The Best Budget Family Days Out in The North of England this Summer

Here at Stay Northside, we are committed to remaining as sustainable as possible, including saving money where we can. While this expression often doesn’t go hand in hand in with the summer holidays, we’ve rounded up our favourite budget days out in the North of England for you to enjoy when you stay with us this summer!

Read on to discover our top ten local gems in the area and some (secret) tips to really make the most out of our beautiful area this summer.

Broom House Farm

A quick jump in the car from our cottage, and you’ll find stunning scenery, beautiful homemade products in the farm shop and an adventure playground for the youngsters. 

Packed full of zip wires, slides, and tobogganing, we’re confident all the family will love to get involved with this one! For smaller children, the forest offers a hunt for faeries and a trail to find animal prints! At only £6.50pp, we think this place should be on every family’s summer bucket list! 

Hamsterley Forest 

One that makes our list every time, and for a good reason; there’s endless fun to be had at Hamsterley. The forest is £7.00 to park all day, and we guarantee you’ll be entertained for the duration! Whizz through mud puddles on your e-bike, go river wading, enjoy a scenic walk along one of the many trails or enjoy some time in the hidden playgrounds around the forest; whatever you choose, remember to pack your picnic and prepare for a lovely family day out.

Discovery Museum

We can’t believe it’s free entry to this outstanding museum! Packed full of interactive activities and home to some of the best scientific collections outside of London, including maritime, social and regimental history displays, you’ll be amazed how quickly the whole day flies by!

Tie in the discovery with a trip to the fantastic BALTIC, home to changing art collections and also free entry; you’ll find something incredible on all six floors!

Herrington Country Park

Located on the site of a former colliery, this beautiful park lies in the shadow of Penshaw monument. Featuring a large lake, adventure play area, skate park, amphitheatre, cycle trails, sculptures, nature reserve and glorious picnic spots, sit back and relax while the kids let off some steam this summer; picnic essential! 

Druridge Bay Country Park

Sandwiched between Amble and Cresswell, this stunning park with freshwater lake supplies walk routes, peaceful nature reserves, and a children’s play area. The park also has direct entry to the stunning beaches of North East England and is free for all! 

Don’t forget to grab some fish and chips for a truly British lunch!

The Beach 

Speaking of beaches, as a family of explorers, we have trudged up and down many an English coastline, come rain or shine, but to us, nothing beats the serenity of the North East. Renowned for its outstanding beauty and breathtaking views, we’re confident our beaches will have you returning for more yearly. 

Top Tip: For an excellent place to escape the crowds and search for fossils, head to nearby Runswick Bay!

Locomotion Railway Museum 

We hold this place close to our hearts as we have enjoyed visits since the boys were babies. There are so many activities for children, including a brand new park outside, and admission is a free bonus! 

Piercebridge Roman Fort

In the middle of the village of Piercebridge, there are the remains of a Roman fort. It has been partially excavated, and suspected that far more has never been discovered. Located just alongside the river, after exploring, enjoy a peaceful meander along the edge of the river and then walk across to Sam Turners Farming Shop, where they serve the best cake, lunches and coffee in the area. 

Low Barns

Low Barns is a great place for the family to blow away the cobwebs! We love searching for baby frogs in the wetlands and splashing around in our wellingtons! 

Our rustic holiday cottage is situated in the heart of North East England

At Stay Northside, we know how essential it is to find great family days out that won’t break the bank. Book your stay with us today and enjoy everything the local area provides on a budget. Please contact us with any questions; we are always happy to help.