Gateshead-post.co.uk

If you're looking for something to do, whether you live locally or far away, then Gateshead is a great place to visit of a weekend or spend the day in this delightful and scenic Northern city.

There are plenty of activities for the children and the night life can be enticing both side of the River Tyne. If you're visiting Newcastle or Sunderland, a short trip across the river will provide yet more entertainment in Gateshead.

It took a while to arrive and it's the first of its kind in the region. The new ODEON IMAX can be found at the Metrocentre shopping centre. It has 12 screens and a special 3D screen to watch the latest films and entertaining 3D documentaries. a great night out for all the family.

Do you like to watch sport? How's about a new one, pick up some rattles and team orientated scarves and show your support for the local tea. Gateshead Thunder Rugby Club is the only professional rugby club in the north which certainly gives this city some sporting status.

Of course every town and city has some form of spa or swimming pool and Gateshead Leisure Centre is no different. They have a full equipped gym, steam room and a huge main swimming pool with two smaller pools for the children. Complete with crèche where you can leave the children as your partake in a bout of Squash.

Seeking out a venue for your child's birthday party? There's no better place than Mister Twisters Wacky World of Fun. Within it's boundaries it has a 4-storey climbing frame, soft sports pitch, and separate toddler zone including climbing frame and unique role play village which will provide fun for the children all day long.

Bill Quay Farm is an urban park landscape which has all the usual animals which children can say hello to and witness their daily animal routines. Watch them feed and enable your children to learn all about farm livestock. A great area for picnics, though don't tell the pigs what you have in your sandwiches.

Two other great venues to visit are Namco Funscape - which has all the latest arcade games and interactive amusement park with bowling alley and dodgem track.

Meanwhile The Giants Den which resides on the Team Valley Industrial Estate, offers 15,000sq ft of fun for children. Complete with themed party rooms, sports hall and giant astra slide. You won't be able to tear your children away from this place after!

For adults you can find a classic northern drinking hole which has recently being renovated but has kept in place its traditional layout and architecture. Visit the The Central Bar for drinks, entertainment and a meal.

Should you wish for a more slow and peaceful day out. Take to the Tyneside Golf Club Ryton for a stroll and try out your putting techniques. Or engage in a little art serenity and open the doors to the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art.

For the more active in Gateshead, seek out FlowRider for a surfing experience day out and The Polar Front for yacht adventure sailing on the coast of Northern England.