Summer Holiday Activities in Heaton

The long summer holiday can be a challenge for any parent, but Heaton is a good place to ride it out. Between free parks and playgrounds on the doorstep, low-cost days out in the Ouseburn and a choice of holiday camps and clubs, there is plenty to keep children of all ages busy without breaking the bank. Here is our guide to summer holiday activities in Heaton.

Free days out on the doorstep

Start with what is free and close. Heaton Park, Armstrong Park and Iris Brickfield offer playgrounds and open space, while the ruins of King John's Palace and the famous shoe tree add a sense of adventure. A short walk on lies Jesmond Dene, with its waterfall and free Pets' Corner. For a fuller rundown, see our guide to the best playgrounds in Heaton.

Ouseburn Farm and Seven Stories

Down in the valley, Ouseburn Farm is a free-entry city farm where children can meet pigs, goats and chickens, and Seven Stories, the National Centre for Children's Books, runs holiday activities, trails and events indoors, perfect for a rainy summer's day. The two together make an easy, low-cost day out on Heaton's edge.

Holiday camps and clubs

For structured days, local venues run holiday camps and clubs through the summer. The Chillingham Road Sports and Arts Centre and the City of Newcastle Gymnastics Academy host sports and activity sessions, and many Heaton schools and community groups run their own holiday schemes. Popular camps fill quickly, so book early. See also our guide to summer sports camps in Heaton.

Further afield by Metro

When you want a change of scene, Heaton's position on the Metro is a gift. The coast at Tynemouth and Whitley Bay, the Quayside, the Centre for Life and the city's museums are all a short, cheap ride away, making big days out possible without the car.

More family guides

For ideas whatever the weather, see our guides to family activities in Heaton and rainy day things to do in Heaton.

Run a Heaton holiday club we should list? Get in touch.