Our Favourite Parks

Hi Everyone,

The summer holidays are fast approaching so we want to help you all have an amazing time, as we're all definitely due a bit of fun. Since we love to be outdoors we thought we'd start with some of our favourite parks. Not only are parks brilliant for a wide range of age groups they have the added benefit of being free so win win. The parks listed below all have toilet facilities on site 😃

Our top pics are:

SALTWELL PARK

We love this park it had two fantastic play areas, a boating lake, train, lots of wildlife and a cafe.

https://notboredoutdoors.blogspot.com/2020/02/hi-everyone-saltwell-park-has-to-be-one.html?m=1

CARLISLE PARK

We love to visit here with its play areas that are spread out, beautiful river walks, boats, lots of places to grab a bite and ice cream.

https://notboredoutdoors.blogspot.com/2021/04/carlisle-park.html?m=1

BARNES PARK

This is a smaller park but we love the play areas and the lovely duck pond. Its a great place to ride a bike or scooter.

https://notboredoutdoors.blogspot.com/2020/10/barnes-park-sunderland.html?m=1

TYNE GREEN PARK

Again this is a beautiful park with lots of green space, lovely river walks and a very well equipped play area.

https://notboredoutdoors.blogspot.com/2020/07/tyne-green-park.html?m=1

RICHARDSON-DEES PARK

The play area here is fantastic, with lots of green space, woodland walks and trails. There is a skate park and cafe. This is a very good park for all the family.

https://notboredoutdoors.blogspot.com/2021/09/richardson-dees-park.html?m=1

DERWENT WATERSIDE PARK

We really enjoy coming here it always feels more like a day trip then just going to the park. The play area is superb and the views are breathtaking. It also has the benefit of stunning walks around the reservoir to. There is a cafe and gift shop.

https://notboredoutdoors.blogspot.com/2020/07/derwent-waterside-park.html?m=1

Don't forget to check out https://notboredoutdoors.blogspot.com for more ideas

South Lakes Safari Zoo (Re-Up)

Hi everyone,

On Sunday 25th August 2019, we were lucky enough to visit South Lakes Safari Zoo and take part in a number of their animal experiences, which were amazing and insightful. 

Firstly we met and fed the female Kordofan Giraffes, these are absolutely beautiful and the whole experience was amazing. Seeing the giraffes using their long black tongues to reach out and take the food from our hands was spectacular.

We then moved onto feeding the ringtail and rough Lemurs which were the most gentlest animals we have ever met. They were holding onto our hands whilst taking the food, such a surreal moment. 

By far the most unique experience we have ever had was hand feeding the mother and son Jaguars Bonita and Remi. This was absolutely amazing, to see these animals up close and personal really helps you to appreciate their size and beauty. This is something we will never forget. 

Unfortunately all these animals are classified as Endangered or criticality endanger in the wild due to deforestation, hunting and the tourist trade in their native countries. This is such a shame for any creature let alone gorgeous ones like these. 

We finished the day by feeding the Humboldts Penguins. These little ones like their food and will surround you in an instant but we didn't mind as they are lovely. 

The Safari Zoo in general is fantastic. Unlike other zoos we have visited, this one feels very relaxed and open. It feels more like you are part of the animals world rather than viewing them inside an enclosure. The staff are very friendly and welcoming. Their knowledge is extraordinary and you can see they are extremely passionate about their job. 

As well as pre-booking animal experiences as we have detailed above, there are many opportunities throughout the day to feed and interact with the animals and keepers. 

The zoo is open year round with the exception of Christmas day. It is very reasonably priced but they also have offers available on the door if you purchase a map for £1 or book online to save 20% using the link below. 

https://www.southlakessafarizoo.com/online-safari-saver/

Overall this was a unbelievable and unforgettable trip. We would thoroughly recommend anyone to go and support this fantastic zoo with the work that they are doing whilst making family memories that will last a lifetime. Here are some photos and videos from our time there.

Alton Towers

 Hi Everyone,

We had an amazing time at Alton Towers  yesterday. We particularly enjoyed the new World of David Walliams zone, we would definitely recommend a visit to any fans of his out there.

Our youngest was able to ride Thirteen for the first time which she absolutely loved and we managed to ride most of the rides on our visit and have a trip to the dungeons so happy kids and adults at the end of the day. 

There are a few new retro rides at the park this year which were alot of fun, and the 80s rock tunes went down a treat.

The park was very busy so please do bare this mind if you plan a visit and are worried about covid. We managed to avoid most of the big crowds using the app but there are some points where this isn't possible.

#altontowers #familyfun #choochoo #screamifyouwanttogofaster #davidwalliams #theworldofdavidwalliams

Twycross Zoo

 Hi Everyone,

We've had a lovely day at Twycross Zoo . We were lucky enough to see many animals playing and having fun including orangutans, gorillas, chimps and giraffes to name a few.

As well as animals there are also play parks including a splash zone, food out let's, soft play and gift shop. Parking is onsite and free.

Twycross is also free for children who have a Blue Peter badge so definitely work checking that out if you plan a visit:

https://www.notboredoutdoors.co.uk/2020/04/blue-peter-badge.html

Richardson Dee's Park

 Hi Everyone,

We enjoyed a lovely day at Richardson Dee's Park today. We love how vast the park is with so much space to explore. There is a fabulous play area, skate park, cafe, toilets, gym, ponds, and tennis courts to enjoy also. This park is very easy to get to by car or metro (kids currently travel free on the metro) and ideal for a fun free family day out.

There is also a wonderful gluten free bakery close by #thelilytreebakery which we definitely recommend. It's about a 5 minute drive from the park.

You can read our full review from a previous visit here:

https://www.notboredoutdoors.co.uk/2020/06/richardson-dees-park.html

#richardsondeespark #northtyneside #freefamilyfun #kidsfreeonthemetro #parkdays #notboredoutdoors

St Mary's Lighthouse Rock Pools

 Hi Everyone,

We had a lovely morning exploring the rock pools and watching the many seals at St Mary's Island today. 

It's a gorgeous place to visit with plenty to keep you entertained for a good few hours at least. Nets and buckets can be purchased at the light house (£2 large net upto £2 for a bucket) or there are vans in the car park selling them to if you don't have your own. All day parking was only £3 so it really is a very cheap day out. There are toilets in the car park and plenty of food vans dotted about also.

Life Centre

Hi Everyone,

We visited the centre for life in Newcastle yesterday. It was our first visit in what feels likes years so we were very excited to go.

We took the metro taking advantage of the kids travel for free offer:

https://www.notboredoutdoors.co.uk/2021/07/kids-go-free-on-metro-and-shieids-ferry.html

We bought our Life tickets online, £30.50 for a family of four. We spent over five hours on the entre so we'd definitely say it's good value for money.

We has a fabulous time we took in a science show and two planatatium shows which were amazing. We got hands on making windmills and conducting science experiments.

Our favourite part of this visit was the space exhibition, they have everything from an international space station to a NASA control room with so many fascinating and interactive activities. We captured some beautiful photos of our time there to.

Running along side this is a Lego exhibition which is really cool and the lots of hands on activities in the brain zone.

We had almost forgot how wonder the science centre is and would whole heartedly recommend a visit.

North East Retro Den Arcade

 Hi everyone,

Yesterday we went along to the GEEK-tastic, North East Retro Den Arcade (NERD we seen what you did there) in Felling, Gateshead. It is most definitely a gem of an arcade. With tickets at a ridiculously cheap £5 per hour you'll get unlimited turns on classic arcade games including The Simpsons, Silent Scope, Tekken and Mortal Kombat to name a few. You can even add another hour for only £3!

We did not stop throughout the hour we had there jumping from game to game which kept the younger kids and the older kids (that remembers these games being released) entertained. All with no need to find another £1 for an extra life!

We even found out that you can hire the arcade for your special events, we can imagine some brilliant birthday parties taking place here. In line with this they also have a number of events going on throughout the year including NERD Fright Fest this October in the Boiler Shop, Newcastle. We'll certainly be checking this out and you never know we may just have something special planned for a lucky few 😉.

These guys really do have a passion for video games and it shows with the unreal amount of collectables, memorabilia and toys which are on sale in the shop and through the following website:

 www.gloriouslygeek.com

All in all a fantastic place, with very friendly staff, where you can easily spend a couple of fun filled hours with the whole family.

Give them a follow on Facebook to keep up with all things NERD-y

https://www.facebook.com/Northeastretroden/

#northeastretroden #nerdden #gloriouslygeek #retrogaming #familyfun #notboredoutdoors

Free Summer Parks Events

 Hi Everyone,

South Tynesides FREE Summer Parks Events kicks off today, Wed 4th Aug with children's entertainer Kendrick at Cornthwaite Park at

2:00pm to 2:45pm and 3:00pm to 3:45pm.

There is a whole host of different free events throughout the parks in South Tyneside, including children's entertainment, theatre shows and live music. You can find the full list in the link below:

Free Summer Parks Events List

TAG X Batley

 Hi Everyone,

We had our visit to TAG X yesterday in Batley, Kirklees yesterday. The drive from South Shields was about two hours and it was definitely worth the trip.

When we arrived we saw the biggest play frame we've ever seen. The TAG X arena is a sort of mix between a ninja warrior assault course and a soft play. In other words lots of FUN!

The object of TAG X is to activate lights around the arena with your wrist band. The lights are coloured coded and worth different points for levels of difficulty. The player with the most points at the end wins the game. 

There are three zones with 22 different challenges throughout. Initially we would have said some challenges are more to bigger kids/adults but our 9 year old absolutely wipes the floor with us, reaching tags we couldn't haha.

As a family we had so much fun. There are just so many elements in the arena. Challenges like the giant ball cage, climbing frames, crawling tubes, cargo nets, warped wall, spider wall, mirror maze... the list goes on. Even if you can't conquer each element it's fun to have a go and try the next one. There's scoring pads positioned everywhere so no matter what your age or physical fitness you should be able to play.

A team member from Tag X  is in each Zone with you so if you need any help or encouragement they are there to assist. We have to say they staff all seemed very friendly and really were good at giving us all encouragement.

There are a few rules for TAG X you need to be at least 8 years old and over 1.2 meters to enter the arena. Long sturdy clothes are recommended. 

For the littler ones, There is a rather fab looking soft play in the same room as the arena so perfect if you have a younger and older child.

The price of TAG X is amazing it's only £8 for a single or a group ticket for 4 is only £24. We thought this is amazing value.

There is a cafe in the centre serving a range of food and drinks which makes it a perfect place to relax if you don't want to participate in either Tag X or the softplay. They have lockers and toilet facilities in this area to. There is also a large onsite car park which serves not only the Tag X arena but the leisure centre that it is attached too. 

For more info and to book follow the link:

TAG X Batley

Unlock the Magic of Disney

 Hi Everyone,

The metrocentre is running the unlock the magic of Disney competition again this year. This is a trail of 300 Micky Mouse stickers to find around the shopping centre. As you find each sticker you need to scan the QR code with your smart phone to unlock prizes. These range from discounts to a trip to Disneyland Paris 🤞

We always have a lot of fun doing this challenge and our daughter gets so excited finding the stickers and seeing what rewards she unlocks. We usually try to collect them all over a few visits as 300 is alot for one trip! We've always found it a fun way to spend a rainy afternoon or morning. 

https://themetrocentre.co.uk/whats-on/events/unlock-the-magic-of-disney

Screen on the Green

 Hi Everyone,

Here's the full timetable of movies you can watch for FREE at Newcastle's Screen on the Green. Located outside Old Eldon Square.

Screen on the Green Schedule

 This is one of our favourite things to do over summer. It combines our love of the outdoors with our love of movies. What's even better is with it being free you can definitely get that bigger bag of popcorn 🍿

#screenonthegreen #newcastle @notboredoutdoors

Gearing up for a day of Family Fun at The Tour Series

Hi Everyone,

"Sunderland is saddling up for a fun day out for all the family when cycling's elite visit the city next month.

Circus Skills workshops, stunt cycling displays, children's shows and a walkabout magician are just some of the fun activities lined up for families to enjoy when Sunderland plays host to the second round of the Tour Series professional cycling on the afternoon of Tuesday 10 August.

A whole afternoon of free family fun will begin at 12 noon in the city centre's Mowbray Park, ahead of the races starting at 5.30pm, so why not come along and join us?

Families can enjoy a Princess and Superhero show,  free face painting, fun bubble shows throughout the park,  a climbing wall, local musicians and food and drink concessions. Everyone Active will also be providing a cycle themed programme including spin bikes and cycle watt challenge.

Launched in 2009, the televised Tour Series sees Britain’s best male and female riders compete against each other in a unique, team-based format as part of a day of sporting and community-focused activities.

British sporting heroes, including several Olympians and Tour de France riders have competed in the series during its history and nearly two million fans have watched a round.  

Family activities in the park will run from 12 noon until 5pm followed by the Women's Race at 5.30.pm, the Men's Race at 7pm and the podium presentation at 8.15pm"

To see the full timetable of events and more info follow the below link:

https://www.mysunderland.co.uk/article/19215/Tour-Series-2021

FREE Go North East Depot Open Day

Hi Everyone,

Tomorrow, Sunday, 25 July, between 10am and 4pm Go North East, will be hosting  a FREE entry open day event at their Riverside Gateshead depot along  with the nearby Metrocentre Bus Rally. They are offering a free shuttle bus service linking the two sites. 

There will be a selection of stalls at the event, where you can buy all things Go North East and bus related.

"No parking is available on site, but the Metrocentre is serviced by frequent buses from across the region, including the frequent X66 bus from Gateshead Interchange that also passes the Riverside depot."

For more info visit:

https://www.gonortheast.co.uk/go-north-east-host-open-day-event-gateshead-riverside-depot-sunday

Free Breathtaking Days Out

Hi Everyone,

Here are our top five picks for breathtaking days out. These are all places that have the most beautiful scenery and make you feel like you've travelled to an exotic destination without heading to the airport. What's even better is they are all free to visit (parking charges may apply). Click the links to read our full reviews.

ROSEBERRY TOPPING

You will feel like you're on top of the world when you reach the peek of this magnificent hill. It's not only a beautiful view from the top but also has the most stunning scenery all the way up. 

ROSEBERRY TOPPING REVIEW

BRIMHAM ROCKS

It almost feels like you are in a different world here. The scenery is just sureal. Whether you climb to the top of the highest rocks or observe the beauty from the ground you're sure to have a great time.

BRIMHAM ROCKS REVIEW

WHARTON PARK

This park offers spectacular views of Durham including the cathedral. We would definitely recommend a visit as it has a little something for everyone to enjoy.

WHARTON PARK REVIEW

FINCHALE PRIORY

The ruins of the priory are set within wonderful grounds, including a stunning river and woods. Plenty of amazing sights to see and explore.

FINCHALE PRIORY REVIEW

BOWLEES AND HIGHFORCE WATERFALLS

Waterfalls are just so magical  and these two are no exception. You can enjoy gorgeous walks in the beautiful countryside to reach the top of Highforce. It's hard to believe that you can visit these awesome falls so close to home.

BOWLEES AND HIGHFORCE REVIEWIEW

As always please feel free to check out our ULTIMATE ACTIVITY LIST for even more ideas.

Wonky Olympics And Much More At The Discovery Museum

 Hi Everyone,

There's absolutely loads going on at the Discovery Museum in Newcastle this summer. From free drop in session to crafts and experiments starting at £5.50. 

We are particularly keen to check out the Wonky Olympics, as like many others we missed out on enjoying sports day as a family so this seems like a very fun alternative.

"Wed 4th Aug

Wonky Olympics Free drop in 11am - 3pm ages 4 - 12 (any age can join in)

Two hapless PE teachers have decided to recreate the Olympic Games - with some cones, hula hoops - and a  tiny megaphone.

This free family event at Discovery Museum is silly fun for kids and adults - a comedic act that'll get you moving. Expect to have a crack at assault courses and get fit, while smiling. "

Check out the huge list of activities available at The Discovery Museum here:What's On At The Discovery Museum

📸 Discovery Museum

Alnwick Garden Kids Go Free

 Hi Everyone,

There's an amazing offer from The Alnwick Garden at the moment, children under the age of 16 can visit completely free with a paying adult. What's better is this offer is valid for upto 4 children per adult, which is fantastic for larger families. 

The Alnwick Garden is a truly wonderful place to visit and we as a family have spent many happy days there over the years. We love how it changes over the seasons, it is simply stunning.

For more information visit: The Alnwick Garden

Farmyard Flyers Preston Park Museum

 Hi Everyone,

Visit Preston Park Museum on Sundays from 25th July to 29th August to see their pop up farm yard curiosity of Farmyard Flyer. You can meet alpacas, goats, rabbits, guinea pigs, ducks and hens.

This is a drop in event and you will need a museum ticket to visit the farm, which you can purchase upon arrival. If you already have a museum pass, don't forget to bring it with you. A family ticket for 2 adults + 3 children costs £15 and can be used for unlimited visits for a year. Which is really good value. If you haven't visited before the museum is similar to Beamish just on a smaller scale. 

Preston park grounds is home to a absolutely massive play park and butterfly world so you could definitely make this a full day out.

Outdoor fun ideas

Hi Everyone,

What beautiful weather we are having ☀️ perfect for some outdoor fun.

Here are our top 6 pics for wonderful days out. We know the summer can be expensive so we've stuck to one for each week of the holidays.

BROOM HOUSE FARM

A fantastic woodland adventure set in the grounds of a lovely little farm. This one is fun for adults and kids alike.

https://www.notboredoutdoors.co.uk/2021/04/broom-house-farm.html

NINJA WARRIOR UK

This is so much fun and is a great challenge for adults and kids. Our girls have asked to come back here so many times since our last visit.

https://www.notboredoutdoors.co.uk/2020/11/ninja-warrior-uk-stoke.html

TREE TOP TREK WINDERMERE

Lots of fun for both kids and adults set in the most beautiful location. There are high and low ropes courses, GIANT zip lines, nets and much much to be enjoyed here.

https://www.notboredoutdoors.co.uk/2020/10/treetoptrek-windermere-review.html

KNOWSLEY SAFARI PARK

We love visiting here, there are so many animals to enjoy, a fun fair and has the added benefit of being a drive through if you want to avoid crowds.

https://www.notboredoutdoors.co.uk/2019/06/knowsley-safari-park.html

TYNEMOUTH PARK

This is a brilliant area with a fabulous maze, golf and giant inflatables. 

https://www.notboredoutdoors.co.uk/2021/04/tynemouth-park.html

SOUTH LAKES SAFARI ZOO

This is one of our favourite places to visit. We love how close we can get to the animals and have enjoyed many of the animal experiences.

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=756175354801828&id=674273372992027

Don't forget to check out our ULTIMATE ACTIVITY LIST for even more ideas

https://www.notboredoutdoors.co.uk/2020/08/ultimate-activities-list-august-2020.html

Top Parks

 Hi Everyone,

The summer holidays are fast approaching so we want to help you all have an amazing time, as we're all definitely due a bit of fun. Since we love to be outdoors we thought we'd start with some of our favourite parks. Not only are parks brilliant for a wide range of age groups they have the added benefit of being free so win win. The parks listed below all have toilet facilities on site 😃

Our top pics are:

SALTWELL PARK

We love this park it had two fantastic play areas, a boating lake, train, lots of wildlife and a cafe.

https://www.notboredoutdoors.co.uk/2020/02/hi-everyone-saltwell-park-has-to-be-one.html

CARLISLE PARK

We love to visit here with its play areas that are spread out, beautiful river walks, boats, lots of places to grab a bite and ice cream.

https://www.notboredoutdoors.co.uk/2021/04/carlisle-park.html

BARNES PARK

This is a smaller park but we love the play areas and the lovely duck pond. Its a great place to ride a bike or scooter.

https://www.notboredoutdoors.co.uk/2020/10/barnes-park-sunderland.html

TYNE GREEN PARK

Again this is a beautiful park with lots of green space, lovely river walks and a very well equipped play area.

https://www.notboredoutdoors.co.uk/2020/07/tyne-green-park.html

RICHARDSON-DEES PARK

The play area here is fantastic, with lots of green space, woodland walks and trails. There is a skate park and cafe. This is a very good park for all the family.

https://www.notboredoutdoors.co.uk/2020/06/richardson-dees-park.html

DERWENT WATERSIDE PARK

We really enjoy coming here it always feels more like a day trip then just going to the park. The play area is superb and the views are breathtaking. It also has the benefit of stunning walks around the reservoir to. There is a cafe and gift shop.

https://www.notboredoutdoors.co.uk/2020/07/derwent-waterside-park.html

Don't forget to check out our ULTIMATE ACTIVITY LIST : 

https://www.notboredoutdoors.co.uk/2020/08/ultimate-activities-list-august-2020.html