Summer is a wonderful time to explore Newcastle upon Tyne. From colourful outdoor trails and fascinating museums to children’s storytelling, city farms and fantastic places to eat, there is plenty to keep visitors of all ages entertained throughout the school holidays.
Whether you are planning a family break, visiting friends and relatives or simply looking for new ways to enjoy the city, here are some of the best summer activities in Newcastle.
Follow the Peter Rabbit Trail
One of the highlights of summer 2026 is Peter Rabbit™: Tales on the Tyne, a free outdoor art trail taking place across Newcastle and North Tyneside from 15 July to 14 September 2026.
Families can discover more than 40 individually decorated Peter Rabbit sculptures in streets, parks and public spaces, along with smaller sculptures created by schools and community groups. Each sculpture has its own design, making every stop on the trail a little different.
The trail is presented in support of St Oswald’s Hospice and is a lovely way to enjoy some fresh air, explore different parts of Newcastle and add a little friendly competition to your family day out.
Discover Newcastle’s Museums
Newcastle has several excellent museums that are ideal for families, particularly when the British summer weather is less predictable.
The Great North Museum: Hancock is home to exhibitions exploring dinosaurs, fossils, Ancient Egypt, the natural world and Roman Britain. Entry is free, and families can also enjoy interactive gallery challenges, children’s activities and planetarium shows.
At the Discovery Museum, visitors can learn about the history of Newcastle and Tyneside through science, engineering, shipbuilding and local innovation. Entry is also free, with family facilities and activities available throughout the school holidays.
Art lovers can also explore the Laing Art Gallery, located close to Newcastle’s main shopping area.
Step Inside a Story at Seven Stories
Located in the creative Ouseburn Valley, Seven Stories, the National Centre for Children’s Books, is a must-visit for young readers and imaginative minds.
Families can discover children’s books, exhibitions, storytelling sessions and creative workshops in a welcoming environment designed to inspire a lifelong love of reading.
As part of the Peter Rabbit trail, Seven Stories is also hosting Beatrix Potter: A Love-Letter to the British Countryside from 20 July to 14 September 2026. Visitors can see a specially designed book bench and find seven smaller sculptures displayed throughout the building.
It is worth checking the Seven Stories events programme before visiting, as some storytelling sessions and workshops require advance booking.
Enjoy a Dinosaur Adventure at Life
Young explorers can come face-to-face with prehistoric creatures at Newcastle’s Life Science Centre.
Its summer programme includes The Great Dinosaur Escape, featuring 25 moving dinosaurs displayed throughout the centre. Visitors can meet a three-tonne Tyrannosaurus rex, follow a dinosaur trail, discover how fossils teach us about prehistoric life and take part in hands-on activities.
A visit also includes access to Life’s interactive science exhibitions, Space Zone, Experiment Zone, Making Studios and planetarium experiences.
Dine Out During Newcastle Restaurant Week
After a busy day of exploring, Newcastle’s vibrant food scene offers plenty of opportunities to refuel.
NE1 Newcastle Restaurant Week returns from 3 to 9 August 2026, with more than 130 participating restaurants offering special menus for £15, £20 or £25 per person.
From Italian favourites and traditional British dishes to Indian cuisine, Asian small plates and international flavours, there is something to suit most tastes.
Restaurant Week is always popular, so reserving a table in advance is strongly recommended. It is a great opportunity to try somewhere new or revisit a favourite Newcastle restaurant at a special price.
Meet the Animals at Ouseburn Farm
Just a short walk from Seven Stories is Ouseburn Farm, a free-to-enter working city farm where families can meet animals, explore gardens and learn more about nature, food and growing.
The farm runs regular weekend and school holiday activities, which may include animal-care sessions, pond dipping, seasonal events and children’s workshops. There is also an on-site café where visitors can stop for refreshments.
Entry is free, although donations help support the farm’s charitable and community work.
Walk Along Newcastle Quayside
No summer visit to Newcastle would be complete without a walk along the Quayside.
Enjoy views of the Tyne Bridge and Gateshead Millennium Bridge, watch the boats on the River Tyne or stop for refreshments at one of the Quayside’s cafés, bars and restaurants.
On Sundays, the popular Quayside Market offers food, crafts, gifts and products from local traders.
The Quayside is also a great starting point for walking towards the Ouseburn Valley or crossing the Millennium Bridge to visit attractions on Gateshead Quays.
Escape to Jesmond Dene
For a quieter afternoon, visit Jesmond Dene, a beautiful wooded park following the River Ouseburn.
Families can explore woodland paths, bridges, waterfalls and picnic areas or visit the free Pets’ Corner attraction. There is also a children’s play area and a visitor centre with a café and facilities.
Some paths through the Dene can be steep, although flatter routes are available alongside the river.
Make Newcastle Your Home for the Summer
With free outdoor adventures, interactive museums, children’s storytelling, science attractions, green spaces and some of the region’s best restaurants, Newcastle is an excellent destination for a summer city break.
A Week2Week serviced apartment gives families the space and flexibility to enjoy the city at their own pace, with comfortable living areas, fully equipped kitchens and convenient locations across Newcastle and the surrounding area.
Whether you are following Peter Rabbit across the city, discovering dinosaurs, meeting the animals at Ouseburn Farm or enjoying a meal during Restaurant Week, there is always something new waiting to be explored in Newcastle upon Tyne.
Event dates, opening hours and ticket arrangements may change. We recommend checking the individual attraction websites before travelling.
