more and book: https://www.raby.co.uk/whats-on/
Dedicated toddler days for ages 2-5years are available on 28th March, 26th April and 3rd May although of course, toddlers are welcome at the main sessions too.
Extend the day......... Brocksbuses will also be operating their own Easter activities on a drop in basis from 28 March-14 April. Expect eggs-cavation stations, Egghead relays and more. Additional charges may apply.
OR you may remember we teamed a recent visit to Brocksbushes with a trip the The Museum of Classic Sci-Fi and Doctor Who. Why not do just that and make a day of it?
(ad) Easter at Beamish
Daytime events are included with your Beamish Unlimited Pass and there's no need to book - just drop in during museum opening hours and show your pass (or purchase on arrival).
As well as the usual Beamish fun, these special events are planned for the holidays this year:
(ad) Newcastle Puppetry Festival
(ad) Easter at Raby Castle & High Force
🦌 Raby Castle Deer Park 🦌
An Easter Family Fun Trail will run across the 14th century estate’s parkland daily from 23 March - 14 April.
Discover farmyard animals including Ducks and Swans as well as Raby’s famous Fallow and Red Deer. Collect a trail sheet from the arrival kiosk - it’s included with admission. Dogs on leads are welcome to join you in the deer park and the paths are surfaced / accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. It’s a stunning walk and one of our favourites.
🪺 Plotters’ Forest 🪺
At the Plotters’ Forest, families will have the chance to seek out colourful Easter Eggs hidden in Raby’s wooden adventure playground as part of their ‘Eggcellent Eggs in the Plotters’ Forest’ event. From 23 March - 14 April, visitors can collect the clues to spell out the Easter Bunny’s new name. This trail is included with Plotters’ Forest admission.
🏰 Kids Go Free - Raby Castle 🏰
As an extra special treat, throughout the holiday period, kids can visit Raby Castle FOR FREE with a valid Plotters’ Forest and Deer Park ticket. This is a lovely opportunity to explore inside the castle walls - don’t forget to collect your Castle Quest sheet on arrival.
🐰High Force Waterfall & Hotel 🐰
Enjoy a fun and friendly ‘Bunny Hop Trail’ at the stunning High Force Waterfall from 23 March - 14 April. Follow the bunny footprints to find the High Force Easter Bunny. This trail is included with waterfall admission and dogs on leads are welcome. Why not pop to the High Force Hotel for lunch or drinks afterwards?
Pre-booking is recommended for all of the above, however walk-ins may be available subject to availability. It’s quick and easy to book ahead online, even on the same day, and I would recommend this to avoid disappointment.
Find out more and book: https://www.raby.co.uk/whats-on/
AD 🐥North East National Trust - What’s On : Easter Holidays 🐥
All events are available on a drop in basis with no pre-booking required unless stated otherwise. National Trust Membership / Admission fees also apply. Pet dogs on leads are permitted in most of the outdoor areas and cafes. See individual properties for exact info.
This year, National Trust sites are offering unique trails with their own activities - they'll all be a little different. So why not plan to make the most of your membership and visit a few different sites over the Easter break?
Where a chocolate egg is provided, dairy, free from and vegan options are available.
🐇Gibside 🐇
Join in with Gibside’s Easter Egg Hunt from 23 March - 2 April. There will be games for the whole family to enjoy along the way as you explore the Walled Garden and Stables. It’s £3 to join in and this includes a trail sheet, bunny ears and a chocolate egg at the end.
Then from 3 April - 14 April, return and enjoy Gibside’s seasonal Spring Nature Trail. This trail is included with admission / membership and takes you on a sensory journey around Gibside with nature facts along the way.
Find out more, check opening hours, access and more things to do: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/north-east/family-friendly
🐇Seaton Delaval Hall 🐇
An Easter Trail takes place at Seaton Delaval Hall between 23 March and 14 April. Expect to try lots of fun activities including wheelbarrow racing, seed planting and egg and spoon races plus learn how to monitor the weather using a weather station. It is £3 per trail and includes a trail sheet, bunny ears and a chocolate egg at the end.
Find out more, check opening hours, access and more things to do: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/north-east/family-friendly
🐇Cragside 🐇
Find the Easter Bunnies at Cragside. This self-led trail is included with membership / admission from 29 March - 14 April. See if you can spot them all during your visit.
Then over Easter weekend (29 March - 1 April), join in with Cragside’s Easter Trail with 10 activity stations to try. Some of the activities include an egg and spoon obstacle course, giant noughts and crosses, paper blossom and bird nest making. Once the trail is complete, you can collect a chocolate egg from the team. £3 per trail - collect from the visitor centre.
There will also be the chance to join the gardening team in the formal garden and plant your very own flower to take home. Suggested donation of £3.
Find out more, check opening hours, access and more things to do: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/north-east/family-friendly
🐇Wallington 🐇
An Easter Egg Hunt takes place at Wallington over Easter weekend (29 March - 1 April). The trail will take you around the courtyard and West Wood and includes a host of activities such as target practice, wild art, music making and hopscotch. It’s £3 per trail which includes a trail sheet, bunny ears and a chocolate egg at the end.
Cycle hire also re-opens on Easter weekend (additional charges apply) and there will be a lamb spotting trail around the house - can you spot them all hiding in the rooms?
Find out more, check opening hours, access and more things to do: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/north-east/family-friendly
🐇Crook Hall Gardens 🐇
Join Crook Hall for an Easter Trail throughout their gardens between 31 March and 1 April. Activities include finding the middle of the maze, blossom flower making and bird watching. Trails are £3 per child and include a map and chocolate egg.
Find out more, check opening hours, access and more things to do: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/north-east/family-friendly
🐇Washington Old Hall 🐇
An outdoor Easter Trail runs on 29 & 30 March. Expect a host of Spring activities to try with the family. Trails are £3 each and include a map and chocolate egg.
Find out more, check opening hours, access and more things to do: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/north-east/family-friendly
🐇Ormesby Hall🐇
The Easter Trail at Ormesby Hall takes place between 23 March and 7 April. Activities include welly throwing, seed planting and wheelbarrow racing. It’s £2.50 per trail including a map and pencil.
Find out more about all of the above events, check opening hours, access info and directions here: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/north-east/family-friendly
As you can see, there are LOADS of activities to choose from! This is on top of the fantastic playgrounds, walking routes, cafes and houses to explore too.
(ad) Kids Fun Zone at Brocksbushes
The popular Kids Fun Zone at Brocksbushes is BACK this Spring. Each session lasts for 2 hours and includes:
For just £10.99 per child / £1 per adult. Find out more and book: https://www.brocksbushes.co.uk/2024/03/05/easter-fun/
Dates:
Characters will be appearing at intervals on the following dates at NO ADDITIONAL COST: - UNLIMITED Rides
- UNLIMITED Inflatables
- UNLIMITED Trampolines
- UNLIMITED Garden Games
- UNLIMITED Mini Golf
For just £10.99 per child / £1 per adult. Find out more and book: https://www.brocksbushes.co.uk/2024/03/05/easter-fun/
Dates:
- Daily from 29 March - 15 April
- 20 & 21 April
- 27 & 28 April
- 4-6 May
- Transformers - Daily from Good Friday to Easter Monday
- The Bubble Man 4th/5th/11th/12th/13th/14th/20th/21st/27th/28th April and 4th/5th/6th May
Dedicated toddler days for ages 2-5years are available on 28th March, 26th April and 3rd May although of course, toddlers are welcome at the main sessions too.
Extend the day......... Brocksbuses will also be operating their own Easter activities on a drop in basis from 28 March-14 April. Expect eggs-cavation stations, Egghead relays and more. Additional charges may apply.
OR you may remember we teamed a recent visit to Brocksbushes with a trip the The Museum of Classic Sci-Fi and Doctor Who. Why not do just that and make a day of it?
(ad) Easter at Beamish
Daytime events are included with your Beamish Unlimited Pass and there's no need to book - just drop in during museum opening hours and show your pass (or purchase on arrival). As well as the usual Beamish fun, these special events are planned for the holidays this year:
- 1 April - Easter Monday Celebrations at Beamish
Expect lots of traditional Easter fun around the museum across Easter weekend. - 6 & 7 April - British Steam Gala at Beamish
Transport fans can enjoy a range of visiting vehicles across this weekend as well as some of the fineset from the Beamish fleet. - 14 April - Sunderland & District Classic Car Show at Beamish
Enjoy a fantastic display of classic vehicles on the museum's event field.
(ad) Easter Holidays at Science at Life
These activities are available DAILY from 27 March - 17 April (closed Easter Sunday) and included with centre admission.
🥚Get creative and try the egg-cellent Egg-Mobile Challenge
🌬Test your creations on Easter Egg Hill
👩🔬Discover the science behind egg rolling in the science lab & just how you can ensure you win an egg rolling race next time (7+)
🏗Check out the NEW additions to the Under 7s Playzone. You can now cross the bridges of the river Tyne and spot famous North East landmarks including the Angel of the North
💥Take a seat and enjoy a LIVE science show based around colour
🌟Visit the planetarium for 'Constellation Close Up' - a 20 min presenter-led show all about the night sky
🐾Or how about 'Little Bear' - a special Planetarium show designed for under 7s
🌦NEW Cloudy with a Chance of Diamonds is a new Sphere Show by ITV's very own weatherman Ross Hutchinson. Learn about red storms on Mars and where exactly it's been raining diamonds. Afterwards you can have a go at presenting the weather yourself in a NEW pop up weather studio
🧠Challenge your mind in the 'brain zone' - here you can try mind games, optical illusions and more
🎨Visit 'Hello World' and take some time out as you draw Gaia with your very own easel
🌙Explore the Space Zone where you can step into a replica space station and be the boss in mission control
😲In the WOW Zone you can try dramatic experiments which you control - check out the live body heat camera, challenge yourself to lift your own body weight and watch lightening bolts strike a replica Grey's monument
😁Plus lots of pop-up areas and surprises too
It's best to book ahead if you can, but walk-ins are accommodated as long as there is space. Find out more: https://www.life.org.uk/whats-on/easter-holidays/
Life Science Centre is located just next to Newcastle Central Station so ideal for visiting by public transport. It's super accessible with a changing places toilet, wheelchair spaces in the planetarium and science theatre and sensory bags / ear defenders available to hire being just some of the facilities available (much more info on their website).
You can bring a packed lunch and enjoy in the dedicated packed lunch space (lockers available) or there is Times Square Cafe if you'd like to stop for a drink / bite to eat. They also stock sweet treats from the lush (& local) social enterprise Big River Bakery.
Life is somewhere I'd recommend to all ages, it's also perfect for visiting with mixed age children. My teens still enjoy it here too. It's the kind of place you can definitely spend a full day but you can also very easily combine a visit here with the Discovery Museum along the road.
(ad) Book Discounted Tickets to Alton Towers
As a Merlin Partner, I've been provided with an exclusive link to book discounted tickets to Alton Towers this Spring.
Tickets have been reduced by 30% and are available on selected dates for less than £25. This deal needs to be booked before 31 March and can be used to book visits between 24 March and 14 April 2024.
Find out more and book here: https://prf.hn/l/lQqw0aY
Tickets have been reduced by 30% and are available on selected dates for less than £25. This deal needs to be booked before 31 March and can be used to book visits between 24 March and 14 April 2024.
Find out more and book here: https://prf.hn/l/lQqw0aY
(ad) Newcastle Puppetry Festival
Newcastle Puppetry Festival takes place across several venues in the city from 30 March - 7 April. There are lots of FREE drop-in and low-cost ticketed events to choose from and there's something for all ages. In fact, there are over 100 events!
You can see the full programme of events and plan your week here: https://www.movingpartsarts.com/whats-on (my top tip is to hit the 'running order' tab at the top so events are shown in date order).
Here are some highlights from 1-6 April:
- FREE Drop-In Beowolf Performance at Great North Museum (7+)
- FREE Drop In The Magic Lantern Performance at Great North Museum (all ages)
- FREE Drop In Spaced Performance at Great North Museum (all ages)
- FREE Drop In The Three Billy Pigs Performance at Great North Museum (3+)
- FREE Drop In The Tales of Robin Hood Performance at Great North Museum (4+)
- FREE Drop In Puppet Making Workshops at Great North Museum - Jumping Jacks , Butterfly , Dinosaurs , Wheelie Wonders
- Cardboard Carnival at Northern Stage (4+) - book tickets
- Moonsmile at Northern Stage (5+) - book tickets
- The Elves and the Shoemaker at Northern Stage (5+) - book tickets
- Sea Dragon at Northern Stage (under 5s) - book tickets
- The Nosy Little Troll at Northern Stage (3+) - book tickets
- Catmother at Northern Stage (teens and adults) - book tickets
- Acension UK Premiere at Northern Stage (teens and adults) - book tickets
- Voices of Evil at Northern Stage (teens and adults) - book tickets
- Ghost Stories : Tales of the Supernatural at Northern Stage (8+) - book tickets
Northern Ballet returns to Northern Stage this Easter with their interpretation of The Tortoise and the Hare (as seen on CBeebies).
Can the steady tortoise beat the fast and cheeky hare? Come along and watch the race unfold with dazzling dance, colourful costumes and live music.
Showing at Northern Stage on 11 & 12 April, this show is recommended for ages 3+ however all ages are welcome. A relaxed performance is available on 12 April at 11am.
Book now: https://northernstage.co.uk/whats-on/tortoise-the-hare/
Activity sheets will be available in the CafeBar (or download your own to enjoy at home) and kids lunch boxes will be available from £4.50 from 12noon (book a table here).
The perfect introduction to ballet, live music and theatre for little ones this Easter.
Can the steady tortoise beat the fast and cheeky hare? Come along and watch the race unfold with dazzling dance, colourful costumes and live music.
Showing at Northern Stage on 11 & 12 April, this show is recommended for ages 3+ however all ages are welcome. A relaxed performance is available on 12 April at 11am.
Book now: https://northernstage.co.uk/whats-on/tortoise-the-hare/
Activity sheets will be available in the CafeBar (or download your own to enjoy at home) and kids lunch boxes will be available from £4.50 from 12noon (book a table here).
The perfect introduction to ballet, live music and theatre for little ones this Easter.
(ad) Inevitable? by Mortal Fools
Inevitable? by Mortal Fools is perfect for young people aged 11+ and adults. This funny, unfiltered and thought-provoking show explores life as a 17 year old on the cusp of adulthood.
Expect original music and bold sets alongside insights from a group of talented young people in Northumberland. This show is a MUST watch for parents/carers of teenagers, anyone who works with young people and of course, young people themselves.
Tickets are super affordable at just £4/£6. You can catch Inevitable? in the North East at YMCA Ashington on Saturday 23 March and Gosforth Civic Theatre on Wednesday 3 April.
Find out more and buy tickets here: https://www.mortalfools.org.uk/inevitable.html
(ad) Go Safari at Lightwater Valley (Early Bird Tickets are £15)
Running from 28th March – 14th April, you can expect heaps of jungle fun for the whole family, including…
Embark on a musical adventure at Ebor's Sing-a-long Safari Stage Show
Meet REX the Valleysaurus at Meet & EAT, but beware if he’s hungry, it may be a close encounter!
Get ready to stomp like an elephant at Jungle Jam Disco
Enjoy FREE Jungle Facepainting
Meet and Greet with the park’s mascot characters
Grab a trail sheet and locate our 12 missing animals in the Safari Egg Hunt
Get up close and personal with reptiles and other exotic animals at Jungle Animal Encounters (Available Easter Weekend only)
PLUS, jump aboard our NEW Jeep Safari ride and go on a wildlife expedition through the wilderness!
Meet REX the Valleysaurus at Meet & EAT, but beware if he’s hungry, it may be a close encounter!
Get ready to stomp like an elephant at Jungle Jam Disco
Enjoy FREE Jungle Facepainting
Meet and Greet with the park’s mascot characters
Grab a trail sheet and locate our 12 missing animals in the Safari Egg Hunt
Get up close and personal with reptiles and other exotic animals at Jungle Animal Encounters (Available Easter Weekend only)
PLUS, jump aboard our NEW Jeep Safari ride and go on a wildlife expedition through the wilderness!
Plus, enjoy our HUGE Easter Early Bird offer and grab your park tickets for JUST £15pp by using code ‘EASTER24’ at checkout!
Book here: https://lightwatervalley.co.uk/
Book here: https://lightwatervalley.co.uk/
What's On in the North East : 1 April 2024 (Easter Monday)
Please double check opening hours with venues direct before heading out as they regularly change on Bank Holidays.- 1 April - (ad) Easter Monday Celebrations at Beamish
- 1 April - (ad) Go Safari at Lightwater Valley
- 1 April - Moonsmile at Northern Stage (5+)
- 1 April - Easter Weekend and Bunny Hunt at Aln Valley Railway
- 1 April - Duck Race at Ford & Etal (Heatherslaw Bridge)
- 1 April - Lamb Feeding and Crafts at Ouseburn Farm
- 1 April - (ad) FREE Puppetry on the Green Performances, FREE Beached by Strageface Performance (all ages), FREE Wheelie Wonder Workshops (7+), FREE Puppetry Exhibition at Great North Museum as part of Newcastle Puppetry Festival
- 1 April - Brocksbushes Kids Fun Zone with unlimited rides, trampolines and inflatables + Transformers appearances
- 1 April - Easter Extravaganza at Whitehouse Farm with Elsa, Olaf and Anna, Magic Shows, Bottle Feeding Lambs and more.
- 1 April - Edward Scissorhands at Newcastle Theatre Royal
- 1 April - Easter Monday at Beamish 🐣 Take part in the Beamish Easter Egg Championships! Find the twelve Easter eggs hidden across the museum to earn a stamp on your certificate, will you find all the eggs and get a gold stamp? Pick up your trail from the Main Entrance when you arrive.🐣 Make Easter wreathes in The Board School🐣 Try your hand at egg jarping at Pockerley Old Hall. Jarping is a game a little like conkers but with eggs!🐣 Enjoy egg rolling in The 1900s Town Park🐣 Create a finger puppet at The 1940s Farm.🐣 Craft Easter animal pom poms at Spain’s Field Farm.🐣 Get ready to run with an egg and spoon race (weather permitting)🐣 See traditional baking demonstrations and food displays across the museum. From lamb dinner and fish and chips to Simnel cake and hot cross buns, find out what Easter food would’ve been enjoyed in each area of the museum.
- 1 April - NERD Fest at Boiler Shop Newcastle
- 1 April - The Big Bunny Ballon Pit at Metrocentre
- 1 April - Acle Reenactment and demos at Ad Gefrin
- 1 Arpil - Easter Science at Life
- 1 April - Events at Gibside: Easter Egg Hunt
- 1 April - Events at Cragside: Easter Trail
- 1 April - Events at Wallington: Spring Lamb Trail, Easter Egg Hunt
- 1 April - Events at Seaton Delaval Hall : Easter Egg Hunt
- 1 April - Events at Ormesby Hall : Easter Egg Hunt
- 1 April - Events at Crook Hall Gardens : Easter Egg Hunt
- 1 April - Easter Egg Hunt at Auckland Castle
- 1 April - Easter Adventure Quest at Tynemouth Priory
- 1 April - Easter Adventure Quest at Belsay Hall
- 1 April - Easter Adventure Quest at Warkworth Castle
- 1 April - Easter Adventure Quest at Chesters Roman Fort
- 1 April - Easter Adventure Quest at Birdoswald Roman Fort
- 1 April - Meet Marley the Mini Pony at Bamburgh Castle
- 1 April - Roarsome Stories at Bamburgh Castle
- 1 April - The Three Bears at Gosforth Civic Theatre
- 1 April - FREE SmileyWorld® Trail around North Tyneside (tomorrow is the last day)
- 1 April - Heritage Train Rides with Stephenson Railway
- 1 April - Spanish City Funfair
- 1 April - FREE Facepainting at Treetop Golf Metrocentre
- 1 April - Easter Panto (Robin Hood) at Whitley Bay Playhouse
- 1 April - Easter Panto (Little Red Riding Hood) at Customs House
- 1 April - The Great Carrot Hunt Trail (£1) at Hardwick Park
- 1 April - Dam Wall Kids Fun Run at Derwent Waterside Park
- 1 April - FREE Spring Trail at PlantsPlus Garden Centre
- 1 April - Bing's Nature Explorers at WWT Washington
- 1 April - Egg Hunt at Tynemouth Park Maze
- 1 April - Spring Trail and LEGO Exhibition at Paxton House
- 1 April - FREE Easter Egg Trail with Stickers & Small Prize at The Bridges
- 1 April - FREE Easter Bunny Trail (with free treat at the end) at Druridge Bay Country Park
What's On in the North East : 2-7 April 2024
- 2 April - Easter Sandcasting Workshop at Sunderland Glass Centre (6+)
- 2 April - Collage Portraits Workshop at Sunderland Glass Centre (6+)
- 2 April - FREE Creature Collections Event at Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens
- 2 April - FREE 3D Abstract Crafts at South Shields Museum
- 2 April - FREE Big Games Day at The Word
- 2 April - A Celebration of Frozen at STACK Seaburn
- 2 April - Cardboard Carnival at Northern Stage (4+)
- 2 April - Breathe at Northern Stage (5+)
- 2 April - Catmother at Northern Stage (teens and adults)
- 2 April - Easter Panto (Robin Hood) at Whitley Bay Playhouse
- 2 April - Easter Crafts at Preston Park Museum
- 2 April - The Three Bears at Alnwick Playhouse (Under 7s)
- 2 April - Events at Gibside: Easter Egg Hunt
- 2 April - FREE SmileyWorld® Trail around North Tyneside (today is the last day)
- 2 April - Family Parachute Challenge at Discovery Museum
- 2 April - FREE Bird Feeder & Planting Workshop at The Bridges
- 2 April - FREE Jumping Jacks Making Workshop (4+), FREE Spaced by Strangeface Performance (all ages), FREE Urban Nature Walk, FREE Puppet Exhibition at Great North Museum as part of Newcastle Puppetry Festival
- 2 April - Easter Panto (Little Red Riding Hood) at Customs House
- 2 April - Rabbit and Guinea Pig Grooming at Ouseburn Farm
- 2 April - Uhtred's School of Warriors at Bamburgh Castle
- 2 & 3 April - Dino Discovery Adventure at Bamburgh Castle
- 2 - 4 April - Spanish City Funfair
- 2 - 5 April - The Big Bunny Ballon Pit at Metrocentre
- 2 - 5 April - FREE Facepainting at Treetop Golf Metrocentre
- 2 - 5 April - FREE Easter Egg Trail with Stickers & Small Prize at The Bridges
- 2 - 5 April - Easter Bunny and Soft Play in Central Square The Bridges (£2 for 20 mins including goodie bag)
- 2 - 6 April - Edward Scissorhands at Newcastle Theatre Royal
- 2-6 April - FREE Zen Garden Sensory Play at Theatre Hullabaloo (under 8s)
- 2 - 7 April - Easter Science at Life with Egg Rolling Experiments, Egg Mobile Challenge, Wow Zone and more.
- 2-7 April - Brocksbushes Kids Fun Zone with unlimited rides, trampolines and inflatables (Bubble Man appearing on 4 & 5 April)
- 2-7 April - Drop In Easter Activities at Brocksbushes including Eggs-cavation, Egg Head Relay Races, Photo Ops and more
- 2 - 7 April - Spring Trail and LEGO Exhibition at Paxton House
- 2 - 7 April - FREE Spring Trail at PlantsPlus Garden Centre
- 2 - 7 April - 50p Ingenious Inventors Trail and FREE NEW Interactive Inventions Exhibition at Discovery Museum
- 2 - 7 April - (ad) Go Safari at Lightwater Valley
- 2 - 7 April - FREE Easter Bunny Trail (with free treat at the end) at Druridge Bay Country Park
- 2 - 7 April - Easter Extravaganza at Whitehouse Farm with Magic Shows, Bottle Feeding Lambs, Birds of Prey, Animal Handling, Critter Talks and more
- 2-7 April - AngloSaxon Egg Hunt, Storytelling and Crafts at Ad Gefrin
- 2 - 7 April - Easter Adventure Quest at Tynemouth Priory
- 2 - 7 April - Easter Adventure Quest at Belsay Hall
- 2 - 7 April - Easter Adventure Quest at Warkworth Castle
- 2- 7 April - Easter Adventure Quest at Chesters Roman Fort
- 2 - 7 April - Easter Adventure Quest at Birdoswald Roman Fort
- 2 - 7 April - Easter at Seven Stories including Aliens Love Seven Stories performances, Spectacular Space Crafts, Whatever Next! Interactive Storytime, Spring Storytimes, Alien Crafts (book in advance)
- 2 - 7 April - Bing's Nature Explorers at WWT Washington
- 2 - 7 April - Events at Wallington: Spring Lamb Trail
- 2 - 7 April - Events at Seaton Delaval Hall : Easter Egg Hunt
- 2 - 7 April - Events at Ormesby Hall : Easter Egg Hunt
- 2 - 7 April - The Great Carrot Hunt Trail (£1) at Hardwick Park
- 2 - 7 April - FREE Wildlife Spotters Activity Sheets & Exhibition, Baby Dino Egg Hunt and £1 Aurora the Polar Bear Museum Trail at Sunderland Museum & Gardens (closed Sundays)
- 3 April - FREE Dinosaur Fossils Clay Making Activity at Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens (book a free place)
- 3 April - Dog Prints at Sunderland Glass Centre (6+)
- 3 April - FREE Crafty Romans (Fork Flower Painting) at Arbeia Roman Fort
- 3 April - Uhtred's School of Warriors at Bamburgh Castle
- 3 April - FREE LEGO Time at The Word
- 3 April - Pirate Show at STACK Seaburn
- 3 April - SMILE Through Sport Easter Activities for young people with SEND aged 8-19 (siblings welcome). Book in advance - £1 donation appreciated - Nelson Community Centre Cramlington
- 3 April - FREE Crazy Creatures at Derwent Waterside Park
- 3 April - Inevitable at Gosforth Civic Theatre (13+)
- 3 April - Mr Bunny's Chocolate Factory Storytime & Craft for ages 3-5 years at Discovery Museum
- 3 April - Story Explorers (Beatrix Potter) at Wharton Park
- 3 April - FREE Toddler Time for Under 5s at Baltic
- 3 April - Sea Dragon at Northern Stage (under 5s)
- 3 April - Exuvia at Northern Stage (12+)
- 3 April - (ad) FREE Beowolf by Rattlebox Theatre Performances (7+) and Roman Army Craft Workshops at Great North Museum as part of Newcastle Puppetry Festival
- 3 April - Storytelling with Elena at Theatre Hullabaloo (2-7 years)
- 3 - 7 April - Events at Gibside: Spring Nature Trail
- 3 - 7 April - Easter Egg Hunt at Auckland Castle
- 3 - 7 April - FREE Cereal Disco and Doodle at Baltic
- 4 April - The Not So Big Bad Wolf at Arts Centre Washington (4+)
- 4 April - Animal Handling with Angela's Ark at South Shields Museum
- 4 April - Easter Crafts at Preston Park Museum
- 4 April - Make a Seed Bomb at Jarrow Hall
- 4 April - FREE The Pooch Factor Dog Show at Derwent Waterside Park
- 4 April - FREE Easter Mask Making at Stephenson Railway
- 4 April - Heritage Train Rides with Stephenson Railway
- 4 April - FREE Flower Bomb Making at The Word
- 4 April - Monster Pot / Castle Making at Ford & Etal
- 4 April - (ad) FREE Butterfly Puppet Making Workshops (5+) and FREE Tales of Robin Hood Performance at Great North Museum as part of Newcastle Puppetry Festival
- 4 April - The Elves and the Shoemaker at Northern Stage (4+)
- 4 April - Ghost Stories: Tales of the Supernatural at Northern Stage (8+)
- 4 April - Beatrix Potter Author Adventures at Hardwick Park
- 4 April - Springtime Quest at Wharton Park (£1 cash)
- 4 & 5 April - Little Shop of Horrors at Alnwick Playhouse (PG12)
- 4 & 5 April - The Little Prince at Queen's Hall Hexham (5+)
- 4 & 5 April - Create Your Own Dinosaur Mobile at Bamburgh Castle
- 4 & 5 April - Pirate Adventure at Ushaw Historic House
- 4 - 6 April - Easter Panto (Little Red Riding Hood) at Customs House
- 4 - 7 April - Awful Auntie at Sunderland Empire (5+)
- 5 April - Easter Sandcasting Workshop at Sunderland Glass Centre (6+)
- 5 April - Discovery Zoo Animal Handling at Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens
- 5 April - SMILE Through Sport Easter Activities for young people with SEND aged 8-19 (siblings welcome). Book in advance - £1 donation appreciated - The Venue Community Centre Stanley
- 5 April - Patterned Glass Making Drop In Activity at Sunderland Glass Centre (5+)
- 5 April - (ad) FREE Dinosaur Detective Puppet Making Workshops (all ages) and FREE Plan Bob Performances (3+) at Great North Museum as part of Newcastle Puppetry Festival
- 5 April - The Nosy Little Troll at Northern Stage (3+)
- 5 April - Meet Fred at Northern Stage (14+)
- 5 - 7 April - Lamb Feeding and Crafts at Ouseburn Farm
- 6 April - Military Vehicle Display at Heugh Battery Museum
- 6 April - Beautiful Birds Glass Fusing Workshop at Sunderland Glass Centre (6+)
- 6 April - Meet the Medievil Pilgrims at Newcastle Castle
- 6 April - FREE First Time Anglers Event at Derwent / Fontburn / Grassholme (you need a rod license)
- 6 April - Flower Crown Making Workshop at Arbeia Roman Fort (11+)
- 6 April - Character Appearances at Alnwick Garden (Alice, Mad Hatter, Snow White, Spider-Man and Captain America)
- 6 April - Easter Clay Modelling at Lanchester Garden Centre
- 6 April - (ad) FREE Wheelie Wonder Workshop (7+) and FREEThe Three Billy Pigs Performances (3+) at Great North Museum as part of Newcastle Puppetry Festival
- 6 April - Ascension at Northern Stage (12+)
- 6 April - Snug and Rug Catch a Bug at Northern Stage (3+)
- 6 April - Voices of Evil at Northern Stage (16+)
- 6 April - Saltholmes Big Birthday Party
- 6 April - Art Class for 10-15 Year Olds at Laing Art Gallery
- 6 April - Make a Seed Bomb at Jarrow Hall
- 6 & 7 April - (ad) British Steam Gala at Beamish
- 6 & 7 April - The Big Brick Build at Belsay Hall
- 6 & 7 April - Professor Foss-Cecil & Dino Safari Show + Dinosaur Meet & Greets + Dino Safari Activity Tent with Dino Crafts & Activities at Bamburgh Castle
- 7 April - FREE TimeQuest Archaeology Activities at Arbeia Roman Fort
- 7 April - Easter Storytime with Captain Raggybeard at Preston Park Museum
- 7 April - Seashore Safari at Souter Lighthouse
- 7 April - Cinderella at Darlington Hippodrome
- 7 April - Heritage Train Rides with Stephenson Railway
- 7 April - FREE MIni Train Rides at Exhibition Park
- 7 April - FREE Drop In Artist Led Workshops for 5-12 Year Olds at Baltic
- 7 April - Monster Pot/Castle Making at Ford & Etal
- 7 April - Rabbit and Guinea Pig Grooming at Ouseburn Farm
What's On in the North East : 8-14 April 2024
- 8 April - Exciting Science at Queen's Hall Hexham (4+)
- 8 April - FREE LEGO Time at The Word
- 8 April - SMILE Through Sport Easter Activities for young people with SEND aged 8-19 (siblings welcome). Book in advance - £1 donation appreciated -The Pavillion, Peterlee
- 8 - 10 April - Pirate Adventure at Ushaw Historic House
- 8 - 12 April - Kids Planting Event at Belsay Hall (EH members only)
- 8 - 12 April - FREE Facepainting at Treetop Golf Metrocentre
- 8 - 13 April - FREE Zen Garden Sensory Play at Theatre Hullabaloo (under 8s)
- 8-14 April - Brocksbushes Kids Fun Zone with unlimited rides, trampolines and inflatables (Bubble Man appearing 11/12/13/14 April)
- 8-14 April - Drop In Easter Activities at Brocksbushes including Eggs-cavation, Egg Head Relay Races, Photo Ops and more
- 8 - 14 April - FREE Easter Bunny Trail (with free treat at the end) at Druridge Bay Country Park
- 8 - 14 April - FREE Spring Trail at PlantsPlus Garden Centre
- 8 - 14 April - Easter Science at Life with Egg Rolling Experiments, Egg Mobile Challenge, Wow Zone and more.
- 8 - 14 April - 50p Ingenious Inventors Trail and FREE NEW Interactive Inventions Exhibition at Discovery Museum
- 8 - 14 April - Easter Adventure Quest at Tynemouth Priory
- 8 - 14 April - Easter Adventure Quest at Belsay Hall
- 8 - 14 April - The Big Brick Build at Belsay Hall
- 8 - 14 April - Easter Adventure Quest at Warkworth Castle
- 8 - 14 April - Easter Adventure Quest at Chesters Roman Fort
- 8 - 14 April - Easter Adventure Quest at Birdoswald Roman Fort
- 8 - 14 April - Events at Gibside: Spring Nature Trail
- 8 - 14 April - Events at Wallington: Spring Lamb Trail
- 8 - 14 April - Events at Seaton Delaval Hall : Easter Egg Hunt
- 8 - 14 April - The Great Carrot Hunt Trail (£1) at Hardwick Park
- 8 - 14 April - Bing's Nature Explorers at WWT Washington
- 8 - 14 April - Easter Extravaganza at Whitehouse Farm with Magic Shows, Bottle Feeding Lambs, Birds of Prey, Animal Handling, Critter Talks and more.
- 8 - 14 April - Easter at Seven Stories including Aliens Love Seven Stories performances, Spectacular Space Crafts, Whatever Next! Interactive Storytime, Spring Storytimes, Alien Crafts (book in advance)
- 8 - 14 April - Anglo Saxon Egg Hunt, Storytelling and Crafts at Ad Gefrin
- 8 - 14 April - Spring Trail and LEGO Exhibition at Paxton House
- 8 - 14 April - (ad) Go Safari at Lightwater Valley
- 8 - 14 April - FREE Wildlife Spotters Activity Sheets & Exhibition, Baby Dino Egg Hunt and £1 Aurora the Polar Bear Museum Trail at Sunderland Museum & Gardens (closed Sundays)
- 8 April - Make a Ceramic Bird Feeder at Sunderland Glass Centre (4+)
- 9 April - The Sooty Show at Darlington Hippodrome
- 9 April - Easter Sandcasting Workshop at Sunderland Glass Centre (6+)
- 9 April - Collage Portraits Workshop at Sunderland Glass Centre (6+)
- 9 April - FREE Creature Collections Event at Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens
- 9 April - FREE ENTRY A Celebration of Barbie at STACK Seaburn
- 9 April - Easter Bathbomb making workshop at Lanchester Garden Centre
- 9 April - FREE 3D Abstract Art Activity at South Shields Museum
- 9 April - Easter Crafts at Preston Park Museum
- 9 April - Family Zipline Challenge at Discovery Museum
- 9 April - Fireman Sam - The Great Camping Adventure at Whitley Bay Playhouse
- 9 April - Easter Forst Club at Hardwick Park (18m-5years)
- 9 April - Rabbit and Guinea Pig Grooming at Ouseburn Farm
- 9 April - SMILE Through Sport Easter Activities for young people with SEND aged 8-19 (siblings welcome). Book in advance - £1 donation appreciated - Tyneside Badminton Centre
- 9 & 10 April - Dino Discovery Adventure at Bamburgh Castle
- 9 - 12 April - Film Camp for 11-15 year olds at Queen's Hall Hexham
- 9 - 13 April - The 39 Steps at Newcastle Theatre Royal (7+)
- 10 April - Morgan and West's Massive Magic Show for Kids at Alnwick Playhouse (6+)
- 10 April - Uhtred's School of Warriors at Bamburgh Castle
- 10 April - SMILE Through Sport Easter Activities for young people with SEND aged 8-19 (siblings welcome). Book in advance - £1 donation appreciated - Nelson Community Centre Cramlington
- 10 April - FREE First Time Anglers Event at Derwent / Fontburn / Grassholme (you need a rod license)
- 10 April - Dog Prints at Sunderland Glass Centre (6+)
- 10 April - Bird Builds a Nest Storytime & Craft for 3-5 year olds at Discovery Museum
- 10 April - FREE Manga Drawing Workshop at The Word (12-16 years). Book a free ticket.
- 10 April - Magician Marvin at STACK Seaburn
- 10 April - FREE Crafty Romans (Nature Printing) at Arbeia Roman Fort
- 10 April - Teddy Bear's Picnic at Wharton Park
- 10 April - FREE Toddler Time for Under 5s at Baltic
- 10 April - Monster Pot/ Castle Making at Ford & Etal
- 10 - 14 April - Easter Egg Hunt at Auckland Castle
- 10 - 14 April - FREE Cereal Disco and Doodle at Baltic
- 11 April - Animal Handling with Angela's Ark at South Shields Museum
- 11 April - Easter Crafts at Preston Park Museum
- 11 April - FREE ENTRY A Celebration of Trolls at STACK Seaburn
- 11 April - Claytime at Alnwick Playhouse (3 - 6 year olds)
- 11 April - Ministry of Science Live at Darlington Hippodrome
- 11 April - Ten Little Pirates Storytime & Crafts for 3-5 year olds at Discovery Museum
- 11 April - Heritage Train Rides with Stephenson Railway
- 11 April - FREE Spring Collage Crafts at Stephenson Railway
- 11 April - FREE Crazy Creatures at Derwent Waterside Park
- 11 April - Into the Wild Den Building & Marshmallow Toasting at Hardwick Park
- 11 April - Family Willow Weaving at Ushaw Historic House
- 11 April - Wildflower Weaving at Jarrow Hall
- 11 April - SMILE Through Sport Easter Activities for young people with SEND aged 8-19 (siblings welcome). Book in advance - £1 donation appreciated - Jubilee Fields Community Centre Shildon
- 11 & 12 April - The Tortoise & The Hare at Northern Stage Newcastle
- 11 & 12 April - Create Your Own Dinosaur Mobile at Bamburgh Castle
- 11 - 13 April - The Velveteen Rabbit at Theatre Hullabaloo
- 12 April - Easter Sandcasting Workshop at Sunderland Glass Centre (6+)
- 12 April - Patterned Glass Making Drop In Activity at Sunderland Glass Centre (5+)
- 12 April - Discovery Zoo Animal Handling at Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens
- 12 April - KIDZ BOP:Never Stop Live Tour at 02 City Hall
- 12 April - Chocolate Science at Lanchester Garden Centre
- 12 April - Ghost Busting Party at Lanchester Garden Centre
- 12 - 14 April - Lamb Feeding and Crafts at Ouseburn Farm
- 13 April - Beautiful Birds Glass Fusing Workshop at Sunderland Glass Centre (6+)
- 13 April - Portraiture for Beginners at Washington Arts Centre (14+)
- 13 April - Meet Marley the Mini Pony at Bamburgh Castle
- 13 April - Monster Pot / Castle Making at Ford & Etal
- 13 April - Wildflower Weaving at Jarrow Hall
- 13 & 14 April - FREE Build a LEGO Friends Music Trailer (& take it home) at LEGO Store Metrocentre
- 13 & 14 April - Professor Foss-Cecil & Dino Safari Show + Dinosaur Meet & Greets + Dino Safari Activity Tent with Dino Crafts & Activities at Bamburgh Castle
- 13 & 14 April - Comic Con North East at Utilita Arena
- 14 April - Relaxed Sunday Session at Life Science Centre
- 14 April - FREE Drop In Artist Led Workshops for 5-12 Year Olds at Baltic
- 14 April - Rabbit and Guinea Pig Grooming at Ouseburn Farm
- 14 April - (ad) Sunderland & District Classic Car Show at Beamish
- 14 April - Heritage Train Rides with Stephenson Railway
- 14 April - Footplate Explorers at Aln Valley Railway (3-15 years)
What's On in the North East : 15-21 April 2024
- 15 April - Sir Ranulph Fiennes at Sunderland Empire
- 15 April - Little Artists (1-5 years) at Laing Art Gallery
- 15 - 17 April - Easter Science at Life with Egg Rolling Experiments, Egg Mobile Challenge, Wow Zone and more.
- 15 - 19 April - FREE Zen Garden Sensory Play at Theatre Hullabaloo (under 8s)
- 15 - 21 April - FREE Wildlife Spotters Activity Sheets & Exhibition and £1 Aurora the Polar Bear Museum Trail at Sunderland Museum & Gardens (closed Sundays)
- 15 - 21 April - Spring Trail and LEGO Exhibition at Paxton House
- 15 - 21 April - FREE NEW Interactive Inventions Exhibition at Discovery Museum
- 15 - 21 April - Bing's Nature Explorers at WWT Washington
- 16 - 21 April - The Wizard of Oz at Newcastle Theatre Royal (6+)
- 17 April - Jack and the Beanstalk at Hardwick Park
- 17 April - FREE Toddler Time for Under 5s at Baltic
- 18 April - The Velveteen Rabbit at Washington Arts Centre
- 19 April - Toddler Day (2-5 years) at Brocksbushes Kids Fun Zone with unlimited rides, trampolines and inflatables
- 19 April - Bear Grylls Never Give Up Tour at 02 City Hall
- 20 April - Family Art Class (the Wild Woods) at Shipley Art Gallery
- 20 April - Murder Mystery at Jarrow Focus (12+)
- 20 April - Jack and the Beanstalk at Hardwick Park
- 20 April - Earth Day at Derwent Waterside Park
- 20 & 21 April - Brocksbushes Kids Fun Zone with unlimited rides, trampolines and inflatables + Bubble Man appearances
- 20 & 21 April - FREE Entry Bishop Auckland Food Festival
- 21 April - FREE LEGO Creativity Workshop at LEGO Store Metrocentre (sign up)
- 21 April - Monster Design Workshop at The Word (12-15 years)
- 21 April - FREE Drop In Artist Led Workshops for 5-12 Year Olds at Baltic
What's On in the North East : 22-30 April 2024
- 22 - 30 April - FREE Wildlife Spotters Activity Sheets & Exhibition and £1 Aurora the Polar Bear Museum Trail at Sunderland Museum & Gardens (closed Sundays)
- 22 - 30 April - FREE NEW Interactive Inventions Exhibition at Discovery Museum
- 22 - 30 April - Bing's Nature Explorers at WWT Washington
- 22 - 30 April - Spring Trail and LEGO Exhibition at Paxton House
- 22 April - Little Artists (1-5 years) at Laing Art Gallery
- 24 April - FREE Toddler Time for Under 5s at Baltic
- 26 April - Toddler Day (2-5 years) at Brocksbushes Kids Fun Zone with unlimited rides, trampolines and inflatables
- 26 April - Pre-School Day at Life Science Centre
- 26 & 27 April - Dear Zoo at South Shields Customs House
- 27 April - FREE Motorsports Day in Darlington Town Centre
- 27 April - Treasure Island at Middlesbrough Theatre
- 27 & 28 April - Brocksbushes Kids Fun Zone with unlimited rides, trampolines and inflatables + Bubble Man appearances
- 27 & 28 April - Wor Bella at Newcastle Theatre Royal
- 27 - 30 April - Events at Gibside: Family Pollinator Trail , Meet the Beekeepers (27 April only) and Blossom Crafts (27 April only)
- 28 April - FREE LEGO Creativity Workshop at LEGO Store Metrocentre (sign up)
- 28 April - FREE Drop In Artist Led Workshops for 5-12 Year Olds at Baltic
- 29 April - Little Artists (1-5 years) at Laing Art Gallery
- 30 April - The Boy at the Back of the Class at Newcastle Theatre Royal (7+)
The following places have indoor / sheltered areas where dogs are welcome:
- Beamish Museum (dogs permitted on transport at the conductor's discretion, inside the Sun Inn Pub and in the undercover picnic area near the funfair)
- Sutton Bank National Park Centre (dogs permitted in all indoor areas including the visitor centre / exhibition)
- Hexham Old Gaol (dogs permitted inside the museum)
- Hay Farm Heavy Horse Centre (dogs permitted inside the barns/museum)
- Tanfield Railway (dogs permitted to ride the trains)
- Aln Valley Railway (dogs permitted to ride the trains)
- Heatherslaw Light Railway (dogs permitted to ride the trains)
- Eden Camp Museum (dogs allowed inside the museum)
- Warkworth Castle (dogs allowed inside the castle)
- Berwick Museum & Art Gallery (dogs allowed inside the museum)
- North East Land, Sea and Air Museum (dogs allowed inside the museum)
- Barter Books (dogs permitted inside)
- Woodhorn Museum (dogs permitted in the outbuildings and covered outdoor cafe terrace)
- Ryedale Folk Museum (dogs permitted inside the buildings)
Other Ideas for the Easter Holidays
- 75 things to do in Newcastle with kids
- The Best Places to see Lambs this Easter
- Indoor dog-friendly attractions
- The Best North East Coastal Walks for kids
- 5 Waterparks within a 3 hour drive of Newcastle
- 15 FREE Days Out for Babies and Toddlers
- The Best Parks and Playgrounds in North East England
- 100 Days Out for Teens in North East England
- 10 Family Walks with a Playground and Cafe
- 50 FREE Days Out across North East England
- 10 FREE Days Out near a Metro Station
- 5 of the Best Picnic Spots in North East England
- 10 Walks with Waterfalls in North East England
Wow! As you rightly said that's quite a list. Now just hoping for dry weather to enjoy some of these events when we have our grandsons here.😊
ReplyDeleteOh wow! What an epic list of things to do and places to go. I hope the sun keeps shining! x
ReplyDelete