Family Things to Do This Weekend in Gosforth (23-24 May)

With May half term starting on Monday, this is the last "normal" weekend before the schools break up. Whether you want a big day out or a quiet morning in the park, here is a roundup of things to do with the family in and around Gosforth on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 May 2026.

Skate Island at Newcastle Racecourse

Skate Island is in its final weekend at High Gosforth Park, closing for the season on 31 May. Saturday morning has dedicated family sessions from 9am to noon (from around 7.50 per person), with a calmer atmosphere and lower-volume music suited to younger skaters. Sunday is a full Family Skate Day running 9am to 9pm.

Best for:

Ages 3+. Skate hire included. Book ahead at skateisland.co.uk. Non-skaters can use the free Beach Club area with arcade games, karaoke, and a sand pit for little ones.

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The Great Dinosaur Escape at Life Science Centre

Twenty-five animatronic dinosaurs have taken over the Centre for Life in the city centre, some towering four metres tall. Children can track them down on a trail, crack the Dino Ranger code, and catch the live Dino Show in the Science Theatre. The exhibition runs until September, so there is no rush, but it makes a brilliant Saturday morning out.

Best for:

Open Saturday and Sunday 10am-5pm. Included with standard admission (around 15 per person, under-2s free). life.org.uk

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Mexican Stand Off at Wylam Brewery

Food Battles' popular Mexican street food festival takes over Wylam Brewery on Friday 22 and Saturday 23 May. More than fifteen specialist vendors compete with tacos, burritos, loaded nachos, and more, and visitors vote for their favourite. There is live music, a bar, and plenty of space for families during the daytime sessions.

Best for:

Saturday daytime sessions are the most family-friendly. Wylam Brewery, Exhibition Park, NE2 4PZ. Check Food Battles on Instagram for ticket details.

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Town Moor Parkrun (Saturday) and Junior Parkrun (Sunday)

The weekly Town Moor parkrun takes place every Saturday at 9am on the Moor, just south of Exhibition Park. It is a flat, fast 5k on gravel and tarmac and completely free to enter. Register on the parkrun website and print your barcode before you go.

On Sunday at 9am, the Town Moor junior parkrun offers a free 2k run for children aged 4 to 14. A great way to burn off some energy before Sunday lunch.

Best for:

Both events are free. Register once at parkrun.org.uk and you can run every week. Post-run coffee at the Urban Green Cafe in Exhibition Park.

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Ouseburn Farm

Ouseburn Farm is one of the best free family outings in Newcastle. This working city farm is open at weekends with goats, pigs, chickens, ducks, and seasonal lambs. The on-site cafe serves good coffee and cakes, and there is a small shop. You do not need to book to visit the farm itself, though specific activities like goat walking should be booked in advance.

Best for:

Free admission. Pushchair and wheelchair accessible. Ouseburn Road, NE1 2PA. Check ouseburnfarm.org.uk for weekend opening times and any ticketed activities.

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Soft Play and Indoor Fun

If the weather turns, Gosforth has solid indoor options for younger children. Hopscotch Play Cafe on Christon Road combines a soft play area with a proper cafe serving food for adults and children. Captain Teds is another popular choice for under-10s. See our full guide to soft play near Gosforth for more options further afield.

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Swimming at Gosforth Leisure Centre

Gosforth Leisure Centre runs public swimming sessions throughout the weekend, including family swim slots. It is a short walk from the High Street and a reliable option whatever the weather. Check the swimming in Gosforth guide for session times and other pools nearby.

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Gosforth Library

Gosforth Library on Regent Farm Road is a Children and Families Hub offering free sessions for babies, toddlers, and older children throughout the week. Saturday morning is usually a good time to visit for story sessions and crafts. Check Newcastle Libraries on Eventbrite for any special events this weekend.

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Parks and Playgrounds

If the sun comes out, Gosforth's parks are hard to beat. Exhibition Park has a large adventure playground, a paddling pool (weather dependent), and plenty of green space. Brunton Park and the South Gosforth burn are quieter alternatives. Our best parks in Gosforth guide covers all the options, and the best playgrounds guide ranks each one by age group.

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Festival of Blossom at Seaton Delaval Hall

For a slightly longer trip, the National Trust's Seaton Delaval Hall in Northumberland is running its Festival of Blossom this spring. Pick up a blossom trail map and explore the laburnum arch, rhododendrons, azaleas, and wisteria across the grounds. The hall is also part of the Vanbrugh 300 celebrations this year. Free for National Trust members; non-member admission applies.

Best for:

Around 30 minutes by car from Gosforth. nationaltrust.org.uk/seaton-delaval-hall

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Looking Ahead: Half Term

Schools break up on Friday 22 May for the week. If you are already planning ahead, keep an eye on our family activities guide and free things to do in Gosforth for ideas that work any day of the week. Have a good weekend.