- Play Hard
- 7th Aug 2024
- 0
- 4 minutes
6 unique things to do this summer in the North East
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The warmer weather is finally here, so let’s make the most of it.
We’re always up for exploring new places and trying new activities. And the Tyne Tunnels are a fantastic way to travel, connecting our cities across the region.
Just pay in advance or by midnight the day after your journey. The easiest way to pay is with a Pre-Paid account, which gets you 10% off every trip through the tunnels and helps you manage your payments with ease – (download the Tyne Tunnels app on iOS and Android or visit tt2.co.uk for more info)
As always, we’ve got you covered. We’ve rounded up some unique ideas for things to do this summer, all just under an hour from the Tyne Tunnels.
HLN TOP TIP: Planning a day out? Join the campaign and use the hashtag #ThroughTheTunnels to share your adventures.

WASHINGTON WETLAND CENTRE
Distance from Tyne Tunnels: 15 minutes
Treat yourself to a day of outdoor adventures that the whole family will enjoy at Washington Wetland Centre. Rain or shine, it’s perfect for connecting with nature and spotting animals. Meet geese in Ganderland, watch the flamboyant flamingos and be entertained by playful Asian short-clawed otters.
Explore 104 acres of woodlands, wetlands and meadows. Kids will love the Playscape outdoor area. Afterwards, refuel at the Waterside Cafe with delicious treats. Don’t forget to visit the gift shop.
Learn more about the incredible wildlife you can spot during your visit.

KYNREN
Distance from Tyne Tunnels: 48 minutes
The UK’s largest live-action show returns with something new for 2024. Kynren made its grand return to Bishop Auckland in July, with performances every Saturday night until 14th September.
Set on a seven-and-a-half-acre stage, over 1,000 volunteer cast and crew members take you through 2,000 years of English history, myth and legend.
HLN TOP TIP: Use code ‘HLN2024’ for 10% off tickets this month (excludes VIP tickets)

SILKSWORTH SPORTS COMPLEX & SKI SLOPE
Distance from Tyne Tunnels: 21 minutes
Silksworth Sports Complex & Ski Slope offers a unique day out for all. Enjoy a kickabout on the large football pitches, sharpen your skills at the skate park or hit the ski slopes for a wintery adventure.
It’s the only ski slope in the North East, offering skiing, snowboarding and tubing all year round. For a more relaxed time, there are two fishing lakes, a picnic area and an adventure playground.

NORTH LIZARD RIDING SCHOOL
Distance from Tyne Tunnels: 19 minutes
Running out of ideas for things to do? Hold your horses! North Lizard is a BHS-approved riding school offering fantastic days out for everyone, from beginners to experienced riders.
Enjoy lessons, group sessions and countryside treks on well-matched horses and ponies, available seven days a week, including evenings. It’s a great way to socialize and stay active. Don’t miss Pony Care days for riding, hacking and earning a rosette.

BEAMISH MUSEUM
Distance from Tyne Tunnels: 25 minutes
The new 1950s cinema and shops are now open at Beamish Museum. Located in County Durham, this award-winning open-air museum spans over 300 acres, showcasing life in the 1820s, 1900s and 1940s.
Explore historic buildings, ride horse-drawn trams, and visit the 1900s town and colliery. Don’t miss the 1940s Farm and the 1820s Pockerley Old Hall. With food, drink and a gift shop, Beamish is perfect for a fun, educational day out.

SUNDERLAND MUSEUM & WINTER GARDENS
Distance from Tyne Tunnels: 25 minutes
Discover Sunderland Museum’s fascinating displays, from prehistoric times to the present, with hands-on exhibits, interactive computers and videos. Explore the Winter Gardens, home to over 1,500 exotic plants, exciting water features and a treetop walkway.
Admire crafted quilts, pottery and learn about the region’s rich textile traditions. The Worlds Alive exhibit showcases diverse animals in recreated habitats. Enjoy fine art, including works by LS Lowry and regularly changing exhibitions and activities.
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