Annie : Review (Newcastle Theatre Royal)

 AD - We were provided with press tickets to review this show in August 2026

📆 4 - 8 August 2026 at Newcastle Theatre Royal

🫶 Audio described & captioned performance with pre-show touch tour Sat 8 Aug at 2:30pm
⌚ 2 hr 20 mins including interval
🎫 Standard tickets available from £23
✅ Suitable for a family audience (triggers include strobes, haze, smoke and confetti bursts on stage)

📽 You can watch a preview here: Annie Preview

⭐ Starring Claire Sweeney at Miss Hannigan 

🎟️Book: https://www.theatreroyal.co.uk/whats-on/annie-2/

52 Days Out for Teens in Newcastle Upon Tyne

*This post was published in August 2026. Info can change so do check with venues direct for the most up to date info when booking. 

Summer at Preston Park Museum & Grounds

 AD - this is an advert for July 2026. Any shares / edits beyond this date have not been asked or paid for. 

Preston Park Museum & Grounds is Open Daily across the Summer Holidays. Watch a video from our Summer visit here: Summer at Preston Park Museum Video Tour

The Bodyguard Review (Newcastle Theatre Royal)

 AD - We were provided with press tickets to review this show in July 2026 

📆 27 July - 1 August 2026 at Newcastle Theatre Royal

🫶 BSL & Captioned 30 July at 7:30pm
⌚ 2 hr 10 mins including interval
🎫 Standard tickets available from £21
✅ Recommended for ages 10+ (haze effects, strobes and flashing lights)

📽 You can watch a trailer here: The Bodyguard Trailer 🎟️Book: https://www.theatreroyal.co.uk/whats-on/the-bodyguard-2/

Planning Our Holiday to Kos from Newcastle

This post was published in July 2026. We paid for this holiday ourselves but some of the links in this post are (ad) affiliates. 

We're off to Kos for our summer holidays this year. This post shares a few of our plans - let me know if you have any other recommendations for us. 

Jet 2 fly to Kos direct from Newcastle twice a week on Sundays and Wednesdays. Flight time is approximately 4 hours 15 minutes. You can check flight times and prices here: Holidays to Kos from Newcastle 

100+ FREE Days Out & Events across North East England for August 2026

 This post features over 100 FREE events taking place across North East England. Always check details with venues direct for the most up to date info before heading out as details can change. 

If you're looking for even more FREE days out, check out this post: The Ultimate Guide to FREE Days Out in North East England (over 50 attractions) 

And don't forget to check out our post : How to Save Money on Days Out 

What's On in the North East for Kids & Teens : August Daily Planner

Ad  - This post was published in July 2026 and contains adverts. As always, please check details with venues direct before heading out as info can change and cancellations are possible. You can do that by clicking the links in this post. 

North East Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free

The Storied Lands : Review & Tips

 AD - This post is based on a press preview visit and a regular visit on the first day they were open to the public as well as previous visits to Kynren. As always, information can change so it's super important you check with the venue itself for the most up to date information when booking. Kynren has less than 250 employees and this post complies with HFSS guidance. 

The Storied Lands is a much-anticipated live action day time park that takes you on a whirlwind tour of history. It shares the same site as our fantastic Kynren evening show and is open every day except Mondays until 12 September 2026 (and will then take a break over winter and re-open next summer). 

A Summer of Play at Seaton Delaval Hall - Daily Planner

This is an advert for July 2026. Any shares / edits beyond this date have not been asked or paid for. 

There is SOOOO much going on at Seaton Delaval Hall this summer. With different activities available to enjoy each week and lots of variation, it's definitely somewhere you can plan to visit more than once across the holidays. 

What's On in the North East for Kids & Teens : July 2026

 This post was published in June 2026. As always, please check details with venues direct before heading out as info can change and cancellations are possible. You can do that by clicking the links in this post. 

Hello July! 

I have decided to split my Summer Holiday What's On Guide across July and August this year as quite frankly, they are just becoming too big to cover the full six weeks. Look out for August's guide towards the end of July. 

100+ FREE Events in North East England | July 2026

This post features over 100 events taking place in July over weekends and school holidays in North East England. ALWAYS check details with venues direct when making plans and before heading out as details can change. 

Is This The Most Scenic Walk in Northumberland?

We absolutely love the walk from Craster Village to Dunstanburgh Castle and back. It’s 30 minutes each way, offers beautiful views of the coastline and there’s a fantastic beer garden with sea views, smokehouse and a playground at the end. What’s not to love?

The walk is super easy to follow - simply keep the sea on your right hand side and walk towards the castle then when you’re ready, turn around and head back into the village where you’ll find the pub, smokehouse and playground. You can easily extend your walk in both directions. Just keep walking -  it’s part of the England Coastal Path. 

This is Rambert Review (Newcastle Theatre Royal)

 Ad - we were provided with press tickets to review this show at Newcastle Theatre Royal in June 2026. 

Rambert is a School of Contemporary Dance & Ballet with innovation and creativity at their core. This year, they turn 100 and are celebrating with a show featuring bite-sized high impact works with something urgent to say. 

5 Reasons to Visit Discover Festival at Newcastle University

 Ad - This is an advert for June 2026 and based on a visit in June 2026. Any edits / reshares beyond this date have not been asked or paid for. As always, please check with venue direct for the most up to date info. 

What is Discover Festival? 

Discover Festival is a free, one day festival taking place across Newcastle University Campus. It's designed to bring the community together, spark curiousity and discuss ideas. There are loads of activities to pre-book or drop into across the day and the festival is inclusive and suitable for all ages and abilities. 

Strawberry Picking at Spilman's Farm

This post is based on a visit in June 2026 which we paid for ourselves. Please check with venue direct for up to date info as details can change. 

When Spilmans announced that some of their strawberries were ready early this year due to all of the lovely sunshine we’ve been receiving, we decided to book up and go along as an end of term treat. We love it here and the teens did not need any convincing.

Sandy Park (Crimdon) Glamping Review

This post is based on a stay in August 2025 which we paid for ourselves. Please check with venue direct for the most up to date info as details can change.  

Last summer we booked a bargain mid-week glamping trip for 2 adults and 1 dog. It was £240 for 4 nights Mon-Fri in August. Considering this was school holidays and included a hot tub, I thought it was a massive bargain. 

A Brand New Theme Park Opens in the North East this July

 AD - This is an advert for June 2026. Always check details with venues direct when booking and before heading out for the most up to date info. 

The UK's first ever Live Action Show Park opens in Bishop Auckland on 18 July 2026. It will then be open daily for the season from 10:30am - 4:30pm  (closed Mondays) until 12 September 2026. 

Things To Do Near Alton Towers

 Ad - We visited Staffordshire as part of a press trip in May 2026. This blog post has not been asked or paid for. This post contains affiliate links. 

Alton Towers is a popular short break option for our readers. This post will share ideas for things to do if you're staying in the Staffordshire area or ideas for somewhere to stop off after an overnight stay before heading home. 

You can check out current Alton Towers Offers & Deals here: Current  Alton Towers Deals & Discounts

The Ballad of Johnny & June Review (Newcastle Theatre Royal)

AD - We were provided with press tickets to review this show in June 2026. 
 

📆 2 - 6 June 2026 at Newcastle Theatre Royal
🫶 Audio described & captioned performance with pre-show touch tour on Sat 6 June at 2:30pm
⌚ 2 hrs 30 mins including interval
🎫 Standard tickets available from £30 / 18-30s tickets available from £10
✅ Recommended for ages 12+ (adult themed and language)

⭐ Starring Christopher Ryan Grant and Christina Bianco 🎟️Book: https://www.theatreroyal.co.uk/whats-on/the-ballad-of-johnny-june/

What's On in the North East for Kids & Teens : June 2026

 Always check information with venues direct before heading out as changes are possible. 

Welcome to our bumper guide to what's on in June. Check out our top picks first and then scroll down to the dates you need for 'what's on at the weekend' listings. 

It's a busy month for us with Discover Fest, lots of theatre trips, the Hoppings & the World Cup. Steve is off to see Metallica in Glasgow too. 

30 + FREE Entry North East Events for June 2026

  Always check information with venues direct before heading out as changes are possible. 

Here's a bumper list of free entry events for kids and families taking place across North East England this June. Click on the links for more info. 

If you're looking for even more FREE days out, check out this post: The Ultimate Guide to FREE Days Out in North East England (over 50 attractions) 

And don't forget to check out our post : How to Save Money on Days Out 

My First Ballet : Cinderella (Newcastle Theatre Royal) Review

 AD - We were provided with tickets to review this show in May 2026. 

This new production by English National Ballet is the perfect introduction to ballet for children and their families. 

Performed by students of the English National Ballet's graduate programme, it's a chance to be inspired and entertained by the next generation of dancers. 

Specifically created for a younger audience, you can expect a shortened version of Prokofiev's score (recorded rather than live) alongside gentle narration which helps a younger audience to easily follow the story along. 

How to Save Money on North East Days Out

 This post was published in May 2026. Please check with venues direct for up to date info as details can change. 

Cragside 

If you're looking to save a bit of cash on days out this year, this post brings together all of the best deals and places to look for discounts. 

Little Shop of Horrors (Northern Stage) Review

 AD - We were provided with press tickets to review this show at Northern Stage in May 2026, Press images credit : Pamela Raith.

Our Guide to Exploring Italy

I absolutely love Italy and I think it is probably my favourite holiday destination. In fact, we are travelling to Italy again this summer. Cannot wait! I realised I have a fair bit of Italy content on my site now so thought I would bring it all together in one post. 

AD - The links in this post are affiliate links. 

Perfect for you to read if you're looking for some inspiration for your next trip! 

A Day Exploring Malcesine & Limone Sul Garda

 This post is based on a visit in June 2024 which we paid for ourselves. Please check with venues direct for the most up to date info. 

We spent a week exploring Lake Garda and were based at the South of the Lake in Pescheria which is more convenient for travel. This was our first visit though and I wanted to spend a day in the North of the Lake too. The North is very different to the South and has a much more mountainous terrain. 

We settled on spending the day at Malcesine and Limone which are just a 10 minute ferry apart. It does take a long time to get there from the South though - an epic 3 hour ferry journey! It was nice though with plenty of stops and we were able to make a note of places we'd like to visit next time as we passed them too. 

A Day in Sirmione, Lake Garda

This is based on a visit in June 2024 which we paid for ourselves. Please check with venues direct for the most up to date pricing and info. 

Many people warned us that Sirmione is super busy but it was only a short boat ride from where we were staying in Pescheria del Garda and there was a nice looking lakeside spa there which I thought wouldn't be too busy so we decided to risk it. I'm so pleased we did as it was a lovely day. 

Legally Blonde The Musical at Newcastle Theatre Royal

 AD - We have been provided with press tickets to review this show.. Look out for a review on 13 May 2026

This iconic West End and Broadway musical comedy is back in Newcastle with a brand new production starring Amber Davies (Strictly Finalist, Pretty Woman and 9 to 5 the Musical) as Elle. 

If you're not familiar with the story, we meet Elle Woods who has just been dumped by her boyfriend Warner for not being the type of serious giflfriend he needs as he leaves to study at Harvard Law School. 

Why Birdoswald is the Best Roman Fort to Visit with Kids

We have visited three times over the year with our kids ranging from toddlers to teens. This particular post is based on a visit in May 2026 which we paid for ourselves.

As always, do check with venues direct for the most up to date information, especially regarding opening hours, facilities and costs. You can do that here: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/birdoswald-roman-fort-hadrians-wall/

In my opinion, Birdoswald is the best Roman Fort to visit with kids. There's lots of hands on activities on offer which really brings Roman Britain to life.  You'll also find excellent facilities including a family room with sink and seating, a cafe and baby change facilities.

The Best Spa in Northumberland (Breamish Valley Spa)

This is based on two visits in 2025 which we paid for ourselves. Please check with venue direct for the most up to date information when booking. 

Breamish Valley Spa received an extensive refurbishment in 2025 and in my opinion, is now hands down the best spa in Northumberland. It's the best in terms of service, facilities, food offering and the value it offers too (packages are available from just £35). 

The only negative for me (and this is subjective as it depends on where you live) is that it's location is fairly rural and it's a bit of a drive for us / not really accessible by public transport. I can only imagine what it must be like having this on your doorstep! 

I am fairly sure I've visited every spa in Northumberland and believe me when I say, this one is a spa you don't want to miss. It is peaceful with no sunbed wars with excellent poolside service and fantastic, modern and fresh facilities. 

Hadrian's Wall Day Trip Itinerary with Kids

This post was published and based on a visit in May 2026. As always, please check with venues direct for the most up to date info (especially opening hours). 

This year we have vowed to make the most of our various memberships and decided to spend May Bank Holiday visiting Hadrian's Wall. This is a full day itinerary that should take 5-6 hours if visiting by car. This trip is also possible by bus (AD122). 

5 Reasons I Love Gosforth Civic Theatre (+ our top picks for 2026)

This is an advert for April 2026. Any edits / shares beyond this date have not been asked or paid for. Please check with venues direct for the most up to date info. 

GCT is an independent arts space programming high quality theatre, live music and events. It certainly has a piece of my heart. Please do read on to discover what's on offer. There's something for everyone!

Our 2025/26 Adventures Supporting Women's Football

Despite supporting NUFCW for a number of years, this was the first season we were able to go ‘all in’ (mostly thanks to a reduction in weekend work commitments and that our kids have grown up and do their own thing on weekends so we have much more free time).

• Highest Attendance: 62,300  (England Women vs Spain Women)
• Lowest Attendance: 389 (Sunderland Women vs London City Lionesses) 
• Best Game : Newcastle United Women 3 : Manchester City Women 3 (6-7 on pens) 

It's an exciting time to watch women's footballl as we're receiving more coverage and investment. It's crazy to me how much a stadium experience can differ at this level. One day you're drinking Champagne in an Executive Suite at Old Trafford and the next you are standing at the side of a football field that definitely gives grassroot vibes. 

Morpeth Outdoor Paddling Pool

 This post was published in April 2026. Always check information with venues direct before heading out as timings can change. 

Morpeth Paddling Pool is located inside Carlisle Park, Morpeth and is managed by Morpeth Town Council.

30+ FREE Days Out across North East England : May 2026

As always, please make sure you check with venues direct for up-to-date details including dates and timings before heading out as these are subject to change. 

If you're looking for even more FREE days out, check out this post: The Ultimate Guide to FREE Days Out in North East England (over 50 attractions) 

What's On in the North East for Kids & Teens (May 2026)

Always check with venues direct for the most up to date information before heading out as changes are possible. 

Morpeth Paddling Pool opens on the last weekend in May (weather permitting)

Welcome to our guide to what's on across the North East for kids & teens this May (including half term). I'm looking forward to a full and busy month! 

Lunch & A Leg Stretch in Whitby

 This post is based on a visit in April 2026. Always check with venues direct for the most up to date info especially regarding opening hours and menus. 

Lunch & A Leg Stretch in Whitby

🐶 Dog & Child Friendly

This is not a full day out idea (you can easily extend it to a full day out) but rather somewhere to stop when driving to / from Yorkshire for a nice lunch, toilet stop and leg stretch.

To Kill A Mockingbird (Newcastle Theatre Royal) Review

 AD - We were provided with tickets to review this show in April 2026. 

Everyone has one book that they read at school that stays with them forever right? Well for me, this book is Harper Lee's To Kill A Mockingbird. It was my GCSE text way back in the year 2000 and up until then I was very much a Babysitters Club / Sweet Valley High / Point Horror kind of gal and had never read anything quite like this. It was a book that had real meaning to it and literally sweeps you away to another time and place whilst raising issues that are still prevalent today.

5 Reasons to Stay at The Bay, Filey with your Dog

 AD - This post was published in April 2026 and based on a visit in April 2026. Any edits/shares beyond this date have not been asked or paid for. Always check with venues direct for the most up-to-date information as this can change with time. 

We recently enjoyed a short break at The Bay, Filey with our Cockapoo Fozzy and two teenagers. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and found The Bay to be extremely dog friendly and welcoming. 

They're open all-year round and short breaks start at just £119 for three nights. Bargain! The Bay is approximately a 2.5 hour drive from Newcastle or it's a 1hr 50min journey on the train from Newcastle to Scarborough with a change at York (+ a taxi or bus to The Bay). 

Location wise, you're a 40-50 minute stroll along the beach to the traditional seaside town of Filey (or a 5 minute drive), there's a bus stop outside and the coastal towns of Scarborough and Bridlington are within easy reach.

9 Things to do at RSPB Saltholme

This post was published in April 2026. Please check with venue direct for the most up to date information (especially opening times and admission costs). 

•  This nature reserve in Teesside is such an underrated day out. Entry is free for your first child (then £3.50) and £7 per adult or free if you're a RSPB member.

16 Things to do at Scarborough North Bay

This post was published in April 2026. Please check with venues direct for the most up-to-date info and this can change over time. 

We love a trip to Scarborough. North Bay is traditionally known as the ‘quiet end’ of the town although I’m not sure why as there is plenty going on. 

You can easily spend a full day in this section alone or walk through the town (or catch an Open Top Bus) to South Bay where you’ll find amusements, bars, restaurants, a fairground, bowling, boat trips, fishing, shops and more.

How to Hire a Beach Hut at Blyth Beach

 This post was published in April 2026. Price changes and info can change over time so do always check with venue direct for the most up to date info. 

Hire a Beach Hut at Blyth Beach

FREE Giant Domino Run in Newcastle - Summer 2026

(ad) SAVE THE DATE for a FREE GIANT DOMINO RUN IN NEWCASTLE CITY CENTRE

Sunday 9 August 2026. Building will take place from 2.30pm

The Grand Fall will take place at 4:30pm and will be a spectacle like no other seen in our city.

Get down early to secure your preferred viewing spot. There will be loads of other cool free stuff happening in the city that day as part of the NOVUM festival. More info to follow.

The Domino Run Tumble should last a mega 30 minutes