Rainy Day Things to Do in Heaton

Heaton gets its share of grey North East days, but a bit of rain need not mean a wasted one. Between the neighbourhood itself and the Ouseburn valley on its doorstep, there is a good spread of indoor things to do, whether you have restless children to entertain or simply fancy somewhere warm and dry to pass an afternoon. Here is our guide to rainy-day things to do in Heaton.

Seven Stories, the National Centre for Children's Books

The standout family option is Seven Stories on Lime Street in the Ouseburn, a short hop from Heaton. Spread over several floors of a converted warehouse, it is the only place in the country wholly dedicated to children's books, with hands-on galleries, regular storytelling and activities, and changing exhibitions. It is entirely indoors and pitched perfectly at younger children, making it a reliable wet-weather winner.

Best for: Best for: a proper indoor day out for families with young children.

Ouseburn Farm

Also in the valley, Ouseburn Farm is a free city farm with pigs, goats, chickens and more. While much of it is outdoors, its indoor barn and visitor building mean you can still see the animals and stay reasonably dry in a shower, and it is an easy, low-cost outing that small children love. Combined with Seven Stories, the two make a natural pairing for a day in the Ouseburn.

Best for: Best for: animals and a free, easy outing that shrugs off a passing shower.

The leisure centre

For burning off energy, the Chillingham Road Sports and Arts Centre on Ninth Avenue is Heaton's own indoor sports and activity venue, with a sports hall and a programme of classes and sessions. It is the handiest option within Heaton itself for active indoor time when the pitches and parks are too wet to use.

Best for: Best for: active indoor time without leaving Heaton.

Cafés and community spaces

Sometimes the best rainy-day plan is simply a warm café, and Heaton has them in abundance along Heaton Road and Chillingham Road, from all-day brunch spots to speciality-coffee roasteries. Heaton Community Centre on Trewhitt Road also runs indoor groups and activities through the week, from toddler sessions to community classes. For ideas, browse our guides to the best coffee shops in Heaton and breakfast and brunch.

A short hop into town

If you want more, central Newcastle is only a few minutes away on the Metro from Chillingham Road. The Centre for Life science centre, the Great North Museum and the city's galleries all make excellent rainy-day destinations, with no need to drive or park.

More family ideas

For a fuller rundown of things to do with children locally in any weather, see our guide to family activities in Heaton.

Have a favourite Heaton rainy-day spot? Get in touch.