Life supports groups all over the North East through the HAF programme.
Holiday Activities and Food (HAF)
We strive to make science accessible for all
Working with local authorities, HAF providers, and community groups, Life offers enrichment activities and engaging experiences that allow visitors to develop new skills, make memories, and enjoy science at a reduced rate.
Our friendly, experienced team are DBS-checked as standard and receive regular safeguarding training, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all.
This page is a top-level overview of what you can expect when arranging a visit to Life and includes useful signposting links. Please share with your networks when considering a HAF-funded visit to Life.
Our science centre provides a safe, welcoming environment with robust safeguarding arrangements.
We are accessible
We strive to meet the access needs of all our visitors and have a growing reputation for accessibility support, winning Gold in the 2026 North East Tourism Awards for both Best Large Visitor Attraction, and Accessibility and Inclusion.
We have also been recognised with a Gold+ award for Autism Acceptance from the North East Autism Society and a Gold Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award.
We promote fun and learning
Our programme of activities changes regularly, so visitors can discover something new every holiday period.
From hands-on science in the Experiment Zone to immersive Planetarium shows and creative making activities, there’s something for all ages.
(Age restrictions apply for some activities)
Encouraging healthy lifestyles
The food we provide to support HAF meets School Food Standards and takes allergies and dietary requirements into account.
We also support physical activity, as visitors often walk around 3,500 steps during a visit to the science centre, often without even realising it.
Offers
We run various HAF offers throughout the year depending on the season. In spring, we may run an Easter-themed HAF offer. Autumn features a spooky programme, and in winter we offer reduced HAF group skate sessions on our ice rink as part of our festive programme, a firm favourite with visitors.
See our current offers below, and get in touch for more information or upcoming HAF offers.
Summer holidays 2026
Visitors can enjoy a visit to our award-winning science centre, with access to The Great Dinosaur Escape, Life’s newest experience.
Science Centre Only
£12.00
per child (accompanying adults are free)
Science Centre and Packed Lunch
*Packed lunches for adults can be added for the additional cost of £7.70 per adult
£19.70
Per child (accompanying adults are free*)
Holiday Activity Fund Enquiry Form
HAF enquiry form
Thank you for your interest in visiting through the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme. The booking team will respond to your enquiry within 3 working days.
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Get in touch
To make a booking, or for more information, call 0191 243 8223. The bookings team is available Monday to Friday, 9.00am – 5.00pm. Queries can be made via our online enquiry form, but bookings should be made by phone.
- Minimum group size is 20 children
- Once your booking(s) is made you will receive a confirmation form to sign and return.
- Invoices will then be issued, and payment is required prior to the visit(s)
- Refunds cannot be given for any non-attendees in advance or on the day.
- We will ask you to confirm any dietary requirements, including allergies and any specific dietary restrictions. Please ensure this information is gathered and provided to Life at least one week prior to the visit, otherwise we may not be able to cater for your guests.