What's On in North East England - December 2023

This post contains adverts. Please always check information with venues direct before heading out as event info can change. Apologies if an event has sold out - they were checked and available on publication. I leave events live in case of cancellations.

Top Tip - If you are looking for FREE / LOW Cost Drop In Events only, scroll right to the bottom of this post for a big list of just that.

Keep scrolling to see what's on by date......

January Swim Classes with FREE Unlimited Play at PaddlePod

Are you looking for new baby/toddler/pre-school swim classes in the new year?

PaddlePod has teamed up with Nemo Swimming to offer this fantastic deal which includes a FREE month of UNLIMITED play at PaddlePod venues across January.

🎅 This would also make a lovely Christmas Gift 🎅

More info here:

🌟 Nemo Swimming have teamed up with PaddlePod to offer any new customers who join their baby, toddler & pre-school classes a FREE month of UNLIMITED play at PaddlePod venues throughout January.

🌟More info at www.nemoswimming.co.uk/january

🌟Valid on bookings made between 4th December 2023 and 7th January 2024. Classes in Newcastle & North Tyneside only.

🌟Existing customers can get the same when they refer a friend (plus up to 20% off their monthly subscription. T&Cs apply. More info at www.nemoswimming.co.uk/north-tyneside-newcastle/refer-friend)

🌟Classes cost £49.20 per month and run 48 weeks of the year - works out at £12.30 per class (note: we recently announced that we will be moving to a 48-week teaching year which means that customers get an extra 9 classes a year at no extra cost)

🌟Classes delivered as small group sessions (max 8 in a group), teachers in the water, lots of songs, games and fun activities

🌟Parents in the water for baby & toddler classes; out the water from age 3 (though we do bring an extra instructor in at this point)

🌟Classes offered at PaddlePod (Killingworth), PaddlePod (Shiremoor) & PaddlePod (Whitley Bay)

🌟All venues have warm pools, modern changing rooms, comfortable viewing areas, on-site cafes, and play areas for children aged 0-5 years

🫶 If you have any questions about this fab special offer, please contact PaddlePod direct via their Social Media or website and they will be happy to help x

Christmas at Beamish Daytimes

Beamish is open daily across the festive period from 25 Nov - 24 Dec. There is no need to book when visiting during the day, simply turn up during normal opening hours. There's lots going on and it's all included with the Beamish Unlimited Pass (unless stated otherwise).

Here are some highlights:

Join in with the Georgian festivities at Pockerley Old Hall with traditional crafts at weekends
Stroll down the cobbled street in the 1900s town, admire the decorations and tuck into some delicious festive treats (I recommend the mulled wine and spiced apple cake from the bakery)
Stop for a festive photo in the 1900s photography studio with their new winter costumes (small charge)
Visit the 1900s Pit Village, enjoy the traditional decorations in the cottages and listen to local choirs / enjoy crafts over weekends
Walk through ElfWood and check out what mischief the elves are getting up to. Look out for some mini replicas of your favourite Beamish buildings
Try the Elf Trail around the Museum - can you find all the elves?
At the 1940s Farm you can make paperchains and postcards on weekends
In the 1950s Town, discover how Christmas was celebrated in the 1950s. There will be Christmas Crafts in the Welfare Hall every weekend
Spain's Field Farm will be open over weekends and you can discover how farming communities celebrated Christmas
Look out for Father Christmas or Mrs Claus travelling around the museum in traditional transport on weekends and school holidays. Make sure you give them a wave!
There is a packed programme of choirs, brass bands and concert bands planned - check out what's on here.
Limited Santa's Grotto tickets are available - make sure you book ahead to avoid disappointment (additional charge)

Find out more about Christmas at Beamish Daytimes here: Christmas at Beamish Website

Why not make the most of your Beamish Unlimited Pass and return again between 27 December and 7 January and enjoy the Twelfth Night Celebrations? When you need to get out of the house and away from the TV, a walk around the museum is just perfect.

December Family Walk Ideas

Woodland Fairy Trail at Gibside (included with National Trust Membership on selected dates)
Robins Winter Trail at Seaton Delaval Hall (included with National Trust Membership on selected dates)
Merry Maze Trail at Cragside (included with National Trust Membership on selected dates)
Elf Trail at Beamish (included with admission during usual opening hours until 24 Dec)
Plotters' Forest Enchanted Christmas Trail (18 Nov - 7 Jan during usual opening hours)
Father Christmas Has Lost His Presents Trail at High Force Waterfall (18 Noc - 31 Dec during usual opening hours)
Decorate the Tree Trail at Raby Castle Deer Park (18 Nov - 24 Dec during usual opening hours)
3 Dec - Mental Elf Family Fun Run / Walk at Exhibition Park
Daily until 18 Dec - FREE More in Morpeth Christmas Quiz Trail (for adults) or Elf Trail (for kids)
Daily Until 18 Dec - FREE Hexham Magical Music Trail. 71 local businesses have decorated their window to the theme of a Christmas Song. Can you guess them all? Complete the trail for your chance to win one of three hampers.
Weekends in December (until 24 Dec) - Elf Trail at Preston Park Museum
19 Jan - 7 Jan -Walking with the Snowman Trail in Middlesbrough
9 Dec - FREE Darlington Ice Trail
16 Dec - FREE Sunderland Ice Trail
9, 10, 16 & 17 Dec - Snowflake Trail at Northumberlandia
4 - 23 Dec - FREE St Nicholas' Trail at Newcastle Cathedral
26 Dec - 7 Jan - FREE Weetslade Winter Trail
Daily from 16 Dec (closed Christmas Day) - Quentin Blake Winter Trail & Activities at WWT Washington
The Best Coastal Walks with Kids
Craster to Dunstaburgh Castle Walk (with playground)
Blyth to Seaton Sluice Walk (with two playgrounds)
Roker to Seaburn Pushchair Friendly Walk (with two playgrounds)
Hardwick Park Walk (with FREE AR Dinosaurs)
How to Find the Cramlington Spoon
Bolam Lake Wheelchair Accessible Walk
Consett Telescopes Walk
Teessaurus Park Dinosaur Walk
10 Fabulous Hot Chocolate Spots with a Walk Nearby

What's On in the North East - 2 & 3 December

Northumberland

Daily Until 18 Dec - FREE More in Morpeth Christmas Quiz Trail (for adults) or Elf Trail (for kids)
Daily Until 18 Dec - FREE Hexham Magical Music Trail. 71 local businesses have decorated their window to the theme of a Christmas Song. Can you guess them all? Complete the trail for your chance to win one of three hampers.
2 Dec - Christmas Choirs at Seaton Delaval Hall (included with NT membership)
2 Dec - Saturdays in Blyth : FREE Santa's Grotto, FREE Face Painting, FREE Characters, FREE Selfie Booths & Elves in The Keel Row Shopping Centre Blyth + FREE Storytelling + Crafts in the Library.

This Saturday there will also be FREE Music Workshops.
2 & 3 Dec - Saturnalia Light Festival at Vindolanda
2 & 3 Dec - Pavillion Tipi in Morpeth
2 & 3 Dec - FREE Santa's Grotto at Manor Walks Cramlington
2 & 3 Dec - Winter Light Trail at Alnwick Garden
2 & 3 Dec - Decorate a Ceramic Winter Heart at Woodhorn Musuem (included with admission and KIDS GO FREE)
2 & 3 Dec - Christmas Decoration Making, Merry Maze Trail, Mischevious Mice Trail & Wish Upon a Star at Cragside (included with National Trust Admission)

2 & 3 Dec - Father Christmas Experience at Wallington
2 & 3 Dec. -Walkaround Father Christmas at Wallington (included with National Trust Membership)

2 & 3 Dec - Mrs Christmas Storytelling at Wallington (included with National Trust Membership)
2 & 3 Dec - Festive Live Music at Wallington Hall (included with National Trust Membership)

2 & 3 Dec - Festive Storytelling with Father Christmas at Belsay Hall
2 & 3 Dec - Northumberland Myths and Legends | Christmas at Bamburgh Castle
3 Dec - Aurora Strings (String Quartet) at Seaton Delaval Hall (included with National Trust Membership)
3 Dec - Northumberlandia Food & Craft Market (free entry)

County Durham

Cinderella at Gala Theatre has opened to absolute rave reviews. Tickets are available from just £8 per person which is super reasonable!

The production is nice and relaxed with lots of laughs and magic which are leaving audiences mesmorised. Find out more and book here: https://galadurham.co.uk/galapost/cinderella/

2 Dec - Plotters' Forest Enchanted Christmas Trail
2 Dec - FREE Make Your Own Red Art at Oriental Museum Durham
2 Dec - Family Christmas Crafts at Ushaw Historic House
2 Dec - Father Christmas Tales and Treats at Ushaw Historic House
2 & 3 Dec - Christmas Daytimes at Beamish
2 & 3 Dec - Father Christmas Has Lost His Presents Trail at High Force Waterfall
2 & 3 Dec - Decorate the Tree Trail at Raby Castle Deer Park
2 & 3 Dec - FREE Entry Raby Castle Christmas Market
2 & 3 Dec - AGLOW at Auckland Castle
2 & 3 Dec - Christmas Adventure + Santa's Grotto + Day Admission at Holmside Park
2 & 3 Dec - Winter Wonderland at Adventure Valley
2 & 3 Dec - Christmas at Hall Hill Farm
2 & 3 Dec - Durham Christmas Festival

NewcastleGateshead

The Common Room is located next to Newcastle Central Station and they've planned a whole host of festive events this year. From STEM Christmas Activities to Film Screenings, you can see what's on and book here: https://thecommonroom.org.uk/programme/whats-on/

2 Dec - Breakfast with Mrs Claus at Seven Stories
2 Dec - FREE Silk Painted Bauble Workshop at Grainger Market
2 Dec - FREE Noticing Nature in Winter Event at Jesmond Dene
2 Dec - Newcastle Cat & Dog Shelter Christmas Market
2 & 3 Dec - The Three Bears at Northern Stage
2 & 3 Dec - FREE Gingerbread Decorating & refreshments at BALTIC
2 & 3 Dec - What Santa Sees Planetarium Show and Ice Skating at Science at Life
2 & 3 Dec - Jack and the Giant Mystery Panto at Seven Stories
2 & 3 Dec - Christmas Crafts (stocking making) at Seven Stories
2 & 3 Dec - Christmas Crafts (toy making) at Seven Stories
2 & 3 Dec - Christmas Storytime at Seven Stories
2 & 3 Dec - Pinocchio at Newcastle Theatre Royal
2 & 3 Dec - Woodland Fairy Trail at Gibside (included with National Trust Membership)
2 & 3 Dec - WinterWonderscape at Metrocentre
2 & 3 Dec - Northern Lights Newcastle
2 & 3 Dec - Book a family Christmas meal in Narnia at The Woodmans Arms
2 & 3 Dec - Peter Pan at Tyne Theatre and Opera House
3 Dec - St Nicholas : The Original Santa Claus Guided Tour at Newcastle Cathedral (ages 12+). Pay at you feel
3 Dec - Mental Elf Family Fun Run / Walk at Exhibition Park
3 Dec - Jesmond Dene Christmas Market
3 Dec - Made Up North Christmas Market

Read 50+ festive things to do in Newcastle here: https://www.northeastfamilyfun.co.uk/2021/11/what-to-do-after-visiting-fenwicks-window-newcastle.html

North Tyneside

2 Dec - FREE Character Appearances by The Gruffalo at The Forum Shopping Centre, Wallsend plus FREE Creative Workshop with Lucy Farfort and FREE Christmas Crafts with the Frozen Sister (both at Wallsend Customer First Centre)
2 Dec - FREE Entry PlantsPlus Christmas Market
2 & 3 Dec - Santa's Sleigh VR Ride at PlantsPlus
2 Dec - Santa Workshop at Secret Garden Seaton Delaval
3 Dec - Santa Quiz at Secret Garden Seaton Delaval

South Tyneside & Sunderland

2 Dec - Clay Bauble Making at Souter Lighthouse
2 Dec - North East Festive Fayre at Beacon of Light
2 & 3 Dec - Ice Skating at Ocean Beach
2 & 3 Dec - The Enchanted Snow Globe at Customs House (under 7s)
2 & 3 Dec - Aladdin at Customs House
2 & 3 Dec - Lapland Adventure VR Ride at The Bridges

Teesside & North Yorkshire

Nightfall returns to Stewart Park this weekend. It's my absolute favourite Light Trail with interactive displays, a live music area, pop up storytelling & craft workshops all included in your ticket price. Limited tickets are available.

Find out more and book here: https://stellarprojects.co.uk/product/nightfall/

2 & 3 Dec - Nightfall at Stewart Park
2 & 3 Dec - Christmas at Spilmans (includes Santa visit)
2 & 3 Dec - Christmas at Preston Park including Elf Trail, Festive Arts & Crafts, Pop Up Panto (selected dates), Festive Family Games, Letter Writing to Father Christmas, Christmas Choirs and more
2 & 3 Dec - Santa's Sleigh VR Ride at Dorman Museum
2 & 3 Dec - Christmas Extravaganza at Dorman Museum
2 & 3 Dec - A Fairytale Christmas at Ormesby Hall (included with National Trust Membership)
2 & 3 Dec - FREE Walking with the Snowman Trail in Middlesbrough Town Centre
2 & 3 Dec - FREE Entry A Georgian Christmas at Kirkleatham Museum
2 & 3 Dec - Christmas at Tweddle Farm
3 Dec - FREE Stockton Sparkles Lantern Parade, FREE Glitter Facepainting, FREE Eco Reindeer Dust Making, FREE Christmas Card Making plus FREE Live Music & Pop-UP Theatre

What's On in the North East - 9 & 10 December

Northumberland

National Trust's Seaton Delaval Hall is open daily Wed-Sun across December (also closed Christmas Eve) and then daily from 1-7 Jan. There's no need to book, just drop in.

You'll find a range of festive activities included with your National Trust Membership. Highlights include Robin's Winter Trail, a String Quartet and Christmas Choirs.

Find out what's on, when here: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/north-east/seaton-delaval-hall/christmas-at-seaton-delaval-hall

Daily Until 18 Dec - FREE More in Morpeth Christmas Quiz Trail (for adults) or Elf Trail (for kids)
9 Dec - FREE Entry Hexham Christmas Market
9 Dec - Snow White at Queens Hall Hexham
9 Dec - Father Christmas Experience at Wallington
9 Dec - Christmas Choirs at Seaton Delaval Hall (included with NT membership)
9 Dec - FREE Ice Trail in Darlington Town Centre
9 Dec - Saturdays in Blyth : FREE Santa's Grotto, FREE Face Painting, FREE Characters, FREE Selfie Booths & Elves in The Keel Row Shopping Centre Blyth + FREE Storytelling + Crafts in the Library.

This Saturday there will also be FREE craft workshops, Samba workshops and a Church Nativity.
9 & 10 Dec - Saturnalia Light Festival at Vindolanda

9 & 10 Dec - FREE Hexham Magical Music Trail. 71 local businesses have decorated their window to the theme of a Christmas Song. Can you guess them all? Complete the trail for your chance to win one of three hampers.
9 & 10 Dec - FREE Santa's Grotto at Manor Walks Cramlington
9 & 10 Dec - Northumberland Myths and Legends | Christmas at Bamburgh Castle
9 & 10 Dec - Winter Light Trail at Alnwick Garden
9 & 10 Dec - Decorate a Ceramic Winter Heart at Woodhorn Musuem (included with admission and KIDS GO FREE)
9 & 10 Dec - Pavillion Tipi in Morpeth
9 & 10 Dec - Robins Winter Trail at Seaton Delaval Hall (included with National Trust Membership)
9 & 10 Dec - Merry Maze Trail, Mischevious Mice Trail & Wish Upon a Star at Cragside (included with National Trust Membership)
9 & 10 Dec - Walkaround Father Christmas at Wallington (included with National Trust Membership
9 & 10 Dec - Mrs Christmas Storytelling at Wallington (included with National Trust Membership
9 & 10 Dec - Festive Live Music at Wallington Hall (included with National Trust Membership)
9 & 10 Dec - Festive Storytelling with Father Christmas at Belsay Hall
9 & 10 Dec - Snowflake Trail at Northumberlandia (£3)
10 Dec - Aurora Strings (String Quartet) at Seaton Delaval Hall (included with National Trust Membership)
10 Dec - FREE Entry Berwick Christmas Market

County Durham

9 Dec - FREE Letter Writing to Santa & Face Painting at Byron Place Shopping Centre
9 Dec - FREE Mandala Making at Oriental Museum Durham
9 Dec - The Snowman with Live Orchestra at Ushaw Historic House
9 & 10 Dec - Christmas Daytimes at Beamish
9 & 10 Dec - Plotters' Forest Enchanted Christmas Trail
9 & 10 Dec - Father Christmas Has Lost His Presents Trail at High Force Waterfall
9 & 10 Dec - Decorate the Tree Trail at Raby Castle Deer Park
9 & 10 Dec - AGLOW at Auckland Castle
9 & 10 Dec - Christmas Adventure + Santa's Grotto + Day Admission at Holmside Park
9 & 10 Dec - Adventure Valley Winter Wonderland

NewcastleGateshead

There's a brand new Christmas Planetarium Show at Science at Life this December. What Santa Sees is just the sweetest show! It takes us on a journey around Earth with Santa and his reindeer as he uses the stars to navigate and deliver presents. It's included with centre admission along with a Winter Skies Planetarium Show, Christmas Crafts, Christmas Experiments + loads more.

Plus Newcastle's Open Air Ice Rink is just outside too.

Find out more and book: https://www.life.org.uk/whats-on/festive-fun-this-winter/

9 Dec - Light Up Christmas Card Making / STEM Activity at The Common Room
9 Dec - FREE Entry Christmas Craft Market at Shipley Art Gallery
9 Dec - Puddle at Alphabetti Theatre (4+)
9 Dec - Children's Paper Wreath Making at The Stables, Gibside (included with National Trust Membership)
9 Dec - Elf Movie at Newcastle Castle
9 Dec - FREE Eco Christmas Crafts at Grainger Market
9 Dec - FREE Christmas Music at Paddy Freemans Park
9 Dec - Cinderella at Northern Stage
9 & 10 Dec - The Three Bears at Northern Stage
9 & 10 Dec - What Santa Sees Planetarium Show and Ice Skating at Science at Life
9 & 10 Dec - Disney On Ice at Utlilta Arena
9 & 10 Dec - FREE Gingerbread Decorating & refreshments at BALTIC
9 & 10 Dec - Breakfast with Mrs Claus at Seven Stories
9 & 10 Dec - Jack and the Giant Mystery Panto at Seven Stories
9 & 10 Dec - Christmas Crafts (stocking making) at Seven Stories
9 & 10 Dec - Christmas Crafts (toy making) at Seven Stories
9 & 10 Dec - Christmas Storytime at Seven Stories
9 & 10 Dec - FREE Entry Frost Fest Weekend with Live Music and Elf Trail at Land of Oak and Iron
9 & 10 Dec - Northern Lights Newcastle
9 & 10 Dec - Book a family Christmas meal in Narnia at The Woodmans Arms
9 & 10 Dec - Peter Pan at Tyne Theatre and Opera House
9 & 10 Dec Pinocchio at Newcastle Theatre Royal
9 & 10 Dec - Woodland Fairy Trail at Gibside (included with National Trust Membership)
9 & 10 Dec - FREE St Nicholas Crafts & Trail at Newcastle Cathedral
9 & 10 Dec - WinterWonderscape at Metrocentre
10 Dec - FREE Winter Pinata Workshop at Grainger Market
10 Dec - St Nicholas : The Original Santa Claus Guided Tour at Newcastle Cathedral (ages 12+). Pay at you feel
10 Dec - FREE Mini Train Rides in Exhibition Park

Read 50+ festive things to do in Newcastle here: https://www.northeastfamilyfun.co.uk/2021/11/what-to-do-after-visiting-fenwicks-window-newcastle.html

North Tyneside

9 Dec - Santa Workshop at Secret Garden Seaton Delaval
9 & 10 Dec - FREE Entry North Shields Christmas Market
9 & 10 Dec - Breakfast / Afternoon Tea with Santa at Tynemouth Park
9 & 10 Dec - Cinderella at Whitley Bay Playhouse
9 & 10 Dec - Santa's Sleigh VR Ride at PlantsPlus
10 Dec - Santa Quiz at Secret Garden Seaton Delaval

South Tyneside & Sunderland

Beauty and the Beast Panto opens at Sunderland Empire this weekend. This AWARD WINNING script and star-studded cast is guaranteed to provide lots of laughs with larger than life characters and a transformation scene that's not to be missed!

Tickets are available from £13 here: https://prf.hn/l/554RowZ

9 Dec - FREE Entry Sunderland Teenage Art Market at Sunderland Museum
9 Dec - Build at Wooden Slice Christmas Tree at Souter Lighthouse
9 Dec - Wild Walk at WWT Washington

9 & 10 Dec - Beauty and the Beast Panto at Sunderland Empire
9 & 10 Dec - A Town Called Christmas at Washington Arts Centre (3+)
9 & 10 Dec - Santa's Grotto at Haven Point (£2 for up to a family of 6)
9 & 10 Dec - Ice Skating at Ocean Beach
9 & 10 Dec - The Enchanted Snow Globe at Customs House (under 7s)
9 & 10 Dec - Aladdin at Customs House
9 & 10 Dec - Elf Academy at WWT Washington
9 & 10 Dec - Lapland Adventure VR RIde at The Bridges
9 & 10 Dec - Pop Up Ice Skating Rink in Sunderland

Teesside & North Yorkshire

Christmas at Spilmans is available to book now for dates until Christmas Eve. This premium Christmas Experience has it all - an interactive elf show, storytelling with Father Christmas, snow, christmas trees, marshmallow toasting, christmas crafts AND a chance to choose any gift you'd like from the Spilman Toy Show.

Find out more and book: https://www.spilmans.co.uk/book-spilmans-experience/

9 Dec - Well Done, Mummy Penguin at Stockton Arts Centre (3+)
9 Dec - FREE Snow Play at DLI Feethams Complex
9 Dec - FREE Darlington Ice Trail

9 & 10 Dec - Christmas at Spilmans (includes Santa visit)
9 & 10 Dec - Christmas at Preston Park including Elf Trail, Festive Arts & Crafts, Pop Up Panto (selected dates), Festive Family Games, Christmas Choirs and more
9 & 10 Dec - A Fairytale Christmas at Ormesby Hall (included with National Trust Membership)
9 & 10 Dec - Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Darlington Hippodrome
9 & 10 Dec - FREE Snow Play, Story Corner & Crafts at Theatre Hullabaloo (0-4 years)
9 & 10 Dec - FREE Walking with the Snowman Trail in Middlesbrough Town Centre
9 & 10 Dec - Christmas at Tweddle Farm
9 & 10 Dec - Santa's Sleigh VR Ride at Dorman Museum
9 & 10 Dec - Middlesbrough on Ice

10 Dec - Peter Pan and the Lost Boys at Hartlepool Town Hall

What's On in the North East - 16 & 17 December

Northumberland

Daily Until 18 Dec - FREE More in Morpeth Christmas Quiz Trail (for adults) or Elf Trail (for kids)
Daily Until 18 Dec - FREE Hexham Magical Music Trail. 71 local businesses have decorated their window to the theme of a Christmas Song. Can you guess them all? Complete the trail for your chance to win one of three hampers.
16 Dec - Snow White at Queens Hall Hexham
16 Dec - Christmas Choirs at Seaton Delaval Hall (included with NT membership)
16 Dec - Saturdays in Blyth : FREE Santa's Grotto, FREE Face Painting, FREE Characters, FREE Selfie Booths & Elves in The Keel Row Shopping Centre Blyth + FREE Storytelling + Crafts in the Library.

This Saturday there will also be a FREE Circus School.
16 & 17 Dec - Northumberland Myths and Legends | Christmas at Bamburgh Castle
16 & 17 Dec - Saturnalia Light Festival at Vindolanda
16 & 17 Dec - Winter Light Trail at Alnwick Garden
16 & 17 Dec - Decorate a Ceramic Winter Heart at Woodhorn Musuem (included with admission and KIDS GO FREE)
16 & 17 Dec - FREE Santa's Grotto at Manor Walks Cramlington
16 & 17 Dec - Pavillion Tipi in Morpeth
16 & 17 Dec - Robins Winter Trail at Seaton Delaval Hall (included with National Trust Membership)
16 & 17 Dec - Christmas Decoration Making, Merry Maze Trail, Mischevious Mice Trail & Wish Upon a Star at Cragside (included with National Trust Admission)
16 & 17 Dec - Father Christmas Experience at Wallington
16 & 17 Dec - Walkaround Father Christmas at Wallington (included with National Trust Membership
16 & 17 Dec - Mrs Christmas Storytelling at Wallington (included with National Trust Membership)
16 & 17 Dec - Festive Live Music at Wallington Hall (included with National Trust Membership)
16 & 17 Dec - Festive Storytelling with Father Christmas at Belsay Hall
16 & 17 Dec - Snowflake Trail at Northumberlandia (£3)
17 Dec - Aurora Strings (String Quartet) at Seaton Delaval Hall (included with National Trust Membership)

County Durham

16 Dec - FREE Christmas Card, Tree Decoration & 2024 Calendar Making + FREE Face Painting at Byron Place Shopping Centre
16 Dec - FREE Ceramic Christmas Decoration Making at Oriental Museum Durham
16 & 17 Dec - Christmas Daytimes at Beamish
16 & 17 Dec - Plotters' Forest Enchanted Christmas Trail
16 & 17 Dec - Father Christmas Has Lost His Presents Trail at High Force Waterfall
16 & 17 Dec - Decorate the Tree Trail at Raby Castle Deer Park
16 & 17 Dec - AGLOW at Aucland Castle
16 & 17 Dec - Christmas Adventure + Santa's Grotto + Day Admission at Holmside Park
16 & 17 Dec - Winter Market at Bowes Museum
16 & 17 Dec - FREE Visit The Flying Scotsman at Locomotion - see the locomotive in light steam, climb aboard the cab, see the firebox alight & try some themed crafts
17 Dec - Christmas at Hall Hill Farm

NewcastleGateshead

Cinderella : A Fairytale is showing at Northern Stage until 6 Jan This modern take on the classic fairytale is based around Ella who much prefers a Doc Martin to a Glass Slipper and meets a boy in the woods as she's out watching her favourite birds. He likes bird watching too but how does the story end? You'll have to buy a ticket to find out...... Find out more and book tickets from £12 here: https://northernstage.co.uk/whats-on/cinderella-a-fairytale/

16 Dec - Family Festive Floristry Workshop at Shipley Art Gallery
16 Dec - Family Art Class at Shipley Art Gallery
16 Dec - Puddle at Alphabetti Theatre (4+)
16 Dec - FREE Positive Message Tote Bag Workshop at Grainger Market
16 & 17 Dec - The Three Bears at Northern Stage
16 & 17 Dec - Cinderella at Northern Stage
16 & 17 - FREE Gingerbread Decorating & refreshments at BALTIC
16 & 17 Dec - What Santa Sees Planetarium Show and Ice Skating at Science at Life
16 & 17 Dec - Jack and the Giant Mystery Panto at Seven Stories
16 & 17 Dec - Breakfast with Mrs Claus at Seven Stories
16 & 17 Dec - Christmas Crafts (stocking making) at Seven Stories
16 & 17 Dec - Christmas Crafts (toy making) at Seven Stories
16 & 17 Dec - Christmas Storytime at Seven Stories
16 & 17 Dec - FREE St Nicholas Crafts & Trail at Newcastle Cathedral
16 & 17 Dec - Pinocchio at Newcastle Theatre Royal
16 & 17 Dec - Woodland Fairy Trail at Gibside (included with National Trust Membership)
16 & 17 Dec - WinterWonderscape at Metrocentre
16 & 17 Dec - Northern Lights Newcastle
16 & 17 Dec - Book a family Christmas meal in Narnia at The Woodmans Arms
16 & 17 Dec - Peter Pan at Tyne Theatre and Opera House
17 Dec - FREE Natural Christmas Decoration Making Workshop at Grainger Market
17 Dec - St Nicholas : The Original Santa Claus Guided Tour at Newcastle Cathedral (ages 12+). Pay at you feel

Read 50+ festive things to do in Newcastle here: https://www.northeastfamilyfun.co.uk/2021/11/what-to-do-after-visiting-fenwicks-window-newcastle.html

North Tyneside

16 Dec - Santa Buffet at Secret Garden Seaton Delaval
16 & 17 Dec - Breakfast / Afternoon Tea with Santa at Tynemouth Park
16 & 17 Dec - Cinderella at Whitley Bay Playhouse
16 & 17 Dec - Santa's Sleigh VR Ride & Grotto at PlantsPlus
17 Dec - Santa Quiz at Secret Garden Seaton Delaval

South Tyneside & Sunderland

16 Dec - FREE Curious Arts Session for 11-15 year olds at Washington Arts Centre
16 Dec - Elmer's Christmas Storytime at Sunderland Museum (under 8s)
16 & 17 Dec - Beauty and the Beast Panto at Sunderland Empire
16 & 17 Dec - FREE Sunderland Ice Festival / Ice Trail with live Santa Sleigh Ice Sculpting, Letter Writing to Santa, Elves and more
16 & 17 Dec - Santa's Grotto at Haven Point (£2 for up to a family of 6)
16 & 17 Dec - Ice Skating at Ocean Beach
16 & 17 Dec - The Enchanted Snow Globe at Customs House (under 7s)
16 & 17 Dec - Aladdin at Customs House
16 & 17 Dec - Elf Academy at WWT Washington
16 & 17 - NEW Quentin Blake Winter Trail & Activities at WWT Washington
16 & 17 Dec - Lapland VR Ride at The Bridges

Teesside & North Yorkshire

16 Dec - FREE Saltburn Ice Trail
16 Dec - Holly and Oak King with Crafts, Festive Storytelling & Hot Chocolate at Dorman Museum (£3.50 per child - adults go free)
16 Dec - Well Done, Mummy Penguin at Stockton Arts Centre (3+)
16 Dec - FREE Snow Play at DLI Feethams Complex
16 & 17 Dec - Christmas at Spilmans (includes Santa visit)
16 & 17 Dec - Peter Pan and the Lost Boys at Hartlepool Town Hall
16 & 17 Dec - Christmas at Preston Park including Elf Trail, Festive Arts & Crafts, Pop Up Panto (selected dates), Festive Family Games, Christmas Choirs and more
16 & 17 Dec - A Fairytale Christmas at Ormesby Hall (included with National Trust Membership)
16 & 17 Dec - FREE Walking with the Snowman Trail in Middlesbrough Town Centre
16 & 17 Dec - Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Darlington Hippodrome
16 & 17 Dec - FREE Snow Play, Story Corner & Crafts at Theatre Hullabaloo (0-4 years)
16 & 17 Dec - Christmas at Tweddle Farm
16 & 17 Dec - Santa's Sleigh VR Ride at Dorman Museum
16 & 17 Dec - Middlesbrough on Ice

What's On in the North East - 18 - 23 December

County Durham

18 Dec - Mrs Claus Christmas Sing-a-long at Beamish
18 - 21 Dec - Christmas at Hall Hill Farm
18 - 23 Dec - Christmas Daytimes at Beamish
18 - 23 Dec - Plotters' Forest Enchanted Christmas Trail
18 - 23 - Decorate the Tree Trail at Raby Castle Deer Park
18 - 23 Dec - Father Christmas Has Lost His Presents Trail at High Force Waterfall
18-23 Dec - AGLOW at Auckland Castle
18 - 23 Dec - FREE Visit The Flying Scotsman at Locomotion - see the locomotive in light steam, climb aboard the cab, see the firebox alight & try some themed crafts
20 Dec - FREE Meet Grinchy and Cindy Lou at Byron Place Shopping Centre
20 - 22 Dec - Winter Wonderland at Adventure Valley
22 & 23 Dec - Christmas Adventure + Santa's Grotto + Day Admission at Holmside Park

Northumberland

18 Dec (closes midnight) - FREE Hexham Magical Music Trail. 71 local businesses have decorated their window to the theme of a Christmas Song. Can you guess them all? Complete the trail for your chance to win one of three hampers.

Pavillion Tipi in Morpeth (check dates)
18-23 Dec - Saturnalia Light Festival at Vindolanda
18-23 Dec - Merry Maze Trail, Mischevious Mice Trail & Wish Upon a Star at Cragside (included with National Trust Admission)
18 - 23 Dec - Northumberland Myths and Legends | Christmas at Bamburgh Castle
18 - 23 Dec - Winter Light Trail at Alnwick Garden
19 & 21 Dec - Snow White at Alnwick Playhouse
20 Dec - Pre-school Father Christmas Experience at Wallington
20 - 23 Dec - Robins Winter Trail at Seaton Delaval Hall (included with National Trust Membership)
22 Dec - Snow White at Queens Hall Hexham
22 & 23 Dec - FREE Santa's Grotto at Manor Walks Cramlington
22 & 23 Dec - Father Christmas Experience at Wallington
23 Dec - Walkaround Father Christmas at Wallington (included with National Trust Membership)
23 Dec - Mrs Christmas Storytelling at Wallington (included with National Trust Membership)
23 Dec - Festive Live Music at Wallington Hall (included with National Trust Membership)
23 Dec - Festive Storytelling with Father Christmas at Belsay Hall
23 Dec -Decorate a Ceramic Winter Heart at Woodhorn Musuem (included with admission and KIDS GO FREE)

NewcastleGateshead

St James' Park has organised a programme of after-school festive films this week with festive treats and special guest appearances too! Book your tickets here: https://www.nufc.co.uk/events/festive-family-events/

18 & 23 Dec - Jack and the Giant Mystery Panto at Seven Stories
18, 19 and 21-23 Dec - Christmas Storytime at Seven Stories
18 - 23 Dec - Woodland Fairy Trail at Gibside (included with National Trust Membership)
18 - 23 Dec - What Santa Sees Planetarium Show and Ice Skating at Science at Life
18 - 23 Dec - WinterWonderscape at Metrocentre
18 - 23 Dec - Northern Lights Newcastle
18 - 23 Dec - Book a family Christmas meal in Narnia at The Woodmans Arms
19 Dec - Polar Express Experience at St James' Park
19 Dec - Wintry Night at Gosforth Civic Theatre
19, 20, 23 Dec - Cinderella at Northern Stage
19 -23 Dec - Pinocchio at Newcastle Theatre Royal
19 - 23 Dec - Puddle at Alphabetti Theatre (4+)
19 - 23 Dec - Peter Pan at Tyne Theatre and Opera House
19 - 23 Dec - The Three Bears at Northern Stage
20 Dec - Home Alone Christmas Experience at St James' Park
20 Dec - Candlelit Carols at Newcastle Cathedral
20 - 24 Dec - FREE Gingerbread Decorating & refreshments at BALTIC
21 Dec - The Grinch Experience at St James' Park
21 Dec - Elf Screening at Gosforth Civic Theatre
22 Dec - Home Alone Screening at Gosforth Civic Theatre

23 Dec - Breakfast with Mrs Claus at Seven Stories
23 Dec - Children's Paper Wreath Making at The Stables, Gibside (included with National Trust Membership
23 Dec - FREE Family Friendly Crib Service at Newcastle Cathedral
23 Dec - FREE Geometric Folding Winter Craft Workshop at Grainger Market
23 Dec - Arthur Christmas Screening at Gosforth Civic Theatre

Read 50+ festive things to do in Newcastle here: https://www.northeastfamilyfun.co.uk/2021/11/what-to-do-after-visiting-fenwicks-window-newcastle.html

North Tyneside

18 - 23 Dec - Santa's Sleigh VR Ride at PlantsPlus
19 - 23 Dec - Cinderella at Whitley Bay Playhouse
22 Dec - Santa Buffet at Secret Garden Seaton Delaval
23 Dec - Breakfast with Santa at Tynemouth Aquarium
23 Dec - Meet Santa at Secret Garden Seaton Delaval

South Tyneside & Sunderland

18 - 21 Dec - - Santa's Grotto at Haven Point (£2 for up to a family of 6)
18 - 23 Dec - Ice Skating at Ocean Beach
18 - 23 Dec - Lapland VR Ride at The Bridges
18 - 23 Dec - Quentin Blake Winter Trail & Activities at WWT Washington
19 - 23 Dec - Beauty and the Beast Panto at Sunderland Empire
19 - 23 Dec - The Enchanted Snow Globe at Customs House (under 7s)
19 - 23 Dec - Aladdin at Customs House

21 Dec - Christmas Crafts at National Glass Centre (4+)
21 & 22 Dec - Elf Academy at WWT Washington
22 Dec - Festive Family Fun Day at National Glass Centre (4-7 years)
22 Dec - FREE Home Alone Film Morning at Beacon of Light

Teesside & North Yorkshire

18 - 23 Dec - FREE Snow Play, Story Corner & Crafts at Theatre Hullabaloo (0-4 years)
18 - 23 Dec - Christmas at Tweddle Farm
18 - 21 Dec - A Fairytale Christmas at Ormesby Hall (included with National Trust Membership)
18, 20, 21, 22 & 23 Dec - Well Done, Mummy Penguin at Stockton Arts Centre (3+)
18 - 23 Dec - FREE Walking with the Snowman Trail in Middlesbrough Town Centre
19-23 Dec - Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Darlington Hippodrome
20 Dec - FREE Christmas Characters & Christingle Making Kits in Darlington
20 - 23 Dec - Peter Pan and the Lost Boys at Hartlepool Town Hall
22 & 23 Dec - Christmas at Spilmans (includes Santa visit)
23 Dec - Christmas at Preston Park including Elf Trail, Festive Arts & Crafts, Pop Up Panto (selected dates), Festive Family Games, Christmas Choirs and more
23 Dec - Santa's Sleigh VR Ride at Dorman Museum

What's On in the North East - Christmas Eve

24 Dec - What Santa Sees Planetarium Show and Ice Skating at Science at Life
24 Dec - Christmas at Spilmans (includes Santa visit)
24 Dec - Peter Pan and the Lost Boys at Hartlepool Town Hall
24 Dec - Christmas Daytimes at Beamish
24 Dec - The Snowman in Concert at The Firestation
24 Dec - Jack and the Giant Mystery Panto at Seven Stories
24 Dec - Breakfast with Mrs Claus at Seven Stories
24 Dec - Christmas Storytime at Seven Stories
24 Dec - Christmas at Preston Park including Elf Trail, Festive Arts & Crafts, Pop Up Panto (selected dates), Festive Family Games, Christmas Choirs and more
24 Dec - Pinocchio at Newcastle Theatre Royal
24 Dec - Beauty and the Beast Panto at Sunderland Empire
24 Dec - Snow White at Queens Hall Hexham
24 Dec - FREE Walking with the Snowman Trail in Middlesbrough Town Centre
24 Dec - FREE Santa's Grotto at Manor Walks Cramlington
24 Dec - WinterWonderscape at Metrocentre
24 Dec - Northern Lights Newcastle
24 Dec - Winter Light Trail at Alnwick Garden
24 Dec - Ice Skating at Ocean Beach
24 Dec - Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Darlington Hippodrome
24 Dec - Decorate a Ceramic Winter Heart at Woodhorn Musuem (included with admission and KIDS GO FREE)
24 Dec - Book a family Christmas meal in Narnia at The Woodmans Arms
24 Dec - Peter Pan at Tyne Theatre and Opera House
24 Dec - Meet Santa at Secret Garden Seaton Delaval
24 Dec - Cinderella at Northern Stage
24 Dec - The Three Bears at Northern Stage
24 Dec - Cinderella at Whitley Bay Playhouse
24 Dec - The Enchanted Snow Globe at Customs House (under 7s)
24 Dec - Aladdin at Customs House
24 Dec - Breakfast with Santa + Grotto + Day Admission at Holmside Park
24 Dec - Quentin Blake Winter Trail & Activities at WWT Washington
24 Dec - FREE Snow Play, Story Corner & Crafts at Theatre Hullabaloo (0-4 years)
24 Dec - Lapland VR Ride at The Bridges
24 Dec - Santa's Sleigh VR Ride at PlantsPlus
24 Dec - Santa's Sleogh VR Ride at Dorman Museum

What's On in the North East - 26 - 30 December

If you're looking for something to do this week, Northumberland Myths and Legends at Bamburgh Castle is open daily from 27 Dec - 7 Jan.

You don't need to book - simply drop in. The decorations are absolutely fantastic and all themed around some of the myths and legends of Northumberland. I really enjoyed learning more about them. There's a dragon trail for kids, cozy tearoom and stunning sea views too.

Find out more: https://www.bamburghcastle.com/