Restaurant · Newcastle upon Tyne
A five-minute walk from St James' Park makes this an easy base for a football weekend with kids in tow, and the city-centre location means the bus station and shops are close enough that nobody has to be marched far. Rooms are quiet despite the setting — several families on the front side mention hearing only the odd car — and there's air conditioning, which matters since the windows are sealed shut and rooms can get stuffy. Staff are consistently friendly and helpful at check-in without hovering. The restaurant is well thought of and the cooked buffet breakfast gets steady praise, with a kids' menu and high chairs on hand. Worth knowing: room upkeep is hit and miss, with occasional reports of loose fittings, blocked sinks or tired bathrooms, so flag anything early. Parking is nearby rather than on site.
A little something creative for your next meal out. Filled with colouring, simple drawing prompts for cute animals, origami and conversation starters designed to bring more play, laughter and connection to the table. 3 free printable packs for toddlers, preschoolers and primary-aged children.
Space-themed indoor mini golf with arcade games, decent food and a kids' menu — good value on the early-bird slot.
Fast, fresh Thai in the city centre — high chairs, a kids' menu, tuk tuk seating and staff who take busy families in their stride.
Roomy city-centre steakhouse with kids' menu, high chairs and generous portions — pricey, but customisable cuts and sides suit fussy eaters.