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Things to do in Newcastle this August at Life Science Centre

Family looking up in Life Science Centre's planetarium at large alien creature.
Nathan Wadwell
Administrator

If you’re looking for things to do in Newcastle this August 2025, Life Science Centre has a full line-up of summer events and experiences over the school holidays. From hands-on activities to immersive Planetarium shows, there’s plenty for families, science fans and curious minds of all ages.

Things to see and do in the science centre

New this summer, Life: The Greatest Story is a spectacular 360° dome show that takes visitors on a journey through time – from the origins of Earth to the search for extra-terrestrial life. Produced by our talented in-house team, the show is included in your science centre ticket. We are blown away by it – and think you will be too!

Father with son and daughter in Making Studios completing a craft activity together in summer clothing.
Get crafty in the Making Studios, with a changing programme of hands-on activities.

In the Making Studios, children and adults alike can create their own working windmill using the power of air – and take it home as a souvenir of the day.

Over in the Experiment Zone, visitors aged 7 and up can split water into hydrogen and oxygen and use the gases to power a fan – an interactive way to explore sustainable energy.

Family events in Newcastle this August

If you’re planning a family day out in Newcastle, there are some special dates coming up at Life Science Centre.

August Relaxed Sunday Session

On Sunday 10 August, between 10:00am – 12:00pm, enjoy dedicated quiet time for anyone who benefits from a calmer environment, including autistic people and those with other sensory needs. Includes relaxed performances in the theatre and Planetarium.

As it’s the school summer holidays in August, we don’t have any Pre-School or Home Education Days scheduled, but they’ll be returning in September!

Child wearing ear defenders in Life Science Centre's Play Zone.

Evening events in Newcastle this August

Life also offers a range of evening activities for adults and older children looking for something different to do in the city.

Chasing the Aurora with Wil (13+)

Always wanted to see the Northern Lights? Professional photographer, astronomer and stargazer Wil Cheung, is hosting a special event in our planetarium on Wednesday 6 August, where he’ll reveal key insights into how, when, and where to experience the Aurora Borealis, and show incredible footage of the phenomenon.

Queen Heaven (13+)

Celebrate the music of Queen in this full-dome visual experience. Featuring some of the band’s biggest hits and rarely seen archive footage, it’s a night out with a difference. There are various dates to choose from with availability in August.

Adults looking up to watch Queen planetarium show at Life Science Centre.

Live Skies: Hercules (18+)

This live Planetarium show focuses on the constellation Hercules, which appears brightest in summer. Ideal for anyone interested in stargazing or astronomy. See it on Thursday 14 August from 6:30pm.

Whether you’re local or visiting, Life Science Centre for the school holidays is one of the most exciting places to visit in Newcastle this August. With indoor exhibits, live science shows, creative activities and Planetarium events, there’s plenty to explore.

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