As the summer holidays approach us, we are sharing some of our fondest attractions in the North East, perfect for families of all ages and sizes.

Share with us on Twitter your fondest memories of childhood trips and we might even add them in!

Beamish Museum Open Air Museum

Beamish Open Air Museum tells the story of the North East during times gone by, including scenes from the 1820s, 1900s and 1940s. Let the children’s imaginations run wild as they explore the 1900s town, pit village and colliery – including a trip down the mine! There is also 1820s Pockerley which also has the old Waggonway and the 1940s farm complete with chickens, pigs and the old farmhouse. In 2016, new exhibits are JR & D Edis Photographers and W Smiths chemist to explore in the 1900s town.

A family ticket for two adults and two children, costs £48.50, but is valid for standard entry for one year.

Link: http://www.beamish.org.uk/

High Force Waterfall, Teesdale

Take the whole family to explore nature at its very best, with the beautiful High Force waterfall and its surrounding area. Watch the River Tees trickle and burst into life as it goes over Low Force and past various animals and plant life, before it hits High Force. The area includes parking, a picnic area and a gift shop.

Link: http://www.highforcewaterfall.com/

Alnwick Castle, Alnwick

The castle has been part of the same family for over 700 years and is perfect for a summer day out with the kids. Exhibitions include Downton Abbey – the TV Christmas specials of which, were filmed here in 2014 and 2015 – First World War and Dragon Quest! There is also Broomstick Training for Harry Potter fans of all ages!

A family ticket costs £36.00 when booked in advance.

Link: https://www.alnwickcastle.com/default.aspx

Redcar Beach

This town has long been popular with families looking for arcades, fish and chips and a few hours on the beach (and in the freezing cold North Sea)! Redcar seafront recently had considerable redevelopment work performed, including new sea defences, seating areas and the Redcar Beacon. Redcar also has a high street, arcades, fish and chip shops and ice cream parlours.

Link: http://www.redcar-cleveland.gov.uk/rcbcweb.nsf/web+full+list/3501709f1ad598ef802579f1002ff8f1

Lightwater Valley

Although not in the North East, it is the most popular of the larger theme parks for North East families, with many family outings and school trips from the area visiting this theme park during the summer season. With more than 40 rides and attractions, there is something for all of the family to enjoy, in the 175 acres of North Yorkshire countryside.

Prices vary, but we recommend that you look around for voucher codes and coupons in local publications and/or online.

Link: https://www.lightwatervalley.co.uk/

• Take a look at some of our upcoming day trips, taking place across the North East and the UK via our day trips section. To book or make an enquiry please contact the Stanley Travel team on 01207 237424.