Middlesbrough: A Fun-Filled Family Adventure

Discover family fun in Middlesbrough: Culture, excitement, and memories await!

19 July 2023

Middlesbrough in the United Kingdom offers a delightful family-friendly trip with a range of activities to enjoy. Explore the magnificent parks like Stewart Park, where children can meet farm animals, play in the adventure playground, and even visit the Captain Cook Birthplace Museum. For some aquatic fun, head to the Tees Barrage International White Water Centre, where you can try thrilling water sports such as kayaking and paddle boarding. Middlesbrough is a city that promises memorable experiences for the whole family!

Travel plan

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Day 1

Discover Middlesbrough's Quirky Charm

  • Check in at the charming Victorian-inspired Jurys Inn Middlesbrough, where you'll feel like you stepped into a time machine!
  • Start your day with a visit to the Dorman Museum, home to cheeky monkeys, fierce dinosaurs, and captivating exhibitions for the whole family.
  • Treat your taste buds to some local flavor at the quirky Olde Young Tea House, where you can sip on Alice in Wonderland-inspired tea blends and munch on delicious cake.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the lush greenery of Albert Park, with its charming boating lake and delightful flower beds.
  • Immerse yourself in local history with a trip to the Captain Cook Birthplace Museum, where you can learn about the life and voyages of one of history's greatest explorers.
  • Wrap up your day with a hearty meal at Chadwicks Inn, a cozy gastropub serving up mouthwatering British classics with a twist.
Day 2

Family Fun Galore

  • Start your morning with a scrumptious breakfast at the family-friendly Farmhouse Café, where little ones can help feed the resident chickens.
  • Head to Teesside Park for a day of shopping and entertainment, with an array of stores, a cinema, and even an indoor trampoline park to keep the whole family entertained.
  • For lunch, visit Mannequin Café, where you can enjoy delicious homemade sandwiches and cakes while surrounded by quirky mannequins donning unique outfits.
  • Take a short drive to Newham Grange Country Farm, a charming working farm where kids can get up close and personal with lambs, pigs, and even meerkats.
  • Enjoy an unforgettable evening at the Middlesbrough Theatre, with its diverse lineup of family-friendly performances, from pantomimes to musicals.
  • Finish the day with a delightful meal at Al Forno, a vibrant Italian restaurant that offers delicious pasta and pizza options for both kids and adults.
Day 3

A Journey through Art and Nature

  • Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at The Curing House, a cozy café known for serving up delectable cured meats and locally sourced produce.
  • Explore the artistic wonders of Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art (MIMA), with its thought-provoking exhibitions showcasing contemporary art in all its forms.
  • Take a scenic walk along the Riverside Park, where you can enjoy picturesque views of the River Tees and its iconic Transporter Bridge.
  • Grab a quick bite at Bedford Street Coffee House, a funky café known for its eclectic decor, delicious sandwiches, and heavenly cupcakes.
  • Indulge in some retail therapy at the vibrant Hillstreet Shopping Centre, where you'll find a range of shops from high-street favorites to unique boutiques.
  • End your trip on a high note with a sumptuous dinner at the quirky and colorful Manjaros, where you can savor African and Caribbean cuisine bursting with flavors that will transport your taste buds on an unforgettable journey.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Middlesbrough by plane is to fly into Durham Tees Valley Airport, which is 10 miles east of the city. From there, you can take a taxi or the X66 bus to Middlesbrough. Alternatively, you could fly into Newcastle International Airport and take the train from Newcastle to Middlesbrough, which takes around 50 minutes.

Car

Middlesbrough is easily accessible via major roads including the A19 and A66. If travelling from London or the South, take the M1, A1(M) and then follow signs for Middlesbrough. From the North, take the A1 or M1 and follow signs for Middlesbrough. There are a number of car parks located in the town centre.

Train

Middlesbrough has its own train station, located in the town centre. You can catch trains from a number of major cities including London, Manchester and Glasgow. The journey from London takes just over 2.5 hours with direct services available.

Boat

There are no direct boat services to Middlesbrough. However, the Port of Teesport is located nearby in Stockton-on-Tees and is one of the UK's busiest ports. From there, you can hire a car or take a taxi to Middlesbrough.

Bus

National Express operates buses to Middlesbrough from a number of cities including London, Manchester, Leeds and Birmingham. The journey times vary depending on the destination but typically take around 5-6 hours. Buses arrive at Middlesbrough Bus Station in the town centre.

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