11 historic photos of the Hoppings as the fair gears up for Newcastle return

The Hoppings is set for its Newcastle return, opening on the Town Moor on 21 June.

On Friday, the Lord Mayor of Newcastle will open the fair and it will begin its 10 day stint in the heart of the city.

With rides, food and entertainment, the Hoppings has been a staple of the city’s summer for over a hundred years.

We all have incredible memories of the event from our childhood. From the helter skelter to hook a duck to fresh doughnuts, there’s something for everyone.

But did you know the fair has been running for 142 years?

First arriving in the North East in 1882 as a temperance fair, the event was designed as a counter-attraction to the annual race week held at the racecourse.

Now, its the largest travelling funfair in Europe, with attractions and showmen travelling from all over the country to set up on the Town Moor.

Sign up for NewcastleWorld’s free email newsletters to read the latest headlines and breaking news alerts What are your favourite memories of the Hoppings? Are you looking forward to attending this year’s event.

Due to weather damage on the moor, the event will be operating with fewer attractions than normal but it promises to be the same incredible experience like every year.

Take a look through these retro photos and let us know what you remember.