The North East England is really underrated for hidden gems! You get big skies, dramatic coastlines, castles that look like they’re guarding secrets, and loads of free “just go explore” spaces.

Here are our favourite places to explore with children, the kind of places where they can run, climb, discover, and burn energy without you constantly checking your wallet.

Northumberland National Park in Northumberland

This is one of the quietest national parks in England, and that’s its superpower. It’s all rolling hills, Roman history, and vast open space. It has endless green landscapes, streams, hills, and old Roman sites.

Why it works for families:

• Huge freedom to roam safely in many areas
• Great for picnics in total peace
• Older kids tend to love the “explorer” feeling

Hamsterley Forest in County Durham

This is your “easy win forest day out” in the North East. Complete with wide forest trails and cycling paths, streams, picnic areas and occasional sculpture trails.

For kids:

• Ideal for running, biking, den-building
• Play areas in the forest to break up walking
• Easy to spend a full day without stress

Bamburgh Beach in Northumberland

This is one of those beaches that feels almost cinematic – miles of pale sand, hardly ever crowded, and a massive castle looming above it like something out of a storybook. It’s a huge open space, with lots of rockpools, sand dunes and a constant view of the castle in the background.

Why families love it:

• It’s easy – park, walk, and you’re basically done planning
• Loads of space so it never feels chaotic
• Great mix of beach and imagination (castles always help)

Jesmond Dene in Teeside

This is one of those places that surprises people – you’re basically in the city, then suddenly you’re in a wooded valley with waterfalls and bridges. Explore the woodland gorge with a river running through it, small waterfalls and stone bridges.

For families:

• Very easy access (no long travel needed)
• Great for younger kids – lots to look at without long walks
• Feels like a secret park inside the city

RSPB Saltholme in Teeside

Packed with birds, wetlands, and interactive viewing areas, Saltholme is a great place to spot birds with flat walking paths around lakes and reeds, and a very calm, slow-paced, nature experience!

Why families like it:

• Easy walking for all ages
• Often has activities for kids (seasonal trails, spotting sheets)
• Surprisingly engaging once you start noticing wildlife

High Force Waterfall in County Durham

One of England’s most powerful waterfalls, tucked into woodland and moorland scenery. High Force is only a short walk from a large wood, and creates dramatic views!

For families:

• Straightforward walk, not too long
• Big “wow” moment payoff at the end
• Great for photos and sensory experience

Holy Island of Lindisfarne in Northumberland

This one is half destination, half “timing the tide correctly” adventure. You literally cross a causeway that disappears at high tide, which already makes it feel like a quest. Explore the quiet island village with ruins and coastline, the big open beaches and see the birdlife.

For kids:

• Feels like a mini expedition just getting there
• Good for exploring castle ruins and shoreline
• Lots of wildlife spotting (seals sometimes nearby)

Important:

• You must check tide times before going

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