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Visitors on the beach at Souter Lighthouse and The Leas, Tyne & Wear
A family exploring the rockpools near Souter Lighthouse | © National Trust Images/Paul Harris

Adventure awaits: family fun in the North East

From wild woodland walks to castles and houses full of stories, the North East is bursting with family adventures. Whether you're climbing, exploring, or just enjoying nature, our places offer unforgettable days out for kids of all ages. Come and make memories together.

Things to do for families

Two girls walking along the banks of the Nelly's Moss lakes

Great family walks 

Looking for the perfect walk with the kids? We’ve handpicked some of the best family-friendly trails in the North East. Whether you're pushing a buggy, need a shorter route for little legs, or want to spot birds, bugs, and other wildlife along the way, there’s a walk for everyone. Explore our variety of scenic, accessible trails and enjoy quality time together in nature.

Top family days out in the North East

Family playing near Gibside Chapel in the summer sun
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Gibside 

Gibside is the ultimate outdoor playground for families. Whether you're climbing, swinging, or exploring, there's adventure at every turn. Wander the Explorer Trail, packed with nature and play areas. Swing through the trees on a rope swing and join seasonal events during school holidays. There's a den building area, sand and water play and sculpture to spot in the woodland. From tots to teens, it's fresh air, fun, and freedom.

Girl playing in the Little Acorns nature play space at Wallington, Northumberland
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Wallington 

There's lots to keep the family entertained at Wallington, whatever the season. Look out for wildlife on the River Walk, zoom along the Dragon cycle trail or go wild in one of the play areas. Don't forget our impressive selection of splashy puddles on soggy days; we've got the mud if you've got the wellies! For rumbling tummies, why not make a stop in West Wood and enjoy a tasty pizza from the wood-fired pizza trailer?

Visitors enjoying Summer of Play sack race activities at Seaton Delaval Hall, Northumberland
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Seaton Delaval Hall 

Looking for family days out in Northumberland? Seaton Delaval Hall in North East England offers playful gardens, the Delaval Playdium, and creative spaces inspired by the Hall’s theatrical past—perfect for visits in June, July and August. A brilliant family-friendly destination, with plenty to explore and enjoy—plus more Summer of Play fun on the way for the summer holidays with events and activities for for kids to enjoy every day.

Den building area at Cragside, Northumberland
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Cragside 

Bring the kids to Cragside for a big day of adventures. Climb to dizzy heights at the play area and let their imagination run wild at den building. With miles of paths and twists and turns to discover, the grounds will feel like a giant maze for nature explorers. Follow a waymarked walk where you'll uncover routes along lakesides, stone steps to climb, paths through rocky caverns, giant trees and spring wildlife.

Family playing badminton at Ormesby Hall Summer of Play
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Ormesby Hall 

There’s lots to keep the family entertained at Ormesby Hall, whatever the season. Go wild in the natural play area, stop by the model railway layouts and enjoy imaginative play. Looking for something to do during the school holidays? There’s always a fun trail in the house and gardens. During the six weeks holidays in the summer we have a huge Summer of Play in store, with sports, games and circus activities throughout the gardens.

The North East's little gems for family days out

Girl running in Gertrude Jekyll's garden at Lindisfarne Castle, Northumberland
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Lindisfarne Castle 

Planning a family day out in Northumberland? Lindisfarne Castle on Holy Island offers a perfect mix of adventure and discovery for visitors of all ages. Explore fun, family-friendly activities like birdwatching, spotting seals along the shoreline, flying kites in the sea breeze, and skimming stones on the beach. It’s an unforgettable experience for families visiting the Northumberland coast.

Young visitors running at Souter Lighthouse and The Leas, Tyne & Wear
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Souter Lighthouse & The Leas 

Discover how lighthouse keepers lived and helped keep ships at sea safe. Follow in their footsteps, climbing 76 steps to the top of the tower for a bird's eye view of the coast. Miles of open grassland and hidden rocky bays make Souter ideal for games, picnics, rock pooling and other outdoor adventures.

View of a sunny garden with flower borders, in front of a stone manor house
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Crook Hall Gardens 

Can you solve our hedge maze? Head to the wildlife hub to discover what creatures you might see and borrow a pair of binoculars to watch birds. Find a new storybook in our second-hand bookshop and choose the perfect spot in the gardens to enjoy it.

Durham

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Three boys running at Hadrian's Wall
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Hadrian's Wall & Housesteads Fort 

Looking for a summer day out that’s packed with history, adventure, and unforgettable views? Step back nearly 2,000 years and explore the wonders of Hadrian’s Wall and Housesteads Roman Fort — a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s just waiting to be discovered.

People picnicking at allen banks and starward gorge
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Allen Banks & Staward Gorge 

Get out into nature and explore ancient woodlands, discover wild animals and take some time out to tackle a few of the activities on your list of ‘50 things to do before you're 11¾’. Whether you’re searching for six-legged critters on a bug hunt or building a den, the woodland at Allen Banks is the perfect place for family fun.

Two visitors bird watching with binoculars at the Farne Islands, Northumberland
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Things to see on the Farne Islands 

Find out what you might see when you take a boat trip to the Farne Islands, from wildlife such as puffins and grey seals, to centuries-old buildings including St Cuthbert's Chapel.

A family in the garden at Washington Old hall, Tyne & Wear
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Washington Old Hall 

Take a wander with the family and explore the House, home to the original Washington family. Outside in the gardens, hear birdsong and spot bees, butterflies and other spring wildlife.

Things to do when it rains

Rainy day? No problem! Whether you’re looking for cosy indoor adventures or ready to pull on your wellies and embrace the mud, we’ve got you covered. From historic houses and indoor activities to puddle-jumping paths and woodland wanders, discover brilliant ways to enjoy a day out with the kids—whatever the weather.

Children playing in the den building area
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Take cover at Gibside 

Rain doesn’t have to mean staying indoors! Head to West Wood, where the tree canopy offers shelter for den building and woodland play. Then warm up with a hot chocolate at the stables, browse the second-hand bookshop, and enjoy a cosy moment in the café or chapel.

Visitors sitting on the sofas and laughing in the Drawing Room at Wallington, Northumberland; the walls are richly decorated with intricate plaster mouldings
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Indoors and out at Wallington 

Rain doesn’t stop play at Wallington—just bring your waterproofs and a sense of adventure! Outside, explore the wild no matter the weather. Inside, step into the historic kitchen, peek into the miniature world of the Dolls’ Houses, and marvel at rows of toy soldiers ready for action. Snuggle up in the children’s book nook and dive into a story of your own.

Visitors playing with an interactive board game in the Drawing Room at Seaton Delaval Hall, Northumberland
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So much to do at Seaton Delaval Hall 

Step into a world of surprises at Seaton Delaval Hall! Dance beneath the dazzling giant mirror ball, uncover secrets in the mysterious basement, and dive into the Hall’s quirky history with a laugh-out-loud giant board game. Discover the topsy-turvy upside-down room and take centre stage in the Old Kitchen—perfect for little performers with big imaginations.

A woman and child looking out through the window of the Lantern Room at the top of Souter Lighthouse, Tyne & Wear
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Souter - the first Lighthouse to be lit by electricity 

Step inside the world’s first lighthouse powered by electricity and uncover the life of a lighthouse keeper. Get hands-on with interactive displays, learn how ships were kept safe at sea, and climb the 76 steps to the top of the tower. At the summit, marvel at Souter’s mighty lamp and take in sweeping coastal views that stretch for miles.

An adult and group of children examine an artefact inside the house at Ormesby Hall, North Yorkshire
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Put on a show at Ormesby Hall 

Step into the spotlight at Ormesby Hall! Dress up in colourful costumes and take to the stage to create your own family performance. Explore the fascinating model railways, get hands-on with the interactive children’s railway, or slow things down with a cosy story in the second-hand bookshop. Whether you're performing, playing, or just relaxing together, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

View of the Ship Room with a curved roof, large fireplace and red carpet at Lindisfarne Castle, Northumberland
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Explore Lindisfarne Castle 

Step inside Lindisfarne Castle and uncover its hidden wonders. Hunt for the spectacles tucked away in each room, listen to the wind howling through the chimneys, and watch the wind indicator spin into action. Every cosy corner tells a story —bringing the past to life. Don’t miss the Upper Gallery, where a special sound installation inspired by nature adds a magical finishing touch to your visit.

Summer of Play in the North East

Get ready for a summer bursting with adventure, imagination and unforgettable family moments in the North East. From nature trails, craft zones, mini stages and family sports, take part in a Summer of Play, sponsored by Starling Bank.

Child running in front of giant letters that read 'Gibside'.
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Summer of play at Gibside 

A Summer of adventure is waiting at Gibside. Follow the Summer of Play trail that stretches across Gibside and let imaginations soar, feet run wild, and creativity come to life in an outdoor wonderland designed for all ages.

Visitors enjoying Summer of Play sack race activities at Seaton Delaval Hall, Northumberland
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Family summer fun at Seaton Delaval Hall 

Enjoy circus fun, musical junk orchestras, and theatrical play at Seaton Delaval Hall. Race hobby horses, play classic games, and get creative in the garden. Relax in the Tent of Wonder or picnic in the Arboretum. Join us outdoors this summer—sun hats or wellies welcome!

A family cycling on the Dragon Cycle Trail at Wallington, Northumberland
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Family activities at Wallington 

Get ready for a summer of fun at Wallington! Enjoy six weeks of daily drop-in activities—both led and self-led. From playful twists on traditional sports to classic lawn games, there’s something for everyone. Bring friends and family and make the most of every day this summer holiday.

Aerial view of the Georgian and Jacobean buildings and summer gardens at Crook Hall
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Things to do in Crook Hall Gardens 

There’s self-led outdoor games and activities all summer long at Crook Hall Gardens. Explore the interlinked gardens then enjoy an ice cream in the café or relax at a shady picnic spot in the gardens and take in the view across Durham.

Two children running in the Ormesby Hall garden
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Family-friendly things to do at Ormesby Hall 

Kick off summer at Ormesby Hall with playful fun for all ages. Explore circus skills, tennis, badminton, music and sand play across the gardens and play field. With pockets of activity everywhere, it’s the perfect place for families and friends to get active, creative, and enjoy the outdoors together.

Visitors in the Lower Garden, Washington Old Hall, Tyne and Wear
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Play out at Washington Old Hall 

Experience a Summer of Play at Washington Old Hall. Spend quality time together and make the most of being outside during the school holidays. Take part in self-led outdoor games and activities or just simply relax in deckchairs and have a peaceful picnic in the gardens.

Summer of Sport programme at Souter Lighthouse and The Leas, Tyne & Wear
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Summer of Play at Souter Lighthouse 

Get active and challenge your family with self-led outdoor games and activities at Souter Lighthouse this summer. If you need a break after all the fun, enjoy an ice cream in the café, have a picnic in the foghorn field or even head down to the beach.

Best outdoor play areas in the North East for family fun

Discover the top outdoor play areas in the North East with the National Trust. From slides and climbing frames to wild woodland adventures, find perfect spots for family fun in nature.

Swinging at the play area
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Be king or queen of the castle at Gibside 

There are plenty of ways to play at Gibside. Conquer the fortress climbing frame and zoom along the zip wire at Strawberry Castle play area, crawl along log bridges and clamber over tree trunks at the Nature Playscape or test your nerve on the Low Ropes challenge, an obstacle course made of rope.

Family enjoying the adventure play area at Wallington in autumn
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Let off steam in the four play areas at Wallington 

Climb, swing and fly through the air on the zip wire in the adventure play area, defend your territory in the wooden play fort, take a journey on the huge play train and get closer to nature exploring the log stepping stones and willow tunnels in the Little Acorns nature play space, perfect for little adventurers.

Children on the climbing frame in the play area in Northumberland's Seaton Delaval Hall
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Get creative in the Delaval Playdium play area 

Inspired by the Delavals’ love of theatricality, this special play area incorporates a centrepiece stage, hidden sound effects, and blackboard scenery allowing you to put on your own show, as well as swings, a scramble net, slide, wobbly bridge and a rope walk to enjoy.

A girl in a grey top swooping down a tunnel slide head-first at Cragside. She has reach the bottom and is laughing.
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Discover the adventure playground at Cragside 

Head to Crozier car park to swoop, slide, climb and glide at the adventure play area. The kids can test their balancing skills on the log mountain, climb to dizzying heights on the witch's hat and slide down the tunnels. There are picnic benches, toilets and a refreshment kiosk nearby.

Children in the natural play area at Ormesby Hall, North Yorkshire
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Go wild in the natural play area at Ormesby Hall 

Head to the bottom of the garden at Ormesby Hall and let the kids go wild in the natural play area. They can perform on the Willow Stage and challenge themselves on the rope walk, log stepping stones and balance see-saw.

Family adventures further afield

Discover more family days out in the North of England with plenty of places to play, explore, and create memories.

An adult with a baby, two toddlers and a dog make their way around the Wentworth Castle Gardens, South Yorkshire

Family-friendly places in Yorkshire 

Plan an adventure in Yorkshire this summer. With play areas, activities for kids, wildlife to spot and plenty of things to do when it rains. Bring the whole family to make memories during your time together.

Family enjoying a picnic on the lawn at Allan Bank, Grasmere

Family-friendly places in the Lake District 

Plan your next family day out in the Lake District – seek out natural play areas, scramble over rocks and spot wildlife on your way. Make the most of your membership and visit somewhere new.

Exploring the low ropes course in the Strawberry Castle play area at Gibside

Family-friendly places in Liverpool and Lancashire 

Plan your family day out in Liverpool and Lancashire. From the beauty of the great outdoors and amazing histories to play areas, balance bikes and even a maze, there's something for the whole family to enjoy rain or shine.

A family playing a giant xylophone in an open space and surrounded by greenery.

Family-friendly places in Cheshire and Greater Manchester 

Plan your a family day out in Cheshire and Greater Manchester. We've got play areas, activities for kids, wildlife to spot and plenty of things to do when it rains.

Lindisfarne Castle seen from the sea, with the remains of wooden posts rising from the sea visible

Discover more in the North East

Characterful houses and gardens, atmospheric woodland and rugged coastlines plus a UNESCO World Heritage site.