Halloween 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 and dancing, an art and craft activity along with lots of other surprises.

Date(s): Saturday 30th October, 2021

Prices: Adults – £3, Children – £15

Booking & Further Details: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cruellas-masquerade-ball-tickets-165391958801

Cruella’s Masquerade Ball At Wallsend Memorial Hall, Wallsend

Fairytale Express Halloween Edition At Stephenson Railway Museum, Wallsend

About: The Fairytale Express returns to Stephenson Railway Museum but with a Halloween Twist.

Date(s): Sunday 3rd October, 2021

Prices: £17.95 per person

Booking & Further Details: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/letitsnowproductions/

Fairytale Express Halloween Edition At Stephenson Railway Museum, Wallsend

Forbidden Forest At Holmside Park, Chester-Le-Street

About: Magic is coming to Holmside this Halloween! Prepare yourselves for a spellbinding experience filled with wizarding activities, pumpkin carving, all day play plus so much more!

Date(s): Friday 29th, Saturday 30th & Sunday 31st October, 2021

Prices: Adults – £7, Children – £22

Booking & Further Details: https://www.holmsidepark.co.uk/forbidden-forest/

Forbidden Forest At Holmside Park, Chester-Le-Street

Halloween Breakfast At The Keel Row, Seaton Delaval

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details:

Halloween Breakfast At The Keel Row, Seaton Delaval

Halloween Disco At Rainton Arena, Houghton-Le-Spring

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Durham/Rainton-Arena/Rainton-Spooktacular-Halloween-Party-/35898311/

Halloween Disco At Rainton Arena, Houghton-Le-Spring

Halloween Half Term At Linskill Centre, North Shields

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://m.facebook.com/LinskillCentre/

Halloween Half Term At Linskill Centre, North Shields

Halloween In The Pit Village At Beamish, Stanley

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://beamish.digitickets.co.uk/event-tickets/36893?catID=36838&

Halloween In The Pit Village At Beamish, Stanley

Halloween Half Term At Ocean Beach, South Shields

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://facebook.com/events/s/halloween-half-term-at-ocean-b/145721797714731/

Halloween Half Term At Ocean Beach, South Shields

Halloween Happenings at Ormesby Hall, Middlesbrough

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ormesby-hall/features/halloween-adventures-at-ormesby-hall

Halloween Happenings at Ormesby Hall, Middlesbrough

Halloween Quest And Spooky Woodland Walk At Belsay Hall, Belsay

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/belsay-hall-castle-and-gardens/

Halloween Quest And Spooky Woodland Walk At Belsay Hall, Belsay

Halloween Spooktacular At Whitehouse Farm, Morpeth

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://www.whitehousefarmcentre.co.uk/events/halloween-spooktacular/

Halloween Spooktacular At Whitehouse Farm, Morpeth

Pumpkin Festival At Adventure Valley, Durham

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://www.adventurevalley.co.uk/october-pumpkin-festival/

Pumpkin Festival At Adventure Valley, Durham

Pumpkin Week At Down At The Farm, Houghton-Le-Spring

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://bookings.downatthefarm.co.uk/book/pumpkin-week-tickets/32

Pumpkin Week At Down At The Farm, Houghton-Le-Spring

Scare Gardens At Alnwick Garden, Alnwick

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://www.alnwickgarden.com

Halloween Trail & Scare Gardens At Alnwick Garden, Alnwick

Spooky Half Term At Hall Hill Farm, Lanchester

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://www.hallhillfarm.co.uk/spooky-halfterm/e7

Spooky Half Term At Hall Hill Farm, Lanchester

Spooky Creative Crafts At Souter Lighthouse, South Shields

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/souter-lighthouse-and-the-leas/features/october-half-term-at-souter-lighthouse

Spooky Creative Crafts At Souter Lighthouse, South Shields

Trick Or Treat Scare Park At Chase Park, Whickham

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/trick-or-treat-tickets-144000367977

Trick Or Treat Scare Park At Chase Park, Whickham

Trick Or Treat Town At Morpeth Cricket, Hockey & Tennis Club, Morpeth

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://facebook.com/events/s/trick-or-treat-town/4587262494630332/

Trick Or Treat Town At Morpeth Cricket, Hockey & Tennis Club, Morpeth

Below are details of the absolutely awesome adult only events happening this scare season because why should children have all the fun!


Ghost Tours At Tynemouth Priory, Tynemouth

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/Tynemouth-priory-ghost-tours-28—31-oct-2021/

Ghost Tours At Tynemouth Priory, Tynemouth

Halloween Spooktacular with Top Hat & Heels At Beamish Hall, Stanley

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://beamish-hall.digitickets.co.uk/event-tickets/35411?catID=32040

Halloween Spooktacular with Top Hat & Heels At Beamish Hall, Stanley

Psycho Path Presents Fear Ground At Lintz Hall Farm, Burnopfield

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://www.psycho-path.co.uk

Psycho Path Presents Fear Ground At Lintz Hall Farm, Burnopfield

Scream Factory At Kirkleatham Museum, Redcar

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://www.screamfactory.co.uk

Scream Factory At Kirkleatham Museum, Redcar

If you fancy picking your own pumpkins this year, read about where to do it here ➡️ https://northeasteats.home.blog/2021/09/03/places-to-pick-your-own-pumpkins/

Christmas 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 days out. Much of the usual celebrations were heavily restricted over Christmas 2020 so I can see a lot of these events selling out fast.



BELIEVE At Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield

About: BELIEVE Christmas is an immersive magical world taking you on a journey through theatrical performances and interactive activities. Your Elf Guide will lead you around the Elf Tipi Village where you will meet all the Elves who are there to entertain and bring family favourite fairy-tales to life.

Date(s): Various dates throughout December

Prices: Adults – £34.50, Children – £36.50, Toddler – £18.00, Children Under 6 Months – £0.00

Booking & Further Details: https://believe-uk.com/your-adventure

Festive Rating: 🎅🎅

BELIEVE At Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield

Breakfast With Santa At Spanish City, Whitley Bay

About: Give your little elves a special treat this Christmas and enjoy a magical breakfast with Santa. To make it even more special, everyone will get to meet the main man himself in his Grotto and there will be lots of fun and games with an interactive disco.

Date(s): 18th, 19th, 23rd & 24th December

Prices: Adults – £22.50, Children – £17.50

Booking & Further Details: https://spanishcity.co.uk/breakfast-with-santa/

Festive Rating: 🎅🎅

Breakfast With Santa At Spanish City, Whitley Bay

Christmas Adventure At Holmside Park, Chester-Le-Street

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details:

Festive Rating:

Christmas Adventure At Holmside Park, Chester-Le-Street

Christmas At Gibside, Rowlands Gill

About: Light up the dark winter nights with a festive after-hours experience at Gibside and be amazed by a new, Christmas themed illuminated trail this December.

Date(s): Various dates throughout November, December & January

Prices: Adults – £18, Children – £13 when booked in advance

Booking & Further Details: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside/features/christmas-at-gibside

Festive Rating: 🎅

Christmas At Gibside, Rowlands Gill

Forest Of Light At Beamish Hall, Stanley

About: At night, when the moon takes its place in the sky the magical forest comes to life. Forest of Light is a captivating illuminated experience set within Beamish Hall’s Enchanted ancient Woodland. So gather the family and explore through the doors a wonderful world of magical illuminations and fantastic lighting displays this festive period.

Date(s): Various dates throughout November & December

Prices: £8 per person

Booking & Further Details: https://www.beamish-hall.co.uk/forest-of-light/

Festive Rating: 🎅

Forest Of Light At Beamish Hall, Stanley

A Frozen Christmas With Santa At The Discovery Museum, Newcastle

About:

Date(s): 20th – 23rd December 2021

Prices: £15 per person

Booking & Further Details: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/letitsnowproductions/563398/

Festive Rating: 🎅

A Frozen Christmas With Santa At The Discovery Museum, Newcastle

Nightfall Festival At Stewart Park, Middlesbrough

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://www.nightfallfestival.co.uk

Festive Rating: 🎅

Nightfall Festival At Stewart Park, Middlesbrough

Road To The North Pole At Utilita Arena, Newcastle

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://roadtothenorthpole.co.uk/

Festive Rating: 🎅🎅

Road To The North Pole At Utilita Arena, Newcastle

Santa’s Enchanted Elf Journey At Whitehouse Farm, Morpeth

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://www.whitehousefarmcentre.co.uk/events/santas-enchanted-elf-journey-pre-booking-essential-2021/

Festive Rating: 🎅🎅

Santa’s Enchanted Elf Journey At Whitehouse Farm, Morpeth

The Snowman At Durham Cathedral, Durham

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://durhamcathedral.ticketsolve.com/shows/1173611703/events/428373358

Festive Rating: 🎅🎅🎅

The Snowman At Durham Cathedral, Durham

Winter Light Trail At Alnwick Garden, Alnwick

About:

Date(s):

Prices:

Booking & Further Details: https://www.alnwickgarden.com/christmas/

Festive Rating: 🎅

Winter Light Trail At Alnwick Garden, Alnwick

I couldn’t write a blog post about Christmas events in the North East without mentioning the big one – Fenwick. No official dates have been released so far but I’ve heard whispers that the revealing of Fenwick’s famous Christmas window will be on Tuesday 9th November 2021. To be in the loop about when tickets for Santa’s Grotto and the Rooftop Experience will be available, make sure you sign up to Fenwick’s newsletter https://www.fenwick.co.uk/sign-up/


Let me know in the comments which festivities you’re planning on attending


Free 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 your creativity with fun activities, videos, sound and movement to discover along the route.

Website: https://baltic.art/whats-on/art-in-action-trail

Image by BALTIC

Into The Wild hosted by The Galleries, Washington

About: Take a walk on the wild side and discover the animals inhabiting the malls of the Galleries this summer.

Website: https://www.gallerieswashington.co.uk/into-the-wild/


Screen On The Green hosted by NE1, Newcastle

About: NE1’s open-air cinema is back at Old Eldon Square from the 26th July. You can enjoy two movies a day with a six-week programme filled with family favourites, cult classics, rom-coms and some new blockbusters.

Website: https://www.getintonewcastle.co.uk/ne1-events/screen-on-the-green


Summer In The City hosted by NE1, Newcastle

About: A series of free pop-up interactive installations, activities and exhibits at various city centre locations.

Website: https://www.ne1summerinthecity.co.uk


Unlock The Magic hosted by Metro Centre, Gateshead

About: From Monday 26th July 300 Mickey Mouse stickers will be hidden around Metrocentre. Explore the centre to find them and scan as many as you can to unlock magical rewards from retailers inside Metrocentre.

Website: https://themetrocentre.co.uk/unlockthemagic

Image by Metro Centre

And if you’re travelling anywhere by Metro over the Summer Holidays, remember Kids Go Free when accompanied with a fare paying adult


Let me know in the comments below of any other free family-friendly events happening over the Summer.


Looking to feed the family after a day out, check out https://northeasteats.home.blog/2021/05/17/all-kinds-of-kids-eat-deals/

North 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 more offers


The Alnwick Garden

What’s The Deal: Kids Go Free

Terms & Conditions:

Website:


Angry Birds Adventure Golf

What’s The Deal: 2 Play For The Price Of 1

Terms & Conditions:

Website:


Gutterball Alley

What’s The Deal: Two Games Of Bowling Plus A Milkshake For £10

Terms & Conditions:

Website:


And if you’re travelling anywhere by Metro over the Summer Holidays, remember Kids Go Free when accompanied with a fare paying adult


Looking to feed the family after a day out, check out https://northeasteats.home.blog/2021/05/17/all-kinds-of-kids-eat-deals/

A 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 on Newgate Street couldn’t be more different from The Gate I ventured to most Fridays and Saturdays in my late teens/early twenties. Gone are the bars blaring out loud music with their various drinks offers trying to entice the punters and in their place is a much more chilled, family friendly scene.

So, what’s in The Gate now?

Leisure Facilities

• Cineworld a multiplex cinema showing the latest blockbusters in 2D and 3D https://www.cineworld.co.uk/cinemas/newcastle-upon-tyne/8117


• The CTRL Pad Newcastle’s first video gaming lounge https://thectrlpad.com/

Escape Newcastle’s premier escape rooms https://www.escape.game/escape-newcastle


• Game Of Throwing urban axe throwing experience https://www.gameofthrowing.co.uk/

Image by Game Of Throwing

• Mr Mulligans crazy golf course https://mrmulligan.com


• Selfie Central the ultimate pop-up selfie studio https://www.selfie-central.com/

Image by Selfie Central

• WonderBar digital darts https://wonderbar-newcastle.co.uk


• YuMe World state of the art amusement arcade and virtual reality entertainment centre https://www.yumeworld.co.uk/

Food & Drink

NB – when it comes to dining, the options are very chain heavy so the lack of independent businesses is slightly disappointing

• The Mayfair offers a menu packed with traditional home cooked meals

• Nando’s and it’s legendary flame grilled Peri-Peri chicken

Pizza Hut serves up pizzas, sides and desserts

• Starbucks the world famous American Coffeehouse

WonderBar serve a range of delicious breakfast, lunch and main meal offerings, as well as a traditional Sunday Lunch, and a variety of bar snacks and sharing platters

• Wetherspoons budget friendly pub grub

Parking

The Gate has a 24 hour, manned car park with over 250 spaces including designated accessible bays, parent parking and EV charging points.

Accommodation

We live on the Northumberland Coast so Newcastle Centre is about a 30 minute drive from us. Despite being so close, we often book a hotel and enjoy an overnight stay in the city followed by a full day of exploring. If you fancy doing this, hotels close to The Gate include

• Hotel Indigo https://www.ihg.com

• Maldron Newcastle https://www.maldronhotelnewcastle.com

• Motel One https://www.motel-one.com

• Premier Inn Newgate Street https://www.premierinn.com

• Sandman Signature https://www.sandmansignature.co.uk

Read about why we love the Premier Inn here https://northeasteats.home.blog/2021/03/23/reasons-why-we-love-premier-inn/


Keep up-to-date with what’s happening at The Gate here https://www.thegatenewcastle.co.uk/whats-on

We all love a bargain so check out https://www.thegatenewcastle.co.uk/offers to see what deals The Gate is currently running


A few years ago I read that the owners of The Gate wanted to “rebalance the occupier mix to cater for a wider cross section of consumers, including families” and it seems like this has very much been achieved. For us, The Gate is definitely a place where we would visit and spend a full day. It’s a brilliant way to occupy children of all ages in Newcastle City Centre.

Have you visited The Gate recently? What did you think about it? Let me know in the comments

Looking for ideas for days out that include age-suitable activities for teens and pre-teens? Have a read of https://northeasteats.home.blog/2021/06/03/teen-preteen-friendly-activities-in-around-the-north-east/

Summer 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 past and discover what life was like in North East England in Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian times.

Areas Of Beamish:

• 1820’s Pockerley

• 1900’s Town

• 1900’s Colliery & Pit Village

• 1940’s Farm

Getting Around Beamish:

Beamish has an amazing collection of working vehicles from through the decades ready to transport you around the museum. Although the Tramway remains closed for now, the 1950’s buses are operating. Beamish is also running its Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle every day that the museum is open.

Food Options Inside Beamish:

Although the sit down cafes (located at the main entrance, on the 1940’s farm and next to Redman Park) are currently closed, there are still a few places to grab a bite to eat within the museum.

1900’s Town

• Herrons Bakery

• Jubilee Confectionery

• Sun Inn Pub

1900’s Colliery & Pit Village

• Davey’s Fish & Chip Shop

• Sinkers Bait Cabin

Future Plans For Beamish:

Remaking Beamish is the biggest development in Beamish’s history. The exciting project includes over 25 new exhibits and attractions and is bringing a new era to the museum in the form of a 1950s Town and 1950s farm. Read all about it here https://www.beamish.org.uk/remaking/about-remaking-beamish/

Contact Details:

Address – Beamish Museum, Beamish, County Durham, DH9 0RG

Website – https://www.beamish.org.uk


Planning Your Visit

ALL visitors, including Friends of Beamish members and Beamish Unlimited Pass holders, MUST pre-book an entry timeslot online in advance of your visit.

Admission Costs:

One major bonus about Beamish is you pay once for entry and can visit again, as many times as you like, over the next 12 months for free.

Adult – £19.50

Senior / Student – £14.50

Child – £11.50

Opening Times:

The museum is open 10am-5pm daily.

Getting To Beamish Via Public Transport:

Waggonway Service 28/28A offers regular buses from Newcastle City Centre, Gateshead, Birtley, Ouston and Chester-le-Street, the service stops at Beamish’s Main Gate.

Dogs:

Well-behaved dogs are welcome at the museum. There are a few rules and guidelines for dog owners which can be found here https://www.beamish.org.uk/plan-your-visit/dogs/


What’s On This Summer

Beamish have a range of activities planned for every day of the Summer Holidays starting from 17th July 2021.

Mondays – join in with Georgian games at Pockerley Old Hall

Tuesdays – enjoy a spot of croquet in The 1900’s Town park

Wednesdays – get creative with chalk drawing in The 1900’s Pit Village school yard

Thursdays – have a go at adventurous play by the 1950’s Welfare Hall

Fridays – head to the 1950s welfare hall for ice cream making

Saturdays & Sundays – den building will take place by Hetton Silver Band Hall in The 1900’s Pit Village

Other activities include

The Teddy Bear Trail

Follow the paw prints on the map to find all 16 teddy bears hidden within the museum

The Flower Trail

There are 20 colourful flowers blooming in the windows around Beamish, watch out for them as you travel around the museum

100 Things To See & Do At Beamish

How many visits will it take to complete the bumper to do list?

Plenty of activities for people of all ages to enjoy over the Summer


Family Friendly Pubs & Restaurants Close To Beamish

If you fancy a sit down meal after your day at Beamish, we recommend these

Black Horse, Beamish https://www.blackhorsebeamish.co.uk/fooddrink.html

Oli & Joes, Whickham https://oli-joes.com/locations/whickham

Rustica, Stanley https://www.rusticaitalian.co.uk/stanley/

The Shepherd And Shepherdess Inn, Beamish https://www.shepherdbeamish.co.uk

South Causey Inn, Stanley https://www.southcausey.co.uk


Thanks for reading, let me know if you’re planning a day out (or two!) to Beamish Museum this Summer

North 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 Available For: Everyone from 11 years old

Price Per Lesson: From £25 for half day

Website: https://www.coquetshorebase.org.uk

Image by Coquet Shorebase Trust

Flow Surf School

Based At: Saltburn by the Sea

Classes Available For: Everyone from 8 years old

Price Per Lesson: From £35 per person

Website: https://www.flowsurfcoaching.com

Image by Flow Surf School

KA Surf School

Based At: Bamburgh

Classes Available For: TBC

Price Per Lesson: From £30 per person

Website: http://www.kitesurfinglessons.co.uk/surfing/

Image by KA Surf School

Longsands Surf School

Based At: Tynemouth

Classes Available For: Everyone from 6 years old

Price Per Lesson: From £20 per person

Website: https://www.longsandsurf.com

Image by Longsands Surf School

Northside Surf School

Based At: Amble

Classes Available For: TBC

Price Per Lesson: From £30 per person

Website: https://www.northside-surf-school.co.uk

Image by Northside Surf School

Saltburn Surf School

Based At: Saltburn by the Sea

Classes Available For: Everyone from 8 years old

Price Per Lesson: From £35 per person

Website: http://www.saltburn-surf.co.uk

Image by Saltburn Surf School

Seaton Sluice Surf

Based At: Seaton Sluice

Classes Available For: Everyone from 6 years old

Price Per Lesson: From £25 per person

Website: https://seatonsluicesurf.com

Image by Seaton Sluice Surf

South Beach Surf School

Based At: Blyth

Classes Available For: TBC

Price Per Lesson: From £20 per person

Website: https://www.facebook.com/SB.SurfSchool/

Image by South Beach Surf School

South Shields Surf School

Based At: Sandhaven Beach, South Shields

Classes Available For: TBC

Price Per Lesson: From £20 per person

Website: https://www.southshieldsurf.co.uk

Image by South Shields Surf School

Tynemouth Surf Co.

Based At: Tynemouth

Classes Available For: Everyone from 6 years old

Price Per Lesson: From £20 per person

Website: https://www.tynemouthsurf.co.uk/surf-school/

Image by Tynemouth Surf Co.

Thanks for reading! If you do book lessons with any of the Surf Schools listed above, leave me a comment below letting me know which one. And remember, if it swells, ride it. If in doubt, paddle out.

Restaurants 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: Quay Road, Blyth, NE24 3PA

What’s On The Menu: Serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner with fantastic food at affordable prices for the ultimate dining experience.

Website: https://caboose-group.co.uk/blyth/

About The View: Situated on the riverside in Blyth, Caboose offers fantastic views of the harbour and pier.

Image by Caboose, Blyth

Colman’s Seafood Temple, South Shields

Address: Sea Road, South Shields, NE33 2LD

What’s On The Menu: Colmans Seafood Temple is a family orientated seafood restaurant serving the finest coastal cuisine.

Website: https://colmansseafoodtemple.co.uk

About The View: Panoramic views of Sandhaven beach.

Image by Colman’s Seafood Temple, South Shields

The Botanist, Newcastle

Address: Monument Mall, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 7AL

What’s On The Menu: Food inspired by the deli, rotisserie and grill.

Website: https://thebotanist.uk.com/locations/newcastle

About The View: The best way to see the historic Grey Street which is renowned for its beautiful Georgian architecture and has been named as one of the most instagrammed streets in the UK.

Image by The Botanist, Newcastle

Gino D’Campo, Newcastle

Address: River View, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3BE

What’s On The Menu: Serving real Italian food as it should be.

Website: https://ginodacampohotelsandleisure.com/our-restaurants/quayside/

About The View: With a huge contemporary terrace overlooking the iconic River Tyne and it’s bridges.

Image by Gino D’Campo, Newcastle

The Jolly Fisherman, Craster

Address: Haven Hill, Craster, Northumberland, NE66 3TR

What’s On The Menu: At The Jolly Fisherman you will find a wide selection of fresh catches on the menu as well as pub classics and a selection of vegetarian dishes.

Website: http://www.thejollyfishermancraster.co.uk

About The View: Showcasing one of Northumberland’s most iconic destinations, enjoy the picturesque Northumberland fishing harbour of Craster and the imposing ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle.

Image by The Jolly Fisherman, Craster

Portofino, Hartlepool

Address: Maritime Avenue, Hartlepool, TS24 0XZ

What’s On The Menu: Portofino mixes Italian, Mediterranean and North African cuisines to serve a delicious combination of Pizzas, Pastas, Fish, Poultry, Steaks and Tagines.

Website: https://www.portofino.co.uk

About The View: Located on the Historic Quay, Portofino overlooks Hartlepool’s iconic landmark, HMS Trincomalee and the popular Marina.

Image by Portofino, Hartlepool

Rileys, Tynemouth

Address: King Edward’s Bay, Tynemouth, NE30 4BY

What’s On The Menu: Fabulous fish, locally caught and simply served

Website: https://rileysfishshack.com

About The View: Situated on the beach at King Edward’s Bay under Tynemouth Priory.

Image by Riley’s, Tynemouth

Six @ Pier Point, Sunderland

Address: Marine Walk, Roker, SR6 0PP

What’s On The Menu: Luxury charcuterie.

Website: https://www.sixpierpoint.co.uk

About The View: Awesome beachfront location overlooking Roker Pier.

Image by Six @ Pier Point, Sunderland

Tomahawk @ The Boat Club, Durham

Address: Elvet Riverside, Durham, DH1 3AF

What’s On The Menu: Tomahawk’s famous Himalayan dry aged steaks.

Website: https://www.the-boat-club.com

About The View: Situated on the bank of the river Wear this 500 year old building offers panoramic views of the medieval Elvet Bridge and the traditional City of Durham.

Tomahawk @ The Boat Club, Durham

The View, Tynemouth

Address: Longsands Beach, Tynemouth, NE30 4JA

What’s On The Menu: Seafood, pizza and burgers.

Website: https://www.theviewtynemouth.com

About The View: Situated on Longsands Beach with panoramic views of our beautiful coastline.

Image by The View, Tynemouth

Have you enjoyed a meal while taking in any of the views listed above? Let me know in the comments.

Date 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 a go for a date night you’ll never forget.


Axe Throwing At The Axe House, Spennymoor

About: Whether you’re after some friendly competition or some cut-throat axe throwing rivalry, The Axe House will show you why the sport is becoming more and more popular in the UK.

Does The Avenue Serve Alcohol: ❌

Is There Food Available To Order:

Price: From £15 per person

Website: https://theaxehouse.co.uk

The Axe House

Black Friars Cookery School, Newcastle

About: Blackfriars’ Cookery School is one of the leading independent purpose-built culinary training facilities in Newcastle covering everything from Chocolate Making to Perfect Pasta, Bread Basics to Advanced French Patisserie. With classes being held most evenings and weekends, it’s a brilliant way to learn a new skill.

Does The Venue Serve Alcohol:

Is There Food Available To Order:

Price: From £45 per person

Website: https://www.blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk/cookeryschool

Black Friars Cookery School

Bowling At Lane 7, Newcastle & Middlesbrough

About: Imagine the best bar you’ve ever been to, then add a first class dining experience, ten-pin bowling, ping-pong, pool, Karaoke and an unrivalled atmosphere into the mix – a brilliant venue for a class night out.

Does The Venue Serve Alcohol:

Is There Food Available To Order:

Price: From £7 per person

Website: https://lane7.co.uk

Lane 7

Boulevard, Newcastle

About: Join one of the UK’s top cabaret entertainers, Danni Dee and her full cast of Broadway Dancers for a memorable night out. Expect stunning costumes, hilarious comedy and fabulous dance routines in this spectacular extravaganza that consists of everything from slapstick comedy to brilliantly choreographed dance routines. With Miss Rory, the wicked witted host and compere, keeping everyone entertained throughout the evening, you’re always guaranteed ‘A Night Out Like No Other’

Does The Venue Serve Alcohol:

Is There Food Available To Order:

Price: From £10 per person

Website: https://www.boulevardnewcastle.co.uk

Boulevard

Digital Darts At Wonderbar, The Gate

About: Play for fun, or get competitive, with Wonderbar’s interactive darts experience, which allows you to battle through different games to become the ultimate interactive darts champion. No experience is necessary and anybody can play.

Does The Venue Serve Alcohol:

Is There Food Available To Order:

Price: From £15 per hour

Website: https://wonderbar-newcastle.co.uk

Wonderbar’s Digital Darts

Everyman Cinema, Newcastle

About: Everyman is redefining cinema. Bringing an innovative lifestyle approach to their venues, where you can swap your soft drink for a nice glass of red wine and a slice of freshly made pizza served straight to your seat. They create a warm and friendly atmosphere, with an excellent food and drink selection and fantastic customer service. With a wide array of mainstream, independent and classic films, special events, launches and a diverse calendar of live satellite broadcasts, there is something for everyone at Everyman.

Does The Venue Serve Alcohol:

Is There Food Available To Order:

Price: From £12.90 per person

Website: https://www.everymancinema.com/newcastle

Everyman Cinema

Ghetto Golf, Hoults Yard

About: Ghetto golf is the only venue in the North East that offers a seriously twisted 18 hole urban crazy golf course with an exceptional cocktail bar.

Does The Venue Serve Alcohol:

Is There Food Available To Order:

Price: From £12 per person

Website: https://www.ghettogolf.co.uk

Ghetto Golf

Gin Tasting At Poetic Licence Distillery, Roker

About: An independent small-batch distillery making big, bold gin in the North East of England.

Does The Venue Serve Alcohol:

Is There Food Available To Order: TBC

Price: TBC

Website: https://www.poeticlicensedistillery.co.uk

Poetic Licence Distillery

Grown Up Play Factory, Thornaby

About: If you’ve ever been to a soft play and thought “this would be mint with my mates” then this is the night for you. Adults take over the venue for the night and have free reign over the activities including the laser tag.

Does The Venue Serve Alcohol:

Is There Food Available To Order:

Price: £15 per person

Website: https://www.facebook.com/The-Grown-up-Play-Factory-Thornaby-Teesside-635654583237681/

The Grown Up Play Factory

Murder Mystery Night, Stockton-On-Tees

About:

Does The Venue Serve Alcohol:

Is There Food Available To Order:

Price: TBC

Website: https://www.murder-one.com/portfolio/detail/murder-mystery-county-durham-north-yorkshire/

Murder Mystery Night

Point Blank Shooting, Newcastle

About: Simulation shooting range and speakeasy bar in the heart of Newcastle.

Does The Venue Serve Alcohol:

Is There Food Available To Order:

Price: From £10 per person

Website: https://www.pointblankshooting.co.uk

Point Blank Shooting

Pottery Throwing At The Pottery Experience, Jesmond

About:

Does The Venue Serve Alcohol:

Is There Food Available To Order:

Price: From £33 per person

Website: https://www.thepotteryexperience.co.uk

The Pottery Experience

Shuffle Board At New Bridge Neighbourhood Bar, Shieldfield

About:

Does The Venue Serve Alcohol:

Is There Food Available To Order:

Price: TBC

Website: https://www.newbridgeneighbourhoodbar.co.uk

Shuffle Board

Spa Day At Ramside Hall, Durham

About:

Does The Venue Serve Alcohol:

Is There Food Available To Order:

Price: Various packages available

Website: https://www.ramsidespa.co.uk

Ramside Spa

The Stand Comedy Club, Newcastle

About:

Does The Venue Serve Alcohol:

Is There Food Available To Order:

Price: Various

Website: https://www.thestand.co.uk/newcastle/whats-on

The Stand

Dairy 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 food miles and lowering the carbon footprint of the milk.

If you fancy trying one of the North East’s Dairy Vending Machines, I’ve listed the ones we’ve visited below (if you know of any others, leave me a comment so we can check it out)


Atley Hill Raw Milk, Northallerton

Address: Scorton Road Farm, South Cowton, Northallerton, DL7 0JD

What’s On Offer: Milk, Eggs, Cheese

Website: https://m.facebook.com/AtleyHillRawMilk/

Atley Hill Raw Milk

Bays Leap Organic Raw Milk

*Vending Machine Coming Soon*

Address: Heddon-On-The-Wall, NE15 0JW

What’s On Offer: Milk, Milkshake

Website: https://www.facebook.com/baysleaporganic/

Bays Leap Dairy Farm

Campbell’s of Leyburn

Address: 4 Commercial Square, Leyburn, North Yorkshire, DL8 5BP

What’s On Offer: Milk, Milkshake

Website: https://www.campbellsofleyburn.co.uk

Campbell’s Of Leyburn

Cherry View Milk

Address: Field House Farm, Etton Road, Cherry Burton, HU17 7RP

What’s On Offer: Milk, Eggs

Website: https://www.cherryviewmilk.co.uk

Cherry View Milk

Cow Corner Milk

Address: Norton House Farm, Pickhill, Thirsk, North Yorkshire, YO7 4JG

What’s On Offer: Milk

Website: https://cowcornermilk.co.uk

Cow Corner Milk

Hauxley Farm

Address: High Hauxley, NE65 0JW

What’s On Offer: Milk

Website: https://www.hauxleyfarmdairy.co.uk

Hauxley Farm

Home Farm Milk

Address: Elwick, Hartlepool, TS27 3EF

What’s On Offer: Milk, Eggs

Website: https://www.facebook.com/homefarmmilk/

Home Farm

Morwick Dairy

Address: Morpeth, NE65 9DG

What’s On Offer: Milk

Website: https://morwickdairy.co.uk

Morwick Dairy

Ox Close Farm

Address: Durham, DH6 1NH

What’s On Offer: Milk

Website: https://m.facebook.com/oxclosefarm/

Ox Close Farm

Unsure about Raw Milk? Have a look at https://www.food.gov.uk/safety-hygiene/raw-drinking-milk for guidance.


Have you tried milk from a vending machine before? Or are you tempted to give it a go after reading this? Let me know in the comments what your thoughts are.