What's On

Please note: All events are subject to change. We strongly advise you to contact the event to check age suitability, date, time and cost BEFORE you go to avoid disappointment or inconvenience. Please note that not all events are free.

Regular events are listed at the bottom of this page.

March - July 2010

Now until Sun 26th Sep	DinoMites: The A-Z of Dinosaurs South Shields Museum and Art Gallery, Ocean Road, NE33 2JA. DinoMites shows 15 species, including children's favorites such as T. rex and Triceratops. Each display and interactive exhibit explores their lives in the prehistoric world t: 0191 456 8740 www.twmuseums.org.uk/southshields
Thu 1st Jul	Open University Drop-In Event South Tyneside Library, South Shields. 10am-4pm t: 0191 477 6100
Fri 2nd Jul	Teddy Bears' Picnic The Sele Park, Hexham, 11am. For more info email musicmove09@yahoo.co.uk
Sat 3rd Jul	Open University Drop-In Event Winter Gardens, Sunderland. 10am-4pm t: 0191 477 6100
Sat 3rd Jul	Cambo Fete Cambo, 1-4pm. Lots of stalls and attractions, children's races, WI teas, raffle, tombola's, cake stall etc! Free
Sat 3rd Jul	Wallsend Festival Celebrating 10 years, highlights include live music and performances on the bandstand, fairground rides, a vintage car display, a model railway exhibition and lots more. For more information, contact John Fleet on t: 0191 643 6419.
Sat 3rd - Sun 4th Jul	Pirates Weekend Blue Reef Aquarium, Tynemouth. Swashbuckling fun for younger visitors - discover all about pirates, privateer and buccaneers. There's storytelling sessions, workshops, flag designing classes and special talks about some real life pirates. Normal admission applies. T: 0191 258 1031 or visit www.bluereefaquarium.co.uk
Sun 4th Jul	Family Picnic in the Park Heaton Park, Newcastle, 3-5pm. With live music and entertainment, bring a picnic and join in the fun! Good access. t: 0191 265 0564 for more information.
Sun 4th Jul	Hexham Carnival, Hexham Park, 11am-5pm. Family fun in the park with games, rides, stalls, fancy dress, displays, and refreshments.
Sun 4th Jul	Classic Car Show Tynedale Rugby Ground, Corbridge, 11am-4pm. A fine display of cars, motorcycles and trucks as well as trade stands, stalls and refreshments. £3 entry fee. Call Ken Wood t: 0191 267 1234 for info
Wed 7th Jul	Shipley Scamps Shipley Art Gallery, Gateshead, NE8 4JB, 10.15-11.30am. Join in this fun session suitable for 2-4 year olds and their carers with themed creative activities, singing and stories. t: 0191 477 1495 www.twmuseums.org.uk/shipley
Wed 7th Jul	Open University Drop-In Event Durham Library. 10am-4pm t: 0191 477 6100
Fri 9 Jul	NCT Nearly New Sale Heaton Community Centre, Trewitt Road, Off Chillingham Road, Heaton. 8 - 9pm. e: tmarson123@hotmail.com
Fri 9th Jul	Stories & Songs Wooler Library, 55 High Street, Wooler, NE71 6BH, 2.30-3pm. Stories and singing for children 2-4 years old and their parents/carers. Contact Shirley Searle t: 01668 281 409.
Sat 10th Jul	Cullercoats Harbour Day A family fun day organised by the RNLI, with activities in the harbour, on the beach and in the water. For further information, please contact t: 0191 252 1820
Sat 10th Jul	Children's Art Workshop Hatton Gallery, Newcastle University, NE1 7RU, 10.30am-12pm. Free drop-in event, work with Iranian artist Mehrangiz Modarres creating Iranian pattern pictures inspired by the Takhti exhibition t: 0191 222 6059 www.twmuseums.org.uk/hatton
Sat 10th - Sun 11th Jul	Fairy Tale Weekend Hall Hill Farm, Lanchester, Durham, DH7 0TA. Meet your favourite fairytale characters. Admission applies, under 3's free. t: 01388 731 333
Sat 10th - Sun 11th Jul	Mouth of the Tyne Festival Tynemouth and South Shields. Featuring two days of world-class street theatre, live music and special one-off performances. For a timetable of events and more information see www.mouthofthetynefestival.com or call t: 0191 643 7409.
Sat 10th - Sun 11th Jul	Tynemouth Beach Volleyball Tournament An opportunity for people to take part in the 18th Tynemouth Beach Volleyball tournament. New teams are welcome to join in on an enjoyable weekend of beach volleyball! For further information contact Sue Snowdon on t: 0191 387 1159.
Sun 11th Jul	Family Fun Day Silverlink Park, Cobalt Come and join us for this free Family Fun Day which includes a range of activities including face painting, badge making, butterfly and bug hunts and other kids activities. From 10.30am - 2:30pm. t: 0191 643 7298
Sun 11th Jul	How Now Brown Cow Bill Quay Farm, 1-3pm. Come and watch the Longhorn Cattle have a pamper session to prepare them for the show ring! No booking required, free, donations welcome t: 0191 433 5780
Thu 15th Jul	Open University Drop-In Event Carlisle Library. 10am-4pm t: 0191 477 6100
Thu 15th - Sat 17th Jul	The Gruffalo Theatre Royal, Newcastle. A magical musical adaptation of the best-selling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. To book t: 08448 11 21 21 or visit www.theatreroyal.co.uk
Fri 16th - Sun 18th Jul	Rothbury Traditional Music Festival Rothbury. Small, free, friendly community based festival in the Coquet Valley. Free www.rothbury-traditional-music.co.uk
Sat 17th Jul	Disney's Alice in Wonderland Sunderland Empire. To book t: 0844 847 2499
Sat 17th Jul	Open University Drop-In Event Cumberland Show. 10am-4pm t: 0191 477 6100
Sat 17 Jul	Family Choir The Sage Gateshead. 12noon-12:45pm. Fun and relaxed singing for all the family, whatever your age or experience. Tickets £1.50 per person from the Ticket Office t: 0191 443 4661
Sat 17th Jul - Sun 26th Sep	Build It! Monkwearmouth Station Museum, Sunderland, SR5 1AP. In the 20th century Meccano, Lego and Airfix became household names and the story of these and more is told in this interactive exhibition. t: 0191 567 7075 www.twmuseums.org.uk/monkwearmouth
Sun 18th Jul	Vintage Bus Rally The Links, Whitley Bay - Bournemouth Gardens Car Park. Includes free bus rides along the seafront, on some of the 40 classic buses from 10am. Stalls will be selling bus related memorabilia and there will be free train rides at the Stephenson Railway Museum. For info, contact John Fleet on t: 0191 643 6419.
Sun 18th Jul	Tynemouth RNLI Day A family fun day organised by the RNLI, with activities including motorbike and car shows as well as helicopter displays in the water. For further information, please contact t: 0191 257 0913.
Tue 20th Jul	Open University Drop-In Event Ashington Library. 10am-4pm t: 0191 477 6100
Thur 22nd Jul	JMCinemaKIDS Jesmond Methodist Church, NE2 2DL, 12noon-2pm. Join us and watch Cars the Movie, enjoy popcorn and refreshments, no need to book, free event. Contact Sam t: 07793 273 583
Sat 24th Jul	Cultural Olympiad Discovery Museum, Newcastle, NE1 4JA, 10.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 4pm. Drop in and enjoy some circus play! Expert tuition in juggling, aerial arts, hula hoop, acrobatics and more! t: 0191 232 6789 www.twmuseums.org.uk/discovery
Sat 24th - Sun 25th Jul	Tyneside Model and Experimental Engineers Exhibition Park, Newcastle, 10am - 4pm. Amazing working miniature trains. A must for steam lovers! Contact Tsmeesec@aol.com for more information.
Sat 24 - Sun 25 Jul	SummerTyne: Early Years Goes Stateside! The Sage Gateshead. 9:45 - 10:45am. Special music sessions for little cowboys and cowgirls! Tickets £3 per person, second child half price. t: 0191 443 4661
Sat 24th - Sun 25th Jul	Spaghetti Circus Journal Tyne Theatre, Westgate Road, Newcastle. Amazing circus skills including acrobatics, hula hoop, aerial trapeze are fused with comedy, theatre and clowning to create world class contemporary circus theatre. To book t: 0844 493 9999 or visit www.thejournaltynetheatre.co.uk
Sat 24 - Sun 25 Jul	Roman Battle Re-enactment Binchester Roman Fort, Durham, DL14 8DJ. Admission applies, under 5's free. For more information t: 0191 370 8712, visit www.durham.gov.uk/binchester or e: archaeology@durham.gov.uk
Sat 24th Jul - Sun 5th Sep	Exhibition Explorers BALTIC Gateshead. Children and families can delve deeper into BALTIC's galleries with BALTIC's special Exhibition Explorer packs. The packs will be available during gallery hours from the Quay Info Point on Level 2. Free!
Sun 25 Jul	SummerTyne: Eleanor and Julia's Big Yee-ha! The Sage Gateshead. 2pm. Saddle up and enjoy a fun-filled, magical, musical road trip for all the family. Why not dress up in your finest cowboy and cowgirl gear? Tickets £7. t: 0191 443 4661
Sun 25th Jul	Whitley Bay Sandcastle Competition Test your sandcastle building abilities in return for lots of prizes. Families can drop by anytime during 11am and 2pm on Whitley Bay beach, just beside the Boardwalk Café. Judging will take place at approximately 2pm. For more info call t: 0191 643 7409 or email events@northtyneside.gov.uk.
Sun 25th Jul	Picnic in the Park Carlisle Park, Morpeth. Held on the last Sunday in July, a great family day out. For more information please contact the Park Office t: 01670 500 777
Mon 26 Jul	Musical Minis Summer Sessions St Aidan's Community Centre, Brunton Park, Gosforth. Musical fun group for pre- school children. From 10 - 10.45am. Places must be pre-booked as numbers are limited. Cost : £3.75 (siblings under 1 are free, over 1 are £2.75). Contact Debbie t: 0191 388 7748 or e: debbie@musicalminis.co.uk
Mon 26th - Fri 30th Jul	Stagecoach Summer School Performance Week Gosforth High School, Newcastle. Half days for under 7's. For more information please see www.stagecoach.co.uk
Tue 27th Jul	Water Safari Nature Area, Jesmond Dene, Newcastle, 1-2pm & 2-3pm. Drop-in for one of two sessions and join the NWT and explore the murky depths of the pond. Suggested donation £2. Children must be accompanied by an adult. t: 0191 284 6884 Please note there will be no access to toilets at this event.
Tue 27th Jul	Crafty Kaleidoscopes Discovery Museum, Newcastle, NE1 4JA, 10.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 4pm. Join artist Sarah McLusky to make amazing kaleidoscopes to take home t: 0191 232 6789 for more information. www.twmuseums.org.uk/discovery
Wed 28 Jul	Family Choir The Sage Gateshead. 12noon-12:45pm. Fun and relaxed singing for all the family, whatever your age or experience. Tickets £1.50 per person from the Ticket Office t: 0191 443 4661
Wed 28th Jul	Big Summer Event Killingworth Lake. This free fun event offers a range of exciting activities for all the family includi funfair rides, face-painting, pony-rides and taster sports sessions at this this lovely lakeside venue. Some rides or activities may carry a small charge on the day. No need to book.
Tue 27th - Wed 28th Jul	Medieval Clash of Knights Warkworth Castle (English Heritage). Thrilling living history displays that bring the pageantry of Medieval England to life. Admission applies (EH members free). T: 0870 333 1181 or visit www.english-heritage.org.uk
Thu 29th Jul	Nature Trail Heaton Park, Newcastle, 1-2pm & 2-3pm. Become a wildlife explorer with the NWT! Suggested donation £2. Children must be accompanied by an adult. t: 0191 284 6884 for more information.
Thu 29th Jul	Go Wild - Minibeast Hunt Wallington Hall (National Trust). Find out who lives in our woods! 11am -12:30pm and 1:30 - 3pm. Small charge and normal admission applies. t: 0191 284 6884 for more information.
Thu 29th Jul	Badges and Brooches Discovery Museum, Newcastle, NE1 4JA, 10.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 4pm. Be inspired by our Fashion Works gallery to make badges and brooches to accessorise your clothes! t: 0191 232 6789 www.twmuseums.org.uk/discovery
Thu 29th Jul	Messy Church - Mountains Jesmond Methodist Church, NE2 2DL, 12noon-2pm. Join us for some crafting fun, painting, modeling and all things messy, refreshments supplied, no need to book, free event. Contact Sam t: 07793 273 583 or see http://jmc-newcastle.moonfruit.com
Thu 29th - Fri 30th Jul	Summer Activities Gateshead Heritage @ St Mary's, 10am. Make your own stained glass designs out of tissue paper, cellophane and your imagination! Contact Richard Stevenson t: 0191 433 4699 for info
Thu 29th - Sat 31st Jul	North Tyneside Youth Football Tournament Churchill Playing Fields, Whitley Bay. A range of teams from North Tyneside and beyond - including under 8s to under 15s - compete to win the tournament title. For more information call t: 0191 643 7409 or email events@northtyneside.gov.uk.
Fri 30th - Sat 31st Jul	Medieval Clash of Knights Tynemouth Priory and Castle. Harlech Medieval Society demonstrate the reality of medieval combat with a series of thrilling living history displays that will bring the pageantry of medieval England to life. For further info contact Tynemouth Priory t: 0191 257 1090.
Fri 30th - Sat 31st Jul	Classic French Car Rally & Continental Market Hexham. Two days of classic Citroen Traction Avant vintage cars and continental market stalls.
Fri 30th Jul	Summer Sign-a-long! St. Aidan's Community Centre, Brunton Park, Gosforth. One-off, I hour morning session from Communi Kids. Baby sign, speech, music and play. Contact Leigh t: 07941 295 449 for more info.
Fri 30th Jul - Sun 1st Aug	Gateshead Summer Flower Show Central Nursery, Whickham Highway, NE11 9RQ, 10am-5pm. A great family day out with entertainment, children's activities and lots more. Free park and ride every 15 minutes from Gateshead Civic Centre and MetroCentre Bus Exchange. Tickets £7, under 18's are free when accompanied by an adult. t: 0191 433 6900 for more information.
Sat 31st - Sun 1st Aug	Newcastle Mela Exhibition Park, Newcastle. Enjoy one of the biggest and best Asian arts and music festivals with entertainment for all the family. For more information t: Karen 0191 277 2067
Sat 31st Jul - Sun 1st Aug	Newcastle Falcons Touch Rugby Tournament Tynemouth Longsands. A fun touch rugby tournament with the Falcons Rugby Union stars. For further info contact Melanie Magee t: 0191 300 1847 or email melanie.magee@falconsfoundation.co.uk.
Sat 31st Jul	BALTIC Busy B's at Belsay Hall From 11am - 1pm and 2 - 4pm. A chance for families visiting Extraordinary Measures to sample our art workshops linked to BALTIC's summer exhibitions lead by a member of BALTIC's professional artist team. No booking required. Workshop free, admission applies to Belsay Hall.
Sun 1 - Sun 29 Aug (except 24 Aug)	Cap'n Sage's Pirate Adventure: Treasure Hunt The Sage Gateshead. 11am - 3pm. Take a voyage around the Sage on an exciting treasure hunt - fancy dress optional! Plus free face painting on the Concourse. Tickets £2 from the Coats desk on the day.
Mon 2 Aug	Musical Minis Summer Sessions St Aidan's Community Centre, Brunton Park, Gosforth. Musical fun group for pre- school children. From 10 - 10.45am. Places must be pre-booked as numbers are limited. Cost : £3.75 (siblings under 1 are free, over 1 are £2.75). Contact Debbie t: 0191 388 7748 or e: debbie@musicalminis.co.uk
Mon 2nd - Fri 6th Aug	Stagecoach Daily Creations Workshops Gosforth High School, Newcastle and also at Sunderland High School, Clifton Hall, Sunderland. Half days for the under 7's. See www.stagecoach.co.uk
Tue 3rd Aug	Raft Race Jesmond Dene/Heaton Park, Newcastle. 1-3pm. Join the NWT, build your own raft then race it! Suggested donation is £2. Booking essential t: 0191 284 6884
Tue 3rd Aug	Family Pond Dip Tyne Riverside Country Park at Newburn. Discover the animals that live in the pond! Suitable for all ages, children must be accompanied by an adult. Wear wellies and old clothes. Meet at the visitor centre, there is a half mile walk to the pond. Free but must be booked t: 0191 264 8501
Tue 3rd Aug	Summer Stories Discovery Museum, Newcastle, NE1 4JA, 10.30am, 11.15am, 12noon, 2pm, 2.45pm and 3.30pm. Listen to wonderful summer stories and local tales from storyteller Tanya Bentham t: 0191 232 6789 for more information. www.twmuseums.org.uk/discovery
Tue 3rd Aug	Mini Beast Hunt & Nature Walk Northumberland Park, North Shields. From 10:30am - 12noon and 1:30 - 3pm. Join wardens to search for minibeasts and explore nature in the park. Children must be accompanied by an adult in a ratio of no more than 3 children to 1 adult. Places are limited so pre-booking is essential. (No group bookings can be taken). £1.50 per child. T: 0191 643 2241
Wed 4th Aug	Red Squirrels for Kids Bolam Lake, near Belsay, Northumberland, NE20 0HE, 10am-3pm. Join the NWT for activities and games aimed at learning about the red squirrel. Contact Frances Povey t: 01661 881 234 for more information.
Thu 5th - Sun 15th Aug	Riverford Traveling Field Kitchen Home Farm, Newby Wiske, Northallerton, North Yorks. Come and have a meal in a yurt (huge Mongolian tent)! Lunch (£17.50) and supper (£22.50) served every day except Mon 9th and Tue 10th. To book t: 0845 367 1155
Thu 5th Aug	Building Bridges activity Discovery Museum, Newcastle, NE1 4JA, 10.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 4pm. Visit our exhibition Building Bridges and then work with the Discovery learning team to design and build your own bridge t: 0191 232 6789 for more information. www.twmuseums.org.uk/discovery
Thu 5th Aug	Smelly Socks Heaton Park, Newcastle (please phone for exact location) 1-2pm & 2-3pm. Drop-in for one of the two sessions and put your sense of smell to the test, make a woodland mask and some potent perfume and lots more! Children must be accompanied by an adult, suggested donation £2. t: 0191 284 6884 for more info.
Thu 5th Aug	Go Wild Den Building Wallington Hall (National Trust). Have a go at den building and learn about the different homes that animals live in. 11am - 12:30pm and 1:30 - 3pm. Small charge and normal admission applies. t: 0191 284 6884 for more information.
Thu 5th Aug	Hamsterley Play Day Hamsterley Visitor Centre, DH13 3NL, 10.30am-3pm. Activities and games including arts and crafts, bike riding, den building and much more. £2 per person (parking charge still applies). No booking required. Contact Robert Fothergill t: 01388 762 220 for more information.
Thu 5th Aug	JMCinemaKIDS Jesmond Methodist Church, NE2 2DL, 12noon-2pm. Join us and watch Over the Hedge the Movie, enjoy popcorn and refreshments, no need to book, free event. Contact Sam t: 07793 273 583
Fri 6th Aug	Teddy Bear's Picnic Chopwell Woods, Rowlands Gill, 11am-2pm. Fun in the forest for tots, their family and their teddies! Includes treasure hunt and other fun activities. Bring teddy and lunch and join in the fun! £4 per child, booking essential, contact Neil Taylor t: 01388 488 312.
Fri 6th Aug	Widening Horizons for Sport - Family Fun Day Rising Sun Country Park, Wallsend. From 10am - 12 noon. Join in and take part in a diverse range of sporting and play activities suitable for all the family. Free and open to all, no need to book.
Fri 6th - Sun 8th Aug	Vincent Motorcycles Rockcliffe Rugby Club. For more information contact Michael Farwell t: 0191 251 0080.
Sat 7th Aug	Windmills Discovery Museum, Newcastle, NE1 4JA, 10.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 4pm. Join artist Tracy Greener to make your own wonderful windmills t: 0191 232 6789 www.twmuseums.org.uk/discovery
Sun 8th Aug	Forest Schools Wild Child Allen Banks and Staward Gorge Northumberland. Learn to make fire by traditional methods, grind your own corn to make breadsticks, cook on an open fire, build a shelter, fairy gardens, make a kazoo and a scavenger hunt! 10:30am - 4pm. £25 per family. Booking essential, t: 01434 344 218.
Mon 9th Aug	Newcastle Postcards Discovery Museum, Newcastle, NE1 4JA, 10.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 4pm. Create your own postcard using our collection as inspiration t: 0191 232 6789 www.twmuseums.org.uk/discovery
Mon 9th Aug	Musical Minis Summer Sessions St Aidan's Community Centre, Brunton Park, Gosforth. Musical fun group for pre- school children. From 10 - 10.45am. Places must be pre-booked as numbers are limited. Cost : £3.75 (siblings under 1 are free, over 1 are £2.75). Contact Debbie t: 0191 388 7748 or e: debbie@musicalminis.co.uk
Tue 10th Aug	Minibeast Safari Heaton Park, Newcastle (please phone for exact location) 1-2pm & 2-3pm. Drop-in for one of the two sessions and discover more about the creepy crawlies that live beneath our feet! Children must be accompanied by an adult, suggested donation £2. t: 0191 284 6884 for more information.
Tue 10th Aug	Mini Beast Hunt & Nature Walk Churchill Playing Fields, Whitley Bay. From 10:30am - 12noon and 1:30 - 3pm. Join wardens to search for minibeasts and to explore nature in the park. Children must be accompanied by an adult in a ratio of no more than 3 children to 1 adult. Places are limited so pre-booking is essential. (No group bookings can be taken). Cost £1.50. t: 0191 643 2241
Tue 10th Aug	Pond Dipping and Bug Hunt Big Waters Nature Reserve, 10am-12noon & 1-3pm. Discover the amazing little creatures in and around the nature reserve. Family event, open to all. Good access but please note no toilet facilities on site. Booking essential. t: 0191 265 6439 or email big.water@newcastle.gov.uk
Tue 10th Aug	Kids Gardening & Veggie Pots Alnwick Garden. Join us in the roots and shoots garden to see how everything is growing and make an unusual veggie pet to take home. Normal admission applies. t: 01665 511 852 or e: info@alnwickgarden.com
Wed 11th Aug	Big Summer Park Event Northumberland Park, Wallsend. From 12noon - 3pm. Join us for this fun celebration to mark this splendid Victorian park's 125th anniversary. Bring a family picnic and be entertained by street theatre artists and circus skills. Children can also enjoy a range of Victorian themed sports and games as well as nature activities. Free, no need to book. t: 0191 643 2241
Wed 11th Aug	RSPB Activity Day Bolam Lake, near Belsay, Northumberland, NE20 0HE, 11am-3pm. Join the RSPB in a range of activities including pond dipping and art activities. t: 01661 881 234 for more information.
Thu 12th Aug	Mad Hatter's Tea Party Bede's World, Jarrow, NE32 3DY, 11am-2pm. Don't be late for our Mad Hatters Tea party, packed full of games, crafts and storytelling. £4 per ticket £12.50 per family ticket (picnic lunch included). Pre-booking essential t: 0191 489 2106 www.bedesworld.co.uk
Thu 12th Aug	Arts & Crafts Heaton Park, Newcastle (please phone for exact location) 1-2pm & 2-3pm. Drop-in for one of the two sessions. Children must be accompanied by an adult, suggested donation £2. t: 0191 284 6884
Thu 12 Aug	Alice Through the Looking Glass Outdoor Theatre Belsay Hall, Castle & Gardens (English Heritage). A family favourite - follow this new adaptation of Alice's fantastic adventures. To book t: 01661 881 636, children's price tickets also available.
Thu 12th Aug	Victorian Inventors Discovery Museum, Newcastle, NE1 4JA, 10.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 4pm. Meet two of Newcastle's inventors, William Armstrong and Joseph Swan, discover some of their inventions and work with museum staff to create a picture inspired their electrical experiments. t: 0191 232 6789
Thu 12th Aug	Kids Gardening & Veggie Pots Alnwick Garden. Join us in the roots and shoots garden to see how everything is growing and make an unusual veggie pet to take home. Normal admission applies. t: 01665 511 852 or e: info@alnwickgarden.com
Thu 12th Aug	Messy Church - Roads Jesmond Methodist Church, NE2 2DL, 12noon-2pm. Join us for some crafting fun, painting, modeling and all things messy, refreshments supplied, no need to book, free event. Contact Sam t: 07793 273 583 or see http://jmc-newcastle.moonfruit.com
Thu 12th - Fri 13th Aug	Tyne Tiles Gateshead Hertiage @ St Mary's, 10am. Taking inspiration from the river and its quayside paint a tile that can be baked at home to become a permanent reminder of a great day! For more information contact Richard Stevenson t: 0191 433 4699 Charge for event is £1.50 per tile. No need to book.
Fri 13th Aug	Bug Houses Alnwick Garden. Help the environment and the plants in your garden with our eco-friendly bug boxes. One per family. Normal admission applies. t: 01665 511 852 or e: info@alnwickgarden.com
Sat 14th Aug	Arbeia Festival Arbeia Roman Fort & Museum, South Shields, NE33 2BB, 10am-4pm. A whole day of fun as the fort is brought to life! From Romans to World War soldiers, arts and crafts to BBQ's, there is plenty to see and do for all the family! t: 0191 456 1369 www.twmuseums.org.uk/arbeia
Sat 14th Aug	Japan Festival The Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle, NE1 8AG, 11am-4pm. A special day filled with Japanese-themed activites for families of all ages including a flower painting workshop. No booking required. . t: 0191 232 7734 www.twmuseums.org.uk/laing
Sun 15th Aug	Book Fair Tynemouth Station 10am - 4pm. Up to fifty stalls will be taking part, selling a wide range of antiquarian and second hand books to suit all tastes and all pockets, from specialist leather bound volumes to children's books. For info, please contact Ylana First t: 0191 257 2180. Entry is free.
Sun 15th Aug	Batty Bats Trail Springfield Park. From 11am - 3pm. Hidden around the park are some very special and familiar looking bats, can you find them all? Collect your answer sheet from the park warden on the day. This is a free family event, no need to book. T: 0191 643 2241
Sun 15th Aug	Ryton Willows Treasure Hunt Village Green, outside The Old Cross Pub, 1.30pm-4pm (latest start time 3pm). Follow the map, solve the clues, decipher the code and discover the treasure! £3 per family treaure hunt pack. No booking required. t: 01207 545 212 for more information.
Tue 17th Aug	Water Safari Nature Area, Jesmond Dene, Newcastle, 1-2pm & 2-3pm. Drop-in for one of two sessions and join the NWT and explore the murky depths of the pond. Suggested donation £2. Children must be accompanied by an adult. t: 0191 284 6884 Please note there will be no access to toilets a this event.
Tue 17th Aug	Ink Flowers Discovery Museum, Newcastle, NE1 4JA, 10.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 4pm. Join the Discovery learning team and use science to create beautiful blooms from pens and paper t: 0191 232 678
Tue 17th Aug	Summer Woodland Walk Rising Sun Country Park, Wallsend. From 10:30am - 12noon and 1:30 - 3pm. Join our warden for a summer walk through the nature reserve or go for a splodge through the swamp! This event is suitable for younger children. Children must be accompanied by an adult in a ratio of no more than 3 children to 1 adult. Places are limited so pre-booking is essential. Cost £1.50 Tel: 0191 643 2241
Tue 17th Aug	Mini Beast Hunt and Nature Walk Tynemouth Park, Tynemouth. From 10:30 - 12noon and 1:30 - 3pm. Join wardens to search for minibeasts and to explore nature in the park. Children must be accompanied by an adult in a ratio of no more than 3 children to 1 adult. Places are limited so pre-booking is essential. Cost £1.50 t: 0191 643 2241
Wed 18th Aug	Mini Beast Hunt and Nature Walk Benton Quarry, Benton. From 10:30 - 12noon and 1:30 - 3pm. Join wardens to search for minibeasts and to explore nature in the park. Children must be accompanied by an adult in a ratio of no more than 3 children to 1 adult. Places are limited so pre-booking is essential. Cost £1.50 t: 0191 643 2241
Wed 18th Aug	Lake Dipping Bolam Lake, near Belsay, Northumberland, NE20 0HE, 11am-12.30pm. Discover all the wonderful creatures that live in the lake. Equipment provided. Event charge £2, contact Frances Povey t: 01661 881 234
Thu 19th Aug	3D Discovery Models Discovery Museum, Newcastle, NE1 4JA, 10.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 4pm. Create your own mini Discovery Museum to take home with you! t: 0191 232 6789 www.twmuseums.org.uk/discovery
Thu 19th Aug	Dream Catchers Heaton park, Newcastle, 1-2pm & 2-3pm. Drop-in for one of two sessions and join the NWT in making a dream catcher. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Suggested donation £2. t: 0191 284 6884
Thu 19th Aug	Go Wild - Pond Dipping Wallington Hall (National Trust). Discover the weird and wonderful creatures that live in our ponds! 11am -12:30pm and 1:30 - 3pm. Small charge and normal admission applies. t: 0191 284 6884 for more information.
Thu 19th Aug	Family Creepy Crawly Hunt Tyne Riverside Country ark at Newburn, 10.30am-12noon. Come and find out about minibeasts! Meet at the visitor, free event but booking is essential t: 0191 264 8501. Good access.
Thu 19th Aug	JMCinemaKIDS Jesmond Methodist Church, NE2 2DL, 12noon-2pm. Join us and watch Madagascar the Movie, enjoy popcorn and refreshments, no need to book, free event. Contact Sam t: 07793 273 583
Thu 19th - Fri 20th Aug	Tyne Tiles Gateshead Hertiage @ St Mary's, 10am. Taking inspiration from the river and it's quayside paint a tile that can be baked at home to become a permanent reminder of a great day! For more information contact Richard Stevenson t: 0191 433 4699 Charge for event is £1.50 per tile. No need to book.
Thu 19th - Sun 22th Aug	Green Phoenix Festival 2010 Exciting new family friendly festival, a celebration of arts and sustainable culture - caberet, circus, cimema, live music, outdoor arial, fire performances and lots more! See p. 5 for details. Tickets £99 adult, £45 young person (age 12 - 17), under 12's go free. www.greenphoenixfestival.org.uk
Fri 20th Aug	Widening Horizons for Sport - Family Fun Day Tynemouth Longsands. From 10am - 2pm. Join in with North Tyneside's Sports Development team and take part in a diverse range of sporting and play activities suitable for all the family. Free and open to all, no need to book. t: 0191 643 2241
Sun 21st Aug	Batty Bats Trail Benton Quarry, Benton. From 11am - 3pm. Hidden around the park are some very special and familiar looking bats, can you find them all? Collect your answer sheet from the park warden on the day. This is a free family event, no need to book. T: 0191 643 2241
Sat 21st Aug	Peg Dolls Discovery Museum, Newcastle, NE1 4JA, 10.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 4pm. Join artist Tracy Greener to take part in the traditional craft of making peg dolls. t: 0191 232 6789 for more information.
Sat 21st Aug	Allendale Show Allendale, 10am-6pm. Agricultural show. t: 01434 683 960 for more information.
Sat 21st - Sun 22nd Aug	Growing in the Community Health and Horticulture Show Parks Sports Centre, North Shields. Featuring the best of the region's fruit and vegetable growers. New for the 2010 show is a cycle event and new home produce classes. For info contact North Tyneside's allotment service on t: 0191 643 7449.
Sun 22nd Aug	House of Objects Art Fest Rising Sun Country Park, Wallsend. From 11am - 5pm. A celebration of creative recycling with a day of free sculpture workshops with professional artists, where you can make your own artworks out of the wide range of materials available. There will also be storytelling, live music, street theatre and circus arts. Free! T: 0191 643 2240
Mon 23rd Aug	Picture a Fossil Discovery Museum, Newcastle, NE1 4JA, 10.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 4pm. Be inspired by the William Armstrong exhibition to create your own shimmering picture of a fossil t: 0191 232 6789
Tue 24th Aug	Earth Art Heaton Park (please call for exact location) 1-2pm & 2-3pm. Drop-in for one of two sessions, join the NWT and create your own natural sculpture. Suggested donation £2. Children must be accompanied by an adult. t: 0191 284 6884
Tue 24th Aug	Mini Beast Hunt and Nature Walk Rising Sun Country Park, Wallsend. From 10:30 - 12noon and 1:30 - 3pm. Join wardens to search for minibeasts and to explore nature in the park. Children must be accompanied by an adult in a ratio of no more than 3 children to 1 adult. Places are limited so pre-booking is essential. Cost £1.50 t: 0191 643 2241
Wed 25th Aug	Treasure Hunt Bolam Lake, near Belsay, Northumberland, NE20 0HE, 2-4.30pm. For all the family ran by Friends of Bolam Lake. Answer clues and find the treasure for a prize! Come suitably dressed. Event charge £1. For more information contact Frances Povey t: 01661 881 234
Wed 25th Aug	Discovery Backpacks Discovery Museum, Newcastle, NE1 4JA. Borrow a family backpack during your visit to the museum for fun activities while you tour the gallery t: 0191 232 6789 for more information. www.twmuseums.org.uk/discovery
Wed 25th Aug	Teddy Bears Picnic Rising Sun Country Park, Wallsend. From 12noon - 3pm. Street artists circus skills, face-painting, funfair rides, free sports taster sessions, sand and water play areas. This event is for families and aimed at children aged under 7. Bring a picnic or pre-book lunchboxes. Admission by ticket only as numbers are limited. £1.50 per person aged 3 years+, £2.95 to pre-book children's lunchboxes. t: 0191 643 2241
Wed 25 - Thu 26 Aug	Soldiers of the Roses Warkworth Castle (English Heritage). Watch as armoured knights and livery men take part in medieval combat. Admission applies (EH members free). T: 0870 333 1181 or visit www.english-heritage.org.uk
Thu 26th Aug	Minibeast Safari Heaton Park, (please call for exact location) Newcastle 1-2pm & 2-3pm. Drop-in for one of two sessions, join the NWT and discover more about creepy crawlies! Suggested donation £2. Children must be accompanied by an adult. t: 0191 284 6884
Thu 26th Aug	Mini Beast Hunt and Nature Walk Wallsend Park, Wallsend. From 10:30 - 12noon and 1:30 - 3pm. Join wardens to search for minibeasts and to explore nature in the park. Children must be accompanied by an adult in a ratio of no more than 3 children to 1 adult. Places are limited so pre-booking is essential. Cost £1.50 t: 0191 643 2241
Thu 26th Aug	Messy Church - Seasides Jesmond Methodist Church, NE2 2DL, 12noon-2pm. Join us for some crafting fun, painting, modeling and all things messy, refreshments supplied, no need to book, free event. Contact Sam t: 07793 273 583 or see http://jmc-newcastle.moonfruit.com
Fri 27th Aug	Summer Arts & Crafts Arbeia Roman Fort & Museum, South Shields, NE33 2BB, 10am, 12noon, 1pm and 3pm. Free arts and crafts session, join our team to create something to take home. No booking necessary. t: 0191 456 1369 www.twmuseums.org.uk/arbeia
Fri 27th Aug	Fireman Sam Playhouse Whitley Bay. Shows at 1pm and 1:30pm. Tickets £13/£11 conc. To book t: 0844 277 2771, visit www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk or visit the ticket office.
Fri 27th Aug	Summer Sign-a-long! St. Aidan's Community Centre, Brunton Park, Gosforth. One-off, I hour morning session from Communi Kids. Baby sign, speech, music and play. Contact Leigh t: 07941 295 449 for more info.
Sat 28th Aug	Annual Summer Dog Oscars Wallsend Park, Wallsend. From 11am - 3pm. Categories for the show will include 'Looks Most Like Owner' and 'Waggiest Tail'. If you think your pooch has what it takes to be an ASDO winner join in, no pedigree required! There will be other family activities on the day. Please note that due to popularity you need to enter your dog in advance. There is no entry fee for spectators. £1.50 to enter a dog. T: 0191 643 7897
Sat 28th - Mon 30th Aug	Teddy Bear's Picnic Hall Hill Farm, Lanchester, Durham, DH7 0TA. Bring your favourite teddy along. Admission applies, under 3's free. t: 01388 731 333
Sat 28th - Sun 29th Aug	Model Railway Show Parks Sports Centre, North Shields, 10am - 5pm Sat and 10am -4pm on the Sun. There will be numerous layouts and demonstrations, trade stands, a range of refreshments available, tombola and free car parking with disabled access. For info call 0191 258 3628 or email bdmrs@sky.com.
Sun 29th Aug	Bamburgh Fair Bamburgh, 10.30-4pm. Featuring local products, crafts, refreshments stalls.
Mon 30th Aug	Big Green Seaside Station Day Tynemouth Metro Station. A fun-packed programme of green themed entertainment has been arranged to cater for all of the family, and there will even be environmentally friendly refreshments on sale.
Mon 30th Aug	BALTIC'S Art in the Park Baltic Square, Gateshead. Families and their friends can work with professional artists, creating art inspired by the BALTIC's summer exhibitions. No pre-booking required but a time system will be in place for the art activities during busy periods. From 11am - 4pm. Free!
Mon 30th Aug	Roman Battle Re-enactment Binchester Roman Fort, Durham, DL148DJ. Admission applies, under 5's free. For more information t: 0191 370 8712, visit www.durham.gov.uk/binchester or e: archaeology@durham.gov.uk
Mon 30th Aug	Bank Holiday Fun Wallington Hall (National Trust). Children's trail, Krafty Kids and a Duck Race! 11am - 4pm. Small charge and normal admission applies. t: 0191 284 6884 for more information.
Tue 31st Aug	Mini Beast Hunt and Nature Walk Killingworth Lake. From 10:30 - 12noon and 1:30 - 3pm. Join wardens to search for minibeasts and to explore nature in the park. Children must be accompanied by an adult in a ratio of no more than 3 children to 1 adult. Places are limited so pre-booking is essential. Cost £1.50 t: 0191 643 2241
Tue 31st Aug	Nature Trails Heaton Park (please call for exact location) Newcastle 1-2pm & 2-3pm. Drop-in for one of two sessions, join the NWT and become a wildlife explorer! Suggested donation £2. Children must be accompanied by an adult. t: 0191 284 6884
Wed 1st Sep	Minibeast Hunt Bolam Lake, near Belsay, Northumberland, NE20 0HE, 2-3.30pm. Hunt for minibeasts! Equipment provided, come suitably dressed and be prepared to get dirty! Event charge £2. For more information contact Frances Povey t: 01661 881 234
Wed 1st Sep	Holiday Activity: Flower Painting The Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle, NE1 8AG, 1.30-3.30pm. Create a Japanese-style watercolour painting with artist Chun Chao Chiu. No booking required. t: 0191 232 7734
Thu 2nd Sep	JMCinemaKIDS/Messy Church Party Jesmond Methodist Church, NE2 2DL, 12noon-2pm. Join us for some crafting fun, painting, modeling and all things messy to celebrate the end of the summer holidays, refreshments supplied, no need to book, free event. Contact Sam t: 07793 273 583
Thu 2nd Sep	Bug Houses Alnwick Garden. Help the environment and the plants in your garden with our eco-friendly bug boxes. One per family. Normal admission applies. t: 01665 511 852 or e: info@alnwickgarden.com
Fri 3rd Sep	Kids Gardening & Veggie Pots Alnwick Garden. Join us in the roots and shoots garden to see how everything is growing and make an unusual veggie pet to take home. Normal admission applies. t: 01665 511 852 or e: info@alnwickgarden.com
Sat 4th Sep	Open University Drop-In Event Newcastle City Library. 10am-4pm t: 0191 477 6100
Sun 5th Sep	Newcastle Allotment & Garden Show Civic Centre, Newcastle, 11am-4pm. Newcastle's biggest vegetable and flower show. Entry is free and parking at the Civic Centre is only £1 all day. Includes children's activities. t: 0191 278 3089 for more information.
Sun 5th Sep	NCT Nearly New Sale North Tyneside Linskill Centre, Trevor Terrace, North Shields. Doors open at 9:45am for NCT members and 10am for non-members. Refreshments available - all welcome! For more info e: nns@nct-ntyneside.org.uk
Sun 5th Sep	Food from the Forest Hamsterley Forest, DL13 3NL, 1-3pm. Meet at the Hamsterley Visitor Centre. Family event. A walk to discover some of the forest's autumn bounty. Samples of forest food and recipes will be available. Booking essential. £5 per adult, £4 conc and £14 for a family of four. t: 01388 488 312 for more info.
Sat 11th Sep	Make a Scarecrow Competition Benwell Nature Park, 1-3pm. Help rangers gather hay from the wildflower meadow and make a scarecrow. Please bring old clothes and ideas to dress scarecrows. Small prize for best dressed or funniest! Light refreshments available. Booking essential t: 0191 273 2983
Sun 12th Sep	More than One Leazes Park, Newcastle, from 10am. Family fun day in celebration of twins, triplets, quad and quintuplets. For more information please contact Sandra Bosman t: 0191 282 9526
Sun 12th Sep	Paws in the Park Paddy Freeman's Park, Newcastle, 12noon. Fun dog show, which also includes stalls and a display from local dog agility team. All money raised is donated to Dogs for the Disabled. For access details t: 0191 265 0564
Sun 12 Sep	Vintage car Show Belsay Hall, Castle & Gardens (English Heritage). A wide array of vintage cars. Admission applies (EH members free). T: 0870 333 1181 or visit www.english-heritage.org.uk
Wed 15th Sep	North Tyneside NCT 'Coffee & Chat' Runamokka, Whitley Road, Whitley Bay. For NCT members, from 1 - 3pm with free softplay!
Thu 16th Sep	Open University Drop-In Event The JobSearchLive event, Whitehaven. 10am-4pm t: 0191 477 6100
Fri 17th Sep	NCT Nearly New Sale Heaton Community Centre, Trewitt Road, Off Chillingham Road, Heaton. 8 - 9pm. e: tmarson123@hotmail.com
Sat 18th Sep	NCT 'Baby Only' Nearly New Sale Heaton Community Centre, Trewitt Road, Off Chillingham Road, Heaton. 2 - 4pm. e: tmarson123@hotmail.com
Sat 25th - Sun 26th Sep	Greenfest Washington Wildfowl and Wetlands Centre, NE38 8LE. Includes local producers, recycled crafts, gardening advice, wildlife workshops, hedgerow harvest rambles, children's toy swap shop, story telling, walks and more! Event included in admission price t: 0191 416 5454 www.wwt.org.uk
Sat 25th Sep	Food from the Forest Hamsterley Forest, DL13 3NL, 1-3pm. Meet at the Hamsterley Visitor Centre. Family event. A walk to discover some of the forest's autumn bounty. Samples of forest food and recipes will be available. Booking essential. £5 per adult, £4 conc and £14 for a family of four. t: 01388 488 312 for more info.
Sat 26th Sep	Postman Pat Sunderland Empire. To book t: 0844 847 2499
Sat 2nd - Sun 31st Oct	Changing Perspectives Monkwearmouth Station Museum, Sunderland. Celebrating Black History Month, this exhibition records the experiences of people of African-Caribbean descent who have chosen to make their home in the North East t: 0191 567 7075 www.twmuseums.org.uk/monkwearmouth
Sun 3rd Oct	Bonkers for Conkers Plessey Woods Country Park, NE22 6AN, 10.30am. A morning of cheery chestnut challenges. All ages. Charge £2.50. Contact t: 01670 824 793 for more information.
Tue 5th -Sun 10th Oct	Disney on Ice: 100 years of Magic Call t: 0844 493 6666 or visit www.metroradioarena.co.uk
Wed 13th - Thu 14th Oct	Peppa Pig's Party Playhouse Whitley Bay. To book t: 0844 277 2771, visit www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk or contact the ticket office in person.
Sat 16th Oct	Open University Drop-In Event Newcastle City Library. 10am-4pm t: 0191 477 6100
Sat 16th - Sun 17th Oct	Northumberland Vintage Tractor Club Vintage Vehicle Rally Old Brunton Airfield, Christon Bank, Alnwick. All types of vintage vehicles, tractors, steam engines, trade stands and craft tent. Over 500 exhibits last year! Contact ntvcrally@googlemail.com for more information.
Sat 23rd - Sun 31st Oct	October Half Term and Halloween Washington Wildfowl and Wetlands Centre, NE38 8LE. t: 0191 416 5454 for more information or see www.wwt.org.uk/visit-us/washington/events
Sat 23rd Oct	Broomstick Making Workshop Kielder Castle Visitor Centre, Kielder Forest, NE48 1ER, 1-3pm. Hand craft your own birch broom. Booking required t: 01434 250 209. Charge £5 per broomstick.
Sat 23rd - Sun 31st Oct	Halloween Week Hall Hill Farm, Lanchester, Durham, DH7 0TA. Make lanterns and scarecrows. Admission applies, under 3's free. t: 01388 731 333
Sat 23rd Oct	Broomstick Making Workshop Hamsterley Forest, DL13 3NL, 11am-1pm and 2-4pm. Hand craft your own birch broom at the vistor centre. Booking not required. Charge £5 per broomstick. t: 01388 488 312
Sat 23rd - Sun 31st Oct	Halloween Trail Hamsterley Visitor Centre, Hamsterley Forest, DL13 3NL, 11am-4pm. Holiday fun with a self-led ghoulish trail through the haunted forest. Booking not essential. £1.50 per child. t: 01388 488 312
Mon 25th Aug	Halloween Fun Wallington Hall (National Trust). Make spooky items with Krafty Kids. 11am - 12:30pm and 1:30 - 3pm. Small charge (max £5) and normal admission applies. t: 0191 284 6884 for more information
Tue 26th Oct	Small Mammals Plessey Woods Country Park, NE22 6AN, 11am. Find out all about the small mammals that live in Plessey Woods, we'll be live trapping and looking for tracks and signs. All ages. Charge £2.50. Booking essential t: 01670 824 793
Thu 28th Oct	Halloween Lanterns Plessey Woods Country Park, NE22 6AN, 11am or 1.30pm. All ages. Charge £3.50. Booking essential t: 01670 824 793
Thu 28th Aug	Go Wild - Hibernation Hunt Wallington Hall (National Trust). Find out about hibernation and have a go at building a mouse house and hedgehog shelter to help the animals in your garden. 11am - 12:30pm and 1:30 - 3pm. Small charge and normal admission applies. t: 0191 284 6884 for more information
Sat 30th Oct	Ghosts, Ghouls and Ghastly Masks! Arbeia Roman Fort & Museum, South Shields, NE33 2BB, 10am, 12noon, 1pm and 3pm. Prepare for Hallowe'en with a spooktacular sessions of arts and crafts to make your own spooky accessories. Free entry, no booking required t: 0191 456 1369 www.twmuseums.org.uk/arbeia
Fri 5th Nov	Bonfire Night Hexham, 6.15pm. Hexham Round Table host the fabulous bonfire and firework night.
Fri 5th Nov	Firework Display Segedunum Roman Fort, Wallsend.
Fri 5th Nov	Firework Display Alnwick. From 7:30pm.
Sun 7th Nov	Firework Display The Links, Whitley Bay.

Regular Events

Downy Duckling Days Weekends until 24th/25th July. Meet live chicks at the waterfowl nursery and watch them tak their first wobbly steps! Duckery talks are held at 11am and 2pm. No need to book and cost is included in admission. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. t: 0191 416 5454 for more information or see www.wwt.org.uk

Summer Holiday Fun Washington Wildfowl and Wetlands Centre, NE38 8LE. Sat 24th July to Sun 5th September Join us between 11am-12noon or 1-2pm for mini-beast safaris every Monday and Friday; Den Building every Wednesday £3 per den); pond dipping every Tuesday and Thursday; and craft activities Monday to Friday from 1.30-3.30pm (small costs apply). No need to book. Admission fee applies. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. t: 0191 416 5454 for more information or see www.wwt.org.uk/visit-us/washington/events

Free print activites at Northern Print Great gallery for grown-ups and inky fun for all. Every Wed from 28 Jul until 25 Aug. Starts 10:30am. Details and pre-booking t: 0191 261 7000, www.northernprint.org.uk

Devine Bodies Person Training Friendly, fun, results-driven bootcamps in Jesmond. Every Thur from 8th Jul 7.30-8.30pm. £4 per session. Pre booking required t: Sally 07834 753 194.

Summer Sundays Various locations throughout Newcastle, 2-4pm. Enjoy an afternoon of music or children's entertainment held on Sundays throughout July & August. t: 0191 278 3089 www.newcastle.gov.uk/parks

Sports in the Park Various locations throughout Newcastle. Enjoy an afternoon of sports coaching during the August summer holidays t: 0191 278 3089 www.newcastle.gov.uk/parks for more information.

The Salvation Army presents it's 2010 series of Songs in the Park, held at the bandstand, Leazes Park, Newcastle. Held on Sunday 20th June, Sunday 18th July, Sunday 15th August and Sunday 19th September, 2.30-3.30pm.

Piccolo is moving! From Wed 9th Jun (after half-term) sessions will be held at St Mary's Church, Farringdon Road, Cullercoats instead of Claremont Road. For more information t: 0191 252 8765

Creative Crafts for Kids Souter Lighthouse (National Trust). Drop-in, self-led and free family fun every weekday throughout the summer holidays. Normal admission applies. t: 0191 529 3161

Spot the Animal Cragside (National Trust). Every day throughout the summer holidays, two self-guided trails - can you spot the hidden animals? Drop-in from 10:30am - 5pm. Normal admission applies. t: 0191 284 6884 for more information.

Family Activity Day Cragside (National Trust). Every Wed throughout the summer holidays. Story-telling, Punch & Judy, face painting, craft sessions and more! 11am - 3:30pm. Normal admission applies. t: 0191 284 6884 for more information.

ARTventures The Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle, NE1 8AG, 1.30-3.30pm. Every weekday and Saturday during the school holidays. Free drop-in activities for all ages inspired by the exhibitions at the Laing. Try a different activity each week. No booking required. t: 0191 232 7734 www.twmuseums.org.uk/laing

Family Tours at BALTIC Gateshead. Every Sat from Sat 24th July at 11am. Take a trip round BALTIC's exhibitions with one of our friendly Crew who can offer fun and engaging ways to enjoy and learn more about contemporary art. Free!

Washable Nappy Nights! 14th Jul, 18th Aug, 29th Sep, 27th Oct, 8th Dec, from 6-9pm in the Birth Basics Teaching room at the Linskill Centre, Trevor Terrace, Tynemouth, NE30 2AY. Drop-ins for anyone interested in using washables or simply finding out if washable nappies are an option. There will also be information about council cash back schemes, hiring of TENS machines and fleece pouch slings. t: 0191 289 4435 www.washables.co.uk

Toddler Tuesdays at the BALTIC. Every Tues from 10:45 - 11:45am. Toddler Tuesdays are artist lead practical sessions using a variety of materials, colours, shapes and textures. Don't wear your best clothes! This event is suitable for pre-school children aged 0-4 and tickets should be bought from the artist before the session begins. Cost £3 per child.

Little Artists The Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle, NE1 8AG, 10-11am and 11am-12noon. Sessions for pre-school children where we make things, sing, learn lots about the things in the gallery, listen to a story, have juice and biscuits and lots of fun! Sessions run on Tue 15th June, Tue 22nd June, Tue 29th June, Tue 6th July, Tue 13th July, Tue 10th August, Tue 17th August. Charge is 50p per child, no need to book. t: 0191 232 7734 www.twmuseums.org.uk/laing

BALTIC Summer Art Spectacular Every weekday from Mon 2nd Aug until Fri 27th Aug. From 2 - 4pm. Drop into Quay any weekday throughout August and work with a BALTIC artist to create some exciting new work inspired by exhibitions of Cornelia Parker, Tomás Saraceno and John Cage. Free!

Tumble Tots Summer Play Schemes for children from 3 to 7 years. 2 hr sessions will include physical play, arts & crafts, brio, jigsaws, stories and play dough & parachute. £10.00 per child. Contact Louise/Karen for more information on t: 0191 236 6993 / 07885 404 664. Places are limited, so book early to avoid disappointment.

Summer Toddler Group From Wed 27th Jul - Wed 1st Aug at St John's Church, Claremont Road, Whitley Bay. From 10 - 11:30am - just drop in, all welcome! Pre school fun with activity tables and soft play. Let your little ones enjoy creative play on activity tables and have fun in the soft play area at the Life Science Centre, Newcastle. Available all day. Mon - Sat 10am - 6pm, Sun 11am- 6pm until 2011. One admission price for all activities at Life. Age 4 and under free. www.life.org.uk t: 0191 243 8210.

Kindermusik Summer Camps throughout the summer holidays. Specifically designed to stimulate and captivate babies, toddlers and young children. Music followed by snacks, chat and exploration play. Places are limited so please register as early as possible. For prices and times please contact Suzanne on t: 07766 705546, e: szidun@aol.co.uk or visit www.kindermusik.co.uk

Jo Jingles and Jingle Babies August Summer Sessions at Trinity Church, Gosforth and Morpeth Methodist Church, Morpeth. One hour workshops include movement and movement session, healthy snack and arts/craft activity or play for babies. £5, advance booking essential for all classes. Please call Helen t: 01670 761 480 or 07859 105 159 or email helenjojingles@yahoo.co.uk for more information.

Seaton Valley Community Library Under 5's Storytime, Seaton Delaval Library. Stories and craft activities for children under 5 years, from 2-2.30pm, every other Monday, term time only. Free! Contact Shauna Lawton for more information t: 0191 237 1660.

Doctor Who Exhibition Life Science Centre, Newcastle. July, August, Sept, Oct. Get up close to many of the actual monsters, props and costumes in the BBC One programme, including the Sontarans, Ood and the infamous Daleks. Mon - Sat 10am - 6pm, Sun 11am- 6pm. One admission price for all activities at Life. Age 4 and under free. www.life.org.uk t: 0191 243 8210

Summer Reading Challenge 2010: Space Hop Join our Space Hop challenge from Sat 26th June where your mission will be to read six books over the summer holidays. If you are successful in this cosmic adventure, you will receive a certificate and be entered into a fantastic prize draw! Come and sign up between 11am-4pm on Sat 26th June in the City Library and meet a real live Dalek! No booking required. From Mon 26th July - Sun 5th September 2010, there will also be a range of FREE Space Hop events in all our libraries. Children can meet poets, authors and illustrators, take part in science, creative writing and craft workshops, be entertained by magic shows and much more! Check out Newcastle Libraries blog http://community.newcastle.gov.uk/libraries/ or ring t: 0191 277 4100. Events need to be booked, unless otherwise stated. Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by a parent or carer. To play fun games and to read blogs from your favourite authors, why don't you check out the Space Hop website www.spacehop.org.uk Space Hop Regular Event Times, 26th July - 5th September 2010: Tuesdays: City Library 2-3pm, Fenham 2-3pm, Newbiggin Hall 2-3pm, High Heaton 2.15-3.15pm, Outer West 2.30-3.30pm and West End 3.15-4.15pm. Wednesdays: Fawdon 11am-12noon. Thursdays: Kenton 10.45-11.45am, Cruddas Park 2-3pm, Newburn 2-3pm, Walker 2-3pm, Jesmond 2.15-3.15pm, Blakelaw 2.30-3.30, Denton Burn 2.30-3.30pm. Fridays: Gosforth 11am-12noon, East End 2.30-3.30pm, Moorside 2.30-3.30pm