SIX things to do for families in and around Newcastle over the Easter holidays

For many of us, the year is still young and while half term at schools across the North East may barely feel like a month ago, plans are being put in place across Newcastle and beyond as school students and staff prepare for the Easter break.

Two weeks can be a long time to keep kids entertained, so we have put together a guide of things to do for families across Newcastle and the wider North East this upcoming school holiday.

When is the Easter school holiday in Newcastle?

In 2024 the Easter break at most schools starts on Thursday, March 28 and runs until Monday, April 15. However, schools are able to set their own terms dates, so parents are advised to check the dates with their child's education setting.

1 - Catch some live sport

It may be tough to get a Newcastle United matchday ticket at the moment, but Eddie Howe's side aren't the only local side looking for support.

Gateshead FC are in the middle of a playoff push at the top level of non league football and are at home four times over the two week break. This includes an FA Trophy semi final which will see the side potentially qualify for a return to Wembley Stadium.

Elsewhere, Newcastle Eagles, who play at the top level of basketball in the UK have two home fixtures over the Easter holiday period while Newcastle Falcons host a rugby union game at Kingston Park over the same period.

2 - Expand minds at a city museum

We are so lucky to have plenty of museums on our doorstep in Newcastle. Times Square's Life Centre regularly has great exhibits and events on for kids while the Great North Museum: Hancock has a massive range of events for kids this Easter including a pupperty festival.

Interactive story times are happening over at Seven Stories in addition to craft sessions.

3 - Meet a new furry friend

Ouseburn farm is a staple of the school holidays for many families across Newcastle and the site has unveiled its full Easter schedule with families able to enjoy goat walks, lamb feeding, reptile bathing and loads more.

All these events can be found on the site's website and need to be booked in advance - and many sell out far in advance.

4 - Have fun while fundraising for charity

Back in the city centre, Eldon Square have paried up with local charity The Children's Foundation to host a series of fundraising events including traditional fairground game Hook a Duck, as well as Easter Arts and Crafts and more.

A minimum donation of £3 per child is requested to participate in the activities, with contributions going towards The Children’s Foundation, to improve the lives of children in the North East. 

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5 - Soak in culture at the theatre

Tyneside has an impressive series of live venues across the region from the like sof Northern Stage and the Tyne Theatre in Newcastle to the Theatre Royal in South Shields.

Each of these has plenty of shows and events taking place throughout the two week break. Easter Pantomimes are becoming more popular as well, with Newcastle's Tyne Theatre hosting a production of Beauty and the Beast.

6 - Head to the coast for nature and some fresh air

We are so lucky that the North East hosts some of the region's most stunning areas of coastline in the country.

From the impressive cliffs of South Tyneside to the built up, lively areas of Tynemouth and Whitley Bay or sweeping beaches of Northumerberland, there is something for everyone.

Even these sites have attractions for kids if they don't fancy a seaside walk from Tynemouth Aquarium along the coast, or even head south of the Tyne to the Ocean Beach Pleasure Park in South Shields.