The Easter holidays are fast approaching with North East parents busy thinking of things to do with their children
15:25, 27 Mar 2026Updated 15:25, 27 Mar 2026
Potter’s World at Lanchester Garden Centre(Image: Potter’s World)
All of a sudden it feels like 2026 is flying by. And, with Easter firmly on the horizon, as well as the school holidays, many parents’ thoughts are starting to turn to just how they’re going to keep the children entertained during the break.
Well an idea that is sure to keep them entertained and won’t break the bank is a trip to a County Durham garden centre. Now, hear us out here. We know from our own experiences as kids that garden centres aren’t necessarily a play we’d be begging our mam and dad to go during the school holidays, but Lanchester garden centre has something a bit different to offer.
As well as selling the expected array of plants and garden accessories, it is home to Potter’s World, which has everything from its own mini zoo to a play tunnel perfect for little ones. Potters World is split into three differents zones – Potters Tropical Village, Potters Owl Adventures and Potters Play Tunnel – and the best bit about a visit there for families who don’t want to spend a fortune every day of the school break is that once you’ve paid your £5 entry fee, you get all day access and babies under 1 get in for free.
There’s a chance to see loads of different species(Image: Potter’s Wotld)
Proudly describing itself as ‘the North East’s hidden gem,’ Potter’s World is just over a half hour drive from Newcastle city centre, with a journey down the A1, before coming off towards Stanley. Starting off with the Tropical Village, the little zoo is home to exotic free flying birds, reptiles, invertebrates, amphibians, insects and fish, with fish feeding sessions and animal encounters all part of the experience.
The Owl Adventures birds of prey centre gives visitors the chance to get up close and personal with some of the most beautiful species of owls and birds of prey, while the Play Tunnel is an educational space with a brightly coloured play area and a giant sand pit, as well as plenty of space for adults to sit and watch while the kids have a ball.
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