Join Georgina and Albany the Great North Mouse for ‘Museum Mice’, a two part series of sessions on Friday mornings at 10:30 - 11:30am.

Our Museum Mice sessions are designed for children under 5, and are the perfect place for your little one to socialise with new people and make friends, whilst exploring our Museum collections though play.
The sessions will begin with songs, followed by free time to explore other play activities within the space and an opportunity to have a closer look at some of our museum handling collections! 

Our current theme  is called 'Splish Splash Under the Sea'. Each round will follow a new theme for your little ones to enjoy.

• Part 1: Friday 2 May 2025 at 10:30 - 11:30am
• Part 2: Friday 9 May 2025 at 10:30- 11:30am 

Please arrive at the main entrance of the museum where the welcome desk can direct you to the location of the session. 

Sessions will usually take place in the Mouse House, but occasionally sessions may move to different location within the museum. 

You are booking a two part series. If you are unable to attend a particular date please contact Georgina at georgina.scott@northeastmuseums.org.uk so that we can offer the space on that date to another family.

Join Georgina and Albany the Great North Mouse for ‘Museum Mice’, a two part series of sessions on Friday afternoons at 1-2pm.

Our Museum Mice sessions are designed for children under 5, and are the perfect place for your little one to socialise with new people and make friends, whilst exploring our Museum collections though play.

The sessions will begin with songs, followed by free time to explore other play activities within the space and an opportunity to have a closer look at some of our museum handling collections! 

Our current theme  is called 'Splish Splash Under the Sea'. Each round will follow a new theme for your little ones to enjoy.

• Part 1: Friday 2 May 2025 at 1-2pm
• Part 2: Friday 9 May 2025 at 1-2pm

Please arrive at the main entrance of the museum where the welcome desk can direct you to the location of the session. 

Sessions will usually take place in the Mouse House, but occasionally sessions may move to different location within the museum. 

You are booking a two part series. If you are unable to attend a particular date please contact Georgina at georgina.scott@northeastmuseums.org.uk so that we can offer the space on that date to another family.

Discover the Laing with your little ones and support their early development in a fun and relaxed way, exploring a different theme each week. Each session involves a warm up with movement and motion, gallery exploration with fun interactive activities, a practical art activity with various materials, and a short story time. 

There is a different theme each week, but please note that the theme for the Monday and Friday session each week will be the same. 

This activity aims to be fully inclusive and anyone with additional needs is welcome. Sessions are aimed at 1-5 year olds.

If you'd like to have an informal conversation with tutor or member of the team before booking please email learning@laingartgallery.org.uk. 

Can't make these sessions? Our sister venue, the Shipley Art Gallery in Gateshead, runs Crafty Kids sessions aimed at 2-5 year olds, on Tuesdays during term time. The sessions follow a similar format to Little Artists and are led by friendly Early Years specialists. Find out more about Crafty Kids.

Spark your child’s imagination! In the Tiny Sparks sessions young children can explore science, history and museum collections each week through play, craft, activity, song and story.

Our popular Early Years Storytime Group gives families and carers with pre-school children the opportunity to meet regularly throughout the year. 

Join us every Friday (during term time) to read a story together, and take part in a hands-on activity. 

There are extra books and toys available for you to stay and play on the Upper Ground Floor of the Cutter building and the Winding House Café after the session.  

Sustainable Clay explores the environmental impact of this naturally occurring material. Potters and artists have long valued clay for its connection to a particular place, the very earth beneath our feet, but they are increasingly concerned about the sustainability of this material. From industrial mining to international transportation, the toxicity of glaze ingredients to the intense energy and heat required every time the kiln is fired, contemporary artists are questioning the sustainability of clay and adapting their work in response.

All of the contemporary artists in this exhibition have a link to the North East of England, through study, teaching, residencies or commissions. This reflects the important role of Newcastle University’s Fine Art Department as a centre for ceramic creativity and innovation. As this exhibition shows, the North East provides them with a unique context – a place where the industrial production of ceramics once thrived due to plentiful supplies of coal, the clay that was dug up as a by-product, and the waterways and railways that transported raw materials and finished products around the globe. Clay continues to be a global commodity and sustainability is now a global concern.

The artists featured in this exhibition are taking an experimental approach to clay as a sculptural material while striving for sustainability within their creative processes. Some are digging local clay to work with or finding more sustainable ways to fire their kilns, others are no longer firing their clay or choosing not to glaze their work, and some are using their ceramic skills to work with alternative materials.

Sustainable Clay features work by 12 artists at different stages of their careers: Wolfgang Weileder, Laurie Powell, Katie Cuddon, Shitanshu Mauyra, Andrew Burton, Lady Kitt, Rosie McLachlan, Brigitte Jurack, Paul Scott, Xiang Yang, Eva Masterman and Bethany Stead. Their work will accompanied by studio interviews, filmed by Jason Thompson, and an introductory space with highlights from the Laing and Shipley Art Gallery’s outstanding ceramics collections.

This exhibition has been curated as a collaboration between Matthew Jarratt, Visiting Professor of Creative Practice, Newcastle University and the Hatton Gallery.  

Image: Cumbrian Blue(s), Sellafield No:9, 5/5. Transfer print collage on bone china platter with platinum, 410mm x 345mm x 24mm. Paul Scott 2005.

Watch interviews with the artists on YouTube.

An inclusive art class held on the first Saturday of every month for 10-15 year olds. 

Participants will have the opportunity to work with professional art educators, working in a different medium or with a different technique each month. 

This group aims to be fully inclusive and anyone with additional needs is welcome. If you would like to have an informal conversation with the tutor before attending then please contact the Laing learning team on learning@laingartgallery.org.uk.

Join us for a family-friendly workshop on Dandyism with artist Ziza Patrick. 

Step into the world of Dandyism, where elegance meets rebellion, and fashion becomes a powerful tool for self-expression. Participants are encouraged to bring their own outfits, but a curated selection of flamboyant clothing and accessories will also be available to explore your individual style.

This is more than just a styling workshop, it’s an invitation to deconstruct traditional formalwear and rebuild it with flair, individuality, and bold imagination. Whether you're drawn to crisp tailoring or extravagant silhouettes, this is your moment to reimagine what sophistication can look like and on your terms.

We’ll celebrate beauty, uniqueness, and joyful self-expression, helping you to present the most authentic and radiant version of yourself to others on a makeshift runaway.

Take a look at the step-by-step guide to prepare you for the event.

Ziza Patrick is a multidisciplinary artist and a dance theatre maker of Rwandan heritage. He creates a variety of work that explores the themes of African traditions and cultural norms, investigating the effect they have on people from the global south who were born or have lived in the western communities most of their lives. 

GIFT 2025 is made possible with the generous support of funding and support from Arts Council England, Gateshead Council, Newcastle University, Quebec Government Office in London, High Commission of Canada, Canada Council for the Arts.

Image credit: Luke Waddington.

Museum opening times: 11am-4pm

Train running days: Museum opens 30 minutes before the first train departure. Please check Ticketsource for train running times. 

We regret that currently we are unable to offer wheelchair access to our carriages as the door openings are restricted to 55cm.  Wheelchair users must be able to self-transfer onto the passenger carriages to ride on our heritage trains. As a heritage railway, we are exempt from certain aspects of the Equality Act. For further help or information, please visit our access information page.

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This event is part of our Ways to Play programme of free and low-cost family-friendly activities.

Make your ‘Ways to Play’ adventure a great value day out by travelling to our venues by the Metro and / or Ferry.  

Up to three children aged 11 and under can travel for free on the Metro and the Shields Ferry with a fare-paying adult. Metro is the convenient, fast and frequent way to get to your favourite attractions and now it’s even more affordable. Find out more

Ways to Play is sponsored by Tyne and Wear Metro.

Visit the Robson room where you can have a go at some Medieval brass rubbings.

Join us as we commemorate 80 years since VE Day. Step back in time with hands-on activities for families. Children can try on real ARP (Air Raid Precautions) uniforms and helmets, explore ration books and wartime food tins and study a map showing German bombing targets along the river. 

Newcastle University’s new MA Curating Art presents three exhibitions of roughly one month each. First is a ‘one-work’ exhibition, looking again at a treasure from the Hatton’s permanent collection. The second exhibition is a re-examination of historical and modern artworks acquired by the Hatton across its first century of teaching fine art. The third exhibition combines contemporary art and historical artworks in unexpected ways.

Image: 'Wentworth Woodhouse', William Cowen, oil on canvas, Hatton Gallery

On the first Wednesday of every month, there is live music in the Winding House Café. 

Dave and Ray from 'Three's a Crowd' will be performing a mix of easy listening songs from the 60s and 70s. 

Come and show your support.

These sessions are a chance to develop your English in a friendly and informal setting.

We will use the art collections in the gallery and local history as inspiration for our discussions.

Session themes:

Wednesday 5 March: Find out about the Shipley and other free local museums

Wednesday 12 March: Explore our paintings and make your own

Wednesday 19 March: Learn about our local park and local history. Please note that this session has been cancelled. 

Wednesday 26 March: Explore our ceramics and make your own

Wednesday 2 April: Explore our textiles and make your own

Wednesday 09 April: Talk about your favourite Shipley artwork and celebrate with us

The nearest stop on the Tyne & Wear Metro is Gateshead Interchange.

Bus service 52 from Gateshead Interchange stops outside the Shipley Art Gallery.

10am - 2pm every Wednesday. 

Meet inside of the museum entrance. 

Free, all materials provided. No experience necessary. 

Refreshments provided.

Join volunteers from Charge! The Story of England's Northern Cavalry for a talk to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day. 

Hear about the final 11 months of the Second World War from D-Day to VE Day with a focus on our regiments the 13th/18th Hussars, 15th/19th Hussars and the Northumberland Hussars. 

The talk includes the opportunity to take part in a Q&A, and visit the Charge! gallery which brings the 300 year history of England's Northern Cavalry regiments to life. 

Join us for the 10th anniversary display of work by the North East Modern Quilt Guild (NEMQG). 

The NEMQG formed in May 2015 when a small group of likeminded sewists came together. Since 2017, the group have met at Shipley Art Gallery. 

The NEMQG is part of a thriving worldwide community of modern quilters and is a not-for-profit organisation, looking to not only promote the modern ethos in quilting style and techniques, but also looking to educate and support the wider community through its projects. 

Over the years the NEMQ has donated group-made quilts to local community groups, as well as raised funds for northeast charities and organisations including North East Museums. 

The support that the guild receives from the Shipley is invaluable and the group are delighted that the gallery is celebrating the 10th anniversary of the NEMQG with them.

Acrylic pouring is a fascinating way to make abstract art. Pour liquid acrylic paint onto a surface and tilt it gently, making the paint flow into a completely unique abstract design. 

In this workshop you will decorate a serving / chopping board using the technique of acrylic pouring. Choose between lava or seascape, and use the flip cup technique to make the paints flow across the surface.

You'll pour onto a 29.5 x 20 x 1.5cm food safe board. There's the option to add embellishments using locally sourced seaglass / sea coal and your own handmade polymer clay animals. 
   
This workshop is led by Rebekah of Redeemed Arts who has a passion for upcycling and acrylic pouring. Rebekah will guide you through the process, in which you'll make a beautiful, functional artwork.

The results of this technique are surprising and unique every time, allowing anyone to be an artist. Your items will be left to dry after the workshop, and Rebekah will resin seal them ready for you to collect from the gallery approximately three weeks later. The resulting pieces will be foodsafe and suitable for everyday use.

This workshop is suitable for ages 16+. If you need a carer / personal assistant to accompany you, please book them a free ticket.

Acrylic pouring is a fascinating way to make abstract art. Pour liquid acrylic paint onto a surface and tilt it gently, making the paint flow into a completely unique abstract design. 

In this workshop you'll decorate a set of 4 coasters using this technique. Choose your colours and have a go at one or two techniques to make them flow across the surface. 

This workshop is led by Rebekah of Redeemed Arts who has a passion for upcycling and acrylic pouring. Rebekah will guide you through the process, in which you'll make a beautiful, functional set of artworks.

The results of this technique are surprising and unique every time, allowing anyone to be an artist. Your coasters will be left to dry after the workshop, and Rebekah will resin seal them ready for you to collect from the gallery approximately three weeks later. The resulting pieces will be heat resistant to 90°c and suitable for everyday use.

This workshop is for adults (age 16+).

What to expect: 

• Participants will receive a safety brief and induction at the beginning of this experience.
• Upon the completion of your experience day, you'll receive a certificate and a complimentary North Tyneside Steam Rail Association mug.
• You’ll learn how to prepare, start up and operate this powerful machine before collecting some wagons and taking a freight train for a run out on the line. 
• Your driver experience includes a workshop tour and a visit to the museum at your leisure.
• There will be a max of 2 participants per session.
• Refreshments provided. 

We reserve the right to cancel and amend the experience at any time. In the event of cancellation due to operational issues, the rescheduling of the event or a refund will be offered. 

This experience involves climbing up / down vertical steps to the height of 6 feet. Before booking, you must inform us of any illness or disability. Failure to do so may result in the experience being cancelled on arrival. 

Please email: info@stephensonsteamrailway.org.uk for more details.

Participants must: 

• Be physically fit and aged over 18 at the time of the experience. Our risk assessment process requires that a doctor’s letter be provided confirming that participants over the age of 75 are medically fit and capable to participate in the Drive a Diesel Engine experience. This must be made available to the railway before the day of the experience.

• Be able, in the event of an emergency evacuation; to climb on/off the locomotive from ground level unaided, this may be up to a 1.5 metre (5 feet) vertical climb with steps at up to 0.6M (2ft) spacing. You must also be able to cope with discomfort, variable temperatures, weather and lighting, heights, noise and vibration.

• Be able to read (with glasses or contact lenses, if necessary) a car number plate from 20 metres.

• Must be able to hear and understand verbal instructions in noisy surroundings.

• Disclose any medical conditions and treatment/medication that may affect mobility, concentration, dexterity, co-ordination, consciousness and ability to understand and follow instructions.

• Drive a Diesel Engine experience may not be suitable for those with some disabilities, particularly where these affect mobility, concentration, dexterity, co-ordination and ability to understand and follow instructions. We advise you to contact us prior to booking one of our experiences if you believe this may affect the participant to ensure the activities are suitable.

• Alcohol & Drugs: Participants must not come on the Drive a Diesel Engine experience under the effects of alcohol, or any drugs which may affect their vigilance, whether medically prescribed or not, or consume such while on the Drive a Diesel Engine experience

• Safety Information: On the day of your Drive a Diesel Engine experience, participants will receive a short Safety Briefing relevant to the day’s activities.

• Mobile Phones / Photographic Equipment – Whilst driving, participants are prohibited from using mobile telephones/other interactive mobile devices and photographic equipment. Opportunities for photographs are available once the locomotive has come to a stand and is secured by the crew.

• We will permit you to transfer the place to someone else yourself, under the same booking conditions, but you must advise us of the details immediately when they are known.

• We reserve the right to terminate, without refund, your Drive a Diesel Engine experience if the participant is deemed unsafe on the day.

• We reserve the right to cancel a Drive a Diesel Engine experience in the event of circumstances beyond our control, but we will provide an alternate date or provide a refund.

• Locomotives will be used from the current fleet available and cannot be specified in advance.

A fun-filled 1 hour session led by our friendly Early Years specialist, Steph. Each session is based around a theme found in the artworks, such as colour, texture, line, and animals, which are designed for 2-5 year olds. 

Discover the gallery with your little ones, and support their early development in a fun and relaxed way. In these sessions, families will discover the artworks, get creative with a range of art materials, and explore the gallery together. There will be stories, songs, and fun creative activities - all designed to actively engage pre-schoolers with the gallery.

First, we'll gather for stories and singing. No need to sit still for long though - we'll be going exploring, doing treasure hunts around the gallery, and playing creatively to help us discover the artworks on display. At each session, your child will make something to take home, using a wide range of art materials, including ones that they may not have tried before.

After the session, please enjoy the gallery at your leisure. We provide space for families to enjoy a packed lunch. If you want a cafe, the nearest is at Gateshead Central Library, just along the street.

•  Activities designed for 2-5 year olds, but younger accompanying siblings also welcome.
• Please book a ticket for all children who will be participating. Sibling discount available.
• One adult per participating child, due to space restrictions.
• Disabled parents may bring a PA or Carer for support - please book relevant ticket.
• Sessions run fortnightly on Tuesdays, with a break for school holidays.

Parent/carer reviews:

'Excellent session, well planned short activities for the children. Lovely interaction with the children and parents. Thank you very much.'

'Lovely session. Well paced and very interactive - our first time but we'll come again'.

The young people will get to work like an Egyptologist and examine different evidence to discover some of the secrets of mummification. They will use original source material and will look at x-rays and CT scans from the two Egyptian mummified people in the Great North Museum: Hancock. The group will also consider the ethics around displaying human remains in a museum. 

This session aims to provide a 'real' insight into the journey the mummified people have been on and includes close-up imagery of our unwrapped person which may be unsuitable for some children. Please speak to a member of staff before booking to discuss any concerns you have.

The Survive and Thrive project is an intervention by Newcastle University’s Museum Studies students in collaboration with the Great North Museum: Hancock. 

It brings together objects from across the museum in surprising ways through its exhibit, guided tour, and learning activity. From 1-14 May, discover unexpected connections between ancient tools, natural wonders, abandoned objects, and more!

Find the exhibit at the back of the Hadrian’s Wall gallery. Tours will run during the launch on 1 May from 4-5.30pm. See you there!

May marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day and is also local history month. Join us at Woodhorn to commemorate these and meet other home educator families too. 

Book a workshop to take part in with your child and explore the museum for the rest of the day for free. 

Bevin boys and evacuees: 

Who were the Bevin Boys and why were they important during World War II? Find out about the lives of these conscripted miners, what life was like working down the pit and why coal was so important to the war effort. 

Later, find out about evacuees and their lives during the war. 

Recommended for children aged 8+, but younger children are welcome to join if appropriate. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. 

This workshop may contain air raid siren noises. 

Book your tickets for Bevin boys and evacuees.

WWII Colliery Tour "Bomb Blast":

During World War II a bomb landed on the Walker Fan building at Woodhorn. Find out what happened as we take a tour of the site and look at historical documents. 

Recommended for children aged 8+. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. 

Book your tickets for WWII Colliery Tour "Bomb Blast".

For Terms and Conditions and information on planning your day, visit the Woodhorn Museum website.

While you're here, why not relax in our café with a hot drink and take part in free activities at our mini museums stations?

Curious Crawlers is a  relaxed session for pre- walking babies who are finding their own unique ways to move around (crawling/ bottom shuffling/ high speed rolling with confidence).

This is an opportunity for early movers to explore their curiosity, learn songs, make new friends and explore the senses whilst discovering some of our curious museum objects.

The session will begin with some group singing, followed by unstructured exploration of the den spaces, a selection of toys and sensory experiences to explore and move between at their own pace. 

Upon arrival to the museum please visit the welcome desk who will be able to direct you. Curious Crawlers will usually take place in our mouse house space but may occasionally move to another location within the museum.

Curious Crawlers is a  relaxed session for pre- walking babies who are finding their own unique ways to move around (crawling/ bottom shuffling/ high speed rolling with confidence).

This is an opportunity for early movers to explore their curiosity, learn songs, make new friends and explore the senses whilst discovering some of our curious museum objects.

The session will begin with some group singing, followed by unstructured exploration of the den spaces, a selection of toys and sensory experiences to explore and move between at their own pace. 

Upon arrival to the museum please visit the welcome desk who will be able to direct you. Curious Crawlers will usually take place in our mouse house space but may occasionally move to another location within the museum.

Join us for a monthly Saturday art class for 7-12 year olds and their grown ups. 

At each session you'll be taught by a professional artist, and will try different techniques such as watercolours, ceramics, mixed media, drawing and more. 

Session Themes:
17 May: 'Gods Eyes' weaving and decorative patterns

14 June: Ships on the Tyne, Futurist painting

12 July: Insect screenprint

No session in August 

13 September: A clay receptacle based on objects and paintings in the gallery

18 October: Spooky castle in charcoal

15 Nov: Create a colourful Rangoli for Diwali

13 Dec: Winter animals step-by-step

Accompanying adults are encouraged to join in - the class is a great opportunity for families to enjoy creative time together. 

Our artist has extensive experience of working with young people including those with SEND and Neurodiversities. We understand that some young people may be older than 12 but find the class age appropriate due to SEND - please contact Hannah.Mackay-Jackson@twmuseums.org.uk if this applies to you.

These sessions will be designed to be welcoming and inclusive for all. 

Explore the museum after hours and take part in creating a large-scale collaborative artwork with Moving Parts Arts, inspired by THE HERDS with support from Art Fund.

The Late Shows is an award-winning late-night free culture crawl.

During The Late Shows, open art studios, music and performance venues, galleries, museums, studio collectives and landmark historical buildings come together to host intriguing interactive events for visitors. It’s all about encouraging people to do something cultural with their evening.

Come along to the Hatton for an array of art activities. Featuring music by Novyi-Lef, a synthesiser duo who have written pieces based on Kurt Schwitters’ work. Also featuring a short film by artist Rebecca Etheridge entitled ‘Mum’. Create a collage postcard and send it from the gallery. Take part in exciting drawing activities. Buy a gift or two from our makers' mini-market featuring local crafts people and artists.

The Late Shows is an award-winning late-night free culture crawl.

During The Late Shows, open art studios, music and performance venues, galleries, museums, studio collectives and landmark historical buildings come together to host intriguing interactive events for visitors. It’s all about encouraging people to do something cultural with their evening.

Join us for The Late Shows on Saturday 17 May. 

The Laing Art Gallery will have two events on this year: 

Craft & Creativity 

In celebration of the new exhibition, With These Hands, which explores the representation of craft in paintings, drawings, and prints, turn your hand to crafting in a series of drop-in creative activities. 

With These Hands - exclusive access tour

Esme Whittaker, Keeper of Art at the Laing and curator of With These Hands, will give an exclusive tour of the new exhibition, which explores the representation of craft in paintings, drawings, and prints from 1750 to the present day. Limited tickets are available, so pre-booking is essential. 

Have a dance around Turbinia! Join us for a (silent) Disco at Discovery Museum. There will be a variety of music channels available for most tastes with games and other fun activities too.

A dedicated quiet space will be available for visitors who need a place to relax. Noise-cancelling headphones and sensory packs (fidget toys, weighted blankets) are also available.

Enjoy a night of crafting and creativity led by Gateshead based makers, creators and organisations.The evening will be a showcase of activities that take place both within the gallery and beyond, including local creatives, groups and live music.

Join the Museum’s Librarian for a tour of the Library, then meet NHSN's Heritage Researchers to explore some of the treasures held in NHSN's North East Nature Archive. There will be intriguing letters, beautiful books and stunning artworks to discover. 

You will also have the opportunity to share your reflections on nature as part of Nature's Cure in Times of Need project, made possible by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Your stories can be added to the archive collection, helping create a record of local people's connection with nature across the North East. 

Refreshments will be provided in NHSN’s Council Room after the tour. 

Places will be limited. Please email joanne.charlton@northeastmuseums.org.uk to secure your place. 

This is a promenade performance of compositions from students of the Composing for Spaces and Places module at Newcastle University, Led by Dr Rob Mackay. Each short performance is inspired by an object or collection in the museum.

Nurture Nest is a session for babies who haven't learnt to crawl yet. It is an opportunity for young babies to engage in tummy time as a group, learn songs, make new friends, and explore the senses whilst discovering some of our curious museum objects and exploring our sensory environment. 

Tummy time mats will be provided during the session but you are welcome to bring your own if you would prefer. The session will begin with a short singing session, followed by unstructured exploration of the environment.

If your baby isn't crawling but have started to explore their own unique ways to move with confidence, you may find our curious crawlers session more suitable. 

The session theme for this round is 'Sea'. We will explore a new theme each round. 

Upon arrival to the museum, please visit the welcome desk who can direct you to the sessions location. The session will usually take place in the Mouse House but occasionally may need to move to an alternative location in the museum.

Nurture Nest is a session for babies who haven't learnt to crawl yet. It is an opportunity for young babies to engage in tummy time as a group, learn songs, make new friends, and explore the senses whilst discovering some of our curious museum objects and exploring our sensory environment. 

Tummy time mats will be provided during the session but you are welcome to bring your own if you would prefer. The session will begin with a short singing session, followed by unstructured exploration of the environment.

If your baby isn't crawling but have started to explore their own unique ways to move with confidence, you may find our curious crawlers session more suitable.  

The session theme for this round is 'Sea'. We will explore a new theme each round.  

Upon arrival to the museum, please visit the welcome desk who can direct you to the sessions location. The session will usually take place in the Mouse House but occasionally may need to move to an alternative location in the museum.

Join Ben Jones, Shipley project Coordinator, for a short talk on the interesting history of Saltwell Park Museum, which was located in Saltwell Towers in the centre of the park until the late 1960’s and its art, craft and social history collection.

Following this local historian and naturalist Michael Turner, will take you on a fascinating walk around historic Saltwell Park itself. Michael will guide you through the 12 Grade ll Listed Structures and talk about the intriguing stories behind them.

Meet at the Shipley Art Gallery just before 10am. Please wear appropriate shoes and clothing for the weather.

Part of the National Trust's Blossom Programme.

Every fourth Sunday of the month between 10-11am is Quiet Hour, when there are fewer visitors in the museum and we turn down the sound in our exhibitions and displays. 

We also have ear defenders available for you to borrow, as some of the experiences around the museum can be quite noisy. 

Bring your favourite bear along for a heritage train ride!

The Mosstroopers will be bringing the magic of the woodland to life with their Woodland Animal Stories puppet shows! Join Reynard the Fox, Isengrim the Wolf and other charming critters for Animal Tales throughout the day - each show lasting around 10 minutes.

Plus, enjoy on a delightful Teddy Bear Trail through the museum, collect clues and complete the adventure with your furry friend by your side!

Puppet Shows with the Mosstroopers at:

10:55-11:05am
11:50am–12pm
12:50–1pm
1:40–1:50pm
2:40–2:50pm

Train running times: 

11:15am
12:10pm
1:10pm
2:00pm
3:00pm

Enjoy early access to the Great North Museum: Hancock for a quieter, more relaxed experience. 

This relaxed session is for autistic visitors, visitors with learning disabilities or sensory and communication disorders, along with their families and carers. Or anyone else who feels they need a quieter experience of the museum. If that's not you, please visit after 10am. 

You can also enjoy a free 15-minute planetarium show - sign up at the Welcome Desk on the day (limited capacity).

In this ‘meet the expert’ session come along and meet Matthew Jordison who will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about green energy and sustainability. 

Matthew is the Net Zero Innovation & Delivery Officer at Gateshead Council and has extensive experience in energy and sustainability. He currently leads initiatives like the District Energy Scheme, developing business strategy, engaging communities in the transition to sustainable energy solutions and developing a regional skill/job plan.

He'd love to meet you so come along with any questions you have and enjoy the Steam to Green exhibition too. 

Get creative this May half term. Both sessions are themed around blossoms as we celebrate the season.

Tuesday 27 May: Create a decorative windsock with a blossom design.

Thursday 29 May: Use a paper plate, card, and tissue paper to create a vase of beautiful blossoms. 

Recommended for age 3+ supported by an adult.

Over the course of 3 days (Tuesday-Thursday), young people are welcome to explore the galleries, talk about art, and create their own work in sessions led by a professional arts educator. Experiment with materials, learn new skills, and create a dynamic set of works in the Laing's Art Studio.

For an extra charge we also have an option to add early drop-off available from 9.30am and late pick up until 4pm. Please select which days you would like to add these when purchasing your general ticket. Please note this additional cost is per child. 

Parents/Carers will need to fill out a registration form for each child attending. The information gathered in these forms is essential to the wellbeing of your child and the success of these sessions, failure to submit these forms may result in your booking being cancelled. 

Be inspired by the new exhibition, Spirit of the North East: Richard Hobson a Retrospective, exhibition and then head to the learning room and paint your favourite local place. Experiment with watercolour and create a beautiful picture.

This event is part of our Ways to Play programme of free and low-cost family-friendly activities.

Make your ‘Ways to Play’ adventure a great value day out by travelling to our venues by the Metro and / or Ferry.  

Up to three children aged 11 and under can travel for free on the Metro and the Shields Ferry with a fare-paying adult. Metro is the convenient, fast and frequent way to get to your favourite attractions and now it’s even more affordable. 

Find out more

Ways to Play is sponsored by Tyne and Wear Metro

During May half term, you are invited to join makers artists Lottie Smith and Molly Barrett for a hands-on, family friendly workshop. Make your own fun hat or musical instrument ready for the Northumberland Miners' Picnic on Saturday 14 June. 

We're going to replicate the North East community jazz bands of the 1960s and 70s and have our very own Woodhorn Community Band who will perform with Mr Wilson's Second Liners at this year's Miners' Picnic. 

You can make and play your own kazoo or drum, or have fun miming along with the band. 

All materials provided. 

Use Lego and plastic components to build a model, then programme it using an iPad. Using Scratch block coding, you’ll be able to make your model move, make noise, light up, play music, and more! You’ll learn coding, digital literacy, problem solving, and critical thinking – all through play!

• Suitable for ages 5 – 12, no experience necessary
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• No admittance to under 5s – this includes accompanying siblings

Please note, it is not possible to take your model home as the parts will be used for other workshops.

Excavate objects in our Time Quest space and record them like a real archaeologist. Create detailed drawings of your finds and take your drawings home.

This activity is part of our Ways to Play programme of free and low-cost family-friendly activities.

Ways to Play is sponsored by Tyne and Wear Metro

Meet the team from Ridgeside Falconry and see their spectacular birds of prey flying display. 

You'll have the chance to ask the team questions and see the birds of prey up close, in a static demonstration. 

Every spring, blossom declares the arrival of brighter days to come. We invite you, wherever you are, to enjoy blossom’s fleeting beauty and celebrate all the good it can do – for people and for nature.

As part of the National Trust 2025 Blossom Festival, we are very lucky to have an immersive real-time film of a tree coming into blossom from a local innovative creative studio, Novak. Treat yourself to 90 minutes of relaxation and calm in the Blossom space and enjoy a coffee from our cafe while re-focusing your mind and body in serene surroundings. 

It is completely up to you whether you make yourself comfortable on one of our bean bags or chairs, or you might want to take a slow walk around the space. You could even practice some light yoga, whatever feels right for you in this beautiful, peaceful environment.

Join us to get creative and build a LEGO® city together, to celebrate Newcastle upon Tyne being granted city status on 3 June 1882. 

Join us in the art deco Great Hall as we build our own city and celebrate the amazing city we live in over 140 years later.  

Most suitable for Primary school aged children.

LEGO® is a registered trademark of the LEGO® Group, who do not endorse or sponsor this event.

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This event is part of our Ways to Play programme of free and low-cost family-friendly activities. Make your ‘Ways to Play’ adventure a great value day out by travelling to our venues by the Metro and / or Ferry.  Up to three children aged 11 and under can travel for free on the Metro and the Shields Ferry with a fare-paying adult. Metro is the convenient, fast and frequent way to get to your favourite attractions and now it’s even more affordable. Find out more.

Ways to Play is sponsored by Tyne and Wear Metro.  

This week's story is Three Little Pigs, followed by crafts with the Early Years team for young children aged 3 - 5 years. 

Part of Discovery Museum's Tiny Sparks programme for young children.

Housed in Woodhorn's stunning Workshop Galleries, the annual Northumberland Open is the largest exhibition of its type in Northumberland. 

The exhibition attracts submissions from artists from across Northumberland and beyond. Works are selected for exhibition by a professional panel of artists and curators who also select an Overall Winner and Highly Commended artworks to be awarded prizes. 

During the exhibition run, thousands of visitors vote for the 'People's Choice Award' which is announced at the end of the exhibition. 

View past winners and highly commended artworks.

Follow the dawn to dusk cycle of a Japanese cherry blossom tree in this immersive experience.

This captivating visual experience was created by NOVAK, a Newcastle-based creative studio, and features a soundscape created by Digital Voices for Communities, who work to empower communities through digital media. Also including poetry created by Lotte Dijkstra, a PhD researcher at Newcastle University, in collaboration with local school children.

The Festival of Blossom is a project by the National Trust that provides opportunities for people to connect with nature and each other. Everyone needs nature, and blossom can be a universal symbol of hope and renewal that we can all benefit from after winter ends. Festival of Blossom is supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

Blossom Festival events at the Museum 

Monday 26 May - Sunday 1 June, 10am-2pm 

Learn about the Gosforth Wild Web project, and Blossom-related resources from the Natural History Society of Northumbria stall outside the Blossom installation on level 1. Free to take part.

Monday 26 May, 10am-3pm  

Have you ever wanted to learn more about botanical illustration and learn how to develop your creative skills to create some of your own works of art? Join this day-long workshop with a local artist, Ruth Sheldon. Brought to you by the National History Society of Northumbria. Suitable for adults. £35 for non-NHSN members and £30 for NHSN members, booking is essential. 

Tuesday 27 May - Friday 30 May, 10am-2pm 

Join the Natural History Society of Northumbria in the Council Room on Level 2 for a complimentary cuppa and the chance to share your own story of how nature has helped you in times of need. As you sip your tea, enjoy browsing the collection of rare and unique blossom-themed books and archives, and learn more about NHSN's role in North East nature. Free to take part.

Wednesday 28 May, 10am–2pm 

Take part in some blossom-themed mindful paper crafting, and create a blossom-themed butterfly to hang in our beautiful butterfly corridor. Free to take part.

Thursday 29 May, 7.30am-9am

Treat yourself to a special 90-minute early opening for relaxation and calm in the Blossom immersive experience. Free, booking required.

Friday 30 May, 10am–2pm 

Take part in some blossom-themed mindful paper crafting, and create a blossom-themed butterfly to hang in our beautiful butterfly corridor. Free to take part.

Hear the thunder of hooves as the historical re-enactment group, Equistry, brings the Roman cavalry to life at the 25th Anniversary celebrations of Segedunum's opening as a visitor attraction.  

Come and discover cavalry training techniques, armour and weaponry in the action-packed displays. Get up close with the stars of the day. Bella, our 15 year old Irish sports horse, a war horse through and through, and, 10 year old, Raven, a Shire cross who has been part of the team since she was 4 years old. 

Did you know?

The Roman cavalry weren't actually from Rome, the auxiliary were conscripted from all parts of the Roman Empire as they were the best horsemen.

This is your chance to get creative during the Easter holidays with a brand new, family friendly art activity. 

At the centre of every miner's home was a kitchen, and at the heart would have been the range. It would provide warmth and comfort on the coldest days, as well as generating heat to cook meals, hot water for a pot of tea or to fill a tin bath to bathe in. 

Inspired by the painters of the Ashington Group who captured these scenes of domestic life in their paintings, you can create your own Victorian cooking range using the drawing and collage materials provided. 

You can find a real range on display in Coal Town downstairs in the museum, and see if you can spot a range in any of the paintings by The Pitmen Painters in the Ashington Group Gallery upstairs. 

A friendly member of staff will be on hand to help but we ask that children are not left unattended, grown ups are invited to get creative too! 

This activity is devised by artist Paul Merrick. 

The Pop Up Ashington Group Hut, designed by artist Imogen Cloët, is inspired by the hut in which the Ashington Group met to make and talk about their artworks. 

Supported by Arts Council England and Northumberland County Council.

Pick up a free activity sheet to join in at Discovery Museum. Explore what life was like for children on the home front and search for hidden objects around the museum. Complete the spotter trail and receive a free sticker!

Children can also design their own VE Day bunting. One winning design will receive:

• A signed copy of Shrapnel Boys by Jenny Pearson
• A National Art Pass (plus kids) courtesy of Art Fund – giving one adult plus children under 16 free entry to hundreds of museums, galleries, and historic houses across the UK, plus 50% off major exhibitions

The Newcastle University Fine Art BA Degree Show brings together the work of emerging artists at the culmination of four-years of study on the BA in Fine Art. The exhibition displays a diverse set of contemporary voices, practices and media including painting, new media, film, video, sculpture, photography, print, sound and installation. 

Free, drop in. Donations welcome.

George Horton, a self-taught artist from South Shields, became one of the most renowned painters of the North East in the early 1900s, celebrated for his watercolours of coastal scenes. Despite a challenging upbringing and no formal training, his talent earned him spots in prestigious exhibitions, including the Royal Academy and the Paris Salon.

Horton’s artistic journey began with determined practice, sketching old works at his local library despite his father’s disapproval. An early fascination with portraiture led him to acquire a human skull for anatomical studies, which resulted in his estrangement from home at seventeen.

A move to South Shields marked a new chapter, where he found support through his marriage. A transformative honeymoon to Holland sparked his lifelong passion for the Dutch landscape, inspiring countless sketching trips.

While beloved in France and Holland, Horton struggled to gain wider recognition in England, partly due to his late entry into the London art scene. Nevertheless, his devotion to art remained unwavering throughout his 68-year career, painting purely for the love of his craft.

This exhibition offers a chance to rediscover Horton’s legacy and celebrate the passion and perseverance of George Horton. 

Five years ago COVID-19 came to our shores. The first confirmed cases were in York, in late January 2020, and the patients were treated at the high-level isolation unit at the RVI in Newcastle. On 23 March Prime Minister Boris Johnson made a televised address to the nation, and lockdown regulations came into effect across the UK three days later.

This display features some of the things the museum collected to represent COVID-19 and the massive impact the pandemic had on all of our lives.

With These Hands explores the representation of craft in paintings, drawings, and prints. The process of making and mending by hand whether a domestic pastime, rural and semi-industrial labour, or essential war effort, is a persistent theme to which artists return. Yet these artworks are rarely straightforward observations of everyday activity. Instead, the act of making is used to symbolise personal and communal identity, leisure and work, tradition and progress.

Produced in Britain and Europe from the 1750s onwards, these images reflect a society undergoing immense change. The growth of industry, the reorganisation of the methods and places of work, the changing status of women and the conflicts of World War I and II all impacted the value placed on hand skill. Some artists were interested in capturing traditions – their works romanticising crafts they perceived as almost lost – while others were drawn to the atmosphere and activity of the workshop and factory.

With These Hands takes you from refined drawing rooms to weaving sheds, from a woodland saw pit to an inner city carpenter’s shop, and from country blacksmiths to industrial forges. It focuses particularly on the changing role of making in women’s lives, the relationship between craft and community, and its impact on our landscape. The exhibition features paintings and prints by artists including Mary Cassatt, G.F. Watts, Stanhope Forbes, Harold Knight, Evelyn Dunbar, and Ralph Hedley.

At a time when we are reassessing the importance of hand making, for mental health and environmental benefits, paintings and prints help us to understand our complex attitudes towards craft. The exhibition will bring together paintings and objects – quilts, embroidery, metalwork, wood carvings, ceramics and basketry – to explore both traditional techniques and contemporary approaches. Makers include C. R. Ashbee, Bernard Leach, Michael Cardew and local quilter Amy Emms.

Loans from Tate, V&A, Royal Academy of Arts, Imperial War Museums and regional galleries complement the strengths of North East Museums’ collections. Objects from the Shipley Art Gallery’s outstanding craft collections and the Discovery Museum’s textile collection are shown alongside paintings from the Laing.

2025 marks the 150th anniversary of the beginning of the excavations in 1875 at the 'Roman camp' now, Arbeia, South Shields Roman Fort. 

This exhibition will look at the progress of the first few years of excavations from 1875 – 1881 when the Roman Remains Park was then established. 

The displays will include what was found, the people involved in the work as well as photographs taken at the time. 

This collection of free family trails invites you to explore the museum, engage with various objects, and collect prizes. 

You can use the trail up to four times across one, two, three, or four visits. Complete each trail to earn a sticker. 

If you complete all four trails, you'll earn a special Golden Murray sticker and have the chance to enter a prize draw for a Murray the Mole toy. 

For more information, please visit the Welcome Desk. 

Travel to the museum by Tyne and Wear Metro and up to three children aged 11 and under can travel for free with a fare-paying adult.

SHOAL is an exhibition featuring 12 photographs by artist Mandy Barker. The series reveals evidence of marine plastic debris collected during the Japanese Tsunami Debris Expedition in June 2012.

The work focuses on plastics collected and photographed from trawls and net samples at various points between Japan and Hawaii, and also from the tsunami affected shoreline in Fukushima Prefecture. Each image includes a different trawl sample, in some cases represented as tiny plankton, and captioned with the grid reference of where each sample was collected.

Each image is based on a collection of marine plastic that forms a 'shoal', arrangements of different species of fish that the plastic ultimately affects. Objects and particles have been duplicated to represent both the scale of lives lost and the amount of plastic that entered the Pacific Ocean as a result of the Tohoku earthquake and Japanese Tsunami, March 11 2011.

'Shoal' is a description given to a group of fish swimming together, a large number of people, or things. 

This project was made possible by The Royal Photographic Society and Photographic Angle Environmental Bursary Award 2012.

Photograph © Mandy Barker

In this exhibition, discover how Richard Hobson (1945–2004) captured the changing landscapes, industry and communities of the North East.

From bustling shipyards to rugged moorlands and beyond, explore how Richard captured an industrial landscape and a way of life which was on the cusp of change. 

Hobson was possessed of a curious eye, a passion for nature and the great outdoors, and he lived for his art. His paintings feature looming power station cooling towers, and the dilapidated remnants of past industrial might. He also recorded the spectacular natural world of the North Country, on his frequent rambles in the countryside, accompanied by his wife Pat and son Harry. Above all, Hobson painted because he saw beauty before him, no matter what the subject, warts and all. 

This display tells the story of both antecedent regiments of the Light Dragoons and the part they played in North West Germany during the final six weeks of the Second World War, which in turn led to Victory in Europe Day, 8 May 1945. 

The Final Push features the role played by the 15th/19th Hussars who, as part of the 11^th Armoured Division, came across and liberated the internment camp at Bergen – Belsen on 15 April 1945. 

A newly recorded interview with a first hand witness, veteran Ian Forsyth features in a short film which tells the story of his experiences on that terrible day.

The exhibition explores Johnson’s lived experience of rheumatoid arthritis and the subsequent impact of disability on her artistic practice. The works on display have been chosen from a large body of Johnson's work, which was donated to the Laing by the Estate of Nerys Johnson in November 2022. 

The archive is comprised of thousands of works on paper, including sketchbooks, prints, and watercolours, dating from throughout her artistic career.  

Johnson is most well-known for the vibrant and often intense colours in her work combined with dramatic and abstract forms of flowers, often set against dark backdrops. Her work, however, is varied—she uses different media and includes a variety of subjects beyond flowers, notably including self-portraits, abstract nudes, and architectural motifs.  

She was also interested in movement and states of change, which began with studies she produced as a student of Fine Art in Newcastle. During this time, she began to actively consider the parallels between human and plant forms, an important theme that extended throughout her life.     

As part of the exhibition, the Laing Art Gallery has commissioned Surface Area Dance Theatre, a live performance organisation that works at the interface between sign language, D/deaf culture, and dance, to develop and produce a performance to camera in response to the Nerys Johnson archive, titled Down Amongst the Plants.  

Down Amongst the Plants pays tribute to Johnson’s engagement with the rhythms of nature through Butoh, a form of Japanese dance. The choreographer of the performance, Vangeline, is the artistic director of the internationally acclaimed New York Butoh Institute, based in New York, USA.  

Johnson was not only an artist, but also a curator. Her curatorial career began at the Laing Art Gallery in 1968, when she took up the post as a Keeper of Fine Art. She eventually became the Keeper in Charge of the Durham Light Infantry Museum and Arts Centre (DLI) in 1970. During this time, the museum’s Contemporary Art Centre became a regional hub for art, attracting internationally acclaimed artists like Bridget Riley and Henry Moore. 

Nerys Johnson: Disability and Practice celebrates the richness of Johnson’s life and work and explores how her individual artistic practice flourished with the support of her vast social network. 

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city centre every Saturday morning with a free talk from the Friends of the Laing Art Gallery. Find out more about some of the paintings in our collection and share your experience with fellow art lovers.

March Isabella and the Pot of Basil by William Holman Hunt (1868)

April La Place Nationale Dieppe by Sylvia Gosse (1935) 

May Sunderland Old Pier and Lighthouse by John Carmichael (1840)

June A Grecian Flower Market by John Waterhouse (1880)

Isabella and the Pot of Basil by William Holman Hunt (1867).

Discover our What's On page to explore our events programme. 

Find out more about North Shields 800 here: Visit North Tyneside

Discover our What's On page to explore our events programme. 

Find out more at Railway 200.

A small, friendly group who meet in the gallery to enjoy drawing and painting together.

New members are welcome to join, whatever your level of skill and experience.

Please note, this is not a taught class. Instead, it's an opportunity to work on your art in good company and inspiring surroundings. You'll need to bring your own materials and equipment. Please note that oil paints and aerosol or fixative sprays are not permitted. The group is suitable for adults. 

There's plenty of opportunity for chat and skill sharing at this supportive group. We use shared tables, or you're welcome to borrow a gallery stool and sketch around the gallery. 

Some refreshments are provided.

To join, or try a session, please contact:

Kari Lawson
Email: Karimlawson@gmail.com
Tel: 07867 494 421

Discovery Museum’s new exhibition explores the story of energy in the North East by looking back to the industrial revolution, and forward to the pioneering contributions in green technologies happening now across the North East region.

With exciting new hands-on displays demonstrating wind and solar power, historical science and engineering objects and even a 'cutaway' electric NISSAN Leaf car on display, Steam to Green will showcase how the North East is leading the way in green energy.

The exhibition was created in partnership with Newcastle University.

Headline sponsor: Vattenfall

Follow this link to find out more about Vattenfall our headline sponsor

Supported by: The Reece Foundation, Newcastle University, Faraday Challenge, Friends of Discovery Museum, the Headley Trust and the Art Fund.

Sponsored by: Lumo,  Tyne and Wear Metro and Northumbrian Water

Museum opening times: 11am-4pm

Train running days: Museum opens 30 minutes before the first train departure. Please check Ticketsource for train running times. 

We regret that currently we are unable to offer wheelchair access to our carriages as the door openings are restricted to 55cm.  Wheelchair users must be able to self-transfer onto the passenger carriages to ride on our heritage trains. As a heritage railway, we are exempt from certain aspects of the Equality Act. For further help or information, please visit our access information page.

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This event is part of our Ways to Play programme of free and low-cost family-friendly activities.

Make your ‘Ways to Play’ adventure a great value day out by travelling to our venues by the Metro and / or Ferry.  

Up to three children aged 11 and under can travel for free on the Metro and the Shields Ferry with a fare-paying adult. Metro is the convenient, fast and frequent way to get to your favourite attractions and now it’s even more affordable. Find out more

Ways to Play is sponsored by Tyne and Wear Metro.

Housed in Woodhorn's stunning Workshop Galleries, the annual Northumberland Open is the largest exhibition of its type in Northumberland. 

The exhibition attracts submissions from artists from across Northumberland and beyond. Works are selected for exhibition by a professional panel of artists and curators who also select an Overall Winner and Highly Commended artworks to be awarded prizes. 

During the exhibition run, thousands of visitors vote for the 'People's Choice Award' which is announced at the end of the exhibition. 

View past winners and highly commended artworks.

Follow the dawn to dusk cycle of a Japanese cherry blossom tree in this immersive experience.

This captivating visual experience was created by NOVAK, a Newcastle-based creative studio, and features a soundscape created by Digital Voices for Communities, who work to empower communities through digital media. Also including poetry created by Lotte Dijkstra, a PhD researcher at Newcastle University, in collaboration with local school children.

The Festival of Blossom is a project by the National Trust that provides opportunities for people to connect with nature and each other. Everyone needs nature, and blossom can be a universal symbol of hope and renewal that we can all benefit from after winter ends. Festival of Blossom is supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

Blossom Festival events at the Museum 

Monday 26 May - Sunday 1 June, 10am-2pm 

Learn about the Gosforth Wild Web project, and Blossom-related resources from the Natural History Society of Northumbria stall outside the Blossom installation on level 1. Free to take part.

Monday 26 May, 10am-3pm  

Have you ever wanted to learn more about botanical illustration and learn how to develop your creative skills to create some of your own works of art? Join this day-long workshop with a local artist, Ruth Sheldon. Brought to you by the National History Society of Northumbria. Suitable for adults. £35 for non-NHSN members and £30 for NHSN members, booking is essential. 

Tuesday 27 May - Friday 30 May, 10am-2pm 

Join the Natural History Society of Northumbria in the Council Room on Level 2 for a complimentary cuppa and the chance to share your own story of how nature has helped you in times of need. As you sip your tea, enjoy browsing the collection of rare and unique blossom-themed books and archives, and learn more about NHSN's role in North East nature. Free to take part.

Wednesday 28 May, 10am–2pm 

Take part in some blossom-themed mindful paper crafting, and create a blossom-themed butterfly to hang in our beautiful butterfly corridor. Free to take part.

Thursday 29 May, 7.30am-9am

Treat yourself to a special 90-minute early opening for relaxation and calm in the Blossom immersive experience. Free, booking required.

Friday 30 May, 10am–2pm 

Take part in some blossom-themed mindful paper crafting, and create a blossom-themed butterfly to hang in our beautiful butterfly corridor. Free to take part.

This is your chance to get creative during the Easter holidays with a brand new, family friendly art activity. 

At the centre of every miner's home was a kitchen, and at the heart would have been the range. It would provide warmth and comfort on the coldest days, as well as generating heat to cook meals, hot water for a pot of tea or to fill a tin bath to bathe in. 

Inspired by the painters of the Ashington Group who captured these scenes of domestic life in their paintings, you can create your own Victorian cooking range using the drawing and collage materials provided. 

You can find a real range on display in Coal Town downstairs in the museum, and see if you can spot a range in any of the paintings by The Pitmen Painters in the Ashington Group Gallery upstairs. 

A friendly member of staff will be on hand to help but we ask that children are not left unattended, grown ups are invited to get creative too! 

This activity is devised by artist Paul Merrick. 

The Pop Up Ashington Group Hut, designed by artist Imogen Cloët, is inspired by the hut in which the Ashington Group met to make and talk about their artworks. 

Supported by Arts Council England and Northumberland County Council.

Visit the Robson room where you can have a go at some Medieval brass rubbings.

Pick up a free activity sheet to join in at Discovery Museum. Explore what life was like for children on the home front and search for hidden objects around the museum. Complete the spotter trail and receive a free sticker!

Children can also design their own VE Day bunting. One winning design will receive:

• A signed copy of Shrapnel Boys by Jenny Pearson
• A National Art Pass (plus kids) courtesy of Art Fund – giving one adult plus children under 16 free entry to hundreds of museums, galleries, and historic houses across the UK, plus 50% off major exhibitions

Discover the Laing with your little ones and support their early development in a fun and relaxed way, exploring a different theme each week. Each session involves a warm up with movement and motion, gallery exploration with fun interactive activities, a practical art activity with various materials, and a short story time. 

There is a different theme each week, but please note that the theme for the Monday and Friday session each week will be the same. 

This activity aims to be fully inclusive and anyone with additional needs is welcome. Sessions are aimed at 1-5 year olds.

If you'd like to have an informal conversation with tutor or member of the team before booking please email learning@laingartgallery.org.uk. 

Can't make these sessions? Our sister venue, the Shipley Art Gallery in Gateshead, runs Crafty Kids sessions aimed at 2-5 year olds, on Tuesdays during term time. The sessions follow a similar format to Little Artists and are led by friendly Early Years specialists. Find out more about Crafty Kids.

A fun-filled 1 hour session led by our friendly Early Years specialist, Steph. Each session is based around a theme found in the artworks, such as colour, texture, line, and animals, which are designed for 2-5 year olds. 

Discover the gallery with your little ones, and support their early development in a fun and relaxed way. In these sessions, families will discover the artworks, get creative with a range of art materials, and explore the gallery together. There will be stories, songs, and fun creative activities - all designed to actively engage pre-schoolers with the gallery.

First, we'll gather for stories and singing. No need to sit still for long though - we'll be going exploring, doing treasure hunts around the gallery, and playing creatively to help us discover the artworks on display. At each session, your child will make something to take home, using a wide range of art materials, including ones that they may not have tried before.

After the session, please enjoy the gallery at your leisure. We provide space for families to enjoy a packed lunch. If you want a cafe, the nearest is at Gateshead Central Library, just along the street.

•  Activities designed for 2-5 year olds, but younger accompanying siblings also welcome.
• Please book a ticket for all children who will be participating. Sibling discount available.
• One adult per participating child, due to space restrictions.
• Disabled parents may bring a PA or Carer for support - please book relevant ticket.
• Sessions run fortnightly on Tuesdays, with a break for school holidays.

Parent/carer reviews:

'Excellent session, well planned short activities for the children. Lovely interaction with the children and parents. Thank you very much.'

'Lovely session. Well paced and very interactive - our first time but we'll come again'.

On the first Wednesday of every month, there is live music in the Winding House Café. 

Dave and Ray from 'Three's a Crowd' will be performing a mix of easy listening songs from the 60s and 70s. 

Come and show your support.

These sessions are a chance to develop your English in a friendly and informal setting.

We will use the art collections in the gallery and local history as inspiration for our discussions.

Session themes:

Wednesday 5 March: Find out about the Shipley and other free local museums

Wednesday 12 March: Explore our paintings and make your own

Wednesday 19 March: Learn about our local park and local history. Please note that this session has been cancelled. 

Wednesday 26 March: Explore our ceramics and make your own

Wednesday 2 April: Explore our textiles and make your own

Wednesday 09 April: Talk about your favourite Shipley artwork and celebrate with us

The nearest stop on the Tyne & Wear Metro is Gateshead Interchange.

Bus service 52 from Gateshead Interchange stops outside the Shipley Art Gallery.

Join Georgina and Albany the Great North Mouse for ‘Museum Mice’, a two part series of sessions on Friday mornings at 10:30 - 11:30am.

Our Museum Mice sessions are designed for children under 5, and are the perfect place for your little one to socialise with new people and make friends, whilst exploring our Museum collections though play.

The sessions will begin with songs, followed by free time to explore other play activities within the space and an opportunity to have a closer look at some of our museum handling collections! 

Our current theme  is called 'Our Summer Garden'. Each round will follow a new theme for your little ones to enjoy.

• Part 1: Friday 6 June 2025 at 10:30 - 11:30am
• Part 2: Friday 13 June 2025 at 10:30- 11:30am 

Please arrive at the main entrance of the museum where the welcome desk can direct you to the location of the session. 

Sessions will usually take place in the Mouse House, but occasionally sessions may move to different location within the museum. 

You are booking a two part series. If you are unable to attend a particular date please contact Georgina at georgina.scott@northeastmuseums.org.uk so that we can offer the space on that date to another family.

Join Georgina and Albany the Great North Mouse for ‘Museum Mice’, a two part series of sessions on Friday afternoons 1pm - 2pm.

Our Museum Mice sessions are designed for children under 5, and are the perfect place for your little one to socialise with new people and make friends, whilst exploring our Museum collections though play.

The sessions will begin with songs, followed by free time to explore other play activities within the space and an opportunity to have a closer look at some of our museum handling collections! 

Our current theme  is called 'Our Summer Garden '.
Each round will follow a new theme for your little ones to enjoy.

• Part 1: Friday 6th June 2025 at 1-2pm
• Part 2: Friday 13th June 2025 at 1-2pm

Please arrive at the main entrance of the museum where the welcome desk can direct you to the location of the session. 

Sessions will usually take place in the Mouse House, but occasionally sessions may move to different location within the museum. 

You are booking a two part series. If you are unable to attend a particular date please contact Georgina at georgina.scott@northeastmuseums.org.uk so that we can offer the space on that date to another family.

Spark your child’s imagination! In the Tiny Sparks sessions young children can explore science, history and museum collections each week through play, craft, activity, song and story.

The Newcastle University Fine Art BA Degree Show brings together the work of emerging artists at the culmination of four-years of study on the BA in Fine Art. The exhibition displays a diverse set of contemporary voices, practices and media including painting, new media, film, video, sculpture, photography, print, sound and installation. 

An inclusive art class held on the first Saturday of every month for 10-15 year olds. 

Participants will have the opportunity to work with professional art educators, working in a different medium or with a different technique each month. 

This group aims to be fully inclusive and anyone with additional needs is welcome. If you would like to have an informal conversation with the tutor before attending then please contact the Laing learning team on learning@laingartgallery.org.uk.

Step back to 1825 and witness the dawn of the railway age in Steam, a 50-minute comedy-drama celebrating the ground-breaking launch of the Stockton & Darlington Railway, the world’s first public steam railway.

At its heart is the fiery and fascinating relationship between engineering icons George and Robert Stephenson, the father-and-son duo who revolutionized transport and clashed like titans along the way. Think Lennon and McCartney, but with more soot and steam.

This is the true story of coal, ambition, invention, and the very first steps of the modern world, brought to life with warmth, wit, and a spark of steam-powered genius.

Suitable for all the family.

Join us for a monthly Saturday art class for 7-12 year olds and their grown ups. 

At each session you'll be taught by a professional artist, and will try different techniques such as watercolours, ceramics, mixed media, drawing and more. 

Session Themes:
17 May: 'Gods Eyes' weaving and decorative patterns

14 June: Ships on the Tyne, Futurist painting

12 July: Insect screenprint

No session in August 

13 September: A clay receptacle based on objects and paintings in the gallery

18 October: Spooky castle in charcoal

15 Nov: Create a colourful Rangoli for Diwali

13 Dec: Winter animals step-by-step

Accompanying adults are encouraged to join in - the class is a great opportunity for families to enjoy creative time together. 

Our artist has extensive experience of working with young people including those with SEND and Neurodiversities. We understand that some young people may be older than 12 but find the class age appropriate due to SEND - please contact Hannah.Mackay-Jackson@twmuseums.org.uk if this applies to you.

These sessions will be designed to be welcoming and inclusive for all. 

Create your own stunning hand embroidered summer landscape under the guidance of textile artist Louise Goult. 

Layer and piece fabrics together to create the background, then add detail using hand embroidery, embellishments and a variety of threads.

Suitable for beginners and those with some embroidery experience.

The Northumberland Miners' Picnic is a jam-packed day out for all the family, rooted in our local heritage and re-imagined with a contemporary twist. 

We are delighted to welcome back Mr Wilson's Second Liners to headline the main stage. 

The main stage programme will be announced soon.

Throughout the day: 

• Look out for pop up street theatre performances. 
• Have a go at family friendly activities and get hands-on with objects from the Museum's collections team. 
• Meet the Age UK gardening volunteers - The Woodhorn Weeders and buy some plants for your own garden. 
• Explore the museums, exhibitions and colliery buildings. 
• Relax and enjoy tasty treats from the Winding House Café, special street food stalls or bring along your own picnic. Only alcohol purchased on site can be consumed at the Picnic. Woodhorn Museum is a no smoking and no vaping site. 
• Remember the people, places and industry that brought us the tradition of the Northumberland Miners' Picnic at the Miners' Memorial Service. 

Assistance dogs are always welcome at Woodhorn Museum and family pet dogs may also accompany visitors in the grounds and historic buildings. The picnic is a busy and loud event, so please bear this in mind when deciding whether to bring your dog to the event. 

This event is supported by Arts Council England, Northumberland County Council and Ashington Town Council. 

The first Newcastle Card Shows at Discovery Museum have been such knock-out events that it's returning for a third time, again over two days.

Discovery Museum's magnificent Great Hall will host another collector's fair this June. 

Newcastle Card Show is suitable for both families and adult collectorsfor, where trading card enthusiasts can gather and celebrate their hobby in the heart of Newcastle.

Expect to see a wide variety of vendors selling: 

Pokemon | Yu-gi-oh | Magic: The Gathering | Disney’s Lorcana | sports cards | so much more

Bring your trade binder and your favourite deck. There will be a social area within the event where you can meet other collectors, make some trades and maybe have a game or two. 

To be the first to get updates about vendors follow the Newcastle Card Show on Instagram. 

Curious Crawlers is a  relaxed session for pre- walking babies who are finding their own unique ways to move around (crawling/ bottom shuffling/ high speed rolling with confidence).

This is an opportunity for early movers to explore their curiosity, learn songs, make new friends and explore the senses whilst discovering some of our curious museum objects.

The session will begin with some group singing, followed by unstructured exploration of the den spaces, a selection of toys and sensory experiences to explore and move between at their own pace. 

Upon arrival to the museum please visit the welcome desk who will be able to direct you. Curious Crawlers will usually take place in our mouse house space but may occasionally move to another location within the museum.

Curious Crawlers is a relaxed session for pre-walking babies who are finding their own unique ways to move around (crawling/ bottom shuffling/ high speed rolling with confidence).

This is an opportunity for early movers to explore their curiosity, learn songs, make new friends and explore the senses whilst discovering some of our curious museum objects.

The session will begin with some group singing, followed by unstructured exploration of the den spaces, a selection of toys and sensory experiences to explore and move between at their own pace. 

Upon arrival to the museum please visit the welcome desk who will be able to direct you. Curious Crawlers will usually take place in our mouse house space but may occasionally move to another location within the museum.

Make & Buy is a celebration of craft at the Shipley Art Gallery.

• We're seeking crafters and makers to sell handmade, non-edible items at the event. 
• We'll also have activity stations run by crafters, where people of all ages can learn about traditional craft techniques and have a go at making.

Requirements for stallholders:

• You must have Public Liability Insurance (PLI) to the value of £5m. and provide proof of this in advance. 
• All items sold must be original and handmade crafts. No food stalls (we will provide a pop-up cafe separately).
• You may book a maximum of one stall (not two adjacent tables).

Display methods:
The price is for one table (provided by the gallery) measuring 182cm L, 69cm W, 70cm H. Stallholders can provide their own table covering to fit these dimensions. You may bring a maximum of two freestanding items to go on the floor in front of your stall (for example browsers, plinths, pop up banners etc.) You must provide details of what you are bringing in advance, and we reserve the right to prevent the use of anything that poses a safety risk. 

Arrival times:
We are staggering arrival times to ensure smooth running. Please book for either 9.45am or 10am and arrive promptly. The market opens at 11am and all stalls must be set up in good time for this. Unfortunately if you arrive after 11am we cannot guarantee your stall. We will be in touch by email regarding all the arrangements for parking etc.

Electricity and Payments:
We are unable to guarantee that you'll be within reach of a plug socket, therefore please do not bring anything that requires electricity.

Stallholders are responsible for managing their own electronic payment facilities. We supply wifi, however cannot provide technical assistance or guarantee its security. You may wish to accept cash too and are responsible for your own cash float. We cannot accept responsibility for anything that is lost or stolen.

Pricing recommendations:
Following our previous craft markets, we expect that customers will be seeking items which are priced between roughly £3 and £30. We found that higher priced items are less attractive to customers at these events, therefore please consider the pricing of your items when deciding whether to book a stall.

Marketing:
After you book a stall you should supply proof of your PLI, and images for our marketing. Please note, we will use our discretion when marketing and do not guarantee to include all of the images you supply.

Proof of PLI and marketing images should be emailed to: Hannah.Mackay-Jackson@twmuseums.org.uk

Try your hand at fused glass and create a beautiful bowl.

Led by a friendly tutor from Kimoci Glass, you’ll be shown how to make a stunning fused glass bowl using Bullseye sheet glass, frits, and metal inclusions.

Your bowl will be taken away to be fired and you’ll be able to collect it at a later date. The workshop is suitable for complete beginners and those who already have some experience working with glass.

Please bring your own refreshments - there will be a break during the session.
Suitable for adults and teens aged 16+
Personal Assistant / Carer to a disabled adult goes free but requires a ticket.

This event is part of a series of glass classes by Kimoci Glass.

Browse an array of stalls where local makers will be selling their handmade crafts at affordable prices.

There will be a wide range of artforms represented and many opportunities to chat with friendly makers. 

The Shipley's drawing and painting group will be running a free drop-in activity where you can paint a greeting card to take away with you. The group meets at the Shipley on Tuesday mornings and is open to new members - come along to have a chat and find out more.

You can also treat yourself to a hot drink and a sweet or savoury baked good at Urban Bakery's pop-up cafe. 

Back by popular demand! We're delighted to welcome once again to our Tunes in June series The Black Corner Band, a local folk group from Cleadon & Boldon.  

Make an afternoon of it - after visiting the museum, enjoy your own picnic and refreshments on our lawn or in our picnic area whilst listening (and maybe even dancing) to some great live music.

Nurture Nest is a session for babies who haven't learnt to crawl yet. It is an opportunity for young babies to engage in tummy time as a group, learn songs, make new friends, and explore the senses whilst discovering some of our curious museum objects and exploring our sensory environment. 

Tummy time mats will be provided during the session but you are welcome to bring your own if you would prefer. The session will begin with a short singing session, followed by unstructured exploration of the environment.

If your baby isn't crawling but have started to explore their own unique ways to move with confidence, you may find our curious crawlers session more suitable.  

The session theme for this round is 'Garden'. We will explore a new theme each round.  

Upon arrival to the museum, please visit the welcome desk who can direct you to the sessions location. The session will usually take place in the Mouse House but occasionally may need to move to an alternative location in the museum.

Nurture Nest is a session for babies who haven't learnt to crawl yet. It is an opportunity for young babies to engage in tummy time as a group, learn songs, make new friends, and explore the senses whilst discovering some of our curious museum objects and exploring our sensory environment. 

Tummy time mats will be provided during the session but you are welcome to bring your own if you would prefer. The session will begin with a short singing session, followed by unstructured exploration of the environment.

If your baby isn't crawling but have started to explore their own unique ways to move with confidence, you may find our curious crawlers session more suitable.  

The session theme for this round is 'Garden'. We will explore a new theme each round.  

Upon arrival to the museum, please visit the welcome desk who can direct you to the sessions location. The session will usually take place in the Mouse House but occasionally may need to move to an alternative location in the museum.

Free, drop in. Donations welcome.

Every fourth Sunday of the month between 10-11am is Quiet Hour, when there are fewer visitors in the museum and we turn down the sound in our exhibitions and displays. 

We also have ear defenders available for you to borrow, as some of the experiences around the museum can be quite noisy. 

Thanks to the dedication of our incredible volunteers, a once-neglected patch of land has been transformed into a thriving haven for wildlife, and a welcoming green space where the local community can reconnect with nature.

The newly created Woodland Walk is designed to support biodiversity, enrich the local ecosystem and provide a peaceful, freely accessible conservation area for everyone to enjoy.

Features of the Woodland Walk include:

• A wildlife pond

• A calming sensory garden

• A creative art trail

• A purpose-built outdoor learning lodge for education and exploration.

George Horton, a self-taught artist from South Shields, became one of the most renowned painters of the North East in the early 1900s, celebrated for his watercolours of coastal scenes. Despite a challenging upbringing and no formal training, his talent earned him spots in prestigious exhibitions, including the Royal Academy and the Paris Salon.

Horton’s artistic journey began with determined practice, sketching old works at his local library despite his father’s disapproval. An early fascination with portraiture led him to acquire a human skull for anatomical studies, which resulted in his estrangement from home at seventeen.

A move to South Shields marked a new chapter, where he found support through his marriage. A transformative honeymoon to Holland sparked his lifelong passion for the Dutch landscape, inspiring countless sketching trips.

While beloved in France and Holland, Horton struggled to gain wider recognition in England, partly due to his late entry into the London art scene. Nevertheless, his devotion to art remained unwavering throughout his 68-year career, painting purely for the love of his craft.

This exhibition offers a chance to rediscover Horton’s legacy and celebrate the passion and perseverance of George Horton. 

Five years ago COVID-19 came to our shores. The first confirmed cases were in York, in late January 2020, and the patients were treated at the high-level isolation unit at the RVI in Newcastle. On 23 March Prime Minister Boris Johnson made a televised address to the nation, and lockdown regulations came into effect across the UK three days later.

This display features some of the things the museum collected to represent COVID-19 and the massive impact the pandemic had on all of our lives.

With These Hands explores the representation of craft in paintings, drawings, and prints. The process of making and mending by hand whether a domestic pastime, rural and semi-industrial labour, or essential war effort, is a persistent theme to which artists return. Yet these artworks are rarely straightforward observations of everyday activity. Instead, the act of making is used to symbolise personal and communal identity, leisure and work, tradition and progress.

Produced in Britain and Europe from the 1750s onwards, these images reflect a society undergoing immense change. The growth of industry, the reorganisation of the methods and places of work, the changing status of women and the conflicts of World War I and II all impacted the value placed on hand skill. Some artists were interested in capturing traditions – their works romanticising crafts they perceived as almost lost – while others were drawn to the atmosphere and activity of the workshop and factory.

With These Hands takes you from refined drawing rooms to weaving sheds, from a woodland saw pit to an inner city carpenter’s shop, and from country blacksmiths to industrial forges. It focuses particularly on the changing role of making in women’s lives, the relationship between craft and community, and its impact on our landscape. The exhibition features paintings and prints by artists including Mary Cassatt, G.F. Watts, Stanhope Forbes, Harold Knight, Evelyn Dunbar, and Ralph Hedley.

At a time when we are reassessing the importance of hand making, for mental health and environmental benefits, paintings and prints help us to understand our complex attitudes towards craft. The exhibition will bring together paintings and objects – quilts, embroidery, metalwork, wood carvings, ceramics and basketry – to explore both traditional techniques and contemporary approaches. Makers include C. R. Ashbee, Bernard Leach, Michael Cardew and local quilter Amy Emms.

Loans from Tate, V&A, Royal Academy of Arts, Imperial War Museums and regional galleries complement the strengths of North East Museums’ collections. Objects from the Shipley Art Gallery’s outstanding craft collections and the Discovery Museum’s textile collection are shown alongside paintings from the Laing.