My children would be happy whizzing up and down the Baltic lifts all day if they could. They are super fast and like a little adventure in themselves. That will have to wait for another visit though as we were there to check out The Playground Project which you'll find on the 4th floor until 30th October 2016. It's FREE to enter. Yeah!
We visited during the school holidays and I expected it to be busy. It was. But not in a way that was too loud or uncomfortable. The kids still had plenty of room to run around and play and I managed to grab a spare couple of seats by the side of the room.
There are staff around who are vigilant and provide you with information - mostly that kids shouldn't take their shoes off apart from in the sandpit (and then they don't have to). Obviously, the staff aren't there to babysit though so do keep an eye on your kids.
The Playground Project is based around the concept that playgrounds used to be epic structures, places of adventure and enjoyment and now they're all just a bit 'samey'. So the Baltic have brought back some classic playground designs for a new generation to enjoy.
There are epic snake-like tubes with holes to escape from and peek through.
Places to climb......
Sandpits to dig and explore (or if you're Heidi, jump from)......
and lots of adventures to be had together.
The space is bright and airy. I would love to see a coffee machine up there but I guess playgrounds in the 70's and 80's wouldn't dream of such a thing so it's not very in keeping.
There's an exhibit to walk around too with lots of photographs and images from playgrounds past and present. There are specialist books dotted about the walls, willing you to pick up and read. There's no chance a grown up OR child could get bored here.
If you need a bit of chill out time (or your child does) there's a lovely darkened cinema with cozy beanbags where you can lie back and watch movies which were an inspiration for the project.
There's a whole lot more of the Baltic to see but I couldn't tear my three away from the playground - they loved it. We did pop out onto the outdoor viewing terrace before leaving though. The views of the river Tyne and beyond are stunning.
Need To Know
- The Playground Project continues until 30th October 2016
- On Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays, various artists will help you play in inspirational and new ways. Click here for details.
- Multisensory play is available every Thursday from 2pm-4pm which is accessible and suitable for all abilities
- Click here for opening times
- The Baltic is FREE to visit, donations are welcome
Looking for other free activities in Newcastle? How about 'Screen on the Green'?
Disclosure: We funded our own trip to Newcastle
I love the idea of this place, I so wish we lived closer to go! I remember when I was a kid how much fun I used to have in the playground, how much we would climb and get into everything. Now all I see is the same thing everywhere, a slide, swings and some sort of roundabout if you're lucky xx
ReplyDeleteWow, I do not know one kid that would not have fun there.
ReplyDeleteWhat a fabulous place to take your kids! In fact, I wouldn't mind having a go at some of those playground toys myself!!
ReplyDeleteWow I kind of wish I was a kid again so I could play. I used to love swings and climbing the frames. This looks magical.
ReplyDeleteI think it is just amazing how much there is for kids too do and I am reading so many posts which do not involve PS4's and Xboxes x
ReplyDeleteSounds huge fun - I rather fancy having a play myself. What a great idea for a project.
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