Here’s a round up of some of the events and activities taking place within an hour’s drive of Sunderland.
5. Chinese Zodiac Animal Trail, Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens
Discover the meanings behind the Chinese New Year animals as you explore the Museum and Winter Gardens with a Chinese Zodiac Animal Trail, running until February 24. Claim a themed sticker when you hand in your completed trail. £1 per trail / No booking required. Photo: Stu Norton
6. Bright Lights, Arts Centre Washington, until March 2
Arts Centre Washington’s annual Youth Arts Exhibition, Bright Lights showcases some of the most exciting artwork by young people aged between 11-19 years in Washington and the Sunderland Area. It's running until March 2. Free entry. Photo: submitted
7. The National Glass Centre activities
There's a host of National Glass Centre activities over the holidays including Pattern Making, Sandcasting in Cat, Fish and Owl shapes, Glass Painting, make your own Stained Glass Window Cards of Sunderland Landmarks and Fused Glass Artwork sessions. See the NGC website for more. Photo: Kevin Brady
8. Bear Hunt, Plotters Forest, Raby Castle, County Durham
Between 18th to 26th February, Raby Castle, near Barnard Castle, will be hosting a brand-new children’s Bear Hunt Trail in the Plotters’ Forest adventure playground. With hints and tips along the way, children will love finding out all about the world’s favourite bears. Pre-booking on www.raby.co.uk/whats-on is advised. Photo: national world