It’s that time again. The coats are getting lighter, the clocks are springing forward and the kids are already asking what’s planned for the Easter holidays.
If your family’s the outdoorsy, always-up-for-an-adventure type, the North East of England is the perfect place for you to enjoy an active family day out. From coastal trails to city runs, woodland wanders to wild swimming, the North East is bursting with fresh-air family activities that’ll tire out even the most energetic little legs.
And this year, the Events of the North 2025 calendar is packed with family-friendly highlights that will get you outside, moving and making memories together.
Here’s our round-up of the best ways to fill your weekends and holidays with fresh air and big smiles this spring and summer. And don’t miss the chance to be part of something brand new and spectacular with Tidal Trails – an exciting new event designed with families, fun and the North East coastline in mind.
1. Tidal Trails – a new family festival on the coast
Where: South Shields Beach, South Tyneside
When: Sunday 17th August 2025
What: 2KM Kids Trail | 2KM Trail | 8KM Trail | Families on Track relay
If there’s one event to circle in your family calendar this spring, Tidal Trails is it.
Brand new for 2025, it’s the ultimate coastal adventure bringing the magic of the beach, the buzz of trail running and the fun of a festival-style day out all to South Shields Beach in South Tyneside.
Whether you’re a family of keen runners or just love being active together in the great outdoors, there’s something at Tidal Trails to suit you. The 2KM Kids Trail Run is a brilliant way for little ones to get involved, jog through the dunes and enjoy the sense of achievement at the finish line. Then there’s the 2KM Trail Run that anyone can have a go at, or for those who fancy something a bit longer, the 8KM Trail Run gives you a real coastal challenge. Families on Track will also be there with a fun relay event that the whole family can join in together!
Expect epic South Tyneside views, friendly vibes and a proper celebration of everything we love about running and the North East.
Make a day of it and soak up the lively atmosphere after the races with live music, delicious food – including the iconic Coleman’s fish and chips – and refreshing drinks. You might even spot a seal or two!
Get your ticket now at tidaltrails.co.uk
2. Families on Track – Paula Radcliffe’s relay challenge
Where: Durham City Run Festival; South Shields
When: 19 July; 17 August 2025
What: Fun family relay (3-5 team members) | Safe, closed loop courses
Running legend Paula Radcliffe is challenging your family to take on her fun Families on Track fitness event – where teamwork, fun and a little family friendly chaos come together in a unique relay challenge for all ages.
Here’s how it works:
- Teams of 3, 4 or 5 people (with at least one under 16 and one over 18) work together to complete 10km.
- You can break it up however you like using 250m, 500m or 750m laps, run by one team member at a time (accompany little ones if needed).
- You’ll collect colour-coded balls for each lap (yellow, pink or purple), adding them to your team total.
- Changeovers happen in the ‘Family Zone,’ with plenty of cheering and good vibes.
- Once you’ve clocked up your 10K, the whole team joins in for the glory leg to the finish together!
You’ll also get:
- A Nike Families on Track t-shirt
- A special medal
- A drawstring bag
- Plus… spot prizes for best dressed and most inspiring teams!
Find out more at familiesontrack.co.uk
3. Sunderland City Runs – Run the City Alight!
Where: Sunderland City Centre
When: Sunday 11 May 2025
What: Active Sunderland Big 3K (sold out!) | 10K | Half Marathon
The Sunderland City Runs are one of the highlights of the summer in the city – and perfect for active families who love a bit of friendly competition in an epic atmosphere.
The Active Sunderland BIG 3K (sold out for 2025) is a cracking intro to running events, with a flat, scenic route through the city that’s buzzing with music, cheers and support. The 10K and Half Marathon are expected to be the biggest in the event’s 14-year history, so older kids, teens and adults can experience the lively atmosphere of the race and make memories (and maybe even PBs).
With Keel Square at the heart of the action and a bustling event village, there’s plenty to do whether you’re running, spectating or just soaking up the vibes.
Enter at sunderlandcity10k.com
4. Durham City Run Festival – see the city like never before
Where: Durham City Centre
When: 17-19 July 2025
What: 5K | 10K | Families on Track relay
There’s something special about running through a city with as much history as Durham – and the Durham City Run Festival is the perfect way to do it as a family.
With a 5K, 10K and Families on Track, there’s an event for runners of every age, giving you a chance to see the city in a new light, get moving together and soak up a cracking atmosphere.
With live talks and activities throughout the weekend, this is a proper day out in one of the UK’s most beautiful small cities.
Enter at durhamcityrunfestival.com
5. Family Day Out in Kielder – forest trails, lake views & big challenges
Where: Kielder Water & Forest Park
When: Any time this summer (with events to plan your trip around)
Set deep in Northumberland’s wildest corner, Kielder Water & Forest Park is packed with fresh-air activities the whole family can enjoy.
What to do:
- Scenic woodland walks and family-friendly cycling routes
- Wildlife spotting (keep your eyes peeled for red squirrels, ospreys and deer!)
- Thrilling mountain bike trails for teens and adults
- Canoeing, paddle boarding and stargazing by the lake
It’s also the stunning setting for Britain’s most beautiful marathon – the Altra Kielder Marathon, held every October. But if you’re feeling brave this summer, why not build your family weekend around The Northumbrian?
The Northumbrian – 29 June 2025
The ultimate endurance weekend, with:
- Full & half iron-distance triathlons
- NEW for 2025: UTMB Index 50K and 20K Ultra Trail Runs
Your family can cheer you on at every stage – and enjoy a mini holiday in the process.
Included with entry:
Cycling jersey or running tee, swim cap (triathlon) medal, chip timing, goody bag, on-course nutrition & parking.
Find out more at thenorthumbrian.com
Explore all upcoming events and book now at www.eventsofthenorth.com
