INDOOR CLIMBING WATERSPORTS ICE SKATING HIGH ROPES COURSE TEESSIDE WHERE TO GO WHATS ON COMPETITIONS MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk SUMMER 2026
2 raring2go.co.uk 3 Raring2go! Raring2go! Hello! We are thrilled to launch our rst edition as the new editors and are excited to embark on this journey with you! Our mission is to bring you the latest news, updates, and insider tips on all the incredible family entertainment and excursions happening in our area. But we can't do this alone - we need your support! We believe in the power of community and collaboration, which is why we're reaching out to you. We are a dynamic platform where families can discover the best activities, events, and attractions our area has to offer. Whether it's a weekend adventure, a fun day out, or learning experiences, we are your go-to guide! Be the rst to know about exciting new excursions, exclusive discounts, special offers and win FREE family tickets to some of the most sought-after attractions in our area by subscribing to all our social channels and newsletter via www.raring2go.co.uk Become a part of the Raring2go! community. Share your experiences, recommendations, and photos with us by tagging us and getting featured on our social platforms. Let's create a space where we can connect, inspire, and support one another! Nadeem, Ayesha, Mikaail and Jibrael. teesdurham@raring2go.co.uk 07787 584878 /R2gTeesDurham 0333 344 2220 Hello! We hope you are enjoying the sunshine and getting ready for the Summer season! We have a host of family activities that you can attend & enjoy throughout the Summer holidays so keep Raring2go! Magazine by your side. Join us on Instagram to WIN exclusive prizes! So, grab your phone, scan the QR code, and hit that follow button.
Swim Buddies Swim Buddies provides high-quality swimming tuition for children aged 4 to 11 years old in Darlington. They offer both group and one-onone lessons, tailored to each child’s swimming experience and water confidence. All instructors are qualified swimming teachers who provide in-pool guidance to assist children’s swimming progression. Lessons are held at The Education Village and Hummersknott Academy. To book a lesson or learn more, you can visit their website or contact them directly at 0754 9033 546. swimbuddies.co.uk www.swimbuddies.co.uk Education Village, Darlington Hummersknott Academy, Darlington Longfield Academy, Darlington (NEW March 2026) Limited Spaces Available, BOOK NOW lessons for children across Darlington and Teesside 4 raring2go.co.uk 5 Raring2go! LEARN Raring2go! LEARN ARC Stockton Arts Centre, Stockton Fun With Film - Every Sat at 10:15am – all screenings are relaxed Fun With Film is about having fun with your family while you enjoy the wonderful world of cinema together. There are creative and craft activities after the film at no extra cost, so the fun continues after the credits have rolled. Every week we choose a film specially for family audiences, whether that a new release or a title your family already know and love, back for another outing at the big screen. The fun activities after the film have been expertly developed for families to take part in together, so there really is something for all ages. (We know parents love a chance to get creative just as much as their kids.) arconline.co.uk Razz Tots is designed to improve social and motor skills and to provide a secure foundation for little one’s development. Our Classes are structured on a new theme each half term, so the children can build and develop their skills. The class helps children to develop their speaking and listening skills, encourage positive group interaction and increase confidence, all whilst having fun! To register your interest please email Amber at stocktonontees@razzamataz.co.uk. For more details visit: www.razzamataz.co.uk For more ideas checkout the Clubs & Classes section of the Raring2go! website Outdoor Tots at Durham High School Outdoor Tots is a great way for your toddler to have fun, exploring the natural world in a safe and stimulating environment. It is an excellent opportunity for boys and girls aged 1-4 to spend some time exploring outdoors, every Tuesday morning during term time. Places are limited and booking is essential. Tickets are £4 per child. Additional siblings are £2 each. Book a place at dhsfg.org.uk Razz Tots Razz Tots is designed to improve social and motor skills and to provide a secure foundation for little one’s development. “Classes are structured on a new theme each half term, so the children can build and develop their skills” says Rebecca, Principal of Razzamataz Durham. “The class helps them to develop their speaking and listening skills, encourage positive group interaction and increase con dence, all whilst having fun!” To register your interest please email Rebecca at durham@razzamataz.co.uk. For more details visit: www.durham.razzamataz.co.uk NCT Durham Bumps and Babies Tues 10-11.30am £2-3 pay as you can. St Cuthbert's Church Hall, North End, Durham DH1 4NH Walk & Talk Thursdays 10.30-11.30am FREE Various locations please check the Facebook page @NCTDurham or website for details http://www.nct.org.uk/durham Little Dragons at the Oriental Museum, Durham A group for children under 5 and their families. Booking essential. Free entry. Wednesday mornings in the Museum. Packed full of exploring the museum galleries, fun craft activities, singing, games and stories. https://www.dur.ac.uk/oriental.museum/ For more ideas checkout the Clubs & Classes section of the Raring2go! website What’s On for Little Ones Durham page fp Sept 22 copy 2.qxp_Layout 1 09/09/2022 12:35 Page 1 Over 30,000 highly targeted copies delivered! Call 07787 584878 or email teesdurham@raring2go.co.uk now! Stand Out, Grab Attention and Boost Sales!
Raring2go! WHATS ON 6 raring2go.co.uk 7 Raring2go! PLACES2GO What’s On this Summer Wharton Park, Durham Brass Party in the Park (20-year celebration) - Sat 18 Jul, 5pm - 9pm [FREE EVENT] Durham Brass Festival’s Party in the Park returns! Put on your dancing shoes as our street bands bring the party to Wharton Park from 5.00pm to 9.00pm. The fantastic amphitheatre provides a unique way to experience the high energy performances from the amazing street bands we have gathered from across the UK and beyond to perform at this year’s festival. Come rain or shine, this is always an unmissable part of Durham Brass Festival. The HandleBards Theatre Company Perform: ‘As You Like It’ Thursday 13 Aug, 5:30pm. pre-booking required. Pedalling from venue to venue with all their set, props and costumes on the back of their bikes, the HandleBards are a four-strong troupe of actors who are spending the summer bringing a fantastically funny production of Shakespeare’s ‘As You Like It’ to outdoor venues across the UK. durham.gov.uk/whartonpark Stockton Globe, Stockton on Tees KAPOW - Sat 4 Jul, 10am - 4pm [FREE EVENT] KAPOW, the annual family friendly sci-fi festival, is returning to Stockton Globe for 2026! Whether you’re a lifelong sci-fi fan or a newbie, there’s fun to be had for all at this celebration of the extraordinary! Bigger and better than ever, experience KAPOW like you never have before on Saturday 4th July! stocktonglobe.co.uk Seaham Food Festival, Seaham A Great Day out in Seaham - Sat 1 Aug, 10am - 5 pm & Sun 2 Aug, 10am - 4 pm The food festival brings together traders and producers from across the region to sell their delicious treats. Soak up the atmosphere with live music and attractions and buy lots of goodies to take home too. Further information for our 2026 festival is avaialble on our website. seahamfoodfestival.co.uk For more events checkout the ‘What’s On’ and Places2go sections of the Raring2go! website raring2go.co.uk Wharton Park, Durham Event: Summer Brass Concerts - [FREE EVENT] 6 weeks, between 26 July – 30 August 2026. 1pm – 3pm Sunday 26 July – Aycliffe and Brancepeth Colliery Band Sunday 2 August – Pittington Brass Band Sunday 9 August – Craghead Colliery Band Sunday 16 August – Bearpark and Esh Colliery Band Sunday 23 August – Trimdon Brass Band Sunday 30 August – North East Concert Band With support from the Durham Brass Festival, we are pleased to announce the return of our free summer brass concerts. Local bands will perform concerts over 6 weeks on selected Sunday afternoons over the Summer in our park Amphitheatre. We look forward to welcoming a selection of local colliery brass bands who will bring music to the ears of our visitors. The concerts are not to be missed. What better way spend a Sunday afternoon in the park. Pack a picnic, bring a blanket, sit back relax and enjoy the music. We advise visitors to be aware that Wharton Park’s car park will be busier than usual on concert days therefore allow extra time for parking as you may need to find alternative parking. Street parking is available on North Road and Framwellgate Peth between St Cuthbert’s Church and Wharton Park. Durham Park and Ride buses also drop off on North Road. County Hall car park can be used for overflow parking on the concert days. Hardwick Park, Durham Conservation Champions (11-16 years) Mon 27 July – Fri 31 July. 9am – 4pm pre-booking required. Become a Durham Countryside Conservation Champion with our education team this Summer through our park experience aimed at young people aged 11 - 16 years old. Engage in a range of activities exploring the park, discovering new friendships and interests and contribute to looking after the environment within our much-loved Hardwick Park. There will be interactive games, free time, creative activities, as well as conservation tasks to help nurture and develop a love and respect for green spaces. Full week attendance will also earn attendees a Durham Countryside Conservation Champions Certificate whilst attendees attending for a day or two you will become one of our Hardwick Heroes. Hardwick Holiday Club (5-11 years) Mon 3 Aug - Fri 7 Aug. 9am – 4pm. pre-booking required. Join the education team this August for Hardwick Holiday Club. Each day will offer opportunities to explore and discover a range of outdoor adventures whilst making new friends, playing games, and learning new skills. Holiday Club will include a themed morning followed by a free play afternoon. durham.gov.uk/hardwickpark Summer Forest Club (2-6 years) Tuesday 18 August. 1am – 1pm. pre-booking required. Forest Club is a hands-on experience designed to engage children about the natural world around them, aimed at children from approximately 2 to 6 years of age. This workshop takes place in our outdoor learning area. Older siblings are welcome to purchase a ticket to join in but please contact outdoorlearning@durham. gov.uk prior to booking. Outdoor clothing is required durham.gov.uk/hardwickpark
8 raring2go.co.uk 9 Raring2go! PLACES2GO Raring2go! WHATS ON Princess Alexandra Auditorium, Yarm Rapunzel - A Tangled Tale – Sat 1 Aug, 1pm Let your hair down – an adventure awaits! Bursting with catchy songs, high-energy comedy, dazzling visuals and heaps of audience interaction, Rapunzel is a fast, funny and feel-good family show about courage, friendship and following your dreams. Tommy and Tilly’s Magic Castle - Wed 28 Oct, 2pm Join Tommy and Tilly on a thrilling adventure through their enchanted castle, where ghosts giggle, pumpkins dance, and magic is around every corner! Packed with show-stopping songs, dazzling dance routines, jaw-dropping illusions, and plenty of hilarious audience interaction, this is a spellbinding treat for the whole family. thepaaonline.org Theatre Hullabaloo, Darlington Take Flight - 19 & 20 June (0-24 months) Nestle in with us for a gorgeous aerial theatre experience, a captivating, multi-sensory, interactive show that ignites the imagination and curiosity of babies. A story of a mummy bird and her baby bird getting ready to fly the nest! Stay and Play included in the price of your ticket!” theatrehullabaloo.org.uk Hartlepool Town Hall Theatre Goldilocks and the Three Bears! 25 - 27 July The Forum, Northallerton 30 July - 2 August Roll up! Roll up! Fun for all the family is back by popular demand this Summer holidays, after last year’s show that had you rolling in the aisles, AJ Theatrical Productions brings you this year’s Summer Spectacular, Goldilocks and the Three Bears! Enter a world of wonder in Northallerton and Hartlepool this summer, where the Theatres will be transformed into a sensational circuses, where everything is possible and anything could (and will) happen. This Summer Spectacular will be packed with riotous comedy, extraordinary special effects, choreography that will blow your mind, and awe-inspiring circus acts. Darlington Hippodrome, Darlington It’s Not a Game - Starring award-winning Illusionists Jay & Joss – Thur 25 June Jay & Joss are the award-winning illusionists who stunned the judges on Britain’s Got Talent. Now they’re back with a mind-bending new show - a chance to sit back and leave real life behind! In The Night Garden Live - Sat 27 - Sun 28 June Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy, Makka Pakka and friends are back in their fun-filled live show Igglepiggle’s Busy Day! Join Igglepiggle as he looks for his friends in the Night Garden by following their funny sounds until he finds them all! The Cat in the Hat – Fri 3 - Sun 5 July Experience Dr Seuss’ magical story brough to life live on stage. A lively and engaging first theatre experience for young children aged 3+. The Tiger Who Came to Tea – Fri 17 - Sat 18 July Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, singa-long songs and clumsy chaos. Don’t miss this stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem... expect to be surprised! K-Pop All Stars – Sun 2 Aug With a sea of light sticks glowing and the crowd moving as one, you’ll feel the music and the electrifying energy of K-Pop All Stars in this live, immersive experience! The Dinosaur That Pooped - a Rock Show! 2026 – Wed 26 Aug Adapted from the number 1 best-selling books by Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter, the whole family will have a poopy good time enjoying a brand, new story for the stage. Featuring new songs by Tom and Dougie, a lot of laughs and a whole lot of poo! darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk For more events checkout the ‘What’s On’ and Places2go sections of the Raring2go! website raring2go.co.uk What’s on at the Theatre Princess Alexandra Auditorium, Yarm Book today: www.thepaaonline.org 01642 792587 Tommy and Tilly’s Magic Castle Wednesday 28 October, 2pm th Rapunzel - A Tangled Tale Saturday 1 August, st 1pm
10 raring2go.co.uk 11 Raring2go! PLACES2GO Raring2go! WHATS ON Forum Theatre, Billingham Space Explorers Academy - Sun 13 Sep 11 am Calling all Space fans! The Science Museum, in association with the UK Space Agency, has teamed up with Mark Thompson Productions (the creators behind Ministry of Science Live!) to launch a fun-filled theatrical adventure that blasts you on an epic journey around the planets. Created especially for 6-12-year-olds (and the grown-ups who love space just as much!), this high-energy show is packed with big visuals, brilliant storytelling and plenty of cosmic surprises. Whether you’re a future astronaut, a stargazing super-fan or just curious about what’s out there, this is your ticket to an unforgettable trip through space. Strap in. Count down. And get ready to explore the universe. forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk Villians Unleashed - Tue 27 Oct - 1 pm & 4 pm It’s time for the princesses to step aside as the Villains are unleashed! This devilishly fun show brings together all your favourite Villains for the ultimate Halloween party. Losing their magic powers as the screams of Halloween fade away, the Villains plan the perfect Halloween party. Join them as they plot and scheme to conjure up a magical event, guaranteed to make everyone celebrate the most haunting time of year. Prepare to be spellbound with this hour-long show of spine-tingling songs, chilling choreography, and devilish party dances guaranteed to get you trembling in your seats. Dress up in your favourite Halloween costume and if you dare… join the Villains themselves for a FREE meet and greet after the show. Book now, it’s going to be a scream! forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk For more events checkout the ‘What’s On’ and Places2go sections of the Raring2go! website raring2go.co.uk Gala Durham, Durham Toto the Ninja Cat and The Great Snake Escape - Tue 11 to Thur 13 Aug A brand-new family musical for everyone over five. Meet Toto. She might look like an ordinary cat, but she’s no ordinary feline. Almost completely blind, Toto has incredible ninja skills, a big heart, and a nose for adventure. By day, she naps like any other pet… but by night, she’s out on daring missions with her cheeky brother, Silver. In their very first adventure, a deadly King Cobra has escaped onto the streets of London, and it’s up to Toto to use every ounce of her courage and cunning to save the day. Based on Dermot O’Leary’s best-selling children’s book, illustrated by Nick East, this purr-fectly thrilling tale is filled with original music, laugh-out-loud fun, and extraordinary puppetry, promising fun for the whole family. galadurham.co.uk What’s on at the Theatre For everyone over 5 Toto the Ninja Cat and the Great Snake Escape Gala Durham | 11 - 13 August 03000 266 600 | galadurham.co.uk
12 raring2go.co.uk 13 Raring2go! PLACES2GO Raring2go! WHATS ON Football: Grab a ball and head outside! Whether it’s the garden, park or beach, all you need is a few players and makeshift goals! Cricket: A true summer classic. Set up some stumps and enjoy a friendly match. Perfect for parks or garden gatherings. Rounders: Ideal for picnics and BBQs, this easyto-learn game is great for groups of all ages. Tennis: With Wimbledon vibes in the air, dust off those rackets! Visit your local courts or pop up a net in the garden for some tennis fun. Frisbee: From casual throws to a DIY frisbee golf course, it’s simple, energetic and great fun for all. Beach Volleyball: Seaside? Take a volleyball for some sandy fun! No beach? Parks and gardens work equally well too. Water Balloon Toss: Cool off with this laugh-outloud game. Easy to set up and brilliant on a hot day. Just make sure you’re ready to get soaked! Capture the Flag: A team favourite that’s full of energy and excitement. Great for larger groups and wide outdoor spaces. Board Games: Indoors with classics like Uno, Pictionary or Snakes & Ladders. Fun for all ages. Table Tennis or Darts: Set up in a spare room or garage and get a tournament going! Perfect for competitive fun on rainy days. Indoor Obstacle Course: Use cushions, chairs and blankets to create a DIY adventure zone. Great for burning off energy when stuck indoors. Think Gladiators and the ‘Eliminator’.... Balloon Tennis: All you need is a balloon and some makeshift rackets. This is ideal for younger children and totally furniture-friendly. Charades or Heads Up: Get everyone giggling with these silly, fast-paced guessing games. No equipment needed, just imagination and lots of fun filled silly guesses. DIY Craft Challenges: Rainy days are perfect for creativity. Set a timer and theme—like ‘summer animals’ or ‘beach day’ and then let the crafting begin! So much fun and so creative too! No matter what the forecast, all of these games guarantee giggles, bonding and brilliant summer memory making times for the whole family. Top Summer Games for Sun & Showers Make the most of the great British summer no matter what the weather! These games are perfect for keeping everyone entertained. From outdoor classics to rainy-day favourites, there’s something for every kind of weather. Photo by Alfonso Scarpa on Unsplash Discover days out at Durham Cathedral Plan your visit www.durhamcathedral.co.uk Summer Activities: • Join a free family-friendly mini tour and explore the cathedral in a new light, weekdays from 20 July - 31 August • Book a slot to get crafty, designing and creating your own stained glass panel, 23 & 30 July, 6, 13, 20 & 27 August • Pick up a free activity leaet lled with puzzles, and challenges on stained glass, July & August Registered Charity Number: 1205971
14 raring2go.co.uk 15 Raring2go! WHATS ON Raring2go! 1. Durham Cathedral 2. Picnic & pond dipping at Hardwick Park & Lake, Sedgefield 3. Summerhill Country Park, Hartlepool, cycle paths, BMX track, playgrounds & boulders to climb 4. Preston Park Museum (almost free !) & Preston Park near Stockton 5. Angel of the North 6. Climb Roseberry Topping near Guisborough & see the view 7. Walk along the pier at Saltburn, beach, cliff lifts & mini train to enjoy too 8. Explore some Newcastle Art Galleries – try The Laing Art Gallery, The Biscuit Factory or the Baltic Art Museum 9. Visit the Tees Barrage & watch the canoes 10. mima Middlesbrough & enjoy the fountains & giant screen in Centre Square 11. The Great North Museum, Newcastle 12. Climb Auckland Tower in Bishop Auckland and explore the deer park at Auckland Castle 13. Visit Palace Green Library, Durham and explore the Museum of Archaeology. 14. Trains, plane and boats - Take a metro journey round Newcastle - stop off at the Airport to see the planes, Central Station to see the big trains and take the ferry over the Tyne at South Shields (all for the price of a day ticket) 15. Walk along any of the beautiful rivers we have in this area (Durham & Richmond are favourites !) 16. Visit Bollyhope Common above Weardale (on a nice day !) 17. Penshaw Monument near Sunderland 18. Wynyard Woodland Park - adventure playground and walkway. Cycle or walk the Castle Eden Walkway from Thorpe Thewles. 19. Explore the North York Moors. Follow the Trails at Danby and Sutton Bank Visitor's Centres 20. Walk the Durham Coastal Path 21. RSPB Saltholme 22. Visit the Oriental Museum in Durham 23. Kirkleatham Museum & Grounds, Redcar 24. See the trains at Locomotion, Shildon 25. The Dorman Museum & Albert Park in Middlesbrough 26. The Capt Cook Birthplace Museum & meet the animals in the petting zoo at Stewart Park in Middlesbrough 27. South Park in Darlington 28. Visit Wharton Park in Durham City, enjoy the playground and gardens and watch the trains coming over the bridge into Durham Station 29. Walk the riverside & paths around Richmond & visit The Station for an ice cream 30. Riverside Park in Chester le Street. LOW COST CHILD FRIENDLY PLACES TO EXPLORE Preston Park Museum & Grounds Oriental Museum Please do email me your favourite days out ideas to Alison teesdurham@raring2go.co.uk so we can share them with other parents ! FREE (or almost free) in the North East Summer Staycation Inspiration Wordsearch: 1. ROALD DAHL - THE BFG 2. JULIA DONALDSON - THE GRUFFALO 3. JK ROWLING - HAPPY POTTER 4. JEFF KINNEY - WIMPY KID 5. FRANCESCA SIMON Types of Book: A=2 B=4 C=3 D=1 ROALD DAHL THE GRUFFALO JULIA DONALDSON WIMPY KID JK ROWLING HORRID HENRY JEFF KINNEY THE BFG FRANCESCA SIMON HARRY POTTER Can you draw a line between the Author and their character? Then find all of the words in the wordsearch above. • CHOOSE A RANDOM LETTER • START A 30 SECOND TIMER • FILL IN THE ANSWERS BELOW USING WORDS THAT BEGIN WITH YOUR CHOSEN LETTER SCATTEGORIES An author A fiction book A comic-book Character E.G. Roald Dahl E.G. Rainbow Magic E.G. Robin Robin C. AUTO BIOGRAPHY A. FICTION 4. A made up story B. NON-FICTION D. BIOGRAPHY 2. A true story or facts 1. Written about someone elses life 3. Written about someones own life Do you know what each of these kinds of books mean? Draw a line to the correct description and the book type
16 raring2go.co.uk 17 Raring2go! HEALTH Raring2go! HEALTH
18 raring2go.co.uk 19 Raring2go! PLACES2GO Raring2go! WHATS ON THE Answers at the bottom of the page. No cheating. READING AND BOOKS 1 Name the race of small people who help Willy Wonka operate his factory in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory? 2 Who wrote the book that follows the antics of Peter Rabbit as he is chased about the garden of Mr. McGregor? 3 Who lives in a children's residential care home nicknamed "The Dumping Ground"? 4 Which fantasy novel by Mary Norton features a family of tiny people who live secretly in the walls and floors of an English house? 5 What sort of food does Paddington Bear like? 6 The White Witch who rules Narnia made it always winter but never what? 7 First published in 1969, complete the title of Eric Carle's book "The Very Hungry ....."? 8 Sophie uses her local knowledge to take the BFG to which location in London? 9 Who has a younger brother called Perfect Peter in a series of books written by Francesca Simon? 10 Harry Potter learns he is a wizard on his birthday when he becomes what age? ANSWERS: 1. Oompa-Loompas • 2. Beatrix Potter (The Tale of Peter Rabbit) • 3. Tracy Beaker (by Jacqueline Wilson) 4. The Borrowers • 5. Marmalade • 6. Never Christmas 7. Caterpillar • 8. Buckingham Palace (The BFG by Roald Dahl) • 9. Horrid Henry • 9. 11
20 raring2go.co.uk 21 Raring2go! PLACES2GO Raring2go! LEARN www.northernrailway.co.uk To check train times, book tickets and download the app visit We’re celebrating 200 years of the modern railway and here is where the story began. On 27th September 1825, The Stockton & Darlington Railway opened connecting places, people, communities, ideas and ultimately transforming the world. The Bishop Line is part of the original route so it’s bursting with history and packed with exciting attractions and places to explore. Catching the train on the Bishop Line is a great way to see the full story. You can even explore more of the region and its heritage if you continue east on the train to Saltburn. Don’t wait for the next centenery. Explore the Bishop Line this summer! Auckland Palace Ideal for families, with three new gardens and 150-acres of parkland to explore, plus family fun activities during the summer holidays. Locomotion Enjoy a free day out like no other in Shildon, the world’s first railway town! From legendary locomotives to exciting events and exhibitions, experience an unforgettable day out for the whole family. Darlington Hippodrome Boasts a beautiful 1000-seat auditorium hosting hit touring musicals, thrilling star-studded dramas, top stand-up comedy, world-class dance and electrifying live music. There’s something to suit every taste! The Hullabaloo The only purpose-built theatre for children north of London featuring world-class shows, creative playscapes, storytelling and messy play. There’s a cosy story corner, café, outdoor play area and a Changing Places Toilet. Hopetown Darlington Explore Darlington’s pioneering railway heritage at the North East’s award-winning railway-themed visitor attraction, experience Experiment! the exciting time travel immersive experience ride and then jump aboard the steam train ride! This Summer take the Bishop Line to where the story of the railways began... Weardale Railway Ride the rails of history on this 18-mile line from Bishop Auckland through beautiful Weardale to Wolsingham and Stanhope. www.bishopline.org Scan the QR code to start planning your adventure!
22 raring2go.co.uk 23 Raring2go! Raring2go! FIT2GO! One of the simplest yet most fulfilling ways to enjoy the warm weather is by heading out for a family walk. Whether it’s a peaceful stroll through a local park, a woodland adventure, or a coastal wander along the beach, summer walks offer unforgettable memory making moments for families to bond and recharge. With the sun shining and the days stretching longer, nature comes alive in vibrant colour. Trees are full and green, flowers bloom in bright vivid bursts and the hum of insects and birdsong fills the air. It is an ever-changing outdoor playground that invites curiosity and wonder, especially for children. Each walk becomes a new journey where kids can learn about wildlife, spot butterflies or even collect nature’s treasures like pebbles, feathers and leaves. Family walks in summer aren’t just about sightseeing. They’re a chance to unplug from screens, share conversations and really boost physical health. Walking is a gentle and low impact activity suitable for all ages and fitness levels. It promotes heart health, reduces stress and has been proven as a great way to uplift mood. It’s perfect for both grown-ups and little ones alike. To make the most of your summer strolls, plan your outings for early mornings or cooler evenings when the sun isn’t too intense. Take plenty of water, wear light and breathable clothing and don’t forget the sunscreen and hats! You can make your walk more fun by turning it into a game like a nature scavenger hunt, see who can spot the most birds, or create a story as you go. Best of all, regular family walks can become a cherished ritual; something everyone looks forward to. They create deeper connections, lasting memories and remind us to appreciate the little things that the summer months so generously offers. So this summer, lace up your shoes, grab the family and take a walk. Adventure, laughter and sunshine await just outside your door. Step Into Summer: The Joy and Pleasure of Family Walks in the Sunshine of Summer There’s something magical about summer that makes it the perfect season to slow down, step outside and reconnect with the ones you love. Photo by Emma Van Sant on Unsplash Strap it. Snap it. Roam anywhere. 25% OFF RoamSmartTracker.com Built in Elastic Strap No Subscriptions Over 1-Year Battery Life IP67 Waterproof Made with recyclable plastic Sustainable design innovation Only When Using QR Code +Free Shipping Code: Raring2GoFreeShip
24 raring2go.co.uk 25 Raring2go! Adventure & play parks Adventure Valley- Durham • Indoor & outdoor play areas • Animal feeding, tractor rides • Great for full-day visits. Druridge Bay Country Park • Large play area with zip wires and climbing equipment. • Right next to a lake and close to the beach. • Ideal for a full day of play, walking, and picnics. Easy scenic days North Yorkshire Moors Railway • Steam trains through countryside • Feels like stepping into a storybook. Durham Cathedral • Impressive but still accessible with kids. • Combine with riverside walks and ice cream. Newcastle Castle & Castle Keep • Climb to the top of Newcastle Castle. • Amazing panoramic views over the city and river. • A mix of history and scenery in one stop. Tynemouth Beach • Easy access, great for rock pooling • Nearby fish & chips + cafés. • Often has a weekend market. Hamsterley Forest • Bike trails, play areas, Gruffalo sculptures. • Great for picnics and den-building. Seaton Sluice • The beach is huge so isn't quieter than bigger beaches. We are lucky up here as all our beaches are enormous and quiet! • Combine with a trip to Seaton Delaval Hall (National Trust). . Kielder Water & Forest Park • England’s largest forest and location of the largest man-made lake in Northern Europe. Perfect for big outdoor adventures • Family-friendly cycling trails, play areas, sailing and lakeside walks. Home to the famous Kielder Observatory for unforgettable stargazing. The North-East of England is fantastic for family days out, loads of variety, from castles and beaches to hands-on museums. With so many fantastic places to explore across the North-East, this is just a snapshot of what you can discover. For even more family-friendly ideas, head over to the Raring2go! website. Family Days Out in the North East Interactive museums Locomotion- Shildon • Huge trains, interactive exhibits. • Plenty of space for kids to explore. • Free entry. Life Science Centre- Newcastle • Hands-on science experiments. • Planetarium & live demos. • Great rainy-day option. National Museum of the Royal Navy Hartlepool • Climb aboard a historic ship. •Interactive exhibits make it fun. Animals & wildlife Tynemouth Aquarium • Sharks, penguins & much more • Easy to combine with the beach. Whitehouse Farm Centre- Morpeth • Petting animals + big play zones • Great for younger children. Northumberland Zoo • Home to a fantastic mix of animals including lemurs, meerkats, etc. • Regular keeper talks and feeding times plus opportunities for animal experiences.
26 raring2go.co.uk 27 Raring2go! HEALTH Raring2go! HEALTH WHO’S IN DANGER IN THIS SCENE? SEE IF YOU CAN SPOT ALL14 DANGERS AND USE YOUR SAFETY KNOWLEDGE TO MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A GREAT TIME EVERY TIME YOU VISIT THE BEACH WHO IS SAFE IN THIS SCENE AND WHO ISN’T? SEE IF YOU CAN SPOT ALL 13 DANGERS AND USE YOUR SAFETY KNOWLEDGE TO MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A GREAT TIME EVERY TIME YOU’RE AT THE HARBOUR
28 raring2go.co.uk 29 Raring2go! HEALTH Raring2go! FIT2GO 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 People near cliff edge playing football Man fishing without lifejacket Boy in the water in a non-lifeguarded area Man looking at phone, about to step on jellyfish Swimmer heading for rocks People stranded on sandbank Surfers in swim area – man also falling off Storm approaching Person looking very cold Girl being pulled away in a rip current Man with sunburn Lost child Man asleep on inflatable being pulled out on tide – about to be hit by watercraft Boy with hand in air – in trouble in watercraft area 8 9 11 10 12 13 14 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Children playing with public rescue equipment Person stranded on rock Kids crabbing and sitting too close to edge Big wave could wash people off wall Kid jumping off wall (tombstoning) People in boat with no lifejackets Boy falling out of boat Man struggling in strong current 8 9 10 Swimmer looks very cold Dangerous rubbish in water Boy going in after his dog Child in water about to be hit by big wave Man on phone not paying attention 11 12 13 Outstanding GCSE results: 96.7% of grades were 9-4 (A*-C). Far above the North East averages (64.9%) Scan now to book your place at our Open Morning Come and discover the Red House Difference: T E redhouseschool.co.uk Independent School | Norton 01642 558119 admissions@redhouseschool.co.uk Open Morning Saturday 26 September Ranked in the category ‘top independent secondary schools * with no sixth form’. Fees remain lower than any other independent ** school for children aged 3-16 in Teesside. Data sourced: June 2026. At Red House School in Norton, we believe small is our strength. We provide an exceptional education where children thrive and a unique family atmosphere where every child is known and valued. + Senior School: 9am Arrival + Nursery & Junior School: 9.30am Arrival Best in the North Sunday Times ‘Parent Power’ 2026* Lowest fees in Teesside**
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