North East England is full of exciting and very different things to do. Make sure you're making the most of the summer by planning some great days out and see some of the wonderful places on your doorstep. Maybe you've invited friends and relatives to visit and need some ideas of things to do during their stay. We've got more suggestions for great days out in the region.

Royal Quays, North Shields

Discover the secret of smarter shopping at Royal Quays. Royal Quays is a comfortable shopping environment of over 50 shops selling famous brand names at bargain prices. In addition to the high quality factory outlet shopping, the centre offers an outdoor children's play area, cafes, a tourist information point, a bureau de change - and remember to visit the resident rabbits in the Rabbit Village! www.royalquaysoutletcentre.co.uk

The New Metroland

Europe's largest indoor funfair offering 12 major attractions all under one roof. The New Metroland is situated within the MetroCentre, Europe's largest shopping and leisure centre. Ride the new rollercoaster, Whirling Waltzer and The Wonderful Waveswinger. For younger children there's a leisurely ride around the park on the Terrific Train and the My Beautiful Balloons Ferris Wheel. Great fun for everyone. www.metroland.uk.com

Durham County Cricket Club

Visit the home of Durham County Cricket Club - cricket's youngest first class county, having been granted first class status in 1991. Regarded as one of the finest grounds in the country, it is the newest addition to the Test Match circuit. Check the website for details of forthcoming fixtures: www.durhamccc.co.uk

Wallington House, walled garden and grounds, Cambo, Morpeth

Visit this magnificent mansion with fine interiors and collections. See the 18th and 19th Century interior, rococo plasterwork, fine ceramics, huge Pre-Raphaelite paintings, dolls' houses and 3,800 lead soldiers. Escape to the beautiful walled garden and its conservatory or enjoy a walk in the woods and along by the river.

Event: Robin Hood Family Fun Day, Sunday, Aug 12, 11.30am-4.30pm.

Help rescue Marion and Wallington from the Sheriff and his men, so that Robin can save the day. A day of family amusements, games, races and merry mayhem. A prize for the best medieval costume. Make things with Krafty Kidz. Punch & Judy shows and face painting on the lawn. Children under 14 free.

Mini Beast Hunt, Monday, Aug 13, 10.30am-12.30pm.

Join the Warden to discover the weird and wonderful world of insect life. £2 per child. Dress for mess. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Nature's World, Middlesbrough

A fascinating series of gardens and displays showcasing the benefits of working in harmony with nature. Features include a rose garden, an organic vegetable allotment and a hydroponics area, where you can see plants growing in water without any soil. www.naturesworld.org.uk

Brinkburn Priory, near Rothbury, Northumberland

The beautiful 12th Century church of the Augustinian priory of Brinkburn survives completely roofed and restored. Picturesquely set by a bend in the River Coquet, it is reached by a ten-minute walk from the car park. Parts of the monastic buildings are incorporated into the elegant adjacent manor house. Open every day except Tuesday and Wednesday. 10am-5pm www.english-heritage.co.uk

* Find more inspiration for great days out at www.visitnortheast england.com or visit your local Tourist Information Centre.