Fun things to do in the North East [spring 2025]
Looking for something fun to do in the North East this spring? Explore 10 options in our handy rundown.
With spring on the horizon, you may be planning some days out in the North East. But where to go and what to see?
Luckily for you, there's no shortage of destinations. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, amateur stargazer, true crime fan or just looking for a day to remember, there's something for you in the area.
So, without further ado, here are 10 fun things to do in the North East this spring.
1. Go foraging
Northumberland is blessed with breathtaking woods and coastlines as well as urban green spaces. Now spring is finally threatening to spring, why not join the Cramlington Forager for a foraging walk?
These walks run from March to October and cover different locations in the North East. All of them provide participants with a chance to gather wild food with like-minded folks.
A nature adventure awaits!
2. Go stargazing at Kielder Observatory
These days, dark skies are hard to come by. Cities create a huge amount of light pollution, obscuring the sparkling treasures on high. But at Kielder Observatory, just south of the Scottish borders, the skies are pitch-black and full of constellations.
The Observatory's main aim is to provide outreach to the public through events. Every month, tens of thousands of people visit to explore the night sky through telescopes, talks and other activities.
Kielder Observatory has a full calendar of events to enjoy. The sky's the limit!
3. Go on a true crime tour
Do you have a taste for the dark underbelly of Britain's cities? Then Newcastle Tour Company's True Crime Tour could be just what Dr Jekyll ordered.
The tour, led by a local expert, takes you on an action-packed itinerary of Newcastle's criminal past – everything from hangmen to harlots, from body-snatchers to witchcraft. Set off from Earl Grey's Monument and visit jails, churchyards, courtrooms and more.
4. Visit the Holy Island of Lindisfarne
In 635 AD, Saint Aidan founded his monastery on the island of Lindisfarne, a tidal island just off the coast of Northumberland. Today, visitors can marvel at the unspoiled scene, taking in the castle, priory, church and modern-day eateries.
The island is accessed by a causeway which floods twice a day. This means you must (and we mean
must) check
safe crossing times before making the journey.
Whether you walk or drive, the Holy Island of Lindisfarne is a historical gem you won't forget in a hurry.
5. Take a train on Tarnfield Railway, Gateshead
Celebrating its 300th anniversary in 2025, Tarnfield Railway in Gateshead is a heritage steam train railway that's as good as new.
Take a six-mile round trip trip on a restored Victorian train through the hills and dales of the North East. Tickets give you a day of unlimited travel and you can join from any station on the route.
6. Visit Newcastle's Victoria Tunnel
Running under Newcastle is the Victoria Tunnel – an eerily preserved coal waggonway that became an air raid shelter in World War Two. Today, you can take a guided tour of the tunnel, learning all about its rich history.
The tunnel takes you from the Town Moor down to the River Tyne, passing under Hadrian's Wall along the way.
Whether you're a history buff, a lover of underground spaces or simply looking for a unique experience, Victoria Tunnel could be just the place for you.
7. Visit Cragside House
William Armstrong is one of those historical figures who seems to have had vast amounts of time and energy. As well as being an industrial magnate and philanthropist, he invented the hydraulic crane and the Armstrong gun.
He also pioneered the use of hydraulic machinery in Cragside, his country house near Rothbury in Northumberland. Here, visitors flocked to see a house filled with innovative devices powered by manmade dams and lakes on the grounds.
It's a fascinating glimpse into a time of scientific ingenuity as well as luxury living. It's no surprise that, in 1884, the Prince and Princess of Wales chose to stay there rather than any of the neighbouring castles.
8. Explore the Roman ruins of Vindolanda
The North East is a hotbed of historical sites, with examples from the Vikings to the Romans all the way to the Victorians.
Visitors can scratch their Roman itch at Hadrian's Wall, of course – but just south of the wall is Vindolanda, the remains of a Roman fort occupied from roughly 85 AD to 370 AD.
But the history of Vindolanda isn't over. Every year, excavations take place, unearthing more of the region's Roman past.
A single ticket gives you access to the fort itself and the Roman Army Museum.
9. Meet birds of prey at Haggerston Castle
Animal lovers should be sure to check out Andy Howey's Birds of Prey Centre in Berwick. Held in the grounds of Haggerston Castle, Northumberland, Andy's shows provide "an educational, interactive and hands-on experience" with birds, reptiles and insects.
Keen photographers can also take part in Andy's animal photography workshops. These take place both inside a photography studio and out in the wild.
10. Explore the history (and ghosts!) of Chillingham Castle
Reopening in April 2025, Chillingham Castle is a classic day out in the North East. Originally a monastery, this medieval castle has seen plenty of action since its construction in the 12th century.
It's also renowned for its paranormal activity. Over the years, many people have reported ghost sightings in the castle. Visitors can take ghost tours all year round.
Please note that, unfortunately, the castle provides minimal access for people with disabilities.
Want to get on board with springtime fun but need a set of wheels? MVH is a trusted
Newcastle car rental firm with a reputation for providing high-quality vehicles at a great price. Feel free to give us a call on (0191) 4888 700. Our team will be happy to recommend the right car for you.
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