-
FeaturedMake A Difference This Christmas With Feeding Families North East
With the “Season Of Goodwill” edging ever closer, I’m sharing the work Feeding Families do to make a difference to so many families here in the North East. About Feeding Families: Feeding Families is a charity based in North East England that offers support, hope and security to those experiencing food poverty. Working closely with… Read more
-
FeaturedPick Your Own Christmas Tree In And Around The North East
Brookfield Farm Christmas Trees, Stockton-On-Tees Open From: Friday, 26th November 2021 Postcode: TS20 1PF Trees Available: TBC Website: https://www.brookfieldfarmchristmas.com Broomhall Christmas Trees, Newcastle Open From: Saturday, 27th November 2021 Postcode: NE5 1NS Trees Available: TBC Website: https://broomhallchristmastrees.com Christmas Trees At Meldon Park, Northumberland Open From: Thursday, 25th November 2021 Postcode: NE61 3SW Trees Available: TBC… Read more
-
FeaturedChristmas Light Switch On Events In & Around The North East
The countdown to Christmas is officially on! After last year, almost all Christmas Light Switch On Events are back welcoming spectators and promise to be bigger than ever – with most offering a full programme of entertainment from parades and live music to guest appearances and street performers. I’m sure even the most Christmas-averse person… Read more
-
FeaturedIce Skating This Festive Season In & Around The North East
The build up and buzz to Christmas 2021 is well underway now and one of our favourite family festive activities is ice skating. There’s something so nostalgic about putting on a pair of skates and slipping around the rink. Here’s our guide to the best ice skating experiences available this year. *I’ll be updating this… Read more
-
FeaturedHalloween Trails In And Around The North East
From bats to pumpkins, ghosts to potions there are loads of Halloween Trails happening over Half Term throughout the region. Alnwick Garden Family Friendly Halloween Trail, Alnwick What They Say: “Grisly ghouls, spooky skeletons and Halloween nasties have taken over The Alnwick Garden, grab your family’s hand and go on a spook-tacular adventure around The… Read more
-
FeaturedVideo Gaming Lounges In And Around The North East
Gaming lounges have undergone a massive change in the last couple of years. Previously referred to as ‘gaming cafes’ or ‘cyber dens’ the popularity of gaming lounges has grown dramatically in-line with the latest gaming trends and the global esports industry. Offering a wide range of the latest consoles, gaming lounges are open to all… Read more
-
FeaturedNorth East Pantomimes 2021
Watching a panto is a much loved tradition for many families during the festive period and is usually a child’s first introduction in to theatre productions. This year, there are a variety of shows on offer in and around the North East and each needs your support more than ever! It may seem early to… Read more
-
FeaturedMuseum Of The Moon At Durham Cathedral
Between the 13th September to the 11th November 2021, see the nave in a whole new light as Luke Jerram’s “Museum of the Moon” lands at the cathedral. About The Installation: “Museum Of The Moon” is a simply breathtaking moon sculpture which brings together detailed NASA imagery of the lunar surface and surround sound composition… Read more
-
FeaturedHeritage Open Days: England’s Largest Festival Of History & Culture
Every September, places across the country throw open their doors to celebrate their heritage and history. It’s your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – and it’s all completely FREE. Heritage Open Days 2021: 10th to 19th September There are hundreds of Heritage Open Days planned for the North East. From… Read more
-
FeaturedHalloween 2021 Events With Tickets Available To Book Now
A quick guide to upcoming Halloween events taking place in the North East. 🎃 I will be updating this post as more events are announced so keep checking back 🎃 Cruella’s Masquerade Ball At Wallsend Memorial Hall, Wallsend About: Join Cruella and special guests in an afternoon of Halloween tricks, treats, games and prizes, music… Read more
-
FeaturedChristmas 2021 Events With Tickets Available To Book Now
As the song goes, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” which is why I believe it’s never too early to start planning for Christmas. If you want to make the most of the fun and excitement that the festive period brings, now is the ideal time to start looking at, and booking, Yuletide… Read more
-
FeaturedFree Events Taking Place Throughout The Summer In And Around The North East
Looking for ways to occupy the children over the holidays without having to spend a penny? Below is a list of events taking place across the region that are family – and budget – friendly Art In Action Trail hosted by BALTIC, Gateshead About: Walk from BALTIC to Dunston Staiths this summer and power up… Read more
-
FeaturedNorth East Family Days Out – Summer Deals
The Summer Holidays are in full swing now and we all know just how expensive days out with little ones can be. Fortunately, a few local businesses have set up Summer Saver Deals to help with the pennies, details of which I’ve published below. I’ll be updating this post regularly so keep checking back for… Read more
-
FeaturedA Day Out At The Gate, Newcastle
When The Gate first opened back in 2002, it was one of my go-to places for cocktails and shots. Starting in Wetherspoons then visiting the likes of Players, Beyond, Opera and Mood before nipping next door to finish the night at Sam Jacks and Tiger Tiger. Good times! Twenty years later and the leisure complex… Read more
-
FeaturedSummer 2021 At Beamish
Find out what’s happening this Summer at Beamish; the world famous open air museum which tells the story of life in North East England from 1820 onwards. First Things First, About Beamish Beamish is a living, working museum, set in 300 acres of County Durham countryside, where you can experience a real sense of the… Read more
-
FeaturedNorth East Surf Schools
Thinking of learning to surf this Summer? The North East, with it’s award winning beaches, has plenty to offer when it comes to surfing. So, if you’re looking for surf schools in the region, here’s a list of the best. Coquet Shorebase Trust Based At: Druridge Bay Country Park and Coquet Estuary at Amble Classes… Read more
-
FeaturedRestaurants With Stunning Views In & Around The North East
A restaurant with an amazing view can elevate a dining experience from a mediocre event to the most memorable meal you’ve ever enjoyed. Whether you prefer looking out over our fantastic coastline or taking in the city’s famous silhouette, here’s a guide to my favourite North East restaurants with simply stunning views. Caboose, Blyth Address:… Read more
-
FeaturedDate Nights With A Difference In And Around The North East
Between working, the kids and day-to-day responsibilities, finding the time to squeeze in a date night isn’t very easy for couples, let alone thinking of something that’s unique and creative to do when you have. Below are a list of nights out that are a far cry from the usual dinner and drinks. Give them… Read more
-
FeaturedDairy Vending Machines In And Around The North East
Dairy vending machines are popping up across the region and are booming in popularity. The vending machine initiative provides customers with fresh, non-homogenised (and, sometimes, even raw) milk direct from the farm. Not only does the scheme support local dairy farmers, but it also brings a wealth of other benefits including reducing plastic waste, decreasing… Read more
-
FeaturedWhat Is Boba And Where Can I Get It In & Around The North East?
A quick guide to the quirky, TikTok and Insta famous drink from Taiwan that’s taking the region by storm. What Is It? Boba, Bubble Tea, Pearl Milk Tea, Tapioca Tea – whatever name you’ve heard it called, in it’s most basic form, the drink consists of black tea, milk, ice and chewy tapioca pearls all… Read more
-
FeaturedTeen And Pre-Teen Friendly Activities In & Around The North East
Now Evie and Harry are a little older, planning days out that include age-suitable activities as well as things we haven’t done every school holiday since they were younger, is becoming more and more difficult. Luckily, businesses seem to be recognising this gap in the market and have started running session for that awkward stage… Read more
-
FeaturedMuseums In & Around The North East
Arbeia, South Shields About: Standing above the entrance to the River Tyne, Arbeia South Shields’ Roman Fort guarded the main sea route to Hadrian’s Wall. It was a key garrison and military supply base to other forts along the Wall and is an important part of the history of Roman Britain. Step into the fort… Read more
-
FeaturedOutdoor Pools And Play Parks With Splash Pads In & Around The North East
Fancy making a splash in the sun? Here’s our guide to outdoor pools and play parks with splash pads in and around the North East Haltwhistle Swimming & Leisure Centre, Haltwhistle About: There are 3 heated open air swimming pools at Haltwhistle – the paddle pool, the learner pool and the main pool. Address: Greencroft,… Read more
-
FeaturedBrilliant Bowling Alleys In And Around The North East
Indoor sporting is back! So whether you’re new to Ten Pin Bowling or an absolute pro, we can once again step in to the shoes, borrow a ball and strive for a strike, try for a turkey and even have a go at a hambone. Below are a list of our favourite places to aim… Read more
-
FeaturedAll Kinds Of “Kids Eat…” Deals
If you want to enjoy eating out during the Summer Holidays while watching the pennies, check out these “Kids Eat…” deals currently available. Details are correct at time of publishing. Always check direct with the venue that the deal is still running before planning a visit. North East Independent Businesses Anglers Arms, Choppington What’s The… Read more
-
FeaturedPopular Patisseries From Around The North East
One of my favourite pastimes – sitting with a cup of coffee and a sweet treat watching the world go by. Below is a list of places I love to visit to indulge myself. Blackberries Patisserie, Houghton-Le-Spring Address: 4 Imperial Buildings, DH4 4DJ About: Houghton-Le-Springs home of handmade, high quality patisserie goods Currently Open: Tuesday… Read more
-
FeaturedScrumptious Sunday Lunches From Around The North East
Whether it’s homemade or chef prepared, I love a Sunday Roast. I think it might be my favourite meal; roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, vegetables and meat covered in gravy – perfect combination. Below are a list of North East places that I think are serving up the best Sunday Dinners (try not to drool while… Read more
-
FeaturedA Guide To Multi-Purpose Outdoor Entertainment Venues In & Around The North East
As COVID restrictions begin to ease, outdoor hospitality is back and Multi-Purpose Outdoor Entertainment Venues are popping up throughout the region. Here’s a guide to the ones we’ve visited recently As always, COVID guidelines will be in place and must be followed at all times. Check details with the venues direct before planning a visit.… Read more
-
FeaturedMust See Sculptures & Pieces Of Public Art In And Around The North East
The Angel Of The North, Gateshead By: Antony Gormley Erected In: 1998 About: Sitting on top of a former colliery pithead close to the A1, the 54m wide and 20m high Angel of the North is believed to be the largest angel sculpture in the world. Gormley chose an angel to recognise the sacrifice of… Read more
-
FeaturedStepping Stones In And Around The North East
Stepping stones, steppy stones or step stones. Hands down, Evie and Harry’s favourite way to cross lakes, rivers and streams. They could (and have) spent hours running across sets of stones sitting in water. Whenever I post photos of stepping stones on my personal Facebook, I always get asked where they are and how to… Read more
-
FeaturedFamily Friendly Festivals In And Around The North East
We, as a nation, love a good festival. It seems we like nothing more than live music, performance, dance, arts and crafts in a field with a bit of sunshine and, more often than not, some rain. Festivals are something both Evie and Harry enjoy and we’re lucky to have some brilliant family friendly events… Read more
-
FeaturedNorth East Outdoor Markets
As Lockdown Restrictions begin to ease, and non-essential shops are allowed to reopen, our favourite Outdoor Markets are back in business. Alnwick Market About: A weekly market in Alnwick’s Market Square plus a once a month Farmers Market. The traders offer a vibrant mix of food, drink, crafts and more. Entry Cost: TBC Held: Every… Read more
-
FeaturedOutdoor Adventure Parks In And Around The North East
One of the things I enjoy most about Outdoor Adventure Parks is, you pay one entry fee then (almost) everything inside the gates is included. Plus, now Evie and Harry are getting older, they’re more than happy to jump on the bigger, scarier rides with me. Bonus! If you, too, are a fan of Outdoor… Read more
-
FeaturedHistoric Attractions In And Around The North East
History – right on our doorstep. The North East has a fascinating wealth of history. With heritage dating back to the Romans, Normans, and even the Bronze Age, it’s easy to uncover some of the region’s historical riches. Here are the best places to do so Due to the ongoing COVID pandemic, local attractions may… Read more
-
FeaturedGorgeous Gardens In And Around The North East
I’m a huge fan of amazingly curated gardens (I think it comes with age!). Discover the most beautiful open gardens to visit around the North East with this list of my top picks. Due to the ongoing COVID pandemic, public gardens may experience unforeseen restrictions and changes to their opening hours. To avoid disappointment, I… Read more
-
FeaturedAdventure Attractions In And Around The North East
If you’re a family of thrill seekers, experience a different side of our region with these action-packed activities. From Axe Throwing and Quad Biking to Archery and Segway Safaris, check out the top ways to get your adrenaline-filled kicks with our pick of the most adventurous activities on offer in the North East. Adventure Northumberland… Read more
-
FeaturedMazes In And Around The North East
Mazes; a challenge for all the family. Do you enjoy the competition of being the first to find your way to the middle or is the fear of never getting back out too much? If you’re a fan of mazes, prepare to be bamboozled among the bamboo and mystified in the middle of the maize… Read more
-
FeaturedSkate Parks In And Around The North East
Chester-Le-Street Skate Park Postcode: DH3 3QX Chopwell Park Pump Track Postcode: NE17 7DA Coxhoe Skate Park Postcode: DH6 4SZ Cramlington Skate Park Postcode: NE23 6EA Crossfield Skate Park, Gateshead Postcode: NE10 9RZ Exhibition Park Skate Park Postcode: NE2 4BF Herrington Skate Park, Penshaw Postcode: DH4 7EL North Shields Skate Park Postcode: NE29 6TL Preston Park… Read more
-
FeaturedBeautiful Bao Buns In And Around The North East
Bao Buns. Maybe you’ve heard of them, maybe you haven’t (if you have, skip to the next section). Baos are a popular street food originating in Taiwan. They consist of meat (or vegetarian alternative), vegetables and condiments sandwiched between a flat steamed bread known as lotus leaf bread. A good bao is warm, fluffy and… Read more
-
FeaturedRidiculously Indulgent Ways To Eat Your Easter Chocolate
Have you ended up with a little more chocolate than you bargained for over Easter? Help make a dent in your stash with these Easter chocolate recipes and serving ideas. Cereal Bowl Fill half a chocolate egg with cereal. Add the milk. Get stuck in. Dippy Eggs Creme Eggs and shortbread soldiers. Chocolate Bark Melt… Read more
-
FeaturedIncredible Ice Cream Parlours In And Around The North East
Here in the North East, we might not always be basking in glorious sunshine but a cone filled with delicious ice cream can be enjoyed regardless of the weather. Evie & Harry are massive ice cream fiends and any day out usually includes a frozen treat. Below are a list of our favourite parlours around… Read more
-
FeaturedAnimal Attractions In And Around The North East
Adventure Valley, Durham Adventure Valley is the North East’s biggest family adventure park. Amongst their Farm Yard Friends are Micro Pigs, Pygmy Goats, Shetland Ponies, Rabbits and Chipmunks. Handling sessions run throughout the day as well as pony grooming and owl encounters. Re-Opens: Monday, 12th April 2021 Entry Cost: Adult & Children from £9.95, Under… Read more
-
FeaturedFamily Friendly Mini Golf Courses In And Around The North East
With Indoor and Outdoor Sports & Leisure Facilities allowed to reopen, it’s time to practice your par, hone your handicap, aim for an ace…or just have a bit of fun hitting a ball around a few obstacles! We, as a family, enjoy a game of crazy golf (don’t listen to the kids when they say… Read more
-
FeaturedChasing Waterfalls Around The North East
For me, there’s something magical about watching a waterfall, especially when they are in full flood following heavy rainfall. The constant movement and sounds are mesmerising. If you fancy going on a Waterfall Hunt, I’ve listed our favourites below: Ashgill Force, Alston Ashgill Force is a waterfall near Alston, Cumbria. The fall is located on… Read more
-
FeaturedReasons Why We Love Premier Inn
When looking for a hotel in the UK, the first chain I check is always Premier Inn; time and time again they’ve proved they offer good quality accommodation for a really decent price. Don’t just take my word for it though, check out the likes of Trip Advisor where Premier Inn performs consistently very well.… Read more
-
FeaturedCoffee Shops With Outdoor Seating Areas In And Around The North East
On Monday, 12th April 2021, government guidelines change meaning hospitality venues can reopen their outdoor seating areas to the public. For me, you can keep your pints and your beer gardens but sitting in a coffee shop with a hot drink watching the world goes by is one of the things I’ve really, really missed.… Read more
-
FeaturedMy Top Picks Of Easter Treats Available To Order Now
Easter Sunday falls on the 4th April this year and it’s just over two weeks away. If you’re thinking of treating yourself for Easter weekend, now is the perfect time to get your orders in. I’ve listed a few of the things I’ve seen on offer this year that look absolutely delicious! Let me know… Read more
-
FeaturedFamily Camping Holidays – Tips & Hints For Camping With Kids
With the current COVID guidelines in place, this summer is looking like the perfect time to fully embrace holidays in the UK. If done well, a camping holiday can make amazing memories. Most children love the novelty of sleeping under canvas, waking up to find themselves in the great outdoors. Camping trips are a brilliant… Read more
-
FeaturedFestive Bakes & Foodie Makes
Get Christmassy in the kitchen with these child friendly sweet treat recipes. 1. Chocolate Rice Crispie Christmas Puddings Who doesn’t love chocolate rice crispies? They’re an absolute classic! Super quick and super easy, the recipe can be found here https://northeasteats.home.blog/2020/11/17/chocolate-rice-crispie-christmas-puddings/amp/ 2. Reindeer Shortbread Biscuits 3. Christmas Tree Brownies 4. Snowman Cupcakes 5. Christmas Crunch Popcorn… Read more
Follow My Blog
Get new content delivered directly to your inbox.

