Tiny Toon
NE1's miniature Newcastle play village
NE1’s Tiny Toon is a miniature play village featuring replicas of local businesses and iconic landmarks and it’s back by popular demand this summer, open every day at Old Eldon Square from Monday 21st July to Sunday 31st August 2025.
This year will see the return of Tiny Toon’s miniature Tyne Bridge, mini–Eldon Square shopping centre and the popular Tyne and Wear Metro where kids can don a driver’s hat and take an imaginary trip on the train.
We’re introducing several new Tiny Toon additions this year too, including mini replicas of Life Science Centre and Tyne Theatre & Opera House, a miniature Great North Children’s Hospital where kids can play doctors and nurses, and a mini Blackfriars Restaurant where little ones can pretend they’re a chef for the day.
Tiny Toon Opening Times
21st July - 31st August 2025
Monday: 10am - 5pm
Tuesday: 9:30am - 5pm
Wednesday: 10am - 5pm
Thursday: 10am - 5pm
Friday: 10am - 5pm
Saturday: 10am - 5pm
Sunday: 9am - 4:30pm
*Last admission into the area is 30 minutes before closing
*Please note that children must be accompanied by an adult at all times
*Due to the outdoor nature of the play space, there may be occasions where Tiny Toon may close unexpectedly due to weather conditions
Our Tiny Toon Partners
We’d like to say a huge thank you to our amazing partners who have made this year’s Tiny Toon possible. Find out more about them below.
Tyne and Wear Metro
Tyne and Wear Metro has been transporting the people of the North East around the region since 1980, carrying over 1.5 billion passengers since opening and recently undergoing a modernisation programme that includes the introduction of a brand-new fleet of trains.
This summer, passengers can embark on fantastic family adventures that won’t break the bank thanks to their Kids Go Free offer that allows up to three kids aged 11 and under to travel for free on the Metro and Shields Ferry, all day and every day, when accompanied by a fare-paying adult. Discover new destinations by signing up to their newsletter and receive journey inspiration directly to your inbox.
Eldon Square
Eldon Square is not only Newcastle’s premier shopping destination, but the place to be for free, fun-filled family days out this summer too with something for everyone to enjoy.
Don’t miss the magical Disney Trail, running from 21st July to 31st August, complete with an exciting competition that little ones will love. There’s even more to enjoy throughout the six-week summer holiday with crafts and photo opportunities during events including Wizarding World, Princess Takeover, Superhero, Art Attack, Pirate Adventure and Carnival.
With over 140 retailers – including a fantastic range of family-friendly restaurants, some offering Kids Eat Free offers – families can make a day of it at Eldon Square, whether shopping for back-to-school clothes or dining affordably.
Tyne Theatre & Opera House
Tyne Theatre & Opera House is an independent Grade I-listed Victorian theatre located in the heart of Newcastle on Westgate Road. The theatre offers a warm Geordie welcome and a varied programme of comedy, music, theatre, talks, family shows and their hugely popular Christmas pantomime (this year, it’s Cinderella!).
Keep your eyes peeled for creative workshops for adults and kids – including their newly relaunched Tyne Youth Company for ages 7-17 – plus more community-focused events in their newly opened 1867 Cafe, Bar and Hall.
Blackfriars
Set within a 13th-century former Dominican friary, Blackfriars is a jewel of the city’s medieval past and one of Newcastle’s most popular and acclaimed restaurants, serving gutsy and traditional British food crafted from seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms and producers.
Since opening in 2001, Blackfriars has become so much more than a restaurant – today boasting a Banquet Hall, a Parlour Bar, a Cookery School, a Tasting Room, versatile function and meeting spaces and even its own brewery, St. Dominic’s.
Their Cookery School is running a number of classes for kids this August, including the Little Monks Cookery Club aimed children aged 7-10 and the Smart Cookies Cookery Club for kids aged between 11-17. Parents can also take advantage of their Children Eat Free offer, available at lunchtime from Monday to Friday during the summer school holiday (excluding NE1 Newcastle Restaurant Week) and October half term.
Esh Construction
Esh Construction is the main trading arm of Esh Group, one of the North of England’s leading privately-owned construction, development and property services businesses.
The award-winning company provides a range of services including civil engineering, affordable housing, refurbishment, private housing and commercial builds to both the private and public sectors.
Currently, Esh Construction is delivering a scheme in partnership with Newcastle City Council and Gateshead Council to restore Newcastle’s iconic Tyne Bridge with works set to conclude in the summer of 2028 ahead of the local landmark’s centenary in October 2028.
Great North Children's Hospital
The Great North Children’s Hospital is one of only 14 major children’s centres in the UK and has the most extensive range of children’s services anywhere outside of London.
Its young patients travel from across the North East and Cumbria and beyond its specialist care and its wards, operating theatres, outpatients and day case suites are all tailored just for children.
As the official charity for the Great North Children’s Hospital, Newcastle Hospitals Charity supports the children, young people and the families who come here for treatment and care. Thanks to our generous donors and fundraisers, the hospital is able to fund a range of projects to help make their experience the best it possibly can be.
Life Science Centre
Life Science Centre is an award-winning visitor attraction that inspires everyone to explore and enjoy science, discovering amazing things about the world while having loads of fun doing it.
This summer, they’re bringing a packed programme of family-friendly events and activities to Newcastle including their new 360° immersive dome show Life: The Greatest Story, crafting spinning creations in their Making Studios and their new hands-on series of exhibits Lightbox – plus much more including fun for under-7s in their Play Zone.