A few people have asked for ideas for Christmas days out ideas for teens so I thought I would put a little post together. Don't forget to check out my guide to what's on for kids and guide to Christmas markets too (both will be updated soon).
This post has just been updated for September, I expect I will add more events and ideas in the coming weeks and months so do check back.
This post has just been updated for September, I expect I will add more events and ideas in the coming weeks and months so do check back.
Santa Must Die


Santa Must Die is a 'pay as you feel' show at Alphabetti Theatre recommended for ages 14+. It is a different kind of Christmas story sharing the highs and lows of working zero hours contracts over Christmas and finding the joy in the small moments. Find out more and book here.
Arctic Lodge Seaton Delaval


Book dinner / drinks at the Secret Garden Alpine Lodge (coming this Autumn/Winter). Live music is available on selected evenings. Find out more here.
Ice Skating - Various Locations
It has to be a real ice rink for older kids so check out the rink at Keel Square in Sunderland or Times Square Newcastle. I will updated this section with ice skating rinks / locations as soon as they are released.
Hot Chocolate Date

A Festive City Shopping Break
Over the past few years we have enjoyed some fab city breaks over the festive period including Leeds, York, Liverpool and Edinburgh. It is nice to get a change of scenery and try a new Christmas market/shopping centre.
Gremlins/ Classic Christmas Movies at the Cinema
Cinemas usually run classic Christmas films in the run up to Christmas. Check out what's on and book one of your old favourites on the big screen. I will update this post with listings as we approach Christmas.
Festive Afternoon Tea at Spanish City - book here
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Credit - Spanish City |
Festive Afternoon Tea at Spanish City is the perfect way to spend an afternoon with teens - especially if they have a sweet tooth! I recommend booking 1910 for the perfect sea view.
Hadrian's Tipi Sunderland & Newcastle
Hadrian's Tipi usually pops up in Stack Newcastle and Sunderland Keel Square. A fab cosy spot to grab a hot drink around a fire with older kids. I will update this section once we know this year's locations.
Christmas Panto
My teens' favourite panto is Newcastle Theatre Royal closely followed by The Custom's House. I would also recommend the Christmas show at Northern Stage, always magical for the whole family and not too 'babyish'.
Enjoy a Caribbean Christmas Lunch at Turtle Bay - book here
The vibe at Turtle Bay is very teen-friendly and the menu is canny too. Plus they have mocktails! Perfect when teamed with a morning shopping. The above menu is from a previous year, we are still awaiting a menu for this year.
Create Your Own Christmas Decorations at Sunderland Glass Centre - book here
This event says it is for adults only this year but I know in the past they have stated ages 12+ so it is worth enquiring if you think this is something your teen may enjoy.
Friends Fest & Blackpool Illuminations
This trip from National Holidays departs on 14 November and includes an overnight stay, entry to FriendsFest at Blackpool Winter Gardens and free time in Blackpool. Find out more here.
A Family Meal at The Woodmans Arms / South Causey Inn
Both of these options offer cosy, instagrammable dining options as well as delicious food and big portions.
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2 - Join our Days Out Facebook Group here which includes lots of ideas for things to do - you can post your own recommendations too.
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Please follow social distancing rules & Government guidelines , respect the local area. leave no trace, take litter home, park responsibly and if somewhere is busy on arrival, please consider leaving and returning at a later date.
Always check updated opening hours / protocols with venues direct before setting off as things may have changed since this post was published.
Always check updated opening hours / protocols with venues direct before setting off as things may have changed since this post was published.
Let me know if you have any ideas to add to my list x
Ooooh I had no idea about the Night Before Christmas at Gibside - AMAZING! Going to see if I can cram that in (diary has started to go a little crazy!)
ReplyDeleteLove so many of the ideas in here, ET at the Sage sounds epic!