BALTIC - A fantastic alternative to soft play

 This post was published in October 2021. Please check with BALTIC direct for the most up to date information when making plans to visit. 

Image Credits: Albert Potrony: equal play installation view, BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, Gateshead. Photo: Rob Harris © 2021 BALTIC

If you are looking for a rainy day activity with a difference, why not visit the Equal Play exhibition at BALTIC. Entry is FREE (donations welcome) and there is no need to book - simply turn up during opening hours (Wednesday - Sunday 10am-6pm). The exhibition is available until October 2022 so there is plenty of time to visit. 

Designed to be enjoyed by all, this project explores the ideas of non-gendered and non-prescriptive play, specifically around the roles of men and childcare in relation to feminism. Now I am not sure a 2 year old will get this from the exhibition as they play but it might offer a little thought provocation for the older kids and adults in the space. 

There seems to be lots of different ways to play and it looks like a real chance for both kids and grown ups to just do whatever they fancy and get creative / let their imaginations run wild. I love how playful and fun this space is. 

As well as this exhibition, families can enjoy the bright and colourful Biosphere Plush and Lumen on Level 3.  Plus don't miss a ride in those fabulous BALTIC lifts. 

At the moment, there is LOADS of other stuff going on for families at BALTIC including: 

• A FREE Sensory Room - drop in Wednesday-Sunday 
• BALTIC's Learning Lounge where visitors can chat and play 
• Toddler Time - every Wednesday from 10am-6pm (free, just drop in)
• Wonder & Wander Sensory Tour every Wednesday (free but booking required) 
• BALTIC Front Room where visitors can enjoy complimentary hot drinks and juice (you can also bring your own packed lunch) 
• FREE Meet & Make Craft Activity Wednesday-Sunday (free, just drop in)

And more! Obviously this is quite a programme of events so please do check details with BALTIC before heading out. You can find out more about what's on for families here. 

Grab a free coffee in BALTIC Front Room

Looking for other things to do in the area? The walk to Ouseburn isn't far and you can visit Seven Stories and Ouseburn Farm which is always fun with little ones. For dining with kids on the Quayside, I recommend Gusto, Ginos or the Cycle Hub.

Or if you walk into Ouseburn afterwards, there are lots of options including Di Meos for pizza and ice cream or the cafe at Seven Stories or the Farm. 

BALTIC is easy to get to by both car and public transport and is a fab alternative to soft play when meeting up with friends and little ones.

Find out more here: https://baltic.art/

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