3 Reasons to enjoy the summer holidays in the Tees Valley

Exhilarating activities for the entire family

The Tees Valley is home to a variety of world class watersport facilities. If white water rafting is your thing,  head to Tees Barrage White Water Centre and choose between 100 or 300 metres of rapid white water and experience the steepest course drop in the UK (if you dare!). The wild waters are a frenzy of turns, drops and waves mimicking the perfect roller coaster experience. Family rafting is also offered which provides a more gentle and relaxing experience. Find out more here.

On the topic of thrill-seeking activities, Tees Barrage’s own Air Trail is also available throughout the summer months. Standing a tall 18 metres on the bank of the River Tees, Air Trail is the highest of its kind in the UK. Explore the structure, a range of climbing activities and the two zip lines that whizz the climber through the full length of the structure. Air Tykes is also available which is a smaller version of the Air Trail allowing little climbers to have their own adventure. Begin your adventure here. 

Beach days you’re bound to love

If you want to relax this summer, why not visit one of the region’s beautiful beaches? Whether you visit Saltburn, Redcar, or Seaton Carew, each beach is stocked with the seaside essentials needed for the perfect day out.  Feast on fresh fish & chips, have fun at traditional arcades, and no beach day is complete without an ice cream (make sure to try a Tees Valley favourite from Pacitto’s – The lemon-top ice cream).

Head to the charming Victorian town of Saltburn-by-the-Sea to ride the Saltburn Cliff Tramway, enjoy seafood with a side of stunning panoramic views at Seaview Restaurant, or enjoy the view and sea breeze as you stroll along Saltburn Pier – the most northerly surviving British pier.

Catch up on culture with the kids

The Tees Valley is the perfect place for the whole family to visit, especially the little ones. Visit Theatre Hullabaloo in Darlington, the only Children’s theatre north of London. The Hullabaloo is an organisation dedicated to bringing and promoting theatre to young audiences aged 0-16 and offers a range of interactive activities and events for children to get involved in. Plan the perfect family theatre trip here.

For those that want to experience the region’s maritime history, the National Museum of the Royal Navy in Hartlepool is perfect. Climb aboard the grand HMS Trincomalee, the oldest floating British warship, hear the firing of their authentic cannon and musket, and immerse yourself in the fighting ships exhibit. Travel back in time to the 18^th century and get a glimpse of life on a seaport through a variety of live demonstrations and re-enactments. Plan your visit here.

If you would prefer to immerse yourself into modern culture, Middlesbrough Art Weekender is the perfect festival for you. The cultural arts festival invites over 75 artists to explore the theme of power through a variety of exhibitions, workshops, talks, seminars, performances, and interactive projects. Make your way to Middlesbrough on 22^nd until 25^th September for a free, family friendly event. Find out more here.

Don’t worry if you miss out on any of our exciting events, the Tees Valley has plenty of exciting activities and events planned throughout the autumn and winter months too! Check out our What’s On Page for more.