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.

Stockeld Park

 Hi Everyone,

We visited Stockeld Park yesterday and what a day we picked to go! It rained non-stop, ALL DAY but despite the weather we still had such a good time.

We had never visited the park before so we were a bit unsure of what to expect. We were hoping it would be worth the price of £48 for a family of 4 and we can tell you we were not disappointed. There is so much to do you could easily spend a full day there.

They have a maze, inflatable slide, go karts, play areas, an enchanted forest, cafe, kiosks, gift shop and shows.

We headed straight to the maze which was grea. It's set out in such a way to bamboozle you. There are covid restrictions in place it which makes you go round a one way route so the maze wasn't too taxing. That being said we did see a couple of families who got lost and we're kindly rescued by staff members. We are excited to try the maze when all the routes are fully open as we think it will be amazing post Covid restrictions. There are some amazing surprises within and a wonderful lookout tower which really made it extra fun.

Next to the maze there is a farm themed play area with lots of wooden tractors and vehicles to climb on which was very popular.

Another popular attraction was the go karts, they had single rider and double rider options. Kids and grown ups had a brilliant time on these. 

The best part of the park though is the enchanted forest. It is absolutely massive with lots of different areas to explore. Some areas are more suited to smaller children and others are for bigger kids but most seemed to be a good mix of both. As you go through the forest there are lots of sound affects and interactive elements which really enhanced the experience. The forest on a whole is beautiful and so well maintained. It would have been lovely to sit and watch the children play but the rain had other ideas unfortunately. So we did move through each element faster than we would have liked. We don't want to go into much detail so as not to spoil it. It was really magical seeing all the wonderful elements they had included.

The end of the forest trail ends near the (under construction) indoor softplay centre which is advertised as one of the largest in Europe. Stockeld Park also seem to be developing another outdoor play area. It's nice to see that they are trying to improve and already great place to visit.

Before heading home we stopped to see the bubble show which was really amazing. The volume and size of the bubbles that were being produced was fantastic and the kids loved it. Despite the weather they put on a lovely show for the kids.

We obviously had to have a browse of the gift shop. The prices are pretty reasonable and they had a nice selection of toys and gifts. 

The park has a free car park, lots of room, tables for picnics and very clean toilet facilities. Although it is a fully outdoor site we would still recommend booking even if the weather is a bit iffy as we had a really fun day with the worst weather possible. Just make sure you have good shoes/wellies and pack some spare outfits. We did think that a rainy day voucher would be a nice touch so you could get a bit of a discount on a second visit. As if it had of been even slightly dryer we would have stayed alot longer.

Roseberry Topping

 Hi everyone,

Yesterday, we decided to stretch our legs with a little walk up The National Trusts Roseberry Topping in Newton Under Roseberry which is just over an hour away from South Shields. The site is free to visit and there is car park at the base that is pay per hour although we noticed several other free of charge options on the way out.

The walk is advertised as around 30 minutes.  We took a leisurely stroll and did the walk in about an hour each way so I would be surprised at anyone completing the full walk in 30 minutes unless they are very fit. The trail is suitable for all ages, we saw toddlers and walkers of an older age climbing to the summit. The climb is steep but not too taxing. There are many points to stop for a rest and even if you don't make it to the very top the views all the way up are stunning.

The walk takes you through the forest by the old hunting hut and on to the top of Roseberry Topping.  Just to reiterate there are stunning views along the way up.

We were lucky enough to have a magical moment when we got to the top as it started to snow which just topped a memorable day.

There are public toilets located in the car park along with picnic benches.

You can find more information on Rosemary Topping here:

Roseberry Topping National Trust

  

1000 Hours Outside Challenge

 Hi Everyone,

We recently came across the 1000 hours outside challenge and it really resonated with us. The idea is to get kids motivated to be away from screens and enjoy time in nature. The challenge is to spend 1000 hours outside during the course of a year.

The best bit about this idea is that it works for the full family and you can make it whatever you want. More walks with the dogs, family bike rides or running around the garden. The skies the limit! Aslong as your're outdoors, it's counts.

On the 1000 hours outside website they have lots of charts that you can download to track your time outdoors and help keep you motivated. 

This definitely feels like a good time to start, even with all the local restrictions, we are still encouraged to exercise. So let's have as much fun as safely possible with our time outside.

We'd love to see the progress you make if you take up the challenge and we will put a collective #notboredoutdoors total up at the end of the year.

https://www.1000hoursoutside.com/

Barnes Park Sunderland

 We visited the lovely Barnes park in Sunderland this weekend and wanted to share just how special it is with you.

The park has everything you could want for a relaxed morning or afternoon out. There are two very impressive, spacious, well equipped play areas one for younger kids and one for older ones.

There is a very attractive pond teaming with ducks and a bridges to cross over. The park is ideal for a stroll or bike/scooter ride with lots of paths to wind your way around and quirky sculptures to grab your attention.

There are very well maintained toilet facilities, a free car park, a m.u.g.a, picnic tables and lots of open areas too.

Brimham Rocks and OFFER

 Hi Everyone, 

Today we visited Brimham Rocks National Trust in Harrogate. This is definitely the place to go for adventure lovers and kids who love to climb. Our youngest especially, was in her absolute element here.

As the name suggests this site is filled to the brim with rocks of all different sizes and shapes making some absolutely wonderful structures and most importantly perfect for climbing opportunities. With the varying sizes and shapes there is a definetly a rock that can be climbed by everyone. We really loved that there were, toddlers through to teens and of course adults all having a go and enjoying this outdoor adventure.

Our youngest who is 8 loves to climb anything and everything so attempted pretty much every rock we came across (within reason).

From the various vantage points you can see some amazing views of the country side and lots of farm animals to spot too.

If you don't want to climb the rocks you can just follow the trails rounds and admire the scenery we saw lots of dogs walkers doing exactly that.

The site is free to enter but parking in the large onsite car park is chargeable unless you are national trust members. The toilet facilities and kiosk were open and there was a lovely ice cream at the entrance. This was the busiest site we have visited since lockdown but as its so vast there are plenty of routes you can take to get away from any busier spots. We would definitely recommend going earlier in the day so you can make the most of it being quieter and if you fully explore the site we would say you'd need at least 4 hours.

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/brimham-rocks

#ad Click below for link to join the national trust, with family tickets for only £9.50pm:

https://tidd.ly/3eZrU9X

Thornley Woods

 Hi Everyone,

Today we visited Thornley Woods in Gateshead. The woods is free to enter with an onsite car park and visitors centre open for take away food orders and toilet facilities. They have a lovely covered picnic area too ideal to take a break. 

This is a lovely wood and was very quiet and peaceful on our visit. There are various trails you can take all clearly marked along the route. They are different lengths and intensities so you can choose which you want to do. 

We took the sculpture trail route today and found some amazing sculptures carved into the trees. This route was only half a mile long and would be fine for little legs and prams etc.

We also did a bit of off track exploring. We found some lovely walks in the woods directly across the road from the Visitor Centre however there was quite alot of steps and hill climbs so more suitable for older kids.

You can walk to derwent side play park along the routes. We didn't visit the park today but have been previously, its a good size play area and should keep the kids occupied for a while. 

This woods is definitely worth a visit and a explore.

Rainton Festival

 Hi Everyone,

We had a very fun time last night at the first night of the outdoor Rainton Festival. Held at The Rainton Arena (Sunderland). 

The festival which is free to enter consists of a good sized funfair which has rides for all ages and a good few to keep the adrenaline junkies among us happy. Prices start from £1.50 with the most expensive being £5 for the bungie trampolines.

There are also game booths such as hook a duck, ring toss and basket ball to name a few. There's also refreshment stands throughout. We would advise bringing cash although some rides did accept card payments.

The second part of the festival is a main stage which will host different acts throughout the weekends in August. In order to gain access to this area you can book tickets for a table which seats upto 6 people. Once inside you have your own area and you are able to order food and drinks from your phone to be delivered direct to you. The service was very fast. The tables are under a circus style tent with the sides off so perfect if it rains. The first nights entertainment was Dick and Dom who put on a very family friendly show that kids and adults both enjoyed. We also really enjoyed the warm up act who was very entertaining. 

The organisers have gone to a lot of effort to ensure the publics safety regarding the  Covid-19 guidelines. Areas are very clearly marked to allow a two metre social distance, hand sanitisers are on every ride and on entry and exit to the main stage, there was alot of security and staff members dotted around to ensure everything was in order and the toilets were cleaned after each visit so were spotless. Even the free onsite carpark was organised amazingly well to avoid any social distancing problems.

We had a fantastic night out with the kids. 

For more information please visit:

www.raintonarena.co.uk

Ultimate Activities List August 2020

Hi Everyone,

Alot of people have been asking about places to take the kids over the summer holidays so we have created a new guide of places and activities all spilt into areas so you can pick from where is local to you. As more and more places and businesses are opening up over the coming weeks we have included some places that are currently closed but may open during the summer so please do check before heading out.

Due to the current situation please stick to social distancing guidelines and try to plan your visits to avoid peak times and have a back up plan incase where you visit is too busy.

As always this is not a complete list and is subject to change. If you know of any places not included please let us know so we can update our list.

Below are the links to all our past reviews that are highlighted in yellow on the guide:

Derwent Waterside Park

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=996253947460633&id=674273372992027

Tyne Green Park 

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=992321361187225&id=674273372992027

Bolam Lake

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=986753855077309&id=674273372992027

Richardson Dees Park

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=983576372061724&id=674273372992027

Treetop Nets

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=978464465906248&id=674273372992027

Saltwell Park

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=889896324763063&id=674273372992027

Bowlees and Highforce Waterfalls

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=864669687285727&id=674273372992027

Wallington National Trust

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=840307593055270&id=674273372992027

Gibside National Trust

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=800459313706765&id=674273372992027

Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=788025034950193&id=674273372992027

Spilmans Farm

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=787759851643378&id=674273372992027

Plessy Woods

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=773081293111234&id=674273372992027

Stephenson Steam Railway

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=768378250248205&id=674273372992027

Web Adventure Park

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=759774267775270&id=674273372992027

Safari Zoo

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

Fountains Abbey

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=743386959414001&id=674273372992027

Ouseburn Farm

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=736436443442386&id=674273372992027

RSPB Saltholme

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=733993197020044&id=674273372992027

Whitworth Hall Hotel and Deer Park

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=721439304942100&id=674273372992027

Jesmond Dene

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=712807612471936&id=674273372992027

Knowsley Safari Park

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=703851510034213&id=674273372992027

Life Science Centre

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=703803120039052&id=674273372992027

Carlisle Park

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=699510043801693&id=674273372992027

Tilesheds Nature Reserve

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=692704047815626&id=674273372992027

Herrington Country Park

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=685944905158207&id=674273372992027

Treasure Trail

Hi Everyone,

We recently had our first try at a Treasure Trail Hunt. The trail is a self guided walk which led us around Seaburn starting near Roker Park and along to Whitburn. 

Along the way we were solving clues to identify a person and a weapon in our murder mystery themed trail. We absolutely loved the trail with  clues that are a good mix of skill levels. There are clues which are easy enough for the kids to get involved and some hard enough to make the adults think. It is sometimes hard to find activities to keep the whole family entertained but this certainly ticked that box.

The trail itself is very scenic and despite visiting Seaburn and Whitburn many times we have now discovered places we didn't know existed. We also had the pleasure of visiting and discovering different landmarks that we usually wouldn't pay too much attention to.

There is a fair amount of walking involved but it's easy to split the trail up and do it over 2 days if little legs start to get tired. Alternatively, there's plenty of places to stop for a picnic or a break along the route as you head along the coast. There are also two brilliant play areas enroute too within Roker park and Cornthwaite park.

We are really looking forward to trying more trails as there is a huge amount to choose from in different areas of the UK. This is a brilliant idea as it helps everyone to explore both locally and areas further afield. The directions given are fabulous so there is no need to worry about getting lost.

If you'd like to try a trail you can get one at a discounted price on the below link:

https://tidd.ly/2PaQ7Q1

For more information visit:

www.treasuretrails.co.uk

#Ad

Kids Pass

#Ad

Hi everyone,

We've  recently signed upto Kids Pass and wanted to let you know that there are hundreds if not thousands of offers available through them including free child entry to Tynemouth Aquarium, free kids meals,discounts on cinema tickets and theme parks including Diggerland as well as savings on online shopping at The Entertainer (Great for a particular winter holiday that is fast approaching).

You can join Kids Pass for £1 which will give you 30 days access and monthly membership starts at £2.99

Click the link to find out more

https://tidd.ly/2ZOtWoN

Finchale Priory

Hi Everyone,

We visited Finchale Priory on Sunday and wow what a beautiful place it is. The area is free to visit but there is a very reasonable £3 all day parking charge.

The priory itself is large with lots of ruins to explore, it reminded us alot of Fountains Abbey. The kids loved being able to run around and explore all the different areas. There is also a large grass area surrounding the ruins which is perfect for taking a break and enjoying the views.

The priory is connected to a woodland walk by crossing a bridge over a stunning section of the river wear. The woodland walk is very picturesque taking the path to the right hand side will lead you to lots of different routes to take. In this section there are plenty of tree climbing opportunities and we  found a tree swing which we thoroughly enjoyed. You can even have a splash in the river or just relax on the sandy river banks.

The path to the left of the bridge is a straight narrow walk along the river with some very sweet looking pigs near the end. It is a lovely walk but can be restrictive if people are trying to pass. 

We arrived for opening time and the area was fairly quiet which made it very easy to maintain social distancing but by the afternoon the area really started to get busy. We definitely recommend arriving early or later in the day so you can enjoy the priory and walks. Very importantly the toilets facilities and the cafe kiosk were open.

Plessey Woods and Northumberlandia

Hi Everyone,

Today we visited Plessey Woods Country Park, this is a firm family favourite but it was extra special today as the play area, toilets and cafe have now reopened.

We arrived at around 10am and the playground was fairly quiet. We had no problems enjoying the fab equipment that has been recently re-built. The play park would suit a range of ages from little ones upto around 12.

After enjoying a play, we headed into the woods and enjoyed the trails taking in the sculptures along with tree climbing and having a paddle in the river. We took the scenic route into the Blagden Estate which takes you along the river path. It was very peaceful and we even spotted a lovely family of ducks.

When we emerged from the woods at around 2pm the playground and visitor centre was a lot busier so we decided to head along to Northumberlandia.

Northumberlandia is a very quirky and unique tourist spot. It takes you on a lovely walk around a lady carved into the landscape. Along the walk there are lots of viewing points to see the beautiful countryside. The kids loved being able to climb onto the top of the various body parts.

There is also a woodland trail to be enjoyed, which included areas for den building, stepping stones and wooden sculptures to enjoy along the route, all under an amazing woodland canopy.

When we arrived at Northumberlandia there was a few people milling around but its so spacious keeping a distance wasn't a problem. We had lots of opportunities to admired the views undisturbed. The cafe and toilets are also open with picnic tables dotted throughout the site.

We had a wonderful full day out at these two amazing outdoor sites. We would definitely recommend visiting earlier or later in the day to avoid busy periods and the combo definitely worked well for us.

Beamish Museum

 Hi Everyone, 

Some exciting news from Beamish Museum!

Beamish is set to reopen 23rd July, entry will be by pre-booked timeslot for ALL visitors (including Friends of Beamish members and Unlimited Pass holders). Tickets will be available on their website from Monday, 20th July at 10am.

 http://www.beamish.org.uk/faqs-beamish-reopening-covid19/

📷 Beamish Museum

Tyne Green Park

Hi Everyone,

At the weekend we visited Tyne Green Park in Hexham this was a first visit for us after receiving a recommendation from a friend.

It took just under an hour from South Shields to get there. When we arrived there were plenty of free car parking spaces which was great.

We headed straight to the play area which firstly, was open and  well equipped. There is also alot of outdoor fun equipment which has a  ninja warrior feel to it, the kids loved. 

The park was very quiet so we had it to ourselves but the equipment is quite spaced out so social distancing wouldn't be too much of an issue when children are supervised.

Very importantly, the toilet facilities were open and were directly opposite the play area which is ideal. There was also a lovely ice cream van and even a mobile barber van!

Tyne Green Park also boasts a lovely walk along the Tyne which is perfect for bikes and scooters. There was vasts amounts of open green space with picnic tables dotted about. They even have a professional golf course.

We spent a lovely few hours  here and Hexham is a beautiful town so you could easily make it a full day out.

Butterfly World

Hi Everyone,

The lovely Butterfly World at Preston Park will re-open today (4th July) and tickets can be purchased on the door with no need to pre-book.

Full details about the re-opening and the social distancing measures they have in place can be found on the below link:

https://www.facebook.com/719011928170698/posts/4049062725165585/

(photo credit butterfly World)

Bolam lake

Hi Everyone, 

Today we visited Bolam Lake in Northumberland, which is about a 40 min drive from South Shields. We had heard alot about the lake so we were very excited to visit.

There are lots of carparks around the lake so there was no problem parking at all. We deliberately chose a colder day to visit in the hopes it wouldn't be too busy. Despite the weather there was still a fair few people about but there are lots of opportunities to move away from others and we had no problem at all keeping our distance. To aid with distancing, the lake is operating a one way system.

The lake itself is beautiful and teaming with swans. What we loved the most was all the little jetties around each side of the lake so you could really get out among the swans and the water.

Surrounding the lake are areas  of forests and opening spaces which are beautiful and filled with trees ideal for climbing and lots of  opportunists to explore.

There are lots of seating and picnic tables dotted around and ideally placed to take in the stunning views.

We spent over two hours exploring and taking in the views. The toilet facilities were open and there was a very nice looking ice cream van which accepted card payments. Parking is chargeable so remember to bring some change for the parking machines.

Richardson Dees Park

Hi Everyone,

We recently visited Richardson Dees Park in Wallsend. It's a park we have been to before but have never fully explored until our last visit. The park is spaced out over 3 huge areas, the first has a very large and well equipped play park and has been maintained to a high standard and is our usual first port of call (at present the play park is closed) but we went to see what else the park had to offer. There is also a large field in this section with picnic tables and a beautiful duck pond filled with ducks, we even saw a water vole.

  

The second area has a small river runing through it with lots of open spaces and trees which are perfect for climbing. We came across a wild flower garden and paths that had a jungle like feel to them.

The third section is probably my favourite which again boasted  a river with ducks and swans. We were lucky enough to see nests with eggs and newly hatched ducklings. There is a little fairy trail which was very magical as it felt almost like a forest area, covered with with ivy. Our girls really enjoyed spotting all the fairies.

This park is more than big enough to enjoy a lovely day out while maintaining social distancing with lots of things to do and explore.

Raby Castle Father's day offer

Hi Everyone, 

It's lovely that more outdoor spaces are now opening up including Raby Castles park and garden. 

At the moment they are offering FREE admission* to Dads on fathers day this Sunday (21st June) 

You can get your tickets using the link below:

https://tickets.tygit.com/tickets/buy-now/attractionId/259/l/1/mode/group/ignoreGroups/Annual%20Pass%20Upgrade

*Free admission applies to Park and Gardens tickets when accompanied by a paying adult or child purchasing the same ticket type. You also need to select the free fathers day ticket to allow accurate visitor numbers so social distancing can be maintained. 

Photo taken from Raby Castle Facebook page.

The Get Active - Summer Challenge 2020

Hi Everyone, 

The Get Active - Summer Challenge 2020 looks like lots of fun and a great way to keep the kids active.

"It is an accumlative distance challenge which  will take place during the months of May, June, July and August making it a perfect challenge to complete as a family during this period of lockdown and restrictions

Simply select the total distance you want to achieve during the above months. This could be a straightforward 2km run or why not choose a longer distance and complete it over the period of the four months.

What's more, whilst some of the distance must be achieved by running, you can choose to swim, cycle, jump, ride or even roll some of the distance. This adds an extra element of fun to the challenge. For example, you may want to complete it as part of your own triathlon.

Entry to this challenge is just £3.99! And once you have completed your distance, simply submit your evidence (photos etc) and we will put one of these fantastic medals in the post which has a purple ribbon. This medal has a striking Multi-Coloured 'rainbow' effect with each medal having a unique finish. An eye-catching medal which is certainly guaranteed to stand out from the crowd!"

Info taken directly from:

https://www.ukschoolrun.com/enterarace/prod_7154591-Get-Active-Summer-Challenge-2020.html