Summer at The Common Room: Family Fun, Films and “Feathered” Surprises!
August 2025
Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained this summer without breaking the bank? Whether you’re planning a full family day out or just fancy a quick escape from the summer heat, The Common Room has something for everyone this August.
From creative play sessions to bouncy castles, duck hunts, and a triple helping of Wallace & Gromit, our historic building in the heart of Newcastle is bursting with free and affordable activities to enjoy — all with a warm welcome and plenty of tea and treats.
Here’s what’s coming up:
🎨 Stay & Play in the Map Room
Dates: 11th, 12th, 15th, and 18th–22nd August
Quiet Days: 12th & 21st August
Entry: Free – just drop in!
Our cosy Map Room is the perfect spot for a calm and creative summer break with the kids. Drop in and enjoy a relaxed environment filled with colouring activities, LEGO, and classic cartoons in the background.
We welcome packed lunches, and while the little ones are busy playing, grown-ups can relax with a coffee and cake from our 5|Quarter café bar.
Quiet Days offer a more low-sensory atmosphere for anyone who needs a gentler space.
🏰 Bounce & Play in Wood Hall
Dates: 18th–20th August
Times: Open daily 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sessions: 1.5 hours | £3 per child
For something a little more energetic, our stunning Wood Hall will be transformed into a full-on play zone! With a bouncy castle, ball pool, giant Snakes & Ladders, and a tuck shop for refuelling, it’s a great way to let off steam.
While the kids bounce, you can soak up the beautiful surroundings of our heritage venue and treat yourself to hot drinks, snacks or lunch at the café bar.
🦆 Hunt a Duck – General Admission Day
Date: 27th August | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Entry: Free – no sign-up needed
We’re bringing back the much-loved duck hunt! We’ve hidden 100 mini ducks around the building – find one, and it’s yours to keep. No rules, no sign-ups – just show up and start hunting.
Plus, duck finders get 10% off your purchase at out 5|Quarter café, where you can grab one of our delicious paninis (made just for us by the Camera Shop), hot drinks, and a special pastry + coffee deal for just 75p.
Happy hunting – and what else can you find out?
🎬 Wallace & Gromit Triple Bill Screenings
Dates: 22nd, 26th & 28th August
Screenings: 11:00 AM & 1:30 PM each day
Tickets: Pay What You Feel / Donations welcome
Crackin’ good fun for all ages! Join us for a nostalgic triple bill of classic Wallace & Gromit shorts in our Lecture Theatre:
– A Grand Day Out
– The Wrong Trousers
– A Close Shave
It’s a perfect rainy-day option for families, and a chance to share some timeless animation with the next generation. No booking needed – just come along, and consider making a donation by grabbing a treat in the café.
So whether you’re popping in for playtime, settling in for a screening, or trying your luck with Hunt a Duck, there’s plenty to discover this August at The Common Room.
Hope to see you soon!
