Christmas at North East Museums

Get into the festive spirit with us this Christmas. Explore our venues across Tyneside, enjoy festive activities, and discover unique gifts in our shops.

Christmas opening hours

Visitors are advised of the following changes to normal opening hours at our venues over the festive period.


Arbeia, South Shields Roman Fort - Closed until 31 March 2025 (except for Candlelit Tours, special events and school/group visits). 

Discovery Museum - Closed 25 December 2024 - 1 January 2025 inclusive.

Great North Museum: Hancock - Closed 25 and 26 December 2024 and 1 January 2025. 

Hatton Gallery - Closed 22 December 2024 - 5 January 2025 inclusive. 

Laing Art Gallery - Closed 25 and 26 December 2024 and 1 January 2025.

Segedunum Roman Fort - Closed 1 December 2024 - 5 January 2025 inclusive. 

Shipley Art GalleryClosed 22 December 2024 - 6 January 2025 inclusive.

South Shields Museum & Art GalleryClosed 24 December 2024 - 13 January 2025 inclusive. 

Stephenson Steam Railway - Closed until 29 March 2025 (except for Elf Express, Winter Warmers and school visits).


Tyne & Wear Archives - Closed 25 December 2024 - 1 January 2025 inclusive. 



Christmas Gift Guide

Take a look below at our selection of Christmas gifts in the Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums online shop.

Make sure to order by Friday 13 December (UK) to guarantee delivery before Christmas. Orders made after this date will not arrive before Christmas.