Half-term ideas for whatever the weather

The school holidays are upon us and so is the search for fun things to keep the kids busy.

Half-term in Newcastle, Northumberland and North Tyneside is under way and schools in Gateshead, Teesside, South Tyneside, County Durham and Sunderland will break off the following week too.

While any rain we might get could put a spanner in the works, gloomy weather does not mean you have to be stuck at home.

Here are some free activities to keep the little ones entertained this half-term.

Young crafters can have a go at making decorations for the Year of the Horse celebration at the Oriental Museum in Durham during a two-hour session on 21 February.

The Great North Museum in Newcastle is also hosting a Viking Experience Day on 20 and 27 February, where families can make a rune stone and hear magical tales.

South Shields Museum and Art Gallery has crafty workshops on Saturdays.

Some crafty activities will take place at the Discovery Museum in Newcastle on 17 February to welcome the Year of the Horse.

And there will be a portrait session at Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens on 27 February and a willow weaving workshop on 26 February.

The Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art is hosting a range of sessions focusing on the underwater world.

There will be a family disco on 19 February, followed by interactive talks about the marine environment and a chance to make a potato battery and sculpt deep-sea creatures between 25 and 27 February.

The centre will also run a free breakfast event between 18 and 22 February and 25 February and 1 March.

The Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle is holding a family open day on 21 February, with pet-themed pottery painting and pet-inspired dance workshop.

Eligible children in Stockton can sign up for horse riding, sports, arts and crafts, and SEND specific sessions during the half term break.

In Bishop Auckland winter arts festival Ignite will feature live performances and workshops between 20 and 22 February.

Those looking to get into cycling in Hartlepool, can take part in courses offered by the council between 23 and 26 February.

Wallsend RFC will have the Women's Rugby World Cup trophy on display on 17 February in addition to rugby sessions and other family activities.

In case the weather improves, or the rain does not bother you, there are plenty of options for outdoor fun too.

There is woodland, meadow and riverside to explore in Plessey Woods, near Morpeth. The country park is also home to many birds, as well as red squirrels, roe deer and foxes.

You can spot lots of wildlife in Hamsterley Forest in County Durham as well - including roe deer. There are several walking trails to choose from too.

Another option is Kielder Forest, where you can explore the Minotaur Maze ad well as multiple walking and cycling routes.

Follow BBC North East on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram.