Stay and Play
NE1’s free, interactive play zone offering fun for kids of all ages during the summer at Old Eldon Square
NE1’s Stay & Play made its debut at Old Eldon Square in the summer of 2025, joining our popular open-air cinema Screen on the Green and miniature play village Tiny Toon.
A free and fun-filled outdoor play space, Stay & Play features interactive games, sandpits and activities for kids of all ages and their families to enjoy.
This year, we are proud to partner with bus operator Stagecoach and add a range of transport and bus-themed games, activities and interactive experiences to Stay & Play, alongside free events and activities hosted by Stagecoach throughout the summer with giveaways and even more transport-themed fun.
Stay & Play Opening Times (20th July – 31st August 2026)
Monday to Saturday: 11am – 5pm
Sunday: 9am – 4:30pm
Please Note:
*Last admission into the area is 30 minutes before closing
*Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times
*Due to the outdoor nature of the play space, there may be occasions where Tiny Toon may close unexpectedly due to weather conditions
*Photography and videography take place at our events for reporting, marketing, and promotional purposes. This includes use on our website, social media, partner reports, press releases, print publications, e-marketing, advertising, film, posters, banners and future event promotion. If you do not wish to appear in photos or videos, please make yourself known to a member of our team on the day. For further information please see our Privacy Policy or if you have any questions or queries relating to this please email [email protected]
A Big Thank You to Our Partner Stagecoach
Stagecoach is one of the UK’s largest bus operators, helping millions of people get to their destinations safely, reliably and affordably every day. From work commutes and school runs to shopping trips, meeting up with friends or enjoying a day out, Stagecoach makes travel simple and accessible for all.
During school holidays, Stagecoach helps make getting about more affordable with its Take the Kids for Free initiative which allows up to three kids aged 11 and under to travel for free on local Stagecoach buses in Tyne & Wear, Northumberland, Tees Valley and County Durham when accompanied by an adult with a valid single, day, week or period pass.
Find out more about Stagecoach at stagecoachbus.com.
