As summer holidays draw to a close, North East families looking for a few more budget-friendly days out have a range of museums and art galleries to choose from.
From interactive railway attractions and local history collections to world-class art galleries and literature exhibitions, the North East is home to dozens of museums and galleries with free admission.
Here are 10 worth adding to your list before the new school term begins.
1. Hopetown, Darlington
Hopetown, Darlington.
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
Celebrating Darlington's railway heritage, Hopetown opened in 2024 to combine the town's historic locomotives with hands-on exhibits and family-friendly activities across a larger, improved space.
Located beside the North Road Station Museum, it's the perfect place to explore for train enthusiasts as well as younger visitors.
2. Locomotion, Shildon
Locomotion, Shildon.
(Image: Stuart Boulton)
Home to one of Europe's most significant collections of railway vehicles, Locomotion tells the story of the railways in the region often considered the birthplace of the railway.
Visitors can see dozens of historic locomotives and carriages spread across the site.
3. Dorman Museum, Middlesbrough
Dorman Museum, Middlesbrough
(Image: Tees Valley Combined Authority)
The Dorman Museum offers a fascinating insight into Teesside's past, covering everything from local industry and social history to natural sciences and archaeology.
The museum is also home to the popular Linthorpe Art Pottery collection.
4. MIMA, Middlesbrough
MIMA Middlesbrough
(Image: The Northern Echo)
Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art (MIMA) is one of the region's leading contemporary art venues.
The gallery regularly hosts changing exhibitions alongside installations, community projects and family activities throughout the year.
5. Museum of Hartlepool
Museum of Hartlepool
(Image: Google Maps)
Step aboard the historic HMS Trincomalee and discover Hartlepool's maritime past at this waterfront museum.
Interactive displays and reconstructed streets help bring the town's history to life for visitors of all ages.
6. The Story, Durham
The Story, Durham
(Image: Provided)
In a striking restored building, The Story explores 900 years of County Durham's history through archives, exhibitions and interactive displays.
The venue combines historical records with modern technology to tell stories of local people and communities.
7. Palace Green Library, Durham
Palace Green Library, Durham
(Image: Contributor)
In Durham's UNESCO World Heritage Site, Palace Green Library hosts a range of exhibitions about the city's history and culture.
Sitting between Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle makes it the ideal stop on a scenic day out in the city.
8. Seven Stories, Ouseburn
Seven Stories, Ouseburn.
(Image: TRIP ADVISOR)
Known as the National Centre for Children's Books, Seven Stories celebrates the authors behind some of Britain's most beloved stories.
While a lot of the activities are ticketed, Seven Stories has plenty of free exhibitions and areas for visitors to explore during selected opening times.
9. Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle
Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle.
(Image: TRIP ADVISOR)
Laing is one of the North East's best-known galleries - housing impressive collections of fine art, decorative art and sculptures in the heart of Newcastle.
You can find Victorian masterpieces as well as contemporary work by local and national artists.
10. Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens
Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens
(Image: Sunderland City Council)
Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens combines its historical collections with a stunning tropical glasshouse.
Inside, you can find everything from local history and archaeology to natural sciences and art all under one roof.
Read more
Last chance to visit North East Museum before doors shut for £13million makeover
The underrated stretch of coastline tucked away in a North East town
Northumberland National Trust site that is like 'stepping into a fairytale'
Whether your family enjoys trains, art, history, nature or literature, the North East offers no shortage of free attractions to keep children entertained before the summer holidays come to an end.
Many of the venues also host special activities and events during school holidays, making them ideal destinations for a final family adventure before classrooms reopen.