Summer Holidays 2026 Guide-What’s on for Families
- FamilyFunDarloMum
- Jun 30
- 30 min read
Updated: 1 hour ago
This guide lists family events and activities across The Tees Valley, County Durham and North Yorkshire for all ages and budgets during the Summer Holidays (18th July-1st September), with all information provided to make planning that bit easier for you!
All information is correct at the time of publishing. Please check directly with the organisers for any updates and availability. Booking/more info links are provided under each listing.
Monday 6th July until Monday 31st August –
Discover Dinosaurs Trail
High Force Waterfall, Barnard Castle
All ages
Adults (16+) £4.00 | Children (4-15) £2.19| Under 4s Free
Family Saver Ticket (2 adults & 2 children) | Onsite £10.50 | Online £8.75
More info and booking online here
Tuesday 14th July - Friday 2nd October –
FREE Deep Sea Adventures Creative Play
Park End Family Hub, Middlesbrough
Aimed at ages 0-7
Free, no need to book
Drop in during opening hours Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. More info here
Wednesday 15th July-Thursday 15th October –
Matisse: Drawing with Scissors Family Exhibition
Preston Park Museum, Stockton on Tees
All Ages
Drop In, no need to book. Included in museum pass -£13 adult | £8 child | Under 3 years Free | discounts family passes available (pass valid for 12 months)
More info here
Friday 17th July –
FREE Shanties on the Shore with Saltburn Smugglers
The top prom at Saltburn-by-the-sea
All ages
No need to book just pop along
Also on 31/07 and 14/08
More info here
Friday 17th and Saturday 18th July –
'The Tiger who came to Tea' musical play
Darlington Hippodrome
Aimed at ages 3 plus
£11-£17 per seat or family of 4 £56
More info and booking here
Friday 17th July -Friday 28th August –
Pulse Fridays: Ice Skating with Music and UV Lights
Forum Ice Arena, Billingham
All ages welcome, may be best suited to older (aids not allowed during these sessions)
Runs every Friday (including term time)
From £4.60-£9.80 per person. Drop in, no need to prebook
More info here
Saturday 18th July –
FREE 'Once upon a Summer' Family Fun Day
Stockton Waterfront Urban Park, Stockton on Tees
All ages
Free, no need to book
Drop in 10am-2pm. More info here
Saturday 18th July –
FREE ‘Hopetown turns 2’ Party Fun Day
Hopetown, Darlington
All ages (restrictions for some activities)
Free, but requires prebooking
More info and booking here
Saturday 18th July –
World Cup Family Day at STACK
Stack, Middlesbrough
All ages
Cost not yet confirmed
Awaiting booking link to go live. More info here
Saturday 18th July –
Defying the Wizard reinvention show by Identity Youth Theatre
Forum Music Centre, Darlington
All ages
£8.60-£10.75 per person
More info and booking here
Saturday 18th July –
FREE Family Activities: Chinese Writing Workshop
Oriental Museum, Durham
Recommended ages 5-11 years
Free drop in
More info and booking here
Saturday 18th July –
Saturday Young Stitchers
Ushaw Historic House and Gardens, Durham
Recommended ages 7 plus
Included in Day pass/Membership-from £7
More info and booking here
Saturday 18th July –
FREE Durham Brass Festival's Party in the Park
Wharton Park, Durham
All ages (best suited to older and adults)
Free drop in
Saturday 18th July –
Fun for Little Ones- Tribute to Ms Rachel
Stockton Globe
All ages
£24.51pp | Under 12 months sat on lap go free
More info and booking here
Saturday 18th July –
FREE Darlington Squash Club Open Day
Darlington Retail Park
All ages
Free, just drop in
More info here
Saturday 18th July –
Family Yoga and Craft Sessions with Meraki Reconnect
All Saints Church, Darlington
Aimed at 2-5 year olds
£10 1 adult and 1 child | Extra siblings £5.50
More info and booking here
Saturday 18th July and Sunday 19th July –
Steam Train Rides at Hopetown
Hopetown, Darlington
All ages
£7.50 per person
More info and booking here
Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th July –
FREE Redcar Dessert Festival
Redcar Town Centre
All ages
Free with some free activities, just pop along during opening times (costs apply for purchases)
More info here
Saturday 18th July until Sunday 26th July –
FREE Darlington by the Sea
Darlington Town Centre
All ages
Free, just pop along
More info and booking here
Saturday 18th July until Sunday 9th August –
Meet Cyril the Squirrel
Plotters Forest, Raby Castle
All ages (play area best suited to ages 4 plus)
Saturdays and Sundays Only
Included with Plotters forest, deer park and gardens admission £13.13 adult | £10.50 child | under 4s free | other concessions available
More info and booking here
Saturday 18th July -Saturday 29th August –
There will be an amazing line up of themed summer outdoor activities this summer in the FREE outdoor play area at The Hullabaloo including Cosmic Construction, Lunar Leaps & Star Strides, Creative Garden and many more themes!
The Hullabaloo, Darlington
All ages (mostly aimed at under 11's)
FREE Drop In during opening hours 10am-2pm Wednesday-Saturday
More info here
Saturday 18th July-Monday 31st August –
Little Movers Darlington, Newton Aycliffe and Bishop Auckland are running their music and movement classes throughout the summer holidays. If your child loves dance, sports and exercise then they will have a great time in these fun, energetic classes whilst developing their fitness, self confidence and social skills!
Locations as follows;
-Mondays-Firthmoor Community Centre, Darlington
-Wednesdays-Coundon & Leeholme Welfare Hall, County Durham
-Thursdays-Crook Community Centre
-Fridays-Woodhouse Close Community Centre, Bishop Auckland And West Auckland Memorial Hall, Bishop Auckland
- Saturdays- West Auckland Memorial Hall
Special Pop up Events also running;
Tuesday 28th July - view here
Tuesday 11th August- view here
Baby Movers (Birth to Crawling) , Little Movers (Walking-7 year olds). Mixed age siblings are welcome to join whichever class together.
£6.50 per child
More info and booking here
Saturday 18th July-Monday 31st August –
Locomotion's Summer Festival - FREE family fun daily with extra activities on selected dates.
Locomotion, Shildon
All ages
Free, prebooking of admission is highly recommended to guarantee entry
More info and booking here
Saturday 18th July-Monday 31st August –
WINNER of Best Tour & Experience of the Year, and York’s only tour created especially for families! A must-do when visiting this enchanting city. Spellbinding magic, comedy and five star fun. Early booking is recommended, before tickets…vanish!
Running daily except 19/07, 22/07 and 02/08
Starting from The Shambles, York (prebooking required)
All ages
£12.72 per person | Under 3's go free | £5.30 per wizard wand kit (optional)
More info and booking here
Saturday 18th July- Saturday 12th September –
Kynren-The Storied Lands: NEW Day Park open for the summer season
11 Arches, Bishop Auckland
All ages
£25 per person
Combined ticket option to include the night time live action show from an extra £26 per person (night show is on 18/07-12/09 on Saturdays plus 21/08 and 04/09)
More info and booking here
Sunday 19th July –
Polynesian Princess Breakfast
Lanchester Garden Centre, Durham
All ages
£16.95 per child | adults free- can purchase food on the day
More info and booking here
Sunday 19th July –
Moana's Sparkling Island Craft Session
Lanchester Garden Centre, Durham
All ages
£12.95 per child
More info and booking here
Sunday 19th July –
Moana Island Crafts Adventure
Lanchester Garden Centre, Durham
All ages
£21.95 per child
More info and booking here
Sunday 19th July –
Circus Family Day at Redcar Racecourse
Redcar Racecourse
All ages
£7-£9 course enclosure admission | £17-£21 grandstand enclosure admission | under 18's go free
Free circus entertainment included with admission and also includes a free racecard
More info and booking here
Monday 20th July –
Guided by Nature: Marvellous Meadows
Hardwick Park, Sedgefield
All ages (minimum age 1 year)
£8.50 per person | family of 4 £18 (with atleas 1 ad and 1ch)
More info and booking here
Monday 20th July –
Bluey Day at Cuddle Cubs
Cuddle Cubs Sensory & Playground, Middlesbrough
Aimed at ages 0-8 years
£6.95 1-8 year olds | £5.95 0-12 months
More info and booking here
Monday 20th July –
FREE Punch and Judy Show
Darlington Library
All ages
FREE Drop In
More info here
Monday 20th July-Friday 28th August –
Join Sporting Futures for 6 action-packed weeks in their Ofsted Registered Holiday Camp. Packed with sports, games, arts and crafts, fun activities, and unforgettable experiences. This summer, they will be welcoming weekly visits from Gwenny's Ices, professional sports coaches, and introducing some exciting new main events for everyone to enjoy!
St Augustine's School, Darlington
Boys and girls aged 4+
£20 per day 8:30am-5:30pm | £10 half day 8:30-1pm or 1pm-5:30pm
More info and booking here
Monday 20th July-Friday 31st July –
Sporting Futures are teaming up with Darlington Cricket Club to deliver an exciting 2-week Summer Holiday Camp! Whether your child is completely new to the game or already enjoys playing cricket, they'll take part in a fun, active, and engaging programme led by our experienced coaches.
Week 1 - Monday 20th-Friday 24th July. Week 2- Monday 27th-Friday 31st July
Boys and girls aged 5+, regardless of their cricket experience or ability.
£15 per child per day 10am-3pm
More info and booking here
Monday 20th July-Thursday 27th August –
FREE Game On! Outdoor Sports Sessions
Hopetown, Darlington
All ages
Running on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays
Free, prebooking required
More info and booking here
Monday 20th July-Thursday 27th August –
FREE Summer Holiday Fun Activities at RM
Railway Museum, York
All ages
Free, prebooking admission recommended
More info and booking here
Monday 20th July- Saturday 29th August –
Various prebookable activities and events at Darlington Libraries from creative workshops to music and play and author events.
Darlington and Cockerton Library
Suitable for a mixture of ages (0-16 years)
Costs from £2.50 to £8 per child
Prebooking required
More info and booking here
Tuesday 21st July –
Cheer Day at HC
HC Vocal and Performance Academy, Darlington
Suitable from ages 4 plus
£20 per child from 9am-5pm
More info and booking here
Tuesday 21st July –
Romeo and Juliet by Immersion Theatre Company
Middlesbrough Town Hall
Recommended ages 10 plus
£14.60 per child | £16.60 per adult
More info and booking here
Tuesday 21st July -Saturday 15th August–
Tales & Craft
Ushaw Historic House and Gardens, Durham
Age not stated
Selected dates: 21/07, 28/07 | 5/08 12/08, 18/08 and 25/08
Drop In activity. Included in Day pass/Membership-from £7.
More info here
Tuesday 21st July-Thursday 27th August–
FREE Sports Activities with Darlington’s Move More Team
Various parks across Darlington
7-12 year olds
Tuesdays-Thursdays
FREE Drop In
More info here
Tuesday 21st July -Saturday 29th August–
FREE The Wonder Room Creative Playspace
Hopetown, Darlington
Recommended ages 0-7 years
Free, just drop in during opening hours Tues-Sat
More info here
Tuesday 21st July-Tuesday 1st September –
How to train your dragon: Survival School
DIG, York
Recommended ages 5-12 years
£15 per child
Every Tuesday only
More info and booking here
Tuesday 21st July - Tuesday 11th August –
Club Creative at The TCR Hub
TCR Hub, Barnard Castle
Aimed at ages 6 plus with adults
£5 per person taking part (small booking fee less than £1)
Running Tuesdays (except 04/08)
More info and booking here
Wednesday 22nd July –
FREE Little Dragons Session
Oriental Museum, Durham
Under 5's
Free but requires prebooking (available to prebook two weeks before)
More info here
Wednesday 22nd July –
Stop Motion Animation
Ushaw Historic House and Gardens, Durham
Recommended ages 5 plus
Also runs on 20/08
Drop In activity. Included in Day pass/Membership-from £7.
More info here
Wednesday 22nd July –
Schools Out Mr DJ Man Kids Party & BBQ
Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield
All ages
£14.95 per person
More info and booking here
Wednesday 22nd July –
Teddy Bears Picnic
KIrkleatham Museum, Redcar
Aimed at ages 0-6 years
Also on 12/08
£5 per child
More info and booking here
Wednesday 22nd July-
FREE Family Activities: Manga Art Workshop
Oriental Museum, Durham
Recommended ages 5-11
Free drop in
More info here
Wednesday 22nd July and Monday 27th July–
‘Let’s Get Messy’ Messy and Sensory Play
Cuddle Cubs Sensory & Playground, Middlesbrough
Aimed at ages 8 months-4 years
£11.95 per child
Also running on 27/07
More info and booking here
Wednesday 22nd July-Friday 14th August –
FREE Fun in the Parks with GATC
8 different parks across Newton Aycliffe
Aimed at ages 3-8 years
Free, just drop in
Running Wednesdays and Fridays
More info here
Wednesday 22nd July-Wednesday 2nd September –
How to train your dragon: Warrior School
DIG, York
Recommended ages 5-12 years
£12 per child
Every Wednesday only
More info and booking here
Thursday 23rd July –
Princess Day
HC Vocal and Performance Academy, Darlington
Recommended ages 3 plus (toilet trained)
£20 per child full day
More info and booking here
Thursday 23rd July –
Love Science Bedale is excited to announce their Summer of Science programme! Packed with hands-on experiments, creative challenges, and plenty of scientific fun! This weeks session is 'Bright Sparks' which includes, lemon clocks, squishy circuits, jitter bugs and more hands on science fun!
Bedale Hall, Bedale, North Yorkshire
Aimed at ages 5-11
£15 per child (or book 2 workshops for £27 or all 3 workshops for £40. Running 23/07, 30/07 and 06/08)
More info and booking here
Love Science: Bright Sparks Workshop
Thursday 23rd July-Thursday 6th August –
Bouncy Castle Session
TCR Hub, Barnard Castle
All ages
£4 per child (small booking fee less than £1)
Running on Thursdays
More info and booking here
Friday 24th July –
Guided by Nature: Pond Dipping and Identification
Hardwick Park, Sedgefield
All ages (minimum age 1 year)
£8.50 per person | family of 4 £18 (with atleast 1 ad and 1ch)
More info and booking here
Friday 24th July –
Outdoor Theatre: Treasure Island by Quantum Theatre
KIrkleatham Museum Grounds, Redcar
All ages
£15 adult | £10 child 0-16 years | £47 family 2 ads, 2ch
More info and booking here
Friday 24th July –
Yoga, Story and Craft with Meraki Reconnect
Cockerton and Darlington Library
Recommended ages 2-6 years
£5 per child
More info and booking here
Friday 24th July-Saturday 25th July–
Alice in Wonderland by The Forum Theatre School
Forum Theatre BIllingham
All ages
From £16pp
More info and booking here
Friday 24th July-Sunday 26th July–
Shrek the Musical by Darlington Academy of Performing Arts
Darlington Community Theatre
All ages
£10 per child | £13 per adult | discounted family tickets available | small booking fee applies
More info and booking here
Friday 24th July- Friday 21st August –
Snakes and Shakes
Lanchester Garden Centre, Durham
All ages
Selected dates: 24/07, 27/07, 5/08, 13/08 and 21/08
£14.95 per child
More info and booking here
Friday 24th July- Saturday 22nd August –
Little Birders and Junior Birders Nature Sessions
RSPB Saltholme, Middlesbrough
Little Birders 7-10 yr olds | Junior Birders 10-16 yr olds
Selected dates: 24/07, 8/08 and 22/07
£3.50-£5.50 per child plus standard admission
More info and booking here
Friday 24th July –
FREE Family Activities: Festival of Archaeology Special Event
Oriental Museum, Durham
Recommended ages 5-11
Free drop in
More info here
Friday 24th July-Saturday 25th JUly –
Ayclive Festival
Oakleaf Sports Complex, Newton Aycliffe
All ages
£8-£17 for 14-17 yr olds | £1 for 5-13 yr olds (on saturday only) | £8-£27 over 18's
More info and booking here
Saturday 25th July –
Screen on the Green - Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl
Hopetown Darlington
All ages
£12 per adult | £8 per child | £36 family 2 ads and up to 3 ch | Under 2s go free
More info and booking here
Saturday 25th July –
FREE Entry Cockerton Community Carnival
Cockerton VIllage, Darlington
All ages
Free just pop along, there may be a cost for some activities
More info here
Saturday 25th July –
FREE Family Activities: Super Silk Worms
Oriental Museum, Durham
Recommended ages 5-11
Free drop in
More info here
Saturday 25th July –
Outdoor Theatre: Treasure Island by Quantum Theatre
Kiplin Hall Gardens, Richmond
All ages
£18 per adult | £14 per child | £50 family 2 ads, 2ch
More info and booking here
Saturday 25th July-Monday 27th July –
Goldilocks and the Three Bears by AJ Productions
Hartlepool Town Hall
All ages
£17-£19 per adult | £14.50-£17 per child
More info and booking here
Saturday 25th July and Saturday 15th August –
Exotic Animal Encounters with Leon Exotics
Curlew Cafe at High Farm Holiday Park, Bishop Auckland
All ages
£7 per person | £25 family of 4
More info and booking here
Sunday 26th July and Sunday 30th August –
FREE Summer Brass Concerts
Wharton Park, Durham
All ages
Sundays Only
Free drop in
More info here
Sunday 26th July –
FREE Saltburn Food Festival
Saltburn, exact location tbc
All ages
Free drop in
Follow their page for updates here
Monday 27th July –
FREE Move More Monday
Darlington Market Square
All ages
Free drop in
Also on 10/08
More info here
Monday 27th July-Friday 28th August –
Whether your child is new to swimming, working towards the final outcomes of their current stage, or just loves the water, Summer Splash provides swimmers with the opportunity to swim on consecutive days unlike weekly lessons. This intensive approach allows skills to be practised, reinforced and developed much more quickly, helping swimmers build confidence and retain new techniques.
Hummersknott Academy, Darlington
Stage 1 through to Stage 10 (from ages 4 upwards)
Running on the following dates;
-Monday 27th July-Friday 31st July
-Monday 17th August-Friday 21st August
-Monday 24th August-Friday 28th August (excluding Tues 25th)
£65 for 5 x 30 minute small group lessons (or £52 for 4 x 30 minute lessons on w.c 24/08)
1:1 also available £200 for 5 x 30 minute lessons (or £160 for 4 x 30 minute lessons on wc 24/08)
More info and booking here
Monday 27th July- Sunday 30th August –
Happy Rooms by Stellar Creates
Middlesbrough Town Hall
All Ages
Relaxed sessions with reduced numbers available
£4.50-£6.50 per child | £6.50-£8.50 per adult | (35p booking fee pp applies) | Under 2's and essential companion goes free | Discounted family tickets available
More info here
Tuesday 28th July –
Little Movers Darlington, Newton Aycliffe and Bishop Auckland are running a music and movement 'Toddler Games' Pop up Event. If your child loves dance, sports and exercise then they will have a great time in these fun, energetic classes whilst developing their fitness, self confidence and social skills!
St Helens Community Centre, Bishop Auckland
Little Movers (Walking-7 year olds)
£10 per child | Sibling Discount available
More info and booking here
Tuesday 28th July–
Tiny Toppers Workshop
Cherry HIll Cafe, MIddlesbrough
All ages
£3 per person
More info and booking here
Tuesday 28th July –
Nature Cubs Beach Themed Special
Green Gates Family Hub, Redcar
Recommended for Under 8's
£9 per child | additional siblings £7.50 | additional siblings 0-15 months free | adult £1
More info and booking here
Tuesday 28th July –
Pirate themed arts and crafts
KIrkleatham Museum, Redcar
All ages
£1.50-£3.50 per craft.
No need to book, just drop in
More info here
Wednesday 29th July –
Pirate Show
Kirkleatham Museum, Redcar
All ages
£2 per person
Quiet performance for those with additional needs available
More info and booking here
Wednesday 29th July –
Toddler Play Session at TCR Hub
TCR Hub, Barnard Castle
£4 per child (small booking fee less than £1)
Also running on 11/08
More info and booking here
Wednesday 29th July –
High School Musical JR Summer Workshop
HC Vocal and Performance Academy, Darlington
All ages welcome (from ages 3 plus-toilet trained)
£150 per child for 10 days (includes performing in fully staged production)
More info and booking here
Wednesday 29th July –
Summer Family Fun Day at Redcar Racecourse
Redcar Racecourse
All ages
£6-£8 course enclosure admission pp | £14-£18 grandstand enclosure admission pp | under 18's go free
Free summer entertainment included with admission and also includes a free racecard
More info and booking here
Wednesday 29th July–
Pizza Making Class
Cherry HIll Cafe, MIddlesbrough
All ages
£9.95 per person
More info and booking here
Wednesday 29th July –
FREE Family Activities: Glorious Gardens
Oriental Museum, Durham
Recommended ages 5-11
Free, just drop in
More info here
Wednesday 29th July –
Aquatic Finatic Takeover
Crazy Kingdom Softplay, Northallerton
Aimed at ages 2-10 years
£12.95 per child and 1 adult | extra adults £2.50
More info and booking here
Wednesday 29th July –
FREE Durham Fringe Festival Family Showcase
Palace Green Stretch Tent, Durham
All ages
Free, prebook your tickets
More info and booking here
Wednesday 29th July –
FREE Room on the Broom Meet and Greet Fun Day
Hamsterley Forest, Bedburn
All ages
Free, just pop along (parking costs may apply)
More info here
Wednesday 29th July-Sunday 2nd August –
Durham Fringe Festival 2026- Over 140 shows across 11 venues
Across Durham City Centre
Various ages dependent on show
From free to £15 per person
More info and booking of shows here
Wednesday 29th July until Saturday 8th August –
An immersive sound and light installation where floating clouds gather children’s voices, dreams, and questions about technology and the future. Suspended within the theatre space, glowing clouds drift through colour and sound, creating an environment that invites visitors to pause, listen, and reflect.
includes bubble magic, oobleck, lava lamps and more hands on science fun!
Theatre Hullabaloo, Darlington
All ages
Free activity and free entry to the venue
Booking is not required, drop in during opening hours. More info here
Thursday 30th July –
Love Science Bedale is excited to announce their Summer of Science programme! Packed with hands-on experiments, creative challenges, and plenty of scientific fun! This weeks session is 'Bubbles & Goo' which includes bubble magic, oobleck, lava lamps and more hands on science fun!
Bedale Hall, Bedale, North Yorkshire
Aimed at ages 5-11
£15 per child (or book the remaining 2 workshops for £27. Running 23/07, 30/07 and 06/08)
More info and booking here
Thursday 30th July - Sunday 2nd August–
Goldilocks and the Three Bears Panto by AJ Productions
The Forum Northallerton
All ages
£15-£19 per person | family ticket option available
More info and booking of shows here
Thursday 30th July - Wednesday 19th August–
Family Forest School with Woods & Waves Forest and Beach School CIC
Margrove Heritage Centre, Saltburn by the Sea
All ages
On selected dates; 30th July and 5th August- pond dipping and smores.
13th August and 19th August-pond dipping and tie-dye
£9 child | £7.50 additional sibling | £1 adult | Under 2s free
More info and booking of shows here
Thursday 30th July- Monday 31st August –
Inflatable Golf
Ushaw Historic House and Gardens, Durham
All ages
On selected dates: 30/07, 21/08 and 31/08
Drop In activity. Included in Day pass/Membership-from £7.
More info here
Friday 31st July –
Club Bizarre Foam Blaster Kids Party
The Big Club, Newton Aycliffe
All ages
£3 per person (small booking fee under 50p applies)
More info and booking here
Friday 31st July –
FREE Family Activities: Spice Chest
Oriental Museum, Durham
Recommended ages 5-11
Free, just drop in
More info here
Friday 31st July –
Guided by Nature: Bat and Moth Evening
Hardwick Park, Sedgefield
All ages (minimum age 1 year)
£8.50 per person | family of 4 £18 (with atleast 1 ad and 1ch)
More info and booking here
Friday 31st July –
FREE Shanties on the Shore with Saltburn Smugglers
The top prom at Saltburn-by-the-sea
All ages
No need to book just pop along
Also on 17/07 and 14/08
More info here
Friday 31st July –
Magic Mayhem Science Workshop and Softplay
Crazy Kingdom, Northallerton
Workshop for 4-10 year olds
£12.95 per child and adult | £2.50 per additional adult
More info here
Friday 31st July –
Summer Slime Workshop and Play
Moobears, Chester Le Street
Softplay aimed at under 8's, older paying siblings welcome to join in the workshop
£13.50 per child
More info and how to book here
Friday 31st July –
Princess Fun Day
The Little Play Place, Willington
Aimed at under 8's
£12.95 per child | baby siblings to paying child go free
More info and how to book here
Friday 31st July-Saturday 1st August –
Working alongside Tine Bech’s Dreaming of You cloud installation, Lisette will meet with families in the theatre to create their own poetry! This will be inspired by dreams, clouds and anything you want it to be! It will be recorded, and added into the soundscape that Dreaming of You plays throughout the installation.
Friday 31st July-Sunday 2nd August–
FREE Stockton International Riverside Festival (SIRF)
Stockton High Street and Waterfront Park
All ages
Free, just pop along
More info here
Saturday 1st August–
FREE Family Activities: Dumpling Doodles
Oriental Museum, Durham
Recommended ages 5-11
Free, just drop in
More info here
Saturday 1st August–
FREE Fun4All Family Fun Day
Hackworth Park, Shildon
All ages
Free, just drop in
Follow Shildon Town Council for updates here
Saturday 1st August –
Bursting with catchy songs, high-energy comedy, dazzling visuals and heaps of audience interaction, Rapunzel is a fast, funny and feel-good family show about courage, friendship and following your dreams.
Princess Alexandra Auditorium, Yarm
All ages
£15 per child | £18 per adult | Family of 4 offer £60
More info and booking here
Saturday 1st August and Sunday 2nd August –
Bounce Extreme at Hardwick Hall Hotel
Hardwick Hall Hotel Grounds, Sedgefield
Under 12’s
£15 per child under 12 | adults free
More info and booking here
Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd August–
Dinosaur Takeover
Ushaw Historic House and Gardens, Durham
Age not stated
Drop In activity. Included in Day pass/Membership-from £7.
More info here
Saturday 1st August and Saturday 8th August –
Teddy Bear's Picnic, Play and Crafts
Thorpe Farm Centre, Barnard Castle
Ages 1-8
£15 per child | first adult free | extra adult £4
More info and booking here
Saturday 1st August- Saturday 15th August –
FREE Enchanted Durham Lego Trail
Durham City Centre
All ages
Free just drop along
More info here
Saturday 1st August- Monday 31st August –
Wallace and Gromit All Systems Go AR Trail
Hopetown, Darlington
All ages
Free just download a free app and drop along
More info here
Sunday 2nd August–
K-POP All Stars Tribute
Darlington Hippodrome
All ages
£23-£37 per person
More info and booking here
Sunday 2nd August–
Teddy Bears Picnic
Preston Park Museum, Stockton on Tees
All ages
Included in museum pass -£13 adult | £8 child | Under 3 years Free | discounts family passes available (pass valid for 12 months)
More info and booking here
Sunday 2nd August–
Family Fun Run
Darlington Town Centre
All ages
£3.50 adult | £2.50 child
More info and booking here
Monday 3rd August–
Jack and the Beanstalk Craft CLass
Cherry HIll Cafe, MIddlesbrough
All ages
£5.95 per person
More info and booking here
Wednesday 5th August–
FREE Family Activities: Pottery Painting
Oriental Museum, Durham
Recommended ages 5-11
Free, just drop in
More info here
Wednesday 5th August–
Library Takeover Day
Darlington Market Square
All ages
Free, just drop in
More info here
Thursday 6th August –
Love Science Bedale is excited to announce their Summer of Science programme! Packed with hands-on experiments, creative challenges, and plenty of scientific fun! This weeks session is 'Colourful Chemistry' which includes fizzing rainbows, chromotography, UV magic and more hands on science fun!
Bedale Hall, Bedale, North Yorkshire
Aimed at ages 5-11
£15 per child (or book 2 workshops for £27 or all 3 workshops for £40. Running 23/07, 30/07 and 06/08)
More info and booking here
Friday 6th August–
Mosaic Makers
Ushaw Historic House and Gardens, Durham
Recommended ages 5 plus
Also running on 26/08
Drop In activity. Included in Day pass/Membership-from £7.
More info here
Friday 6th August-Friday 21st August –
Festival Fridays at TCR Hub
TCR Hub, Barnard Castle
£6 per person | Under 2s Free | Family of 4 offer £20
Running on Fridays
More info and booking here
Friday 7th August –
Childrens Bathbomb Making Workshop
Lanchester Garden Centre, Durham
Aimed for children aged 5 plus
£15.95 per child
More info and booking here
Tuesday 5th August–
FREE Family Activities: Rangoli Workshop
Oriental Museum, Durham
Recommended ages 5-11
Free, just drop in
More info here
Thursday 7th August–
KPOP Party
Majestic Theatre, Darlington
All ages
£15.81 per person | £28.46 group of 2 ticket
More info and booking here
Thursday 7th August –
Super Science Workshop and Softplay
Crazy Kingdom, Northallerton
Workshop for 4-10 year olds
£12.95 per child and adult | £2.50 per additional adult
More info here
Friday 7th August-Sunday 9th August –
FREE Northallerton by the Sea
Northallerton Town Centre (awaiting exact location)
All Ages
Free, awaiting more info
Keep checking here
Friday 7th August-Sunday 23rd August –
FREE Summer of Fun at Captain Cook Square
Captain Cook Square, Middlesbrough
Free, just drop in
Running on 07/08, 12/08, 22/08 and 23/08
More info here
Saturday 8th August–
Carribean Carnival Day at Redcar Racecourse
Redcar Racecourse
All ages
£7-£9 course enclosure admission pp | £17-£21 grandstand enclosure admission pp | under 18's go free
Free entertainment included with admission and also includes a free racecard
More info and booking here
Saturday 8th August–
FREE Family Activities: Brooch Workshop
Oriental Museum, Durham
Recommended ages 5-11
Free, just drop in
More info here
Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th August –
“This year, André Rieu celebrates a spectacular milestone — the 20th anniversary of his iconic summer concerts on the magnificent Vrijthof square.
Captured live in his beloved hometown, this brand-new cinema event marks two decades of music and unforgettable magical summer nights. PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A LIVE STREAMED PRODUCTION ON THE BIG SCREEN”
Friarage Theatre, Yarm
Mostly suited to ages 12 plus and adults
£9 pupils and concessions | £11 adults
More info and booking here
Sunday 9th August –
FREE Pride Picnic at Hopetown
Hopetown, Darlington
All Ages
Free but requires prebooking
More info and booking here
Monday 10th August –
Ms Rachel Event and Play Session at Cuddle Cubs
Cuddle Cubs Sensory Playground, Middlesbrough
0-5 year olds
£11.95 per child includes 1 adult | extra adult £2
More info and booking here
Monday 10th August –
Backpack Decorating
Ushaw Historic House and Gardens, Durham
Recommended ages 4 plus
Drop In activity. Included in Day pass/Membership-from £7.
More info here
Monday 10th August-Monday 24th August –
'This tree belongs to me' with Storycraft Theatre
Kiplin Hall & Gardens, RIchmond
All ages, better suited to younger
Included with standard admission (£13 adult | £6.50 child | under 5's free)
Mondays only
With Makaton SIgn language throughout
No need to book
More info here
Thursday 11th August
Nature Cubs Special 'Willow Beach Farm' with Woods & Waves Forest and Beach School CIC
Green Gates Family Hub, Redcar
Recommended for Under 8's
£14 per child | additional siblings £12 | additional siblings 0-15 months free | adult £1
More info and booking here
Tuesday 11th August –
Little Movers Darlington, Newton Aycliffe and Bishop Auckland are running a music and movement 'Jet & Ben Police Dogs Visit' Special Pop up Event. If your child loves dance, sports and exercise then they will have a great time!
West Auckland Memorial Hall, Bishop Auckland
Little Movers (Walking-7 year olds)
£10 per child | Sibling Discount available
More info and booking here
Tuesday 11th August–
Toddler Play Session at TCR Hub
TCR Hub, Barnard Castle
£4 per child (small booking fee less than £1)
Also running on 29/07
More info and booking here
Tuesday 11th August –
Step into Storytime
Hardwick Park, Sedgefield
Recommended ages 2-5
£7 per child
More info and booking here
Tuesday 11th August-Thursday 13th August –
Toto the Ninja Cat and the Great Snake Escape
Gala, Durham
Recommended ages 5 plus
£16 adult | £14 under 16's | £56 family ticket min 2 under 16's
More info and booking here
Wednesday 12th August-Saturday 16th August –
Knight School at Auckland Palace and Gardens
Auckland Palace and Gardens, Bishop Auckland
Recommended ages 5-11 years
£10.50 per child
More info and booking here
Wednesday 12th August-Saturday 29th August –
Our Wonderful World is a play space within the theatre that explores the wonders of our natural world, how we care for the world we live in and the impact we have on the world. There will be natural play items alongside recycled/ reusable play materials.
Thursday 13th August–
Making Sense Together Inclusive Event
Darlington Town Centre
All ages
Free, just pop along
More info and booking here
Sunday 13th August –
'As you like it' by The Handlebards Outdoor Theatre
Wharton Park, Durham
All ages (although may be best suited to older)
£5 child under 13 | £13 ages 21 and under | £20.50 adult | Under 5s free
More info and booking here
Monday 14th August –
Guided by Nature: Pond Dipping and Identification
Hardwick Park, Sedgefield
All ages (minumum age 1 year)
£8.50 per person | £18 family of 4 (minimum 1 ad, 1 ch)
More info and booking here
Monday 14th August –
FREE Shanties on the Shore with Saltburn Smugglers
The top prom at Saltburn-by-the-sea
All ages
No need to book just pop along
Also on 17/07 and 31/07
More info here
Friday 14th August and Thursday 27th August –
Scoops and Scales
Lanchester Garden Centre, Durham
All ages
£14.95 per child
More info and booking here
Saturday 15th August –
Saturday Young Stitchers
Ushaw Historic House and Gardens, Durham
Recommended ages 7 plus
Included in Day pass/Membership-from £7. Pre-booking required.
More info and booking here
Saturday 15th August –
Outdoor Theatre: 'As you like it' by The Handlebards
Kiplin Hall and Gardens, Richmond
All ages, better suited to older kids and adults
£13 under 21s | £20.50 adult | £5 child | under 5's free
More info and booking here
Saturday 15th-Sunday 16th August–
FREE Middlesbrough Mela
Albert Park, Middlesbrough
All ages
Free just drop in
More info here
Sunday 16th August–
Family Fun Day at ROF 59
ROF 59, Newton Aycliffe
All ages
£5 per person, £17.50 family of 4
More info and booking here
Sunday 16th August –
Forky Pens and Alien Goo Creations
Lanchester Garden Centre, Durham
All ages
£12.95 per child
More info and booking here
Sunday 16th August –
Galactic Crafts: Toy Story Edition
Lanchester Garden Centre, Durham
All ages
£21.95 per child
More info and booking here
Monday 17th August-Friday 21st August –
Forest Club
Hardwick Park, Sedgefield
Recommended ages 2-6 years
£8.50 per child
More iand booking here
Tuesday 18th August –
August Forest Club
Hardwick Park, Sedgefield
Recommended ages 2-6 years
£8.50 per child
More info and booking here
Wednesday 19th and Friday 21st August –
Anything but a paintbrush
The Hullabaloo, Darlington
Recommended ages 2-6 years
£5 per person (under 1s free- book a babes in arms ticket for 1 adult and an under 1)
More info and booking here
Thursday 20th August–
Legends and Fairytales Day
Darlington Town Centre
All ages
Free, just pop along
More info and booking here
Thursday 20th August –
Stop Motion Animation
Ushaw Historic House and Gardens, Durham
Recommended ages 5 plus
Also runs on 22/07
Drop In activity. Included in Day pass/Membership-from £7.
More info here
Thursday 20th August –
Guided by Nature: Bat and Moth Evening
Hardwick Park, Sedgefield
All ages (minumum age 1 year)
£8.50 per person | £18 family of 4 (minimum 1 ad, 1 ch)
More info and booking here
Thursday 20th August- Saturday 22nd August –
FREE Crafts with Ella
The Hullabaloo, Darlington
Recommended ages 0-10
Free drop in
More info and booking here
Thursday 20th August-Sunday 23rd August –
Luminarium: TIMISIEN Installation
Kirkleatham Museum Grounds, Redcar (
Also part of the Between the Tides festival running 22/08-23/08
All ages
£6 per adult | £3 per child and Redcar & Cleveland Residents | Under 1's and carers go free
More info and booking here
Friday 21st-Saturday 22nd August –
Rapunzel: A Family Pantomime at The Majestic
The Majestic Theatre, Darlington
All Ages
£15 adult | £12.50 concession (small booking fee applies under £1pp)
Kids go free offer available-may be removed at any time
More info and booking here
Saturday 22nd August –
FREE Medieval Mayhem Family Fun Day
Auckland Palace Gardens, Bishop Auckland
All Ages
Free, no need to book
More info here
Saturday 22nd August –
FREE Family Fun Day at The Copper Beach
The Copper Beach Pub, Darlington
All Ages
Free, no need to book
Kids eat for £1 offer running
More info here
Saturday 22nd August and Sunday 23rd August –
FREE Between the Tides Family Festival
Kirkleatham Museum Grounds and Walled Gardens, Redcar
All Ages
Free, no need to book (except for the luminarium installation listed further up as starts 20/08)
More info here
Sunday 23rd August–
Family Fun Day by Darlington Round Table
Hurworth Grange Community Centre, Darlington
All ages
£5 per child unlimited all day access to inflatables
More info here
Monday 24th August–
Summer Singing Bunnies
Ushaw Historic House and Gardens, Durham
Age not stated
On selected dates: 30/07, 21/08 and 31/08
Activity requires pre-booking. Included in Day pass/Membership-from £7.
More info and booking here
Tuesday 25th August –
Youth Summer Camp Out at TCR Hub
TCR Hub, Barnard Castle
Ages 13-15 years
£15 per person includes food
More info and booking here
Wednesday 26th August–
The Dinosaur that pooped a Rock Show
Darlington Hippodrome
All ages
£13.50-£17.50 per person | save £4 family of 4, band a seating
More info and booking here
Wednesday 26th August–
Mosaic Makers
Ushaw Historic House and Gardens, Durham
Recommended ages 5 plus
Also running on 06/08
Drop In activity. Included in Day pass/Membership-from £7.
More info here
Thursday 27th August –
FREE Dinosaur Day
Darlington Town Centre
All Ages
Free, just pop along
More info here
Thursday 27th August –
The Big Bad Wolf Musical by The Plandits
Middlesbrough Town Hall
All Ages
From £14pp
More info here
Sunday 30th August –
Family Foam Fest Party at Blackwell Meadows
Blackwell Meadows, Darlington Rugby Football Club
All Ages
£8 per child | Adults Free
More info and booking here
Sunday 30th August –
Family Foam Fest Party at Blackwell Meadows
Blackwell Meadows, Darlington Rugby Football Club
All Ages
£8 per child | Adults Free
More info and booking here
Sunday 30th August–
Ushaw Classic Car & Bike Show
Ushaw Historic House and Gardens, Durham
All Ages
Drop In. Included in Day pass/Membership-from £7.
More info and booking here
DAILY DROP IN ACTIVITIES
National Trust Summer of Play -usual admission applies plus extra cost where stated below
Beninbrough, York - daily from 26th June until 20th September plus crafts in the garden selected Tuesdays, tansy beetle day on 23/07 and 06/08, find out what lives in a pond on 28/07 and 11/08. And pop up sports day selected Thursdays
Crook Hall Gardens, Durham-daily from 4th July until 1st September
Fountains Abbey, Ripon- daily from 18th July until 6th September plus crafty mondays , circus skills workshops every Wednesday, football and cricket sessions with Harrogate Town AFC every Thursday and storytelling with Ripon Library every Friday and music workshops every Sunday
Ormesby Hall, Middlesbrough- daily from 18th July until 30th August plus Moving Mondays:Yoga on selected Mondays and try it Tuesday Karate selected Tuesdays
Nunnington Hall, near York -daily from 18th July until 6th September
Wallington, near Morpeth - daily from 20th July until 31st August
Gibside, Gateshead -daily from 4th July until 1st September
Souter Lighthouse, Whitburn -Saturday to Wednesday from 18th July until 2nd September
Seaton Delavel Hall, Seaton Sluice- Daily from 18th July until 31st August plus Bubble Play selected Mondays, Comedy Capers on 22/07 and 10/08, Theatre sprout presents Wild Goose Chase selected Wednesdays and Lets Circus every Friday. And Wild Art with Mim Robson on 05/08 and 19/08
Washington Old Hall - daily from 23rd July until 31st August
There is also the following at NT Brimham Rocks, near Harrogate which has no admission costs and activities are free. Parking costs do apply;
Orienteering Taster Day - 23/07 and 30/07
Climbing and Abseiling Taster Day - 06/08 and 28/08 (min age 8 years)
Geocaching Taster Day - 13/08
Ellerton Lakeside Cafe, Scorton, near Richmond (North Yorkshire)
Ellerton Lakeside Cafe run a family fun outdoor area on their ‘Foxes Field’ during summer with inflatables assult course, bouncy castles, slip and slide. The current cost is £10 per person for all day play (this may change in peak times). There's also an onsite play park, onsite cafe as well as summer/bbq food and drinks to purchase and enjoy on the field (your own food is not permitted).
No need to book you just pay on the day. Check their page for updates as not always open daily, weather dependent.
Ushaw Historic House and Gardens, Durham
Ushaw Historic House and Gardens have the following daily drop in activities included with admission. Admission can be purchased on the day, but is a bit cheaper if pre-booked.
Extinction – Discover life-size dinosaur encounters and learn what Extinction means through panels, objects and interactives.
Family Trails – See if you can find the animals hidden around the garden and practice your sign language and explore Extinction and to complete the i-spy.
Toy Takeover – They will heaps of track and trains for your young engineers to construct and play to their hearts content.
Lawn Games & Activities – Football goals, Giant Lawn Games, Hula Hooping, Badminton, Space Hoppers and much more.
Woodland Playpark – Explore the Woodland Playpark next to the Bounds field.
They also have some extra activities included in admission on selected days, I have added these as separate listings on the relevant dates.
Day Pass Costs; Adults £14 (£12 if pre-booked online) | Child £8 (£7 if pre-booked online) | Under 5's free | Annual Memberships also available-see here
Our Recommended Half/Full Days out attractions for all ages
I’ve also included costs based on website prices that checked the 18/07 as a comparison. And based it on 2 adults, 2 children ages 4 plus with full access where applicable so that it’s a fair comparison. If you have younger children/eligible for concessions it may be cheaper.
Full Day;
Adventure Valley, Durham - £63.36
Monk Park Farm, Thirsk £49.80
Half Day (prices are still for all day);
These are just some attractions we have visited and both of my boys (ages 4 and 10 now) have really enjoyed (and from an adult point of view I’ve found them mostly stress-free and enjoyable too). There’s been enough to occupy them both and they have mentioned going back to them.
Special Offers and Savings
-Save up to 25% off key attractions across County Durham when you travel by bus on the new Durham Explorer Services with Durham County Council. On Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays. More info here
-Discounted Entry this Summer on family attractions with the Government's Great British Summer Scheme reducing VAT. Savings of up to 15% off the usual prices. Here are some places I have sourced that are taking part in passing the savings onto their customers;
Hopetown, Darlington (Wagon Woods Adventure Play Area and Kids Loco Lunch)
Family Explorer Tickets at Raby Castle, Deer Park and Gardens
Other places may be taking part, but I have been unable to properly verify.
-50% off Summer Passes for Land of Make Believe, Stockton on Tees-valid 20th July until 31st August. Offer ends 31st July. More info here
-Summer Early Bird Tickets £18pp for Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park, Ripon. Enter code SUMMEREB at checkout. More info and booking here
-Summer Play Passes at Moobears, Chester Le Street for £40 per child-unlimited entry from 22nd June until 4th September. More info and how to purchase here
-Dirty Bandits Virtual Golf, Newton Aycliffe-Summer Holidays Deal virtual golf, darts and retro games- £5 per hour for kids ages 16 and under. More info here
SEN/D Specific Activities or Events
There's lots of community organisations and CIC’s that organise specific activities aimed at those with SEN and SEND and often adding more on all the time. To check what’s happening you can join my Facebook group where a lot of them advertise here
Thanks for reading and I hope this guide helps you with your Summer Holiday plans. My guides are put together by myself without any cost to the business that I’m advertising (Unless it states Ad in front of it then a featured listing has been paid for).
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This article has been written and published by Charlotte Walcott (Business Owner of ©️Family Fun Darlo Mum)
“Mum to 2 boys, Kamron-10 and Leo-4. Sharing and producing honest and informative social media content and reviews, website guides and articles for family days out ideas, family venues, UK Breaks, family friendly events and general family fun!"
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