5 engaging school trip destinations in the northeast of England

There's a plethora of wonderful options for fun and educational school trips in northeast England. With a wide range of activities on offer – from storytelling to science experiments – and a choice of indoor and outdoor venues, you're sure to find a suitable trip for your school group.

Read on for our top picks of destinations to enthral and excite your class.

1. RSPB Saltholme Nature Reserve

Located north of the river in Stockton-on-Tees, Saltholme Nature Reserve is an area of wetlands and reed beds managed by RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds). It promises to "awaken your pupils' senses to nature" with activities tailored to all ages, from EYFS right through to KS5. 

Explore natural habitats and observe wildlife including – depending on the season – lapwings, terns, peregrine falcons, dragonflies and minibeasts. 

You might even see seals if the tide is right. There's a "seal cam" in the well-equipped visitor centre, which also features an education room and a discovery centre for pond-dipping or visiting the bird hide.

Reservations can be made via Saltholme's website.

2. Tynemouth Aquarium

Located on gorgeous Long Sands beach, Tynemouth Aquarium is sure to fascinate and delight your pupils. The attraction aims to highlight the plight of our oceans while showing how we can help restore and protect them. 

Pupils will learn about the creatures that live in the aquarium and can also take part in a 30-minute educational workshop. The eco workshop and hands-on rock pool encounter can be tailored to any age group. (You're never too old to get excited about marine life, after all!)

Alternatively, you can opt for the KS1 workshop about habitats or the "Sharks!" workshop, which is designed for KS2 pupils. 

After meeting the puppy-like harbour seals, you'll be glad to know that Tynemouth Aquarium has its own seal hospital. Here, they rehabilitate sick or injured pups before releasing them back into the wild where they belong.

For booking info, go here. Be warned: peak times get busy so make sure to book well in advance for trips in May, June and July.

3. Raby Castle

At Raby Castle and grounds, you'll find plenty of historical inspiration for your class. The impressive medieval castle, which was built by the Neville family in the 14th century, has a majestic, grand appearance which is sure to amaze at first sight.

A guided tour will highlight the Medieval, Regency and Victorian interiors. Look out for historical portraits, tapestries and even kitchen equipment. The tours last 60 minutes and are tailored to your group's personal needs, age and curriculum requirements. 

If the weather is nice, you can venture outside for lunch in the beautiful deer park. (Don't worry, the deers will be too nervous to steal anyone's sandwiches!) Next, kids can expend some energy in The Plotters' Forest, a brilliant immersive outdoor playground. Here, children can enjoy a natural play experience, climbing, running and sliding their way through various obstacles. 

A visit to Raby Castle offers opportunities for play and educational activities. Everyone in the class is sure to find something to enjoy, whatever the weather! Here's the info you'll need to book.

4. Life Science Centre

Give your students an insight into a real science hub, where "educators, researchers, clinicians and businesses work side-by-side on one site". As well as producing groundbreaking research and treatments, Life Science Centre is an educational visitor attraction in the heart of Newcastle. It's perfect for a science-themed school trip. 

Your group can participate in a workshop or visit the science centre. You can book these activities separately but for a truly fulfilling and inspiring day out, we recommend doing both. 

Workshops focus on STEM subjects and take place in real labs with professional equipment. There are options for KS1 to KS4, as well as post-16.

Topics range from space to chemistry to genetic engineering. So there's bound to be a relevant curriculum-focused workshop to complement your visit. 

The science centre prides itself on being interactive and hands-on. You won't find exhibits locked behind glass at this museum. With its many different zones, pupils can explore at their own pace and discover all sorts of fascinating and eye-opening exhibits. 

You can check prices and booking information here. 

5. Beamish, the Living Museum of the North

Take a step back in time at this world-famous open-air living museum.

There are so many activities to enjoy. You can step back to Georgian splendour at Pockerly Old Hall.  You can delight in the Edwardian train station and find out about how people lived in a 1900s town. You can visit a 1950s dentist – if you dare – and take a peek into Victorian education. (Your pupils will be glad they're at school in 2023 when they hear about lessons in the 1900s. Crikey!)

There are plenty of historical shops where your class can spend some pocket money. They can choose from baked goods, old-fashioned sweets and much more besides.

Beamish is staffed by costumed characters, who are always willing to answer questions and offer insightful tidbits of knowledge. You'll really feel like you've stepped back in time as the friendly staff guide you through your unique visit to this wonderful site. 

Your school trip group will be free to explore the museum and the many resources in their own time. A lunchtime area will be provided so you can tuck into your packed lunches and talk about all the fascinating things you've discovered.

For booking info, go here.

Now that you've found your perfect school trip in the northeast, you'll need some transport to get there. Metro Vehicle Hire offers affordable minibus rental in Newcastle to ensure your day goes as smoothly as possible. All vehicles are safety checked and valeted before every rental.