What to Do Near Royal Quays Shopping Centre

If you've lived in North Shields for a while, you probably still call it Royal Quays Shopping Centre. But the area has had a fresh lease of life — and a new name. These days, it's known as Newcastle Quays Retail Park, and it's become one of the best family days out on the Tyne and Wear coast.

Whether you're local to North Shields or visiting for the day from across the region, there's plenty to keep the whole family entertained under one roof. Here's our guide to the best things to do at Newcastle Quays Retail Park — starting with us, of course.

The Cue & Darts Lounge

We might be biased, but we think The Cue & Darts Lounge is the perfect place to kick off your visit. We're a relaxed, family-friendly venue offering pool, snooker and darts alongside a proper food and drink menu — burgers, hot dogs, sharing platters, nachos, kids' meals, coffees, soft drinks and more.

Whether you're introducing the kids to pool for the first time, settling in for a few frames with friends, or just stopping by for a bite between shops, we've made sure there's something for everyone. No stuffy club vibe — just a comfortable lounge where families are welcome all day long.

• Where to find us: Newcastle Quays Retail Park, Royal Quays, North Shields, NE29 6DW
• What we offer: Pool, snooker, darts, family food and drink
• Best for: Families, groups, couples, and anyone who fancies a game

Brood Play Cafe

If you've got little ones in tow, Brood Play Cafe is a must-visit. Designed in the UK by play specialists and handmade in Germany, it's a cosy, nurturing and inclusive play cafe specially built for babies and preschoolers — from newborn right up to preschool age. While your little one explores the immersive play area, you can settle in with a coffee, lunch or a treat and actually relax.

Brood is also home to Hello World sensory classes — weekly themed sessions with songs and sensory experiences that help you bond and make memories with your baby. Join a class and you become part of the Hello World community of parents and caregivers, which is a lovely touch in those early months and years.

Sessions run throughout the week and on weekends, so you can find a slot that works around naps. It's easy to reach from North Shields, Tynemouth, Whitley Bay and Wallsend, and just through the Tyne Tunnel from South Shields.

• Best for: Babies and preschoolers, new parents, sensory play
• Family-friendly: Yes — designed specifically for little ones and their grown-ups
• Website: broodplaycafe.com

Arcade Warehouse

For retro gaming fun, Arcade Warehouse is a brilliant addition to the Newcastle Quays line-up. Packed with classic arcade machines, it's a nostalgic trip for parents and a brand-new adventure for the kids. Whether you're chasing high scores on the classics or just enjoying the buzz of the arcade floor, it's a great way to spend an hour or two.

• Best for: Retro gaming, family fun, groups
• Family-friendly: Yes — great for older kids and teens

Inflatanation

If the little ones have energy to burn, Inflatanation is the place to let them loose. It's a huge indoor inflatable play arena — think bouncy slides, obstacle courses, and endless jumping fun. It's perfect for younger families and a great way to tire the kids out before you grab a bite to eat with us afterwards.

• Best for: Active kids, parties, rainy days
• Family-friendly: Yes — designed with children in mind

Plan Your Day at Newcastle Quays Retail Park

One of the best things about Newcastle Quays Retail Park is how easy it is to combine a few of these into a single day out. Start with a sensory session at Brood Play Cafe, let the kids bounce it out at Inflatanation, hit the retro machines at Arcade Warehouse, and finish up with a few frames and a family meal at The Cue & Darts Lounge.

There's plenty of parking on site, it's easy to reach from across Tyne and Wear, and everything is indoors — so it's a brilliant option come rain or shine.

So next time someone asks what to do near Royal Quays Shopping Centre, you'll know exactly what to tell them: head to Newcastle Quays Retail Park, and make sure you stop in and see us at The Cue & Darts Lounge.