Family Days Out in Weardale: The Ultimate Guide from The Curious Grouse
Looking for the perfect family base in County Durham? The Curious Grouse at Heather View Holiday Park is more than just a restaurant; it’s your headquarters for adventure. We’ve blended exciting on-site fun, nearby attractions, and delicious, kid-approved dining in a relaxed, dog-friendly setting.
Whether you're staying at the park or just visiting Stanhope for the day, here’s how to craft the perfect Weardale family itinerary.
On-Site Fun at The Curious Grouse
We are committed to providing the ultimate family experience. When you arrive, you’ll find plenty of ways to keep the kids entertained:
1. Brand-new indoor soft play area (perfect for all weather)
This multi-level soft play offers a safe, fun, and energy-burning environment for children. Complete with internal slides, climbing nets, and sensory areas, it’s the ideal way to burn energy before refuelling on our terrace with that Mega Choc Sundae.
2. Upgraded outdoor playground
Let the kids run wild in our freshly upgraded classic playground. Featuring multiple swings, exciting slides, and new climbing frames, it’s a high-energy space for outdoor play.
3. Expanded games arcade
High-score challenges for all ages! Our expanded games arcade offers a mix of classic retro games, modern racing simulators, and ticket-winning adventures. Perfect for competitive family fun.
Top Family Activities Near Stanhope
1. River Wear Fishing & Riverside Picnics
Skip the car journey and head straight to the water. Heather View Holiday Park offers exclusive fishing rights on the River Wear. With shallow banks that are safe for little anglers, it’s the perfect spot to teach the kids to cast a line.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget your rod license! And make sure you grab some snacks from our kids’ menu to enjoy a riverside picnic.
2. All Aboard the Weardale Steam Railway
Located just a 10-minute drive from us, this heritage railway is a must. Travel through tunnels and over viaducts on a nostalgic journey through the Dales. It’s best to plan ahead; seats book up fast during peak season and for special events like the "Train to Christmas Town."
The Reward: After the train returns to the station, head back to The Curious Grouse for our £7.50 kids menu - a guaranteed winner for your hungry explorers.
3. Hamsterley Forest Adventures
Just 5 miles away, Hamsterley Forest offers a full day of "screen-free" energy burning. Highlights include free playgrounds, the famous Gruffalo trail, and Go Ape treetop adventures.
Refuel: Once the kids have exhausted themselves in the woods, bring them back to the Curious Grouse for a Mega Choc Sundae while you relax with a local brew on our terrace.
Kid-Approved Dining at The Curious Grouse
We know that "family-friendly" means more than just having a high chair. We’ve designed our space to be a stress-free zone for parents whilst dining.
Amenities - High chairs, crayons, and colouring sheets are always available to keep little hands busy whilst
Dietary Needs - We offer a variety of vegan and gluten-free options to ensure everyone is catered for.
Live Events - Explore our live events, featuring kids' face painting with the talented Stacie.
Frequently Asked Questions: Weardale for Families
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Yes! We are a dog-friendly venue. We believe the four-legged members of your family deserve a day out too, and our riverside terraces are the perfect spot for them to relax after a walk.
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Not at all. While we are located within the beautiful grounds of Heather View, our bar and restaurant are open to the general public. We love welcoming locals and visitors exploring the Durham Dales
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We serve breakfast from 9:00 am, perfect for fuelling up your little ones at the start of the day. Our main menu runs throughout the day, with last food orders at 7:45 pm every evening
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Our soft play area is open during regular bar and restaurant hours. It is unsupervised, so parental supervision is required at all times. Rules and age restrictions apply for safety.