The Best Things to Do in Newcastle this May Half Term
Our top picks for the best things to do in Newcastle this May half term holiday
We bet you can hardly believe it - another half term school holiday is already upon us!
If you’re racking your brains about what to do with your little darlings this half term, Newcastle is the perfect playground just ripe for exploration – never again will you hear those words: “I’M BORED!” Check out this little lot…
Tales from Acorn Wood @ Northern Stage
Based on the beloved stories by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, Tales from Acorn Wood comes to life on stage this May half term at Northern Stage. Jam-packed with toe-tapping tunes, mesmerising puppetry and everyone’s favourite characters, it’s the ideal opportunity to introduce little book lovers to the wonderful world of theatre.
Thursday 28th – Sunday 31st May 2026, From £16.50
Rude Science @ Tyne Theatre & Opera House
Tyne Theatre & Opera House is transformed into a mad scientist’s laboratory this month, as Rude Science returns to Newcastle. With plenty of outrageously silly science and properly disgusting experiments, this revolutionary show from CBBC presenter Stefan Gates is designed to get young audiences fascinated with science. So yes, that does mean that pee-powered fireworks and fart machines are all on the table!
Sunday 24th May 2026, Prices vary
Mexican Stand Off @ Wylam Brewery
Nacho average day out, Mexican Stand Off returns to Wylam Brewery this half term! This edition of the family-friendly food fest celebrates Mexican food, influences and flavours with over fifteen specialists battling it out to guac your world and be crowned the best in the business. For the little ones not quite ready to test their taste-buds just yet, there’ll be plenty of sides, desserts and refreshments too – including an ice cream van for any sweet tooths that need satisfying!
Friday 22nd & Saturday 23rd May 2026, Free entry
Lee and Elaine Let Themselves Down and Let the School Down @ The Stand
The Stand’s legendary Kids Comedy Club returns this May Half Term! Lee and Elaine are back to cause plenty more mischief, with some hilariously chaotic fun that the whole family can enjoy. If you loved The Big Family Christmas Show, then you’ll definitely all love this.
Saturday 30th May 2026, From £10
Cookery Clubs @ Blackfriars
Whether the kids are kitchen wizards, or want to get a bit more confident with their cooking, Blackfriars’ holiday clubs are definitely worth taking advantage of. The Little Monks Club is perfect for seven to ten year-olds, offering the chance for them to learn how to enjoy fruit and veg, and make their own lunch with a sweet treat for afterwards. Meanwhile, 11 to 17-year-olds will love the chance to build on the basics at Smart Cookies, creating some delicious dishes from challenging recipes, or ones more within their comfort zone.
Wednesday 27th – Friday 29th May 2026, Prices vary
The Great Dinosaur Escape @ Life Science Centre
Get ready for a roar-some adventure this May half term, as The Great Dinosaur Escape stomps into the Life Science Centre! Dino rangers of all ages can wander amongst these colossal animatronics, and even discover what these prehistoric beasts might’ve sounded like. And that’s not forgetting that there’ll be all the usual fun and games to enjoy at Life, including their immersive 360° shows in the planetarium and out-of-this-world activities in the space zone.
Until Sunday 27th September 2026, Prices vary
Rogues & Vagabonds @ Newcastle Castle
Rogues and rulebreakers are taking over Newcastle Castle this May half term, and you’re invited to join them! Fearless youngsters can create their own outlaw alias and take on a series of roguish challenges through the castle, learning the tales of the thieves and tricksters who once lived and worked there.
Until Monday 1st June 2026, Prices vary
My First Ballet: Cinderella @ Theatre Royal
Family favourite fable Cinderella is reimagined at Newcastle Theatre Royal as My First Ballet: Cinderella takes to the stage. This production from the English National Ballet is designed for young audience members, with a narrator to help them follow the story, and a shortened recorded version of Prokofiev’s mesmerising score.
Saturday 30th & Sunday 31st May 2026, From £13
The Great British Tribute Fest @ Times Square
Need to convince the kids that you’re still cool? Then bring them along to The Great British Tribute Fest, and dance the night away! Featuring talented tributes to the likes of Oasis, Arctic Monkeys, Sam Fender and Gerry Cinnamon, as well as an unmissable atmosphere, we’d suggest getting those tickets booked ASAP so you Don’t Look Back in Anger!
Friday 22nd May 2026, From £16.50
May Half Term @ Great North Museum: Hancock
There’s so much happening at the Great North Museum: Hancock that we couldn’t possibly pick just one event! After you’ve had a wander through their wonderful exhibits, why not join them for their interactive story time mouse tales, a spot of chocolate making with Davenport's, or the terrific treasure museum trail to learn something new together?
Various dates in May, Prices vary
With something for everyone, regardless of age or interest, there are a host of fun activities in Newcastle this half term. And don’t forget the city’s wonderful open spaces at Exhibition Park and Leazes Park, perfect for a picnic! What will you get up to in NE1?
Main image: The Great British Tribute Fest
Want to be in the know about everything that’s happening in Newcastle city centre? Sign up to our newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok.
