Whether you’re treating yourselves or pinching the purse strings, there’s something here for everyone.
1. Dig for Victory at the Great North Festival of Agriculture, Beamish Museum
A great family attraction all year round, this weekend will also see Beamish Museum celebrate a Dig for Victory event. Part of the Great North Festival of Agriculture at the attraction, it tells the story of life on the Home Front during the Second World War. Beamish Museum is open daily from 10am to 5pm, with last admissions at 4pm. For prices, see http://www.beamish.org.uk/plan-your-visit/ | Other 3rd Party Photo: Beamish Museum
2. Blue Reef Aquarium
Come face to face with aquatic species from all over the world, at Tynemouth's Blue Reef Aquarium. Boasting a wide array of marine life, there's also a clever green iguana and some mischievous monkeys. For times and prices, visit https://www.bluereefaquarium.co.uk/ | JPIMedia Photo: Jane Coltman
3. RSPB Saltholme, Stockton-on-Tees
The family-friendly wetlands are a perfect place to enjoy a day of birdspotting, even if you're new to it. The site has a visitors' centre, plus hides and screens which help people get up close to various bird species. There's also a family discovery zone, rails, a play area and cafe. Open every day of the year barring Christmas Day, its current hours are 9:30am - 5pm. https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/saltholme/ Entry is free, with donations very welcome, but there is a charge of £5 if you plan to leave a vehicle more than an hour in the car park. | JPIMedia Photo: Kevin Brady
4. Lion Bridge and Alnwick Castle pictured by Jane Coltman
Alnwick Castle in Northumberland is steeped in centuries of history, but for most kids it will mean one thing: Harry Potter. Take the children along to the 'on location' tour to find out how the castle has starred not only Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, but made numerous appearances on the big and small screens - including ITV's Downton Abbey, Transformers: The Last Knight, and the first series of Blackadder. Families can also take part in Dragons Quest, battling with mystical forces to come face to face with a terrifying monster which lurks in the castle's depths. See https://www.alnwickcastle.com/ for times and prices. | JPIMedia Resell Photo: Jane Coltman