National Glass Centre

For something interesting to do with the children, pay a visit to the National Glass Centre (NGC) in Sunderland, a cultural venue dedicated to exploring ideas through glass and providing opportunities for people to be creative, enjoy themselves and feel inspired. Based in Sunderland, which has a glassmaking and industrial heritage and built on the site of a former shipyard, NGC is also home to the UK’s largest art glass-making facility offering a range of classes and glass-making experiences for all abilities. There is a programme of activities that families can enjoy together and visitors can learn about the history of glass making. The Gallery programme presents thought-provoking exhibitions with international artists and learning opportunities for schools, families, adults and children. Pick up a free activity sheet or adventure backpack to make the exploration of the galleries more fun in your own time. There are colouring activities and fun toys available in the Gillian Dickinson Learning Studios or you might wish to take part in a Family Workshop. These hands-on sessions involve glass painting, glass fusing and sandblasting and in the school holidays there are themed workshops. Make sure you don’t miss one of the free and informative glass-blowing, lathe or flame-working demonstrations that run through the day, with live commentary. Watch the experts fashion amazing pieces before you and experience the heat of the 1,000ы furnace. For a special birthday party idea, celebrate at NGC with a craft activity and a glass-blowing demonstration. It will certainly be memorable for the guests and different. NGC is open every day from 10amР5pm and free of charge.