April has arrived, and with it, the long-awaited promise of spring! It's the perfect time to soak up the sunshine, enjoy the outdoors, and dive into some of the most exciting events Newcastle has to offer.
From picnics in the park to puppetry festivals, rooftop views, and a classic beach day, here are the top events you won’t want to miss this month.
Picnic in the park
As the days get longer and the weather warmer, there’s no better way to embrace the season than by having a picnic with friends. Newcastle offers some stunning parks where you can enjoy the fresh air and vibrant surroundings.
Leazes Park is a particularly beautiful spot, featuring a tranquil lake and a picturesque waterfall. It’s the perfect place to relax with a blanket and a basket of snacks while watching the ducks glide across the water.
Exhibition Park, with its sprawling green spaces and the stunning Heaton Park Lakeside, is another fantastic choice, ideal for a day out with family or friends.
And if you’re looking for more space, Town Moor offers expansive open fields with great views of the city perfect for a leisurely stroll or an afternoon of outdoor games.
No matter which park you choose, it’s a fantastic way to make the most of the sunny spring weather!
Rooftop Tour at St. James’ Park: 5 April – May
Take a unique tour of St. James’ Park and see Newcastle from a whole new perspective!
Starting 5 April and running until the end of May, the Rooftop Tour gives you the chance to go 150 feet above the ground.
You’ll be given a hi-vis jacket, helmet, and binoculars before enjoying amazing views of the city. After the rooftop, you’ll also get a chance to see the stadium from the dugout, something most people never get to experience. It’s a great way to celebrate Newcastle’s Carabao Cup victory! Tickets cost £25, and the tours run on selected dates throughout the spring.
Newcastle Puppetry Festival - 12 - 18 April
Get ready for a week of creativity, celebration, and fun at the Newcastle Puppetry Festival from 12 – 18 April.
Organised by Moving Parts Arts, this dynamic event brings together thousands of people from across the North East for a week-long celebration of puppetry and the arts. Whether it’s hands-on workshops or awe-inspiring performances, this festival is all about bringing people together through the magic of puppetry.
Since its inception in 2017, Moving Parts Arts has become a hub for community engagement. This year's festival promises to be even bigger and better! This event truly highlights how creativity can break down barriers and unite diverse groups through interactive, celebratory art. Don’t miss out on this magical event that welcomes all ages and artistic abilities.
Beach Days
April brings spring, and with it, the perfect excuse to hit the beach!
Head to Tynemouth or Whitley Bay, where you can spend your day enjoying the sandy shores and cool ocean breeze. Take a stroll along the pier, dip your toes in the sea, or simply relax while watching the waves roll in.
If you're feeling adventurous, why not grab a surfboard? After your beach adventures, treat yourself to some of Newcastle’s famous fish and chips. Fisherman’s Bay and Longsands Fish and Chips are local favourites that serve up the best fish and chips around, perfect for a seaside snack.
Wylam Brewery’s Battle of the Burger – 18 & 19 April
Wylam Brewery's Battle of the Burger is back on 18 and 19 April, and it's bigger than ever!
Get ready to sample some of the best burgers from across the region, all competing to be crowned the ultimate champion. Expect loads of burger vendors, delicious sides, sweet treats, and plenty of bars to keep your glass full. It’s not just about the food, either, there’ll be a great music line-up to keep things lively.
And don’t worry if you're vegan or vegetarian, they've got you covered with tasty options for everyone. Plus, it's totally dog-friendly and family-friendly, so you can bring the whole gang along.
Simply grab some tokens when you arrive, try as many burgers as your stomach can handle, and then vote for your favourite to help choose the winner! No tickets, no fuss, just great food, music, and a fun Easter weekend at Wylam Brewery. Bring your friends, come hungry, and get ready to feast!
By Brigita Diva, an MSc Sustainability Management student and Student Content Creator