We’ve rounded up some great places to visit in and around Sunderland and South Tyneside if you’re looking for ways to keep the kids entertained during the holidays.
. Fun things to do with the kids
Fun things to do with the kids this summer Photo: collage
. Nelsam, Washington
North East Land Sea and Air Museum has reopened after lockdown. It's introduced a number of social distancing measures in order to adhere to government guidelines which includes hand sanitising stations, signs encouraging two metre distances, regular cleaning and doors being kept open to avoid contact. Check out some fantastic vehicles and aircraft, some of which date back to the site's wartime history as RAF Usworth. Pictured here is Jack Berry, 13, who was one of the first customers back post covid, with Maisie Jones, eight. Photo: Stu Norton
. Sunderland Culture activities
Sunderland Culture has programmed six weeks of exciting arts activity to encourage Wearside families to get outside and explore the wildlife and outdoor spaces on our doorstep. Inspired by Sunderland Museum and Winter Garden’s natural history and art collection, the programme features a range of themes including plants and gardens, rivers and seas, castles and outdoor photography. There's a different theme and activity each week of the holidays. View the programme at https://sunderlandculture.org.uk/summer-family-programme/ Photo: stock photo
. Finchale Priory
Just outside Sunderland, en route to Durham, Finchale Priory is a beautifully tranquil spot, despite only being a short drive off the A690. Entry is free to wander the remains of this 13th century priory, founded on the site of a retired pirate's hermitage. There's also a great woodland walk to do following the path of the river. Photo: JPI Media
. Down At The Farm, near Houghton
A raft of new safety precautions such as a one-way system have been introduced at Down at the Farm, near Houghton, to ensure customers can maintain social distancing. There's plenty to do at the interactive farm whose attractions include donkeys, alpacas, emus and meerkats. Book on line to go before 2pm. There is some capacity for visitors to pay at the gate after 2pm. It's open every day until August 31. Photo: JPI Media
. Washington Wetlands Centre
WWT Washington is back open, but to help keep people safe they're limiting the number of people who can visit on any one day and you will need to book. Bookings open every Wednesday morning at 9am for the following week, and you need to book before midnight the day before you’d like to visit. Events which would involve people gathering are cancelled, but you can self explore the host of wildlife at the reserve. Photo: Submitted
. Miniature Railway, South Marine Park, South Shields
The much-loved miniature railway in South Marine Park, which dates back to 1972, is taking passengers once more. It's the only public, steam working 9 1/2 inch gauge railway in the UK. Head to nearby Toney Minchella @ the park for a light lunch afterwards. Photo: Stu Norton
5. Washington Wetlands Centre
WWT Washington is back open, but to help keep people safe they're limiting the number of people who can visit on any one day and you will need to book. Bookings open every Wednesday morning at 9am for the following week, and you need to book before midnight the day before you’d like to visit. Events which would involve people gathering are cancelled, but you can self explore the host of wildlife at the reserve. Photo: Submitted
6. Miniature Railway, South Marine Park, South Shields
The much-loved miniature railway in South Marine Park, which dates back to 1972, is taking passengers once more. It's the only public, steam working 9 1/2 inch gauge railway in the UK. Head to nearby Toney Minchella @ the park for a light lunch afterwards. Photo: Stu Norton
7. Wearside Sculpture Trail
An underrated attraction in Sunderland, the Wearside Sculpture Trail follows the path of the Wear as it meanders inland. Look out for a host of public artworks along the way, including the Red House, the Books of Knowledge and more. Photo: JPI Media
8. Jarrow Hall
Jarrow Hall Anglo-Saxon Farm and Village reopened on Saturday July 18, with the site’s Bede Museum to follow at a later date. Those hoping to visit the site will have to book a timed slot online prior to attending. Photo: TIM RICHARDSON