If you haven’t got a Max Card, you should consider getting one. It gives families of foster children and children with additional needs FREE or discounted access to loads of attractions across the UK.
Families in the North East are well served when it comes to the number of attractions that accept the card, with savings at castles, zoos, bowling alleys and more.
If you’re in the area and looking for a family day out, here are 5 FREE days out in Durham with a Max Card. They are free for up to two adults and two children unless stated. Check out Max Card’s website for more details.
1. Gibside, Newcastle upon Tyne
This impressive National Trust property is a Georgian ‘grand design’ on a spectacular scale. It is one of a few surviving 18th-century designed landscapes. The estate, commissioned by coal baron George Bowes, offers a glimpse into the past and the compelling story of heiress Mary Eleanor Bowes.
Children will love exploring the ruins, running around in the open spaces and playing in the three adventure play areas found around the estate. There is an observation hive in the Walled Garden and a learning and discovery room and indoor play area at the Stables
Offer: Carer and child go free.
Access Information: Wheelchair access, wheelchair friendly shuttle bus, wheelchair hire, disabled parking & toilets.
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside
2. Seven Stories, Newcastle upon Tyne
Seven Stories is the National Centre for Children’s Books, packed with innovative exhibitions and popular events.
Seven Stories celebrates children’s books. How books are made, where they come from and how we can enjoy and share them. It’s a great day out for the whole family.
Access Information: Fully wheelchair accessible, hearing loop system available, large print guides available online, accessible toilet (fitted with hoist), disabled parking, guide dogs welcome.
3. Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens, Sunderland
Family fun activities are among the attractions at Sunderland Museum, Library and Winter Gardens, particularly during the holidays.There is something to suit all ages with themed workshops and activities.
4. Washington F Pit, Washington
Step back in time and remember the region’s coalmining heritage. See the impressive winding engine which once took pitmen to the coalface and brought coal to the surface, now operated by an electric motor. The ‘F’ pit, which was sunk in 1777, became the largest coal-producing pit at the colliery but eventually closed on 21 June 1968 when the last coals were drawn to the surface.
The attraction hosts regular family arts and crafts activities including fossil rubbing and model building.
5. Washington Old Hall, Washington
This National Trust property is a manor house associated with the family of George Washington, the first president of the USA.
The building incorporates parts of the original medieval home of George Washington’s direct ancestors, and it is from here that the family took their surname of ‘Washington’.
There are children’s play areas, plus trails quizzes and events throughout the year to keep little ones entertained.
Access Information: Access to lower garden, disabled parking & toilets.
If you like these 5 FREE days out in Tyne and Wear, check out other posts in my Max Card series, including:
4 FREE days out in Durham with a Max Card
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