The Hoppings is set to return to Newcastle Town Moor for its 144th year, bringing 10 days of fairground excitement from June 19 to June 28. This year features the world's tallest travelling ride, Elevate85, along with classic attractions, food, and entertainment. Here is everything you need to know.
When and Where Is The Hoppings?
The Hoppings takes place on Newcastle Town Moor, with rides, a food village, a bar, and a music stage. Parking is available on site. The fair runs for 10 days from June 19 to June 28.
Opening Times
- Friday, June 19: 2pm-11pm
- Saturday, June 20: 1pm-11pm
- Sunday, June 21: 1pm-11pm
- Monday, June 22: 2pm-11pm
- Tuesday, June 23: 2pm-11pm
- Wednesday, June 24: 2pm-11pm
- Thursday, June 25: 2pm-11pm
- Friday, June 26: 2pm-11pm
- Saturday, June 27: 1pm-11pm
- Sunday, June 28: 1pm-7pm
What's New This Year?
The site is slightly smaller this year due to drainage works on the north end of the Town Moor, but 90% of the usual rides and attractions will be present. The highlight is Elevate85, a 85-meter tall star-flyer ride that offers stunning city views. It debuted in Berlin last year and is now making its Hoppings debut.
Rides and Attractions
Over 400 attractions will be available, including traditional favourites like the ghost train, dodgems, waltzer, carousel, and helter skelter. High-octane rides include Drop Tower, Tagada, Atmosfear, Extreme, Exciter, Air, and Ice Jet. The Giant Wheel returns as a meeting point. Children's rides include a mini train, teacups, and bungees.
Prices
Most rides cost between £3 and £5, with specialist rides priced higher. Discounted vouchers are available on The Hoppings website and must be printed and brought to the fair.
Food and Drink
Feast Street returns with an American theme, featuring outlets like Primal Feast (brisket, burgers, steaks), Diamond Dogs, Chicken Ting, Sully’s Slices, Outlaw Loaded Fries, Acropolis, Davey’s Mexican, and the popular Spud Bros. A licensed bar is also available. Visitors can bring their own snacks.
Live Music
The Live Lounge stage in Feast Street will host Nashville Country Music performances on Saturdays from 4pm-5pm. Weekday evenings feature rock, soul, pop, and local talents like Trey Jackson, Sam Rea, David Stoker, Andrew Usher, Jam Junkies Band, Big Bash band, Lewis Curry Trio, and Tim Gambles Trio.
Parking and Access
Parking costs £6 and can be pre-booked online. Stewards direct traffic. Disabled parking is available near the site for £6. Pedestrian access via Grandstand Road, Great North Road, or Claremont Road via Exhibition Park. Nearest Metro station: West Jesmond. Buses: 11, 21, 306, X1, X45, X77.
Cash or Card?
Cash is preferred but card is accepted. ATMs are available on site.
Accessibility
A central route with ground cover aids wheelchair access. Ramps and handrails are provided around rides. Disabled toilets and dedicated parking are available.
For Families and Dogs
Weekends feature meet-and-greet performances by princesses and cartoon characters from 1pm-4pm on June 20-21 and 27-28. Dogs on leads are allowed.
