Summer Holidays Events Guide 2025
- FamilyFunDarloMum
- 5 days ago
- 36 min read
Updated: 27 minutes ago
Your ultimate guide to what’s on for families during the school Summer Holidays with plenty of ideas across Darlington, Teesside, County Durham and North Yorkshire.
-Produced by ©️Family Fun Darlo Mum-
All information is correct at the time of publishing. Please check directly with the organisers via the links provided for any updates since publishing or any booking queries.
These guides are put together by myself without any payment, except where it states (AD). In these instances I will have an advertising arrangement with them. If you would like to buy me a coffee to say thanks for my unpaid work you can do so HERE
FEATURED EVENTS
(AD) Low Cost Family Activities at The Hullabaloo
Located in Darlington, County Durham The Hullabaloo (also known as Theatre Hullabaloo) is the perfect low cost venue for young families. It is a purpose built venue to inspire learning through art, theatre and creative play and they aim to make theatre accessible to all. This summer holidays they have some brilliant activities and shows to enjoy including;
-FREE Drop In Fairytale Forest Creative Play-Dress up, play and re-enact popular fairytales or create your own! Make magical potions, collect golden eggs and play in the fairytale castle – your little ones imaginations can run free! | Aimed at ages 0-7 | Available to visit until 30th August | FREE to visit | No need to book, but there might be a wait in busy periods | Just pop along during opening hours Monday to Saturday 10am-2pm. More info HERE
-Yo Ho Hullabaloo- Write a magical musical sea shanty together with led by Calum Howard | Aimed at ages 7-11 | AM and PM sessions running on 19th July | £5 per child | More info and booking HERE
-Harmony in Arms- A singalong session led by musician Brodie Jackson | Aimed at parents/caregivers and their babies | Running on Tuesday mornings from 22nd July until 26th August |
£6 per adult (no cost for babies) | More info and booking HERE
-Happy Harmonies - A singalong session led by musician Brodie Jackson | Aimed at parents/caregivers and their children ages 0-10 | Taking place on Tuesday afternoons from 22nd July until 26th August | £33 per person | More info and booking HERE
-Pirate Story Party-Sensory Storytelling Session with Makaton , sensory play, musical and movement | Aimed at 18 months to 5 year olds | Taking place on Wednesday 28th July | Morning session for 18 months to 3 years and Afternoon session for 3-5 years | £4 per person | More info and booking HERE
-Defeat the KRAKEN! -Drama Workshop with teamwork, friendship building and imagination | For 7-11 year olds
Taking place on Wednesday 30th July. You drop off and leave your child at this workshop.
£12 per child | More info and booking HERE
-Curious Takeover Day -A day filled with fun and free family activities | All ages are welcome
Taking place on 2nd August
FREE, No need to book | More info HERE no
-Pirate Play-A giant deconstructed pirate ship with endless opportunities for play, taking place in the theatre space
Available from 4th August-17th September
FREE, No need to book– but there might be a wait in busy periods | All ages | Just pop along during opening hours Monday to Saturday 10am-2pm. More info HERE
(AD) KYNREN-An Epic Tale of England
Kynren is a live action show spectacular, showing us the tale of England seen through the eyes of Young Arthur, the son of a mining family from the North East as he travels through 2,000 years of History. With stunning visuals, dramatic storytelling, incredible horsemanship and so much more!
Also included with your ticket is the Pre-Show Viking Village where you can watch Viking Warriors prepare for Battle and watch the villagers crafting and at work in their daily life. There’s also a range of food and drink options and plenty of seating to sit and enjoy before the show too.
Taking place at Eleven Arches in Bishop Auckland every Saturday from 19th July until 13th September
Special Discount
Save £10 on the opening night on 19th July with code FFDM1STNIGHT (excludes VIP seating)
10% off all other shows with code FFDM2025(excludes VIP seating and show on 19th July)
Limited Availability. FFDM1STNIGHT valid until 19/07/2025, FFDM2025 valid until 13/09/2025 Not valid for existing bookings or in conjunction with any other offer. T&Cs apply.
Enter code into promo code at checkout when booking online. More info and booking here
(AD) Family Activities all Summer at Ellerton Lakeside Cafe
Located in Richmond (North Yorkshire), Ellerton Lakeside Cafe is an ideal family summer venue for a mixture of ages that you can easily spend a full day at. With a wide range of delicious food and drink, plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, a great family atmosphere, beautiful surrounding countryside and plenty of family fun. Activities you can look forward to include;
-Foxes Den Play Area | Suitable for 4-11 year olds Free to use when purchasing from the cafe/shop
-Foxes Field with fun inflatables | For all ages | £4 per play pass for all day play! Grip Socks £3 | No need to prebook just book and pay on the day
PLUS, this summer they have even more fantastic outdoor family activities being launched including;
-Slip and Slide | Over 5s
-Soft Play Area | Under 5s
-Animal Encounters| All Ages
Launching mid July!
Further info including exact dates and images to follow.
Book your inflatables play passes and slip and slide sessions on the day.
Follow their page for any updates/more info here
(AD) Award Winning Wizard Walk of York Tours running all Summer!
Are you thinking of heading to York City Centre for a day out this summer? This is a MUST DO to add to your list.
The Wizard Walk of York is York’s ONLY tour created for families with children. You can look forward to Spellbinding magic, comedy and five-star family FUN ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ They have won WINNER of Best Tour (three times!), Best of York Award AND Experience of the Year!! 🤩
Dates are available daily throughout the summer holidays. You can choose from 11.30am, 1.30pm and 4pm so you can schedule it perfectly around other plans. Pre-booking is essential as these tours are very popular and book up quickly.
Book your space HERE
WHATS ON EACH WEEK
To go to a specific week you can click these fast access links and it will take you straight to it. There’s sections for repeated activities or activities that run throughout the holidays too if you don’t have specific dates in mind. I’ve included a fast access link these below also. Or just have a scroll down it all.
Grab yourself a cuppa and your diary and start making some plans ☺️
For 19th-26th July click here
For 26th July-1st August click here
For 2nd August-8th August click here
For 9th August-15th August click here
For 16th August-22nd August click here
For 23rd August-1st September click here
For activities that are repeated weekly or run over various weeks you can view them here
For Half Day/Full Days out ideas with extra summer activities included you can view them here
For special offers on attractions that are running during the holidays you can view them here
W/C Saturday 19th July
Saturday 19th July - Rude Science Show at Darlington Hippodrome | £13-£18pp or £64 family of 4 (at least one under 16) | More info and booking here
Saturday 19th July - The Little Mermaid Show at Bishop Auckland Town Hall | £16pp or £60 family of 4 (at least two under 16’s) | More info and booking here
Saturday 19th July- FREE drop in Party in the Park at Wharton Park, Durham - part of The Brass Festival Celebrations | From 5-7pm| All ages | Free to attend | More info here
Saturday 19th-Wednesday 23rd July - FREE Drop In Darlington by the Sea, held in the Market Square | More Info here
Saturday 19th July - FREE Drop in Station Garden Crafts with the SDR26 Miles Team taking place at Hopetown, Darlington | Suitable for all ages | Free drop in between 10am-4:30pm but prebook space | More info and booking here
Saturday 19th July- FANtastic! Make a beautiful fan at The Oriental Museum, Durham | All ages | Free drop in | More info here
Sunday 20th July- FREE Hopetown’s First Birthday Bash at Hopetown, Darlington | All Ages | More info and prebook your space here
Sunday 20th July-Outdoor Cinema Singalong ‘Moana 2’ or ‘Wicked’ at Raby Castle | All Ages | £14.01-£19.61 per person, £10.65 for Under 10’s | More info and booking here
Sunday 20th July-Circus Family Fun Day at Redcar Racecourse | All ages | £8-£19 per person, Under 18s go free. These advance booking prices are available until 18th July. Includes free race card for all racegoers | More info and booking here
Monday 21st July - Circus Skills at Darlington Library | £5 per child | Recommended ages 7 plus | More info and prebooking here
Monday 21st July- FREE Drop In Punch and Judy at Darlington Library | All ages | More info here
Monday 21st July- Animal Story Encounters at Hopetown, Darlington | Ages 3 plus | £6 per child | More info and prebooking here
Tuesday 22nd July- FREE Little Loco’s Big Day Out Storytime and Singing with Caroline Hardie | Aimed at ages 5-7 | Prebook place here
Tuesday 22nd July-Rhymetime Adventure Play ‘Splish Splash’ themed at Cockerton Library | Sessions for 0-1 and 1-4 year olds | £5 per child | More info and prebooking here
Wednesday 23rd July-Rhymetime Adventure Play ‘Splish Splash’ themed at Darlington Library | Sessions for 0-1 and 1-4 year olds | £5 per child | More info and prebooking here
Wednesday 23rd July-Fireman Sam Live: The Great Camping Adventure at Darlington Hippodrome | £14.50-£17.50pp, £64 family of 4 (min one under 16) | More info and booking here
Wednesday 23rd July-Magician Marvin at Stack, Middlesbrough | £1.50 per child ages 2-12 | More info and booking here
Wednesday 23rd July- FREE Drop In Paper Crafting ‘Trainsville’ Workshops with Cabinet of Curiosity at Hopetown, Darlington | Suitable for ages 5 plus | Free, drop in AM/PM but prebook your space | More info and booking here
Wednesday 23rd July- Go Racing in Yorkshire Summer Festival at Catterick Racecourse | £8-£17 per person, under 18’s go free | More info and booking here
Wednesday 23rd July-Sunken Shipwrecks at The Oriental Museum, Durham | Recommended ages 5-11 | Free, drop in | More info here
Wednesday 23rd July- Princess Day at HC Vocal and Performance Academy, Darlington | £20 per child | Running 9am-5pm | Children can be left in their care | More info and booking here
Wednesday 23rd July - FREE Drop In Fun in the Parks at Town Park, Newton Aycliffe | Aimed at 3-8 yr olds | More info here
Wednesday 23rd July - Animal Pom Poms/ Jazzy Jewels in The Hive at Darlington Library | Recommended ages 8 plus | £2.50 per child per activity | More info and prebooking here
Wednesday 23rd July -Railway Crafts at Preston Park Museum and Grounds, Stockton on Tees | All ages | No need to book, drop in between 10am-3:30pm | Included in museum admission | Adult £5, Kids £3, Under 3s FREE, Family 1 ad 3ch £10, Family 2 ads 3ch £15. Valid for 13 months. Purchase on arrival. Other concessions available | More info on event here
Wednesday 23rd July-Teddy Bears Picnic at Kirkleatham Museum and Grounds, near Redcar | £7 per child | More info and booking here
Wednesday 23rd until Sunday 27th July - Durham Fringe Festival- annual arts festival in Durham City Centre | Costs vary depending on event/activity chosen to watch/participate in | More info and booking for individual events here
Thursday 24th July - Outdoor Theatre ‘The Wizard of Oz’ by Paperback Theatre at Kiplin Hall, Richmond (North Yorkshire) | Recommended ages 5 plus | £15 per adult, £10 per child, Family of 4 (2 ads, 2ch) £45 | More info and prebooking here
Friday 25th July- FREE to attend Children’s Book Swap Event with fun activities at Darlington Learning Centre | All ages | Books to be dropped off before the event | More info here
Friday 25th July-FREE Drop In Fun in the Parks at Simpasture Park, Newton Aycliffe | Aimed at 3-8 year olds | More info here
Friday 25th July-FREE Mysterious Mummies at The Oriental Museum, Durham | Recommended ages 5-11 | Free, drop in | More info here
Friday 25th July- Story and Art with Serena and Guy at Darlington and Cockerton Library | Recommended ages 4-12 | More info and prebooking here
Friday 25th July- ‘A Squash and a Squeeze’ based on the book by Julia Donaldson, at Gala Durham | Aimed at 3-8 yr olds | £16pp, £14 under 16’s, £56 family ticket (min. two under 16s) | More info and booking here
Friday 25th July-Passport to Nature: Pond Dipping and Identification at Hardwick Park, Stockton on Tees | Ages 8 plus | £8.50pp or £18 family of 4 ticket (at least one under 16) | More info and booking here
W/C Saturday 26th July
Saturday 26th July- FREE Drop In Cockerton Carnival by Cockerton Community and Business Group | All ages | More info here
Saturday 26th July-FREE Enchanted Objects: Amulet Making Workshop at The Oriental Museum, Durham | Over 16’s | Free, prebooking required | More info and booking link here
Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th July- ‘A Squash and a Squeeze’ based on the book by Julia Donaldson, at Gala Durham | Aimed at 3-8 yr olds | £16pp, £14 under 16’s, £56 family ticket (min. two under 16s) | More info and booking here
Saturday 26th July - FREE Drop in Medieval Mayhem Family Fun Day at The Auckland Palace, Bishop Auckland | More info here
Saturday 26th-Sunday 27th July-FREE Drop In Seaside Fun in York City Centre | More info here
Saturday 26th July-Sunday 3rd August-Seagull Trail at The Shambles Market, York City Centre | More info here
Sunday 27th July - Princesses Unite! At The Majestic Theatre, Darlington | £12pp plus 65p booking fee | More info and booking here
Monday 28th July-Rhymetime Adventure Play ‘Down in the Jungle’ themed at Darlington Library | Sessions for 0-1 and 1-4 year olds | £5 per child | More info and prebooking here
Monday 28th July - FREE Drop in Seaside Crafts with the SDR26 Miles Team taking place at Hopetown, Darlington | Free drop in between 10am-4:30pm but prebook space | More info and booking here
Monday 28th July- Dark Climb at Go Climb Billingham Forum | Ages 4 plus | £10.55 per child under 16, £12.60 per adult, Family Tickets £40 (2 ads, 2ch or 1 adult, 3ch) | More info and booking here
Monday 28th July- LEGO®️ Jars Workshop at Bishop Auckland Town Hall | Recommended ages 4-10 | £1 per child | Drop in between 10am or 1pm or prebook here
Monday 28th July - Party like it’s 1625! With Story Craft Theatre, at Kiplin Hall, Richmond (North Yorkshire) | All ages | Standard admission applies | Day Passes cost £14 per adult, £8 per child, Under 5s Free - Save £1 when purchased online | Mote info on event and how to book your passes/ become member here
Tuesday 29th July- Summer Forest Club at Hardwick Park, Stockton on Tees | Ages 6 and under with family | £8.50 per child | More info and booking here
Tuesday 29th July-Rhymetime Adventure Play ‘Down in the Jungle’ themed at Cockerton Library | Sessions for 0-1 and 1-4 year olds | £5 per child | More info and prebooking here
Wednesday 30th July-FREE Drop In Fun in the Parks at Moore Lane Park, Newton Aycliffe | Aimed at 3-8 year olds | More info here
Wednesday 30th July- FREE Drop In Library Takeover Day at Darlington Market Square | All ages | More info here
Wednesday 30th July - Fakes and Forgeries at The Oriental Museum, Durham | Recommended ages 5-11 | Free, drop in | More info here
Friday 1st August-Exploring Ancient Japan at The Oriental Museum, Durham | Recommended ages 5-11 | Free, drop in | More info here
Friday 1st August-FREE Drop In Fun in the Parks at Oak Leaf Sports Complex Field, Newton Aycliffe | Aimed at 3-8 year olds | More info here
Friday 1st August-Passport to Nature: Bat and Moth Evening at Hardwick Park, Stockton on Tees | Ages 8 plus | £8.50pp or £18 family of 4 ticket (at least one under 16) | More info and booking here
Friday 1st August - Code Club at The Hive in Darlington Library | Recommended ages 10 plus | £2.50 per child | More info and prebooking here
Friday 1st August - Wonka Tea Party at Hardwick Hall Hotel, Stockton on Tees | £15.95 per child, £24.95 per adult | More info and booking here
Friday 1st August-Festival of Archaeology Special Event: Mapping the Past at The Oriental Museum, Durham | Recommended ages 5-11 | Free, drop in | More info here
W/C Saturday 2nd August
Saturday 2nd August - Aloha Hula Party with Little Movers, held at West Auckland Memorial Hall | £12pp, sibling discount available | Aimed at under 5’s, older siblings welcome | On sale in July. Message their page to be added to the waiting list here
Saturday 2nd August - FREE Fun4All Spirit of the Railway Celebration in Hackworth Park, Shildon | All ages | More info here
Saturday 2nd August- FREE Drop In Paper Crafting ‘Trainsville’ Workshops with Cabinet of Curiosity at Hopetown, Darlington | Suitable for ages 5 plus | Free, drop in AM/PM but prebook your space | More info and booking here
Saturday 2nd August - Open Air Theatre ‘A Midsummer Nights Dream’ by Three Inch Fools, at Raby Castle | £12 under 18s, £20 adults Under 10s go free, £58 family ticket 2ads, 2ch | Recommended for over 10s and adults | More info and booking here
Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd August-Princesses and Heroes at Tweddle Farm, near Hartlepool | Included in standard admission | More info and prebooking here
Sunday 3rd August - Alice in Wonderland at Princess Alexandria Auditorium, Yarm | £15 child under 16, £18 adults, £60 family ticket (2 as, 2ch) | More info and booking here
Sunday 3rd August - Darlington Junior 3K (9-14 years), Darlington 10K (ages 15 plus and adults) and Family Fun Run (all ages) are all happening in Darlington Town Centre | Costs vary depending on race. From £2pp up to £23pp | Pre-Registration Required, entry registration closes 30th July | More info on each race and registration here
Monday 4th August - FREE Drop In Move More Monday at Darlington Market Square | More info here
Monday 4th August- Sensory Storytime at Darlington Library | For 0-1 and 1-4 year olds | £5 per child | More info and prebooking here
Monday 4th August-Screenwriting Workshop at Bishop Auckland Town Hall | Recommended ages 6 plus | £1 per child | Drop in 10am-12pm or 1pm-3pm or prebook here
Monday 4th August- Pioneers of the Ocean Workshop at The National Museum of The Royal Navy, Hartlepool | All ages | No need to prebook. Included in Standard Museum Admission | £9-£12 per person when purchased online, Under 3’s, Carers and Registered disabled go free | More info and prebook admission here
Monday 4th and Wednesday 6th August- Pizza Making Class at Cherry Hill Cafe, Middlesbrough | £9.95 per child | More info and booking here
Tuesday 5th and Wednesday 6th August - Colourscape Experience at Captain Cook Birthplace Museum, Middlesbrough | £4-£7.75 per child, £5.70 /£10.50 per adult (with or without museum admission), discounted family pass options available too | More info and booking here
Wednesday 6th August-Winkle and Storm Pirate Adventures at Stack, Middlesbrough | £2.50 per child’s ages 2-12 | More info and prebooking here
Wednesday 6th August-FREE Drop In Fun in the Parks at St Oswalds Park, Newton Aycliffe | Aimed at 3-8 year olds | More info here
Wednesday 6th August- Self Portraits of Frida by The Billingham International Folklore Festival at Preston Park Museum and Grounds, Stockton on Tees | Free to attend, drop in between 10am-4pm | More info here
Wednesday 6th August-Glorious Glass at The Oriental Museum, Durham | Recommended ages 5-11 | Free, drop in | More info here
Wednesday 6th August-Wonders of the Sea at at The National Museum of The Royal Navy, Hartlepool | All ages | No need to prebook. Included in Standard Museum Admission| £9-£12 per person when purchased online, Under 3’s, Carers and Registered disabled go free | More info and prebook admission tickets here
Wednesday 6th August- Virtual Reality: Step into Space at The Hive in Darlington Library | Recommended ages 8 plus | £2.50 per child | More info and prebooking here
Wednesday 6th August - Storytime at Darlington and Cockerton Library | Aimed at ages 3-7 years | £2.50 per child | More info and prebooking here
Thursday 7th August - Rhymetime Adventure Play ‘Rainbow Magic’ at Cockerton Library | Aimed 0-1 year olds and 1-4 year olds | £5 per child | More info and prebooking here
Thursday 7th August-A Celebration of Stitch at Stack, Middlesbrough | £2.50 per child ages 2-12 | More info and prebooking here
Friday 8th August- Big Science Physics and Chemistry Workshop at Hopetown, Darlington | Aimed at ages 4 plus | £4 per child | More info and booking here
Friday 8th August-FREE Drop In Fun in the Parks at Horndale Park, Newton Aycliffe | Aimed at 3-8 year olds | More info here
Friday 8th August - Rhymetime Adventure Play ‘Rainbow Magic’ at Darlington Library | Aimed 0-1 year olds and 1-4 year olds | £5 per child | More info and prebooking here
Friday 8th August- Virtual Reality: Nature at The Hive in Darlington Library | Recommended ages 8 plus | £2.50 per child | More info and prebooking here
Friday 8th August- Pet Planters at The Hive in Darlington Library | Recommended ages 8 plus | £3.50 per child | More info and prebooking here
W/C Saturday 9th August
Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th August- Teesside Air Festival by Crow Leisure Group at Stewart Park, Middlesbrough | All Ages | Tickets from £8, Under 12s go free | More info and prebooking here
Saturday 9th August-Family Activities: Ramayana Stories The Oriental Museum, Durham | Recommended ages 5-11 | Free, drop in | More info here
Saturday 9th August-Festival of Books at Ushaw Historic House, Chapel and Gardens near Durham | Various performances, stories and crafts included in Day Pass/Annual Membership, as well as optional workshops at an extra cost | Day Pass £12 adult £7 child, under 5s free (if booked online) | More info and prebook admission here
Sunday 10th August - FREE Pride Family Picnic Event at Hopetown, Darlington | All Ages | Book your free admission. More info and booking here
Sunday 10th August- S&DR200 Fun Run by Darlington Trail | Suitable for all ages | More info and booking here
Sunday 10th August- Outdoor theatre ‘Much ado about nothing’ by The Handlebards at Kiplin Hall and Gardens, Richmond (North Yorkshire) | £5-£20.50pp, under 5s free | More info and booking here
Monday 11th August-Train Time! At Darlington Library | Recommended ages 2 plus | £5 per child | More info and prebooking here
Monday 11th August- FREE Drop in Station Garden Crafts with the SDR26 Miles Team taking place at Hopetown, Darlington | Suitable for all ages | Free drop in between 10am-4:30pm but prebook space | More info and booking here
Monday 11th August- Ship Building Pioneers at The National Museum of The Royal Navy, Hartlepool | All ages | No need to prebook. Included in Standard Museum Admission| £9-£12 per person when purchased online, Under 3’s, Carers and Registered disabled go free | More info and prebook admission tickets here
Tuesday 12th August-Taylormania at Darlington Hippodrome | £18-£29.50pp | More info and booking here
Tuesday 12th August- FREE to watch Billingham Folklore International Dancers in Darlington Market Square | All Ages | More info here
Tuesday 12th August - Rhymetime Adventure Play ‘Cars, Trucks and Trains’ at Cockerton Library | Aimed 0-1 year olds and 1-4 year olds | £5 per child | More info and prebooking here
Tuesday 12th August- Police are our friends with Little Movers, held at Coundon and Leeholme Community Centre, Bishop Auckland | £10 per child, sibling discount available | Aimed at under 5’s, older siblings welcome | On sale in July. Message their page to be added to the waiting list here
Wednesday 13th August-Animal Story Encounters at Hopetown, Darlington | Ages 3 plus | £6 per child | More info and prebooking here
Wednesday 13th August-FREE Drop In Fun in the Parks at Aycliffe Village Park, Newton Aycliffe | Aimed at 3-8 year olds | More info here
Wednesday 13th August-Railway Crafts at Preston Park Museum and Grounds, Stockton on Tees | All ages | No need to book, drop in between 10am-3:30pm | Included in museum admission | Adult £5, Kids £3, Under 3s FREE, Family 1 ad 3ch £10, Family 2 ads 3ch £15. Valid for 13 months. Purchase on arrival. Other concessions available | More info on event here
Wednesday 13th August- Monster Clay Mug Workshop at Cherry Hill Cafe, Middlesbrough | Recommended ages 5 plus | £13.95 per child | More info and booking here
Wednesday 13th August-Family Activities: Spice Chest, at The Oriental Museum, Durham | Recommended ages 5-11 | Free, drop in | More info here
Wednesday 13th August - Rhymetime Adventure Play ‘Cars, Trucks and Trains’ at Darlington Library | Aimed 0-1 year olds and 1-4 year olds | £5 per child | More info and prebooking here
Wednesday 13th August- Summer Party with Little Explorers at Sadberge Village Hall, Darlington | £7 per child, under 6 months £3 | Aimed at babies and toddlers, but older kids welcome for this holiday event (would suit up to around age 8 | Message their page to book here
Wednesday 13th August - Magical Mugs in The Hive at Darlington Library | Recommended ages 8 plus | £5 per child | More info and prebooking here
Wednesday 13th August - Jazzy Jewels in The Hive at Darlington Library | Recommended ages 8 plus | £2.50 per child | More info and prebooking here
Wednesday 13th August-LEGO®️ Mug Pottery Workshop at Bishop Auckland Town Hall | All ages | 10am-12pm or 1pm-3pm | Prebook online here
Wednesday 13th August- Outdoor theatre ‘Much ado about nothing’ by The Handlebards at Kiplin Hall and Gardens, Richmond (North Yorkshire) | £5-£20.50pp, under 5s free | More info and booking here
Thursday 14th August - Open Air Theatre ‘Much Ado about Nothing’ by The Handlebards, at Raby Castle | Adults £19, Under 21s £11.50, 12s and Under £3.50 plus £1.50 booking fee pp | Recommended for over 10s and adults | More info and booking here
Thursday 14th August - FREE Drop In Making Sense Together Event in Darlington Market Square | More info here
Friday 15th August-FREE Drop In Fun in the Parks at Woodland Park, Newton Aycliffe | Aimed at 3-8 year olds | More info here
Friday 15th August - Game Creation using Microsoft MakeCode in The Hive at Darlington Library | Recommended ages 8 plus | £2.50 per child | More info and prebooking here
Friday 15th August- Outdoor theatre ‘Much ado about nothing’ by The Handlebards at Wharton Park, Durham | £5-£20.50pp, under 5s free | More info and booking here
Friday 15th August-Zoolab: Wriggle and Crawl at Darlington and Cockerton Library | Recommended ages 2-6 years | £5 per child | More info and prebooking here
Friday 15th August-FREE Family Activities: Super Sculptures, at The Oriental Museum, Durham | Recommended ages 5-11 | Free, drop in | More info here
Friday 15th-Sunday 17th August-Tweddle Carnival Tweddle Farm, near Hartlepool | Included in standard admission | More info and prebooking here
W/C Saturday 16th August
Saturday 16th August- FREE Stickman Family Fun Day at Hamsterley Forest | Various activities and Stickman meet and greets at selected times | Free, No need to prebook, parking costs apply | More info on this event here
Saturday 16th until Sunday 17th August - In the Night Garden Live! At Darlington Hippodrome | £15-£23pp | More info and booking here
Saturday 16th August until Sunday 17th August- FREE Drop In Bishop Auckland Family Festival at Jane Armstrong Park by Baccanalia Events | FREE | Follow the event page for updates here
Saturday 16th August-FREE Family Activities: Good Cat, Bad Cat, at The Oriental Museum, Durham | Recommended ages 5-11 | Free, drop in | More info here
Monday 18th August- Filmmakers Workshop at Bishop Auckland Town Hall | Recommended ages 11 plus | £1 per person | Drop in 10:30am-3pm or prebook online here
Monday 18th August - Creative Coding at The National Museum of The Royal Navy, Hartlepool | Recommended ages 7 plus | No need to prebook. Included in Standard Museum Admission| £9-£12 per person when purchased online, Under 3’s, Carers and Registered disabled go free | More info and prebook admission tickets here
Monday 18th August-Dark Climb at Go Climb Billingham Forum | Ages 4 plus | £10.55 per child under 16, £12.60 per adult, Family Tickets £40 (2 ads, 2ch or 1 adult, 3ch) | More info and booking here
Monday 18th August- Dino Discovery Day with The Curiosity Lab at Petite Street Playtown, Durham | £7.50 per child | 2-7 year olds | More info and booking here
Tuesday 19th August - FREE Drop In S&DR26 Miles Family Day in Darlington Market Square | All ages | More info here
Tuesday 19th August - Construction Kids LEGO Party at Cockerton and Darlington Library | Recommended ages 4 plus | £5 per child | More info and prebooking here
Tuesday 19th August- Magical Mugs at The Hive in Darlington Library | Recommended ages 8 plus | £5 per child | More info and prebooking here
Wednesday 20th August - FREE to watch Platform Perform Dance Academy Showcase in Darlington Market Square | Follow their page for updates here
Wednesday 20th August - Professor Brainstorm at Darlington Library | Recommended ages 5-11 years | £5 per child | More info and prebooking here
Wednesday 20th August- Trendy Tote Bags at The Hive in Darlington Library | Recommended ages 7 plus | £5 per child | More info and prebooking here
Wednesday 20th August-FREE Family Activities: Brooch Making Workshop, at The Oriental Museum, Durham | Recommended ages 5-11 | Free, drop in | More info here
Thursday 21st August- FREE Drop In Fairytales and Legends Day in Darlington Market Square | More info here
Thursday 21st until Sunday 24th August - Luminarium by ‘architects of air’ and Alan Parkinson at Kirkleatham Mussum and Grounds | £3.79 per child, £5.79 per adult, children 2 and under and carers go free, discount for residents of Redcar and Cleveland | More info and booking here
Thursday 21st until Monday 25th August - Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs at The Forum, Northallerton | £14.50-£17 per person or family of 4 £59 (minimum 2 children) | More info and booking here
Friday 22nd August - Rhymetime Adventure Play ‘Bug Bonanza at Darlington Library | Recommended ages 0-1 and 1-4 year olds | £5 per child | More info and prebooking here
Friday 22nd August- Perfect Pencil Pots at The Hive in Darlington Library | Recommended ages 8 plus | £3.50 per child | More info and prebooking here
Friday 22nd August- Pet Planters at The Hive in Darlington Library | Recommended ages 8 plus | £3.50 per child | More info and prebooking here
Friday 22nd August-FREE Family Activities: Indus Mysteries, at The Oriental Museum, Durham | Recommended ages 5-11 | Free, drop in | More info here
W/C Saturday 23rd August
Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th August- FREE Between the Tides Festival at Kirkleatham Museum and Grounds and Kirkleatham Walled Gardens near Redcar | All Ages | Follow their page for more info and updates here
Saturday 23rd August until Sunday 31st August- FREE ‘Inspiration-Railway 200 Exhibition Train’ at The Railway Museum, York - an actual train with family friendly exhibitions and hands on activities inside! | All ages | Free, but admission ticket is required | More info and booking here
Monday 25th August - FREE Community Railway Line Crafts with the SDR26 Miles Team taking place at Hopetown, Darlington | Suitable for all ages | Free drop in between 10am-4:30pm but prebook space | More info and booking here
Tuesday 26th August- Summer Forest Club at Hardwick Park, Stockton on Tees | Ages 6 and under with family | £8.50 per child | More info and booking here
Wednesday 27th August-Rhymetime Adventure Play ‘Stomp and Roar’ themed at Darlington Library | Sessions for 0-1 and 1-4 year olds | £5 per child | More info and prebooking here
Wednesday 27th August-Funky Frames at The Hive in Darlington Library | Recommended ages 6 plus | £3.50 per child | More info and prebooking here
Wednesday 27th August-Summer Pottery Painting at Curlew Cafe at High Farm Holiday Park, near Bishop Auckland | £10 non refundable deposit to go towards pottery chosen and painted on the day | More info and booking here
Wednesday 27th August-FREE Family Activities: The Power of Positivity, at The Oriental Museum, Durham | Recommended ages 5-11 | Free, drop in | More info here
Wednesday 27th August-Railway Crafts at Preston Park Museum and Grounds, Stockton on Tees | All ages | No need to book, drop in 10am-3:30pm | Included in museum admission | Adult £5, Kids £3, Under 3s FREE, Family 1 ad 3ch £10, Family 2 ads 3ch £15. Valid for 13 months. Purchase on arrival. Other concessions available | More info on event here
Wednesday 27th-Sunday 31st August-Storm in a Teacup Circus Day at Thorp Perrow Arboretum and Wildlife Park, Bedale | £11.50 per person, under 2s go free | More info and booking here
Thursday 28th August-Animal Story Encounters at Hopetown, Darlington | Ages 3 plus | £6 per child | More info and prebooking here
Thursday 28th August - FREE Drop In Dinosaur Day in Darlington Market Square | More info here
Thursday 28th August-FREE Drop In Wild West Dino Discovery at Darlington Library | All Ages | More Info here
Thursday 28th August- Natural History Museum presents Dinosaur Live! At Darlington Hippodrome | £11 per child, £16.50 per adult, baby on laps go free | More info and booking here
Thursday 28th August- Kids End of Summer Party at Stack, Middlesbrough | £2.50 per child ages 2-12 | More info and booking here
Thursday 28th and Friday 29th August - Magnificent Map Making at The National Museum of The Royal Navy, Hartlepool | All ages | No need to prebook. Included in Standard Museum Admission| £9-£12 per person when purchased online, Under 3’s, Carers and Registered disabled go free | More info and prebook admission tickets here
Friday 29th August- Performing Arts Workshop with DAPA at Darlington Library | Recommended ages 8 plus | £5 per child | More info and prebooking here
Friday 29th August-FREE Family Activities: Tea Time, at The Oriental Museum, Durham | Recommended ages 5-11 | Free, drop in | More info here
Saturday 30th August-Family Fun Day at Ferryhill Sports and Education Centre | All Ages | 11am-2pm | £2pp entry | More info here
Saturday 30th August-FREE Family Activities: Beautiful Birds, at The Oriental Museum, Durham | Recommended ages 5-11 | Free, drop in | More info here
Sunday 31st August- Ushaw Classic Car and Bike Show at Ushaw Historic House, Chapel and Gardens in Durham | All ages | Included in day pass/ Membership | Day Passes cost £14 per adult, £8 per child, Under 5s Free - Save £1 when purchased online | More info on event and how to book your passes/ become member here
Monday 1st September-Passport to Nature: Moth Trapping at Hardwick Park, Stockton on Tees | Ages 8 plus | £8.50 per person or £18 family of 4 (at least one under 16) | More info and booking here
OTHER EVENTS/ACTIVITIES REPEATING OVER VARIOUS WEEKS
Big Science are holding workshops throughout the summer holidays at various venues across County Durham and Teesside | Prices vary per venue, approx £7.50 per child | More info including timetable and how to book here
RSPB Saltholme have various activities during the summer holidays including;
Guided Pond Dipping Sessions | £4 per child| Running daily from 19th July until 7th September | More info and prebooking here
Saltholme Safari | £6 per child | Selected Tuesdays and Thursdays between 22nd July-28th August | More info and prebooking here
Who Dunnit Activity Trails | Reserve Cost | Running Daily
Buckets of Fun | Activities and surprises hidden around the trail | Reserve Cost Only | Running Daily
Saltholme Spotters Guide available for free
Nature Quests Packs available to hire from 19th July until 31st August
For more info on any of the above events click here
Reserve admission also applies to all activities | Free for RSPB members or daily admission £3.50 per child, under 5s and first child free, £7 per adult, other concessions available. Summer family saver tickets also available to include admission, some activities and hire | More info here
The Station in Richmond (North Yorkshire) are running an ‘All aboard Little Locos’ Activity Trail | 19th July until 2nd September, 10am-4pm Daily | £1 per trail sheet | More info here
Guisborough Forest will have a ‘LOOK! Trail and Scavenger Hunt’ running from 19th July until 31st August | £1.50 per trail sheet | More info here
Athena Sports Academy in Newton Aycliffe are holding drop in family fun sessions every Monday in the school holidays (excluding 25th August). Just book at the desk on arrival | £5 for first child, siblings £4 | All ages | More info here
South Durham Gymnastics in Spennymoor are running family play sessions every Monday, Tuesday and Friday in the school holidays | £7.30 per person | Up to age 7 max | More info and booking here
Love Science are holding fun science workshops on Thursdays throughout August at Bedale | £15 per workshop or a discount for more than one | More info and prebooking here
Every Monday from 21st July until 24th August, Athena Gymnastics in Newton Aycliffe are running Family Fun Sessions | £5 per child, £4 per sibling | No need to book just drop in between 10am-12pm or 1pm-3pm | More info here
The Dorman Museum in Middlesbrough have the following activities throughout the holidays;
You can see the FREE Bricktastic Brick-Flicks Exhibition by Warren Elmore from now until Saturday 30th August. Held at Bishop Auckland Town Hall | No need to book just drop in during opening hours | More info here
Summer Kids Arts Club Sessions at Pixie Pots, Eaglescliffe. Various sessions throughout the summer holidays | For children in school year one and upwards-children are dropped off and left in their care | More info and booking here
The Dolphin Centre in Darlington are holding a Summer Holiday Pool Party every Tuesday | From £3.10pp | All Ages | No pre-booking required. More info here
Stainsby Gymnastics in Stockton on Tees are running Open Play Gym Sessions | Saturday 24th July until Saturday 23rd August selected dates | Ages 5 plus | £7.59 per child | More info and booking here
Darlington Libraries are holding the following FREE Drop In weekly activities during the school holidays;
Get Crafty | Mondays and Fridays at Cockerton Library (excluding 25th August) | Recommended ages 3 plus
Boredom Busting Games | Tuesdays and Thursdays at Cockerton Library | Recommended ages 5 plus
Children’s Watercolours | Fridays at Darlington Library | Recommended ages 5 plus
Crafty Wellbeing | Mondays at Cockerton Library (excluding 25th August) and Tuesdays at Darlington Library (excluding 5th August) | All ages
Lego Club | Wednesdays and Saturdays at Cockerton Library | All ages
Super Saturday | Saturdays at Darlington Library | All ages
They are also running the following weekly activities for older kids in The Hive at Darlington Library;
Awesome Animation | Recommended ages 8 plus| £2.50 per child | Prebooking required | Mondays except 21st July and 25th August | Prebook here
Design and Print for ages 14 plus | Free Drop In, but cost applies to print 3D models, starting at £2.50 | Mondays except 21st July and 25th August
Design and Print for ages 8 plus | Free Drop In, but cost applies to print 3D models, starting at £2.50 | Saturdays except 2nd August and 23rd August
Craft-a-thon | Recommended ages 6 plus | £2.50 per child | Pay on arrival | Thursdays
Movie Makers | Recommended ages 8 plus | £2.50 per child | Pre-booking Required | Saturdays excluding 2nd August and 23rd August | Prebook here
Darlington Libraries are also running their Summer Reading Challenge. From 19th July until 30th August, you can enter a draw each time you borrow books for a chance to win some amazing prizes!!
For more info any of the above from Darlington Libraries including timings, view their social media post here
Check out other low cost prebookable activities too for Darlington Libraries, listed under various single dates further up this guide.
Hopetown, Darlington are running the following events;
A NEW family friendly exhibition ‘Steam to the Future’ as part of the S&DR200 Celebrations | 11th July until 5th October | Free to visit but prebook your admission | More info and booking here
The TCR Hub in Barnard Castle are running lots of regular activities throughout the summer holidays including;
Festival Fridays | Every Friday 25th July until 22nd August |Various activities, different theme each week | For all ages | £8pp, under 2s go free, group of 4 for £25
Family Cookery Club | Tuesdays 29th July, 5th August and 19th August | Aimed at Adults and Children aged 5 plus | £8pp, includes meal
Leon’s Exotic Animals | Tuesday 29th July and Tuesday 5th August | All ages | £8pp or £28 for four people
Messy Play Sessions | Wednesday 23rd July, Wednesday 6th August and Wednesday 20th August | Aimed at 0-3 year olds | £6 per child
Sensory Play Sessions for children with additional needs | Wednesday 23rd July, Wednesday 6th August and Wednesday 20th August | Ages 3 plus | £6 per person
Club Creative | Every Thursday throughout holidays | Different activity each week | Aimed at ages 6 plus and adults | £8 per person
Bouncy Castle Session | Every Thursday from 31st July until 21st August | £4 per child
Family Llama walks around the Lake | Friday 1st August | £10-£13 for two people | All ages, adult must assist under 12’s
Watersport Wednesday-Canoeeing | Wednesday 20th August | Ages 8 plus to participate independently | £6 per person
Thrilltop Thursday-High Ropes | Thursday 21st August | Ages 8 plus to participate independently | £6 per person
For more info and to book any of the above click here
Tees Active are running various activity sessions in the school holidays regularly across their sites including;
Big Splash Sessions at Stockton Splash | Various session times daily |For all ages | £4.35-£6.50pp, Under 3s go free, Family of 4 £18.30 | Prebook online
Aquaconda Giant Inflatable is running at Ingleby Barwick Leisure | 27th July, 2nd August and 24th August | £4.35-£6.50pp, Under 3s go free, Family of 4 £18.30 | Prebook Online
Bio Bounce at Thornaby Pavillion is running on Mondays and Tuesdays | Ages 4-13 | £6.25pp | Pay on arrival
Air Trails are running their mini ropes (ages 2 years minimum) and high ropes courses (1 metre minimum height) | Running daily selected times | Prebook Online
Tees Barrage have one hour taster sessions for Kayaking (ages 8 plus) and Stand Up Paddleboarding (Ages 10 plus) | Selected dates and times | £20pp | Prebook Online
For more info on any of the above and to prebook where applicable click here
Cherry Tree Riding Academy in Sadberge near Darlington are running Pony Experience Days | For all levels, ages 4-17 | Tuesdays to Thursdays from 22nd July until 21st August | £45 pp per day, 10am-4pm | Prebooking Required | For more info and to prebook call them on 07761646569
‘Telling Tales: Making Stories Come to Life’ Exhibition at The Oriental Museum Durham | Running throughout the summer holidays | Free to visit | For all ages | More info here
Little Dragons Under 5’s at The Oriental Museum, Durham runs every Wednesday | Free, must be prebooked | More info and booking link here
Preston Park Museum and Grounds, Stockton on Tees are running the following repeated events during the summer holidays;
Little Loco’s Big Day Storytelling Sessions | 1st August until 29th August | Weekly on Fridays | All ages | No need to book, drop in between 10am-4:30pm | More info on event here
Get Crafty! Family Craft Sessions | 22nd July until 28th August | Weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays | All Ages | No need to book, drop in between 10am-3:30pm | More info on event here
They also have some new interactive stations to enjoy in the museum galleries. Little train engineers can shovel "coal" to get the toy locomotive chugging around the track. You can also strike a pose, snap a pic, and become a masterpiece! This new interactive lets you become part of famous paintings from their collection.
All the above are included in museum admission | Adult £5, Kids £3, Under 3s FREE, Family 1 ad 3ch £10, Family 2 ads 3ch £15. Valid for 13 months. Purchase on arrival. Other concessions available.
Locomotion in Shildon is free to visit (donations welcome and they have various free activities running regularly throughout the summer holidays including;
The Shildon Seaside- Indoor seaside fun with deck chairs. With ice cream, pancakes and rock to purchase too! | Free, running daily, just drop in during opening hours
Stephenson’s Rocket Replica will be running for mini train rides | £4 per person, 3’s and under ride free | Running between 11am-3pm daily | Purchase tickets at the welcome desk on arrival
For more info any of the above activities provided by Locomotion, click here
Kirkleatham Museum near Redcar have signed up to the Grimwood Museum Adventure Trail by Kids in Museums. This a free activity (museum admission applies) Running throughout the summer holidays, exact dates to be confirmed (except Mondays as the museum is closed) | You can just pay for museum admission on the day, no need to prebook -Adult £2, Child (4-16 years old) £1.50, Child under 4 go Free, Family (2 ads 2 ch or 1 ad 3 ch ) £5 | More info here
HALF/FULL DAYS OUT
The following ideas offer various activities as part of the daily admission plus extra activities during the summer hols!
Tweddle Farm located near Hartlepool will have foam parties on every Friday along with their usual activities | Included in Standard Admission | 19th July until 31st August | More info and prebooking here
MonkFest 2025 at Monk Park Farm, Thirsk | Monk Fest includes lots of extra activities providing a festival atmosphere for families including foam parties and live entertainment | Included in admission | 19th July until 31st August | More info and prebooking here
Summer of Play is running at various National Trust Sites from 19th July until 31st August. Take part in a race or game of cricket, follow a nature trail, get stuck into arts and crafts workshops, or dress up to perform for your friends and family. Activities vary at each site. Some local sites taking part include Ormesby Hall in Middlesbrough, Crook Hall Gardens in Durham, Gibside in Gateshead And Fountains Abbey in Ripon | Included in Standard Admission. No need to prebook. More info here
Theres also Let’s Circus Workshop Sessions as part of Summer of Play at NT Ormesby Hall, Middlesbrough | Included in Standard Admission | Every Monday from 21st July until 28th August | No need to prebook. More info here
Studfold Summertime Fairy and Pixie Adventure at Studfold Adventure Trail near Harrogate is open daily during the Summer Holidays | From £6.78-£8.86 per person, Under 2s Free | More info and Booking here
Spilmans Farm in Thirsk have the following activities throughout summer daily (except Mondays and Tuesdays as closed);
Strawberry picking
Sunflower picking (from August)
The entry cost for the above is £4 pp plus 32p booking fee, under 2s free. Entry ticket includes a £4 voucher to then spend towards soft fruits/optional extras takeaway food
Wildflower field entry £1 per person plus 8p booking fee, under 2s free plus £5 per bunch picked (you can add this on as extra with strawberry/sunflower picking booking)
Maize Maze entry £3 per child, £1 per adult (pay on the day)
Lots of photo ops around the farm and the fields- included with entry
More info and booking here
‘Buckets of Fun Summer’ is running at Kiplin Hall, Richmond (North Yorkshire) is on again this Summer Hols | 18th July until 3rd September (closed on Thursdays) | Included in standard admission | £6.30 per child, £11.80 per adult, under 5s go free. Other concessions available and annual memberships too | More info on the event and how to book day passes/become a member here
English Heritage have the following ‘Come Play’ activities which are included in standard entry/ free for members:
At Scarborough Castle there is the following
TV’s Taskmaster style activities | From 19th July until 31st August.
Fairy Hunters at Scarborough Castle | 22nd-14th July and 12th-14th August
Circus Skills | 5th-7th August and 26th-28th August
Dinosaur Quest | 19th-21st August
Suitable for all ages | No need to prebook activities | Prebook daily admission early online to save 15%- £10.90 per adult, £6.90 per child, Under 5’s go free | More info on any of these activities and book admission here
And at Whitby Abbey there is the following;
Performer Led Dracula Plays | Saturdays to Tuesdays (except 22nd July) taking place at 11am and 2pm
Count’s Treasure Hunt | Running Daily
Suitable for all Ages| No need to prebook activities |
Prebook daily admission early online to save 15%-£14 per adult, £8.60 per child, Under 5’s go free | More info on any of these activities and book admission here
Stockeld Park’s Summer Festival runs daily from 19th July until 1st September. Extra activities included with admission including magicians, tribute acts, silent disco, summer show and more as well as usual activities. Extra activities vary daily | All day entry price £23.50pp, Under 2s free, Discounts for series and registered carers. Other ticket options available including flexible play hive entry and late entry options | More info and booking here
SPECIAL OFFERS FOR ATTRACTIONS
Kids go FREE this Summer with North Yorkshire Moors Railway on a Day Rover Ticket, plus up to 30% off when you book in advance. More info and booking here
FREE Junior Swim across Tees Active Venues with every visit to Air Trail. Offer is valid from 19th July until 31st August. More info here
Free Junior Ice Skate at The Forum, Billingham with every trip to Go Climb. Offer is valid from 19th July until 31st August. More info here
UNLIMITED Summer Pass for £35 per person to Ninja Warrior UK Teesside. Unlimited one hour visits between 21st July until 14th September. Plus 10% off food, drink and merch. More info here
The Dunes South Shields are offering HALF PRICE soft play and bowling all summer when booked online. Enter code STRIKE2025 for bowling or HOT50 for softplay. More info and booking here
THANKS FOR READING! 🤗 I hope you enjoyed reading this guide and it has given you lots of ideas to keep the kids busy and entertained this summer holidays. I also have various blog articles for general days out ideas so do take a look through the categories on my website (the drop down is on the home page at the top)
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This article has been written and published by Charlotte Walcott (Business Owner of ©️Family Fun Darlo Mum)
A bit about me- Mum to 2 boys, Kamron-9 and Leo-3, and stepmum to Damon- 16. Sharing and producing honest, useful social media content and website guides and articles for family days out ideas, family venues, UK Breaks, family friendly events and general family fun!
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