Park Life!

Preston Park, Stockton

This is a huge adventure play park in the grounds of Preston Hall. There are sandpits, plenty of play equipment, and a skate park as well as a museum and butterfly experience (both at a cost). There’s lots of free parking and it’s accessible by public transport. Find out more at www.prestonparkmuseum.co.uk

South Marine Park, South Shields

My kids love this place! The two large areas of play equipment aimed at younger and older kids are great, but the star attraction is the miniature steam railway (at a cost) that laps the pond, the centrepiece of the park. The café does great ice creams and once you’re all played out, you’re only five minutes to the beach. Find out more at www.southtyneside.gov.uk

Riverside Park, Chester-le-Street

Chester Park as most of us know it, is a popular attraction with kids and adults alike. The park itself is huge, with riverside paths that are excellent for cycling and park runs. There is a large play area for younger kids, outdoor gym equipment and skate park. My girls also love seeing the new Gruffalo statues that have arrived this year. Find out more at www.durham.gov.uk

Seaham Town Park, Seaham

This was a bit of a find for us last year when the kids were pestering us to go to the coast. It has some really unique play equipment that we haven’t seen anywhere else. Parking is free and there is adapted play equipment for those with mobility issues. Find out more at www.seaham.gov.uk

Tyne View Park, Hexham

The setting of the park next to the river is a nice walk if you can get your kids off the play equipment! There is also outdoor gym equipment if you fancy unleashing your inner Ninja Warrior. Free parking and toilet facilities are a definite positive. Find out more at www.visithexham.net

Herrington Country Park, Sunderland

This large country park is right opposite Penshaw Monument. It is studded with sculptures; cycle paths and walks, it has an adventure playpark, skateboarding and model boat sailing. It’s home to lots of wildlife and is perfect for a stroll and feeding the birds. For more information visit www.seeitdoitsunderland.co.uk 
As suggested by Jaci McGinty, customer

Saltwell Park, Gateshead

This is a favourite place that I rediscovered during lockdown. There’s so much to do including kids’ play areas, a boating lake, pets’ corner, football, bowling and tennis. There’s plenty of green space, ornamental gardens and paths to explore and it’s all accessible. The gothic mansion Saltwell Towers has a nice tearoom. There are plenty of spots to picnic and there’s usually an ice cream van by the lake. For more information visit www.gateshead.gov.uk
As suggested by Jaci McGinty, customer

Rising Sun Country Park, Newcastle

This is a real hidden gem! It’s a green oasis that appeals to all ages and abilities, with three different walking trails to choose from. If it’s rainy you can always go for a treat at the lovely café or pick up a snack at the artisan bakery. My top tip is to climb to the top of the hill and you will be rewarded with amazing views of all of the Tyne. There are plenty buses that drop off by Asda at Benton and car parks on site. For more details visit www.northtyneside.gov.uk
As suggested by Dave Wallace, customer

Carlisle Park, Morpeth

This is a lovely park for the little ones and the paddling pool is a big hit in the summer. A visit is always nice followed by a walk along the river or into the lovely town. For more details visit www.northumberland.gov.uk
As suggested by Sharron Foster, customer.