With the half-term holiday here and some better weather, at last, to enjoy, now is the time when many families will be looking forward to enjoying some quality time together.
Days out - especially for those with a bigger brood - can prove hugely expensive of course so stretched parents will be keen to find ways to keep young ones entertained over the school break that won't hit the finances too hard. The good news is that there are plenty of free things to do and venues to visit across the North East and we cover a range of these here in our updated guide.
Already under-16s can have free admission to the likes Segedunum Roman Fort while all nine local TWAM attractions, which include Great North Museum: Hancock, Discovery Museum, and South Shields Museum, can be enjoyed for nothing. And many venues and visitor attractions in and around Newcastle draw up a programme of events and activities to occupy families during school holidays too, with a range of Ways to Play free and low-cost events across Tyneside currently being advertised for during the May half-term school holiday.
Read more: Best free or cheap days out as chosen by our readers
Here we offer up a range of venues and locations to visit, including outdoor ones, with fingers crossed for that sunshine, as well as ideas for indoor treats so that if the worst does happen with the weather then rain need not stop play. And the best bit is they won't cost you a penny.
Our updated guide features 56 free ideas for family things to do in and around Newcastle, Tyneside and the North East and in another winner for families North East buses often offer free travel to children in the holidays. Fare-paying customers are often able to take up to three children aged 11 and under for free on public transport in Tyne and Wear, Northumberland and Durham: keep an eye out for any news about that here.
In and around Newcastle
Jesmond Dene Newcastle, NE7 7DA
Jesmond Dene has provided generations of families with a scenic day out in the heart of Newcastle. Enjoy walking or biking through the extensive tarmac paths, visit Pets Corner to see the farm animals then why not enjoy a picnic on the grass near the ruined mill. There are plenty of access points for those reaching it on foot from South Gosforth, Jesmond and Heaton.
Laing Art Gallery, New Bridge Street, Newcastle, NE1 8AG
Situated opposite Newcastle Library, the Laing Art Gallery has regular exhibitions, from local artists to nationally-recognised paintings, as well as a children’s area for dressing up and interactive learning. See the website here.
Newcastle City Library, New Bridge Street West, Newcastle, NE1 8AX
With its regular children’s events, the central library not just about reading – although the extensive book collection as well as computer access and heritage collections mean the family can spend a few enjoyable hours together. Head to the Newcastle Library website here to see what’s coming up.
Discovery Museum, Blandford Square, Newcastle, NE1 4JA
Discovery Museum is made for families – parents and children will all enjoy seeing the display of science and engineering triumphs, with a particular slant on what the North East has contributed to the world. The main event is always Charles Parsons’ Turbinia, the first vessel to be powered by steam turbine.
The museum, which is within walking distance of the city centre, is hosting some lovely spring-theme Discovery Day events guaranteed to bring some cheer including spring crafts and a springtime bird trail. There is also a RAF’s Red Arrows flight simulator if you're looking for extra action. See here.
Ouseburn Farm, Ouseburn Road, Newcastle, NE1 2PA
The much-loved farm near Byker is now back on tracl following last year's tragic outbreak of bird flu and offers plenty to fascinate animal-loving children. Keep an eye out for webcam views too on its Facebook page. But it is always lovely to see the animal attractions in person and there are plenty animals to meet, including Susie the Psychic Pig who became a star with past match predictions in the Euros. She's retired from duties now but remains a big personality on the farm.
Beaides recent lamb attractions, the farm also has goats, rabbits and guinea pigs. It’s free entry but donations are welcome. See here. Catch up with a previous Chroniclelive visit to the farm here.
Leazes Park, Richardson Road, Newcastle, NE2 4BJ
Leazes Park was opened in 1873 and is the oldest park on Tyneside. The park is a much underrated sanctuary from the busy city centre; a real haven for people and wildlife away from the urban hub. It is also a great advert for lottery funding that has restored it to its former glories. See more about it on the council's website here.
Have you been struggling with the cost of living? Let us know in the comments below
Great North Museum: Hancock, Barras Bridge, Newcastle, NE2 4PT
It's now many years since the 2009 revamp of the former Hancock Museum, beloved of many a school trip, and it's a hugely impressive place to visit, housing everything from natural history collections and a reconstruction of Hadrian’s Wall to Egyptian mummies and a life-size Tyrannosaurus Rex replica – plenty to keep the children occupied. It has new interactive attractions too and a focus on environmental matters. There is only disabled parking available on site but it is easily accessed via public transport or by parking in Claremont Road.
Bessie Surtees House, 41-44 Sandhill, Newcastle, NE1 3JF
Note - this is one to look out for the future as the historic remains temporarily closed, as it has been for yonks save for a special free opening for The Late Shows this May when it also laid on a display of wedding dresses. The often-overlooked gem, in the heart of Newcastle, transports visitors to a previous incarnation of the city. Bessie Surtees House consists of two five-storey 16th and 17th Century merchants’ houses, with Jacobean period interiors and is also the scene of the famous elopement of Bessie with John Scott, a man her father disapproved of but who later came good as the Lord Chancellor of England. Walk down The Side to get to it, or approach from the Quayside. See here.
In and around Gateshead
Angel of the North, Durham Road, Low Eighton, Gateshead, NE9 7TY
The dominating symbol of the North East, the Gateshead Angel - which recently celebrated its 25th birthday - is the welcoming sight beloved by those who travel the A1 regularly. Visitors can get up close and personal too of course and there's on-site parking to make use of while families pose for that all-important picture of themselves under its outspread wings. Antony Gormley's sculpture attracts at least 150,000 visitors a year, and if the weather’s nice you can enjoy the grassy areas with a game or a picnic. Find out more about it on the council's website here.
Metrocentre, Gateshead, NE11 9YG
Playing host to regular family events, the Metrocentre in Gateshead isn’t just about spending money. The MetroGnomes perform free shows during the holidays and, as well as the children’s play area, there are also regular family events. It's served by regular buses from Newcastle as well as ample on-site parking. See here.
Saltwell Park, East Park Road, Gateshead, NE9 5AX
With 55 acres of parkland, woods and ornamental gardens, the Victorian park also boasts sports facilities, playing areas and bird houses, as well as occasional events such as free live music and of course there's acres of space just to enjoy a picnic. (If you do have cash to splash, a new coffee stop - in addition to the cafe in Saltwell Towers - has opened up from an original building on the upper promenade; otherwise pack a flask) the Saltwell Park is easily accessible via several bus routes. Read more on the council's website here.
Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, South Shore Road, Gateshead, NE8 3BA
The Baltic has regularly changing exhibitions (current ones include a retrospective of work by late documentary photographer Chris Killip); is on the circuit for national and international touring exhibitions and has also hosted the prestigious Turner Prize. Besides boasting a beautiful location right next to the River Tyne, it has a children’s area too and does Wonder & Wander tours. Baltic can be reached on foot from Gateshead centre or Newcastle Quayside over the Millennium Bridge. See here.
Shipley Art Gallery, Prince Consort Road, Gateshead, NE8 4JB
The gallery's collection of 800 paintings, art and crafts was designated as being of national importance in 1998. There are also regular events such as talks, craft groups and workshops. It’s a 20 minute walk from Gateshead Interchange and is also on some bus routes, or there is also limited free street parking near the gallery. And it's very close to Saltwell Park is you want to combine a day out. See here.
Chopwell Woods, Gateshead, NE39 1LT
Chopwell Wood is 360-hectare mixed woodland set right on the fringe of Gateshead. Its miles of paths enable visitors to walk and cycle through this fascinating woodland. No two parts of this varied woodland are the same and visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the River Derwent and North Pennines. Horse riders are also welcome.
In and around North Tyneside
Stephenson Steam Railway, Middle Engine Lane, North Shields, NE29 8DX
Steam train rides and lots of locomotives still have to be many youngsters' dream and there's plenty of that action on offer at this venue - formerly called Stephenson Railway Museum - which will reopen in April. It is also home to is also home to George Stephenson’s ‘Billy’: a forerunner of the world- famous Rocket. Keep an eye out for the season of its popular Heritage Train Rides, which do incur a small charge. Trains will be running on May 28-29 and June 1, 4, 11, 17, 18 and 25. See here.
Tynemouth Market, Tynemouth Station, Station Terrace, North Tyneside, NE30 4RE
Tynemouth Market takes place every weekend - 9am-3.30pm - at Tynemouth Station and combines a huge variety of goods, from vintage clothing and collectables to bric-a-brac and edible produce. Every third Saturday of the month there’s also a local farmers market which joins in with fruit, vegetables, meat, cheese, preserves and homebaked goods. See here.
Families can combine the market with a trip to the beach at Longsands, where the children can let off steam with ball games or a paddle, if they're feeling brave.
Things to do with the kids if it rains.
St Mary’s Island, Whitley Bay, NE26 4RS
Visitors can cross the short causeway to visit St Mary's Island and explore the the beach’s rockpools, clifftop grassland, and recently-created wetland habitat. However, if families wish to go inside St Mary's Lighthouse and climb the 137 steps inside the tower to the lantern room to enjoy the spectacular views along the coast there is a charge.
Admission prices apply to the visitor centre and lighthouse tower only.
Rising Sun Country Park, Whitley Road, Benton, Newcastle, NE12 9SS
The 400-acre green oasis is located in the heart of the North Tyneside and is open all year round. Visitors can enjoy the park’s rich and diverse wildlife and if can be lucky enough to spot its resident stag. At the centre of the park is a lake area, which is designated as a Local Nature Reserve.
Here are lots of different habitats to explore throughout the park including grassland, woodland, pond, wetlands and a lake. There is also a bird hide for keen bird watchers to use which overlooks the Swallow Pond. See more on the council website here.
In and around South Tyneside
South Shields Museum and Art Gallery, Ocean Road, South Shields, NE33 2JA
Easily accessible on Ocean Road, South Shields Museum and Art Gallery has lots of local art as well as personal memorabilia which belonged to late author Catherine Cookson. There’s plenty relating to the industrial and maritime history of South Tyneside, and there are also Tremendous Tuesdays school holiday craft activities to keep the children occupied. See here.
Trow Point to Lizard Point, South Tyneside, NE33 2LD to SR6 7NH
An impressive landscape with plenty to look at, this is an ideal location for a family walk. While nesting seabirds cling to the cliffs, the magnesian limestone soils play host to a variety of rare flowers, including the most northerly site in Britain for the rare, deep blue perennial flax. Why not park at Marsden Bay and take a picnic. See here.
Arbeia Roman Fort and Museum, Baring Street, South Shields, NE33 2BB
The home of the Roman garrison that guarded the Tyne, the fort has a mixture of excavated remains and reconstructed buildings to give visitors a feel of what life for Centurions must have been like and child-friendly display boards add further to the story. This is the most extensively-excavated military supply base in the Roman Empire and includes the remains of the headquarters, barracks, granaries, gateways and latrines.
It’s a 10 minute walk from South Shields Metro and bus station and is signposted from Ocean Road. See here for its current programme.
St Paul’s Monastery, Church Bank, Jarrow, Tyne and Wear, NE32 3DY
The monastery was once home to the Venerable Bede, chronicler of the beginnings of English Christianity, and has become one of the best-understood Anglo-Saxon monastic sites. The church ruins, including the oldest dedication stone in the country, dated AD 685, is incorporated into the current church.
In and around Sunderland
Penshaw Monument, Chester Road, Houghton le Spring, Penshaw, Sunderland, DH4 7NJ
For a Sunderland’s alternative to the Angel of the North head to Penshaw Monument, the 19th century Greek-style folly which stands at the top of a hill near Washington is visible for miles around. It has impressive views for those who put the work in to climb to the top. See the National Trust site here.
Search for Seaham seaglass, Sunderland coastline, SR6 9LX
Seaglass is beautiful frosted pieces of glass, worn smooth over many years by the movements of the sea - and Seaham on the Sunderland coastline is world-famous for it. Thanks to Victorian glass factories throwing spoil out to sea, people over the last few decades have even travelled from other countries to see what they can find on the beach - and we have it right on our doorstep. The biggest pieces of glass have long since gone but children will love searching the sand for the glinting pieces of treasure which comes in white, green, brown, and the rarer blue and red. Parking is available at the top of the cliffs.
National Glass Centre, Liberty Way, Sunderland, SR6 0GL
The National Glass Centre in Sunderland brings to life the area’s glass-making heritage, which 100 years ago was a national hub for the industry. Learn how glass is made, watch craftsmen making glassware, and take part in children’s activities and creative workshops. See here.
Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens, Burdon Road, Sunderland, SR1 1PP
A venue of two contrasting interests to keep the whole family entertained, the museum houses an ever-expanding range of displays that especially focus on the North East’s heritage and industry, while the winter gardens hold a botanical collection of 2,000 plants. The venue is close to Sunderland Metro and train station and Park Lane Interchange. Find out more here.
Hylton Castle, Craigavon Road, Sunderland, SR5 3PA
On a nice day, why not visit this imposing gatehouse tower which originally housed four storeys of family accommodation and was built by Sir William Hylton in about 1400. It’s a lovely spot for a picnic before exploring the surrounding area. See the English Heritage site information here.
Washington F Pit, Albany Way, Washington, Tyne and Wear, NE37 1BJ
Ok, this may be another one for the diary as the pit has only occasional open days - and they're not until the autumn - offering a chance to learn all about the North East’s coal mining heritage. Washington F Pit, which was sunk in 1777 and closed in 1968, was the most productive pit on the site by the late 19th century.
The Washington F Pit museum includes the winding gear that took miners down to the coalface. There are also models, photographs and art. News of 2023's opening dates - to be September 4-30, from noon to 3pm (except Sundays) - see here where there's also a virtual tour you can check out in the meantime.
In and around Northumberland
Wild camping at Kielder Water and Forest Park, Hexham, Northumberland, NE48 1ER
The 26-mile Lakeside Way at Kielder takes you along next to the river and through some truly beautiful spots. It’s not always flat but the well-maintained surface is suitable for walking or biking and will definitely tire out the children. Kielder hosts events too and wildlife lovers will also enjoy the deep forests. Those wanting to stay over there’s also free wild camping but you need to book ahead. See here.
The crags of Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland, NE46 1BS
The wilds of Northumberland are spectacular, especially around Hadrian’s Wall. One of the best places to enjoy the scene is from one of the dominating crags such as Cuddy’s Crags or Crag Lough. The children no doubt will be impressed by the ruins of the forts at regular intervals along the Wall, as well as Sycamore Gap – the lone tree guarding the dip in the wall made famous by the film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.
Castles tour, Northumberland, start North Haul Road, Hexham, NE48 1NE
Fancy finding out how many free castles you can fit into one day? You’ll have to drive but the area's castles are spectacular sights and picturesque picnic-perfect settings which bely their violent pasts. Black Middens Bastle House between Falstone and Bellingham is a ruined 16th century fortified farmhouse with access to living quarters only on the first floor. There’s also good walking country nearby and the Reivers Route cycle trail.
Edlingham Castle, near the A697 to the west of Alnwick, is the tower of a 14th Century manor house and Norham Castle to the far north of the county, boasts extensive ruins of a 12th century castle which was besieged 13 times by the Scots, while St Andrews Church in Bywell is an interesting example of a church tower built for defence, with walls an extraordinary five metres thick. Built in 850, it is a Grade l-listed property.
Northumberlandia, Fisher Lane, Cramlington, Northumberland, NE23 8AU
Rising from the ground in South East Northumberland, the huge female figure of Northumberlandia dominates the landscape. With free public access, the creation - completed in 2012 - lies in 46 acres of parkland which is perfect for a day out and picnic, and has four miles of walking paths.
The X13, X20, X21 and X22 buses stop near the pedestrian entrance, or there is paid-for parking on site. See here.
The causeway to Holy Island, Lindisfarne, Northumberland, TD15 2SE
This is a day out unlike anything else you can do in the world. Read the crossing time guide and make your way across the tidal causeway to Lindisfarne, surrounded by stunning coastal scenery.
There are plenty of free places to visit such as the museum of the Coldstream Guards and although there's a fee to enter Lindisfarne Priory it's still worth seeing from the outside. Those wanting to avoid parking charges could make use of the buses which run on certain days between Berwick and Holy Island.
See here. Lindisfarne Castle, which was restored not so long ago, is always worth a look.
Walk from Craster past Dunstanburgh Castle, Dunstanburgh Road, Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 3TT
This stunning walk takes visitors through the picturesque village of Craster along the impressive Northumberland coast and past Dunstanburgh Castle. Another ideal spot for a picnic is Embleton Bay. Parking in Craster itself is restricted but there are plenty of car parks nearby.
Warkworth Hermitage walk, Castle Terrace, Warkworth, Northumberland, NE65 0UJ
While entering the Hermitage itself comes with a charge, the surrounding countryside is some of the most attractive in the North East so offers an ideal location for a getaway. Families could enjoy a picnic then head down to pretty Warkworth village itself, or walk the four miles to Alnmouth for a stroll through the town before heading on to the beach. See here.
Tyne Riverside Country Park, Tyne Valley, Northumberland, NE42 6UP
Accessible from Prudoe or Wylam Stations and Tyne Valley bus routes, Tyne Riverside Country Park offers 200 acres of meadows, grassland, woods and river bank, following the River Tyne for four miles. Passing Stephenson’s Cottage - the now-picturesque birthplace of railway engineer George Stephenson – takes walkers on to explore the industrial heritage remains and possible wildlife-watching.
Woodhorn Museum and Archive, QEII Country Park, Ashington, Northumberland, NE63 9YF
This former colliery site always has something of interest going on. Its changing exhibitions have previously included a history of video games and costumes from major films. The permanent displays commemorate South East Northumberland’s coal mining heritage; the communities and workers, and the famous Pitmen Painters. Although there is a parking charge for the day, the site can be reached from Ashington Bus Station in about 15 minutes. See here.
Those aged 16 and under can access all Museums Northumberland venues for free. Adult annual pass details are here.
Chain Bridge Honey Farm, Horncliffe, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Northumberland, TD15 2XT
This farm boasts an incredible 2,000 beehives within a 40-mile radius. The visitor centre - see here for opening times - is free to visit and has information boards explaining everything there is to know about bees; wall murals of the surrounding areas and a glass panel showing the internal workings of an actual beehive where people can watch the comings and goings of those wonderful insects. There is also a collection of vintage vehicles to add extra interest to a trip. See here.
Northumberland beaches, NE76 5BW or NE69 7DF
We’re very lucky in the North East to have such an array of sandy, quiet, scenic beaches. And while the weather isn’t always great, at least it means families can sometimes find a whole beach to themselves. Try Beadnell Bay and enjoy birdwatching at the little tern and arctic tern breeding colonies at the National Trust Nature Reserve at Long Nanny estuary or why not head for Bamburgh beach under the imposing walls of Bamburgh Castle.
Berwick Castle and Town defences, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Northumberland, TD15 1DF
Far north of Northumberland, the defences of Berwick stand as a testament to its position as a border town. The remains of a medieval castle from the Anglo-Scottish wars are complemented by the most complete and impressive town defences in England dating from Elizabethan times and added to in the 17th and 18th centuries. Visitors can walk all the way around the defences – check out the Discovering Britain website for a guided walking plan and description. Bear it in mind too for future visits as the town hosts events, such as a food festival later in the year, in September, which includes lots of free activities. See here.
Druridge Country Park, A1068, Red Row, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 5BX
This is a living landscape, rich in wildlife and including a stunning seven-mile stretch of sand running from Amble to Cresswell. It is a popular place to ride, cycle walk, paddle and surf. Druridge Bay Country Park has all the amenities needed to enjoy a day at the coast with its cafe, toilets and children’s play area. The park is centred around a lake with surrounding meadows and restored woodland on the site of an old opencast coal mine which is now maturing into a very pleasant landscape for walks and picnics. See here
In and around County Durham
Durham Cathedral, The College, Durham, DH1 3EH
One of the truly spectacular man-made sights in the North East, the history of Durham Cathedral is fascinating and was one of Britain’s first World Heritage Sites. Walk through the town centre from the bus or railway station and enjoy the cloister, cathedral church and monks’ dormitory, as well as heritage trails, music recitals and talks. Free, but donations are welcome. See here.
Other attractions include its Durham Cathedral Museum, previously called Open Treasure, and its restored central tower which is open for tours.
Durham peninsular walk, Durham, DH1 1SQ
With a relatively flat path most of the way around the Durham peninsular, as well as attractive streets past the castle and cathedral, these walks take you along the river and past some calming green spaces. Durham peninsular walks, which can be downloaded from the internet, can take a few hours, such as the one starting at Freeman’s Quay Walkergate.
Finchale Priory, Finchale Avenue, Brasside, Framwellgate Moor, County Durham, DH1 5SH
Explore the beautiful ruins of the 13th century priory in the crook of the river, founded on the site of a retired pirate’s hermitage, then enjoy some of the extensive garden and countryside walks nearby. The English Heritage property is free and open from 10am-5pm from April.
Those looking to make a day out of it can combine a visit with one to Derwentcote Steel Furnace, about 11 miles away. This is the most complete steel-making furnace in Britain, built in the early 1700s. it's located between Hamsterley and Rowlands Gill and those going directly there can either take the Go North East 45 or 46 bus from Newcastle, or else drive along the A694. See here.
Auckland Castle Deer House, Bishop Auckland, County Durham, DL14 7NR
The mighty castle is now back in action after its pre-lockdown ambitious works programme. Work is ongoing but there's lots to see, including an art exhibition for those willing to pay for entry. But besides the feast of treasure inside there's the Auckland Castle Deer House, a gothic revival building dating from 1760, which can be explored for free.
It was built in the park of the Bishops of Durham to provide food and shelter for deer and today it provides beautiful views from its rooms and is surrounded by parkland ideal for a picnic. It’s one mile from Bishop Auckland train station and is on several bus routes.
To make a day of it, why not also visit Piercebridge Roman Bridge - stone remains in a field nine miles away - which was once a bridge leading to Piercebridge Roman Fort; and Stanwick Iron Age Fortifications, the excavated remains of a huge iron age trading centre of the pre-Roman tribe the Brigantes. See here.
Hamsterley Forest and Escomb Church, Redford, County Durham, DL13 3NL
The 2,000 hectares of Hamsterley Forest are great for all sorts of activities. As well as the walks and biking trails, there’s a children’s adventure playground and a Rainforest Rescue Discovery Trail, where you the sounds of the rainforest can be heart. There are usually regular events throughout the summer and beyond, such as bushcraft survival days, painting events, lathe workshops and fungi foraging. Although there's a parking charge, a free way to get to Hamsterley is by taking a bike via public transport to the W2W cycle trail, which passes through the forest.
For a County Durham day out, why not combine also visit nearby Escomb Church. One of the most complete Saxon Churches in Europe, this is a real treat for any history buffs in the family. Built around 675AD with stone probably from the Roman Fort at Binchester, it was in existence when Bede was alive. The tiny church is a place of peace and reflection and also houses medieval wall paintings. See here.
Locomotion: National Railway Museum, Dale Road Industrial Estate, County Durham, DL4 2RE
South of Durham, not far from Bishop Auckland, is Locomotion, the National Railway Museum. Young children and parents also set to love the 70-odd railway vehicles on display, while there are also regular family events and activities which previously have included the opportunity to build a miniature vehicle and race it.
There are buses from Durham, and it’s a three-minute walk from Shildon Station. Donations here are always welcome. See here.
Nature and heritage trail, Shincliffe, County Durham, DH1 2NU
Just outside Durham itself is this attractive village with walking routes nearby. There are plenty to choose from, including nature and heritage trails. Some walks start from Shincliffe itself while others start from Durham or from the rowing club.
Rainton Meadows, County Durham, DH4 6PU
Join the dragonflies among the quiet paths of this reserve, run by Durham Wildlife Trust. There are woodlands and wetlands, lakes and walks, and it’s the perfect place for birdwatchers as there’s the possibility of seeing all five British owl species as well as more than 200 other species of birds. There’s a car park and visitor centre on site, and a bike rail to chain up to for those travelling by bicycle. See here.
Hardwick Park, Sedgefield, Stockton-on-Tees, County Durham, TS21 2DN
This area may be a newly-discovered treasure for those living further afield. The gardens are well worth seeing, with a visitor centre giving in-depth history of the park and its restoration. On the west side of Sedgefield, the nearest bus stop is at Sedgefield High Street. To reach it, walk for half a mile along a signposted footpath through the arch of the Hardwick Arms Hotel. See here.
Bowes Castle (The Street, DL12 9HP) and Egglestone Abbey, (Abbey Lane, Bowes, DL12 9TH) both Barnard Castle, County Durham
Bowes Castle is the remains of a 12th Century keep, built by Henry II on the site of the former Roman fort of Lavatrae which guarded the strategic Stainmore Pass over the Pennines. Visitors can enter through a former arrow slit and climb the stairs, seeing rooms built into the thickness of the wall. Visitors could park in Bowes village or take the Central 72 bus from Barnard Castle.
Why not combine it with a visit to nearby Egglestone Abbey, a small monastery above a bend in the River Tees near Barnard Castle. The remains include a 13th Century church and a range of living quarters – and an ingenious toilet drainage system. See here for the Castle and here for the Abbey.
High Force Waterfall, Teesdale, DL12 0XH
This might be a bit of a drive from most of the North East’s towns and cities but it's well worth the journey. The waterfall is spectacular and at 70ft is the largest uninterrupted waterfall in England. There are also forest walks where the falls are slowly revealed to you through the trees, and there is parking, a picnic area and gift shop on site. See here.
Wild flower spotting, Teesdale, DL12 0HX / DL12 0HA
Many visitors and keen botanists can head to the beautiful, rugged landscape of Teesdale to see the nationally-rare flowers that thrive in the area, like the rare arctic-alpine flora although visitors will have to wait until spring to see the famous Gentians. There are several car parks to try for different walks, such as Cow Green Reservoir and Hanging Shaws.
Note - with money-saving ideas in mind and looking ahead to summer, there previously has been sponsorship by Tyne and Wear Metro for TWAM's holiday programme allowing free child travel with fare-paying adults so keep an eye out for news and for full details olf TWAM's Ways to Play - the free and low cost events across Tyneside during school holidays - see here.
For the latest What's On news, announcements and reviews direct to your inbox, go here to sign up to our free newsletter
Read Next: