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The last restaurant I visited in early March 2020 was Riley's Fish Shack in Tynemouth. It was so brilliant that I knew it would be the first place I wanted to re-visit this summer when restaurants re-opened after the nationwide lockdown was lifted. When Riley's announced they would now be taking reservations via a deckchair booking system I was very intrigued about what this would entail. I took a deep breath and booked a slot, hoping that the open-air location on a beach and the fact you could book a table would mean it felt as safe as possible for a first trip out for a meal.
For those who aren't familiar with the area, Riley's Fish Shack is situated on King Edward's Bay in Tynemouth. Tynemouth is a stunning seaside town not far from Newcastle upon Tyne. King Edward's Bay is overlooked by Tynemouth Priory and Castle which give an absolutely stunning backdrop for Riley's Fish Shack who serve fresh, mouthwatering seafood on the bay.
Of course with delicious food comes popularity, and the downside of Riley's has always been that it takes a lengthy queue to get your hands on their delicious dishes. I'm British so obviously don't mind a good queue too much, but I must admit I was keen to get booked in this time knowing that I could reserve a set slot and have a guaranteed 'socially distanced' spot to enjoy my meal.
Riley's Deckchair Booking Process
The price to reserve a deckchair is £25 per person which is redeemable against your bill. It's not a cheap place and you definitely get what you pay for. This price is about right for the minimum you'd expect to spend on food and drink.
If you go on the website you can book a slot online and there seems to be pretty good availability if you're happy to choose a date in advance. You may be worried about the weather but one of the best parts of the new procedure is the ability to reschedule your booking within 24 hours of arrival. This enables you to check the forecast and shift your plans to suit. We really appreciated this as the weather was looking quite wet for the afternoon we had selected, but the staff were extremely helpful over email and allowed us to shift it back by two hours. Thank goodness they did - look at the amazing weather we were treated to!
Arriving at Riley's and the Service
When you arrive at Riley's Fish Shack, there are clear signs showing you where to go. You check in with the host near where the queue used to be and they will take you to your waiter or waitress who will look after you from there. The staff were wearing masks and kept their distance which made it feel very safe. They give you a flag with your number on and then get you set up at a pitch like this with a windbreaker, parasol and fire pit if required, but it was warm when we visited so we didn't get one.
I loved the fact we were allowed to choose our table and managed to grab this one right at the front with such a beautiful clear view of the sea. I couldn't bring myself to edit this photo at all as the sky is just so perfect. Can you think of a nicer place to enjoy a meal? We felt very spoilt.
I feel like I can't write about days out in the current context without touching on toilet facilities as I know this can be the deal breaker for social plans now. This may be too much info but this is the first time I have felt comfortable enough to use a public loo rather than just cutting my days out short and it was honestly fine. There is a clear queuing system on the beach and only one person is allowed anywhere near the cubicle at a time. Plenty of hand soap and sanitiser is there to use as well.
The Amazing Food
It's all table service now at Riley's, with food and drink delivered directly to your deckchair so you can truly relax. We were given menus promptly after being seated which I've attempted to photograph below although they aren't too clear to make out. The fish dishes vary each day depending on what has been caught and this is one of the reasons Riley's is truly special - you always get to try something different and it is guaranteed to be fresh and tasty.
I opted for the turbot dish and my boyfriend chose the monk fish skewers. They were both outstanding in terms of quality and flavour and really decent portions - I had to have a lie down when I got home! He also sampled the lager on draught and it was delicious, very smooth and drinkable. I was designated driver for the evening so brought my own bottle of water and nobody seemed to mind.
The highlights of Riley's
I have to say that overall I definitely preferred the deckchair booking to the old system of queuing. Of course it takes away the spontaneity of popping out for a meal on a sunny evening, but I am sure if you called Riley's on the day you may get lucky and find a cancellation.
I really appreciated the fact you could re-schedule and the communication I had prior to our visit was just lovely. This is a local business with heart, they have really thought about how to run things in a safe and enjoyable manner and continue to serve their amazing food with no change in quality.
I'd highly recommend a deckchair booking at Riley's, and if you are still feeling a little cautious about dining out and about then I think you will struggle to find a more safe and friendly option for your first venture outside. I cannot wait to go back and just want to thank Riley's so much for this wonderful experience!
Riley's Fish Shack, Tynemouth: Deckchair Booking
The last restaurant I visited in early March 2020 was Riley's Fish Shack in Tynemouth. It was so brilliant that I knew it would be the first place I wanted to re-visit this summer when restaurants re-opened after the nationwide lockdown was lifted. When Riley's announced they would now be taking reservations via a deckchair booking system I was very intrigued about what this would entail. I took a deep breath and booked a slot, hoping that the open-air location on a beach and the fact you could book a table would mean it felt as safe as possible for a first trip out for a meal.
For those who aren't familiar with the area, Riley's Fish Shack is situated on King Edward's Bay in Tynemouth. Tynemouth is a stunning seaside town not far from Newcastle upon Tyne. King Edward's Bay is overlooked by Tynemouth Priory and Castle which give an absolutely stunning backdrop for Riley's Fish Shack who serve fresh, mouthwatering seafood on the bay.
Of course with delicious food comes popularity, and the downside of Riley's has always been that it takes a lengthy queue to get your hands on their delicious dishes. I'm British so obviously don't mind a good queue too much, but I must admit I was keen to get booked in this time knowing that I could reserve a set slot and have a guaranteed 'socially distanced' spot to enjoy my meal.
Riley's Deckchair Booking Process
The price to reserve a deckchair is £25 per person which is redeemable against your bill. It's not a cheap place and you definitely get what you pay for. This price is about right for the minimum you'd expect to spend on food and drink.
If you go on the website you can book a slot online and there seems to be pretty good availability if you're happy to choose a date in advance. You may be worried about the weather but one of the best parts of the new procedure is the ability to reschedule your booking within 24 hours of arrival. This enables you to check the forecast and shift your plans to suit. We really appreciated this as the weather was looking quite wet for the afternoon we had selected, but the staff were extremely helpful over email and allowed us to shift it back by two hours. Thank goodness they did - look at the amazing weather we were treated to!
Arriving at Riley's and the Service
When you arrive at Riley's Fish Shack, there are clear signs showing you where to go. You check in with the host near where the queue used to be and they will take you to your waiter or waitress who will look after you from there. The staff were wearing masks and kept their distance which made it feel very safe. They give you a flag with your number on and then get you set up at a pitch like this with a windbreaker, parasol and fire pit if required, but it was warm when we visited so we didn't get one.
I loved the fact we were allowed to choose our table and managed to grab this one right at the front with such a beautiful clear view of the sea. I couldn't bring myself to edit this photo at all as the sky is just so perfect. Can you think of a nicer place to enjoy a meal? We felt very spoilt.
I feel like I can't write about days out in the current context without touching on toilet facilities as I know this can be the deal breaker for social plans now. This may be too much info but this is the first time I have felt comfortable enough to use a public loo rather than just cutting my days out short and it was honestly fine. There is a clear queuing system on the beach and only one person is allowed anywhere near the cubicle at a time. Plenty of hand soap and sanitiser is there to use as well.
The Amazing Food
It's all table service now at Riley's, with food and drink delivered directly to your deckchair so you can truly relax. We were given menus promptly after being seated which I've attempted to photograph below although they aren't too clear to make out. The fish dishes vary each day depending on what has been caught and this is one of the reasons Riley's is truly special - you always get to try something different and it is guaranteed to be fresh and tasty.
I opted for the turbot dish and my boyfriend chose the monk fish skewers. They were both outstanding in terms of quality and flavour and really decent portions - I had to have a lie down when I got home! He also sampled the lager on draught and it was delicious, very smooth and drinkable. I was designated driver for the evening so brought my own bottle of water and nobody seemed to mind.
The highlights of Riley's
I have to say that overall I definitely preferred the deckchair booking to the old system of queuing. Of course it takes away the spontaneity of popping out for a meal on a sunny evening, but I am sure if you called Riley's on the day you may get lucky and find a cancellation.
I really appreciated the fact you could re-schedule and the communication I had prior to our visit was just lovely. This is a local business with heart, they have really thought about how to run things in a safe and enjoyable manner and continue to serve their amazing food with no change in quality.
I'd highly recommend a deckchair booking at Riley's, and if you are still feeling a little cautious about dining out and about then I think you will struggle to find a more safe and friendly option for your first venture outside. I cannot wait to go back and just want to thank Riley's so much for this wonderful experience!
I've lived in Newcastle upon Tyne for fifteen years now. I moved here for university and just never wanted to leave! I was lucky enough to live right down next to the river Tyne for nine of those years and as you can imagine, in almost a decade, I spent many a weekend taking advantage of being in this gorgeous location right by the river.
There is always so much going on down on Newcastle Quayside and it's an area which always feels alive and buzzing. I would always recommend it as a great part of the city to head to if you are visiting our beautiful toon, so I thought it was about time I shared the top activities to enjoy in the area. From brunches to cat cuddles, modern art to food tasters, read on to find out the top things to do on Newcastle Quayside.
Indulge in a Delicious Brunch
Two of my absolutely favourite places for brunch in Newcastle happen to be down near the Tyne. Quay Ingredient was my go-to breakfast spot when I lived on the Quayside but it is pretty small so can be hard to get into. The cafe opens at 8.00am and arriving early improves your chances of getting a table so I'd advise getting down as soon as you can. The menu varies but expect a sophisticated take on your usual favourites, such as eggs benedict with duck or scrambled eggs with truffle oil.
Violet's Cafe is a charming little cafe with such good quality food and drink. I love their beautiful breakfast pancakes with berries, but everything I have tried has been excellent quality so it is well worth checking out if you are in the area. I love the decor as well as their delicious cakes and would definitely recommend a visit when you are on the Quayside.
Visit a Cat Cafe
Who doesn't love an excuse for some kitty cuddles? I have two of my own cats now but I used to love heading to CatPawCino for a cuppa and some cake. This is a great thing to do if it is raining but also a nice coffee break any time you are down on Newcastle Quayside. It is £5 per person to enter which goes towards looking after the cats and I would advise booking a slot online as they do get busy. You could always chance it if you're walking past but you might find yourself with a long wait. The entry price doesn't include food but they have a nice, simple menu with toasties and sweet treats.They have 8 resident cats and sometimes some foster cats join in as well. I find it a really peaceful, cat-friendly atmosphere and not cruel at all. I was worried about this before I visited but at CatPawCino they have strict rules to put the cats' welfare first and I definitely saw evidence of that when I visited. What a lovely place to spend an hour forgetting all your worries.
See Modern Art at The Baltic
I am definitely not claiming to be any kind of art expert but I have always really enjoyed visiting the Baltic Art Gallery. The building is an old flour mill which was converted into a six floor gallery in 2002 and remains an impressive building today. The exhibitions change regularly and they are always contemporary and thought-provoking. I find myself scratching my head sometimes as I really don't get what the art means, but that's a good thing as it's nice to lose yourself in something different!
It's one of my favourite places to head to alone and it's got a great floor with children's activities as well. Top tip: if you are meeting friends with toddlers for a coffee this is a great place to go as they can let off steam and then you can grab coffee and a cake in the lovely, child-friendly cafe downstairs.
I really like the shop on the left as you enter the building and would recommend popping in on your way in or out. It has some great Geordie gifts and quirky items which are different from other shops. It's a while since I have been, but the restaurant on the top floor always gets fantastic reviews. It's worth dining there for the views and architecture of the building alone, never mind the delicious food! Entry to the gallery is free but a small donation is suggested. Don't miss the viewing galleries to get an amazing view of the Quayside.
It's one of my favourite places to head to alone and it's got a great floor with children's activities as well. Top tip: if you are meeting friends with toddlers for a coffee this is a great place to go as they can let off steam and then you can grab coffee and a cake in the lovely, child-friendly cafe downstairs.
I really like the shop on the left as you enter the building and would recommend popping in on your way in or out. It has some great Geordie gifts and quirky items which are different from other shops. It's a while since I have been, but the restaurant on the top floor always gets fantastic reviews. It's worth dining there for the views and architecture of the building alone, never mind the delicious food! Entry to the gallery is free but a small donation is suggested. Don't miss the viewing galleries to get an amazing view of the Quayside.
Try some tasty food at Quayside Market
The Quayside Market is on every Sunday from 9.00am - 4.00pm and has a mix of great independent traders. From beautiful handmade mirrors, to clothing, candles and leather goods, you will find lots of great stalls to browse. In recent years, the food part of the market has really expanded and it's now an excellent place to eat. It's my go-to on a quiet Sunday where you possibly overindulged a little the night before and need some tasty food to sort you right out.
I've tried a few of the stalls now and recommend Acropolis Greek food, Tasty Thai deli, and of course the locally renowned Redhead's Mac 'n' cheese. Some of the food stalls further along dish out samples, so I would recommend starting at the Pitcher and Piano end of the market, enjoying a few samples on your way and ending with the hot food stalls at the other end. On a sunny Sunday there is nowhere I'd rather be than our gorgeous Quayside market so I would definitely recommend checking it out if you are in Newcastle on a weekend.
Enjoy live music at The Sage, Gateshead
That unusual silver building on the banks of the river is our gorgeous music hall, The Sage. I have enjoyed some great classical music concerts there but they host a mix of performers from Jamie Cullum to Status Quo. The best event I have been to was the Snowman at Christmas with a live orchestra, but they really have a good range of events which you can check out on the Sage's website.
Local blogger New Girl in Toon recently shared her experience of a Royal Northern Sinfonia concert which is definitely worth checking out to give you an idea of what to expect. Even if you don't go to a concert at the Sage you are welcome to pop in for a browse of the shop and a visit to the cafe.
Admire the Gateshead Millennium Bridge
The stunning Millennium Bridge first opened to the public in 2001 as part of a competition to design a bridge to connect developments in Newcastle and Gasteshead. Out of 150 entries this design was the clear winner. It has been compared to a winking eye as it actually opens and closes to allow ships to pass.
You can check the expected tilt times on the Gateshead Council website but they are subject to change. If you are lucky enough to catch the bridge opening it is a great experience, especially if you get yourself a seat outside the Pitcher and Piano bar on the river's edge!
Have a drink on the banks of the Tyne
As soon as there is the slightest hint of sunshine on Newcastle Quayside the Pitcher and Piano bar is immediately packed with a fantastic atmosphere. The outside seating gets really busy in the sun, but I would recommend heading upstairs to the balcony / terrace area if you spot any seats. I have often managed to grab a table up there when it is packed downstairs. It's one of my favourite bars in the toon and the best place for a nice drink if you are visiting the Quayside Market.
In recent years we got the exciting new addition of By the River Brew Co on the Gateshead side of the Tyne. To access this bar and restaurant made of shipping containers, head over the swing bridge and you will spot it on the Gateshead side of the river. They have a fancy restaurant, Träkol, which you can read about on their site. I haven't tried the restaurant but I have had a few lovely afternoons enjoying drinks in the sun over there to wash down a tasty bite from their street food market.
I hope this has inspired you to visit Newcastle Quayside and given you a taster for some of the amazing things there are to do. Next time someone mentions that 'it's grim up north' promise me you will show them this post and encourage them to check out our fabulous city and north east region in general!
Top things to do on Newcastle Quayside
I've lived in Newcastle upon Tyne for fifteen years now. I moved here for university and just never wanted to leave! I was lucky enough to live right down next to the river Tyne for nine of those years and as you can imagine, in almost a decade, I spent many a weekend taking advantage of being in this gorgeous location right by the river.
There is always so much going on down on Newcastle Quayside and it's an area which always feels alive and buzzing. I would always recommend it as a great part of the city to head to if you are visiting our beautiful toon, so I thought it was about time I shared the top activities to enjoy in the area. From brunches to cat cuddles, modern art to food tasters, read on to find out the top things to do on Newcastle Quayside.
Indulge in a Delicious Brunch
Two of my absolutely favourite places for brunch in Newcastle happen to be down near the Tyne. Quay Ingredient was my go-to breakfast spot when I lived on the Quayside but it is pretty small so can be hard to get into. The cafe opens at 8.00am and arriving early improves your chances of getting a table so I'd advise getting down as soon as you can. The menu varies but expect a sophisticated take on your usual favourites, such as eggs benedict with duck or scrambled eggs with truffle oil.
Violet's Cafe is a charming little cafe with such good quality food and drink. I love their beautiful breakfast pancakes with berries, but everything I have tried has been excellent quality so it is well worth checking out if you are in the area. I love the decor as well as their delicious cakes and would definitely recommend a visit when you are on the Quayside.
Visit a Cat Cafe
Who doesn't love an excuse for some kitty cuddles? I have two of my own cats now but I used to love heading to CatPawCino for a cuppa and some cake. This is a great thing to do if it is raining but also a nice coffee break any time you are down on Newcastle Quayside. It is £5 per person to enter which goes towards looking after the cats and I would advise booking a slot online as they do get busy. You could always chance it if you're walking past but you might find yourself with a long wait. The entry price doesn't include food but they have a nice, simple menu with toasties and sweet treats.They have 8 resident cats and sometimes some foster cats join in as well. I find it a really peaceful, cat-friendly atmosphere and not cruel at all. I was worried about this before I visited but at CatPawCino they have strict rules to put the cats' welfare first and I definitely saw evidence of that when I visited. What a lovely place to spend an hour forgetting all your worries.
See Modern Art at The Baltic
I am definitely not claiming to be any kind of art expert but I have always really enjoyed visiting the Baltic Art Gallery. The building is an old flour mill which was converted into a six floor gallery in 2002 and remains an impressive building today. The exhibitions change regularly and they are always contemporary and thought-provoking. I find myself scratching my head sometimes as I really don't get what the art means, but that's a good thing as it's nice to lose yourself in something different!
It's one of my favourite places to head to alone and it's got a great floor with children's activities as well. Top tip: if you are meeting friends with toddlers for a coffee this is a great place to go as they can let off steam and then you can grab coffee and a cake in the lovely, child-friendly cafe downstairs.
I really like the shop on the left as you enter the building and would recommend popping in on your way in or out. It has some great Geordie gifts and quirky items which are different from other shops. It's a while since I have been, but the restaurant on the top floor always gets fantastic reviews. It's worth dining there for the views and architecture of the building alone, never mind the delicious food! Entry to the gallery is free but a small donation is suggested. Don't miss the viewing galleries to get an amazing view of the Quayside.
It's one of my favourite places to head to alone and it's got a great floor with children's activities as well. Top tip: if you are meeting friends with toddlers for a coffee this is a great place to go as they can let off steam and then you can grab coffee and a cake in the lovely, child-friendly cafe downstairs.
I really like the shop on the left as you enter the building and would recommend popping in on your way in or out. It has some great Geordie gifts and quirky items which are different from other shops. It's a while since I have been, but the restaurant on the top floor always gets fantastic reviews. It's worth dining there for the views and architecture of the building alone, never mind the delicious food! Entry to the gallery is free but a small donation is suggested. Don't miss the viewing galleries to get an amazing view of the Quayside.
Try some tasty food at Quayside Market
The Quayside Market is on every Sunday from 9.00am - 4.00pm and has a mix of great independent traders. From beautiful handmade mirrors, to clothing, candles and leather goods, you will find lots of great stalls to browse. In recent years, the food part of the market has really expanded and it's now an excellent place to eat. It's my go-to on a quiet Sunday where you possibly overindulged a little the night before and need some tasty food to sort you right out.
I've tried a few of the stalls now and recommend Acropolis Greek food, Tasty Thai deli, and of course the locally renowned Redhead's Mac 'n' cheese. Some of the food stalls further along dish out samples, so I would recommend starting at the Pitcher and Piano end of the market, enjoying a few samples on your way and ending with the hot food stalls at the other end. On a sunny Sunday there is nowhere I'd rather be than our gorgeous Quayside market so I would definitely recommend checking it out if you are in Newcastle on a weekend.
Enjoy live music at The Sage, Gateshead
That unusual silver building on the banks of the river is our gorgeous music hall, The Sage. I have enjoyed some great classical music concerts there but they host a mix of performers from Jamie Cullum to Status Quo. The best event I have been to was the Snowman at Christmas with a live orchestra, but they really have a good range of events which you can check out on the Sage's website.
Local blogger New Girl in Toon recently shared her experience of a Royal Northern Sinfonia concert which is definitely worth checking out to give you an idea of what to expect. Even if you don't go to a concert at the Sage you are welcome to pop in for a browse of the shop and a visit to the cafe.
Admire the Gateshead Millennium Bridge
The stunning Millennium Bridge first opened to the public in 2001 as part of a competition to design a bridge to connect developments in Newcastle and Gasteshead. Out of 150 entries this design was the clear winner. It has been compared to a winking eye as it actually opens and closes to allow ships to pass.
You can check the expected tilt times on the Gateshead Council website but they are subject to change. If you are lucky enough to catch the bridge opening it is a great experience, especially if you get yourself a seat outside the Pitcher and Piano bar on the river's edge!
Have a drink on the banks of the Tyne
As soon as there is the slightest hint of sunshine on Newcastle Quayside the Pitcher and Piano bar is immediately packed with a fantastic atmosphere. The outside seating gets really busy in the sun, but I would recommend heading upstairs to the balcony / terrace area if you spot any seats. I have often managed to grab a table up there when it is packed downstairs. It's one of my favourite bars in the toon and the best place for a nice drink if you are visiting the Quayside Market.
In recent years we got the exciting new addition of By the River Brew Co on the Gateshead side of the Tyne. To access this bar and restaurant made of shipping containers, head over the swing bridge and you will spot it on the Gateshead side of the river. They have a fancy restaurant, Träkol, which you can read about on their site. I haven't tried the restaurant but I have had a few lovely afternoons enjoying drinks in the sun over there to wash down a tasty bite from their street food market.
I hope this has inspired you to visit Newcastle Quayside and given you a taster for some of the amazing things there are to do. Next time someone mentions that 'it's grim up north' promise me you will show them this post and encourage them to check out our fabulous city and north east region in general!
If only 6-year-old Melis could see me in 2020... I finally made it to Disneyland for the first time! I recently visited Paris for a romantic few days away with my other half as his Christmas present from me. Whilst a trip to Disney might not sound romantic to some people, he absolutely loves theme parks and I knew it would be an ideal part of his treat weekend away.
When Klook got in touch to ask if we'd like to work with them on a day trip to Disney I found myself almost jumping up and down with joy in my office! It would round off our trip perfectly and finally I could see this magical place with my very own eyes.
Booking our tickets
We booked our tickets using Klook's handy app which I have used a few times now and find very quick and easy to use. As a real bargain hunter, something I love about Klook is the certainty you have that you are getting a great price. If you find a cheaper ticket for the activity you have booked, they will refund double the difference. For most activities you can show a mobile voucher which is easily accessed through the app. It's just very easy and convenient to have everything in one place rather than having to book through various companies.
We had one day tickets for both Disneyland and Walt Disney Studios which we knew would be quite a bit to fit into one day but we were determined to see as much as possible during our short break to Paris. Let's be honest, it wouldn't be one of my weekend trips away without packing in absolutely everything!
Getting to Disneyland from central Paris
It was so easy to get to Disneyland Paris from the centre of the city. It could probably be done as a day trip whilst staying in central Paris but it would be a long day if you wanted to get to the park for opening and stay to see the closing fireworks.
I booked us an Air B'n'B (paid for ourselves) near Val D'Europe station which is one RER stop away from Disney and very convenient. I'd recommend doing something similar to save on Disneyland hotel prices if you just want to go for one day.
I booked us an Air B'n'B (paid for ourselves) near Val D'Europe station which is one RER stop away from Disney and very convenient. I'd recommend doing something similar to save on Disneyland hotel prices if you just want to go for one day.
We got the RER from Paris centre which takes 40 minutes. We arrived early, hoping to get breakfast in Disney village, but found that most of the food outlets didn't actually open until 10.00am which was when the park itself opened at the time of year we visited. Always check opening times for the dates you intend to visit as it is different throughout the year.
We ended up in Starbucks which was nice but not what we had planned - something to note if you plan to get there early and maximise your time. I would love to try Annette's Diner if I had more time in future, the menu looked amazing.
We decided to work our way round the main Disney park before lunch, Walt Disney Studios in the afternoon and then back to Disney for the closing fireworks.
We ended up in Starbucks which was nice but not what we had planned - something to note if you plan to get there early and maximise your time. I would love to try Annette's Diner if I had more time in future, the menu looked amazing.
We decided to work our way round the main Disney park before lunch, Walt Disney Studios in the afternoon and then back to Disney for the closing fireworks.
Morning in Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Rides and Shows
As soon as we arrived we were greeted with views of the beautiful Disneyland Hotel (I am determined to stay there one day!) and just loved how it looked in the bright blue sunshine.
The weather was bright and sunny for the whole time we were at Disneyland Paris and it made our day. Everything looked so gorgeous in the sunshine. We were very lucky to get this weather in February but I would highly recommend visiting in spring / summer if you can as I can imagine it isn't very fun dashing between rides on a cold and wet day.
The weather was bright and sunny for the whole time we were at Disneyland Paris and it made our day. Everything looked so gorgeous in the sunshine. We were very lucky to get this weather in February but I would highly recommend visiting in spring / summer if you can as I can imagine it isn't very fun dashing between rides on a cold and wet day.
We headed into the main park first and dashed straight for the Phantom Manor ride which we got on with only a five minute queue. I'd recommend doing a ride you really want to go on as your first priority as this will undoubtedly help you to avoid longer waiting times later in the day. As you can see below, the blossom was just starting to flower on some of the trees so it really did feel like spring!
As it was half term when we visited, queues were fairly long so we didn't go on all the rides. This suited me just fine as I am not a massive thrill-seeker and much prefer interesting rides with things to look at, rather than big roller coasters! Fast passes are a great way to maximise your time as you get a specific time to return to a ride and get to go in a much shorter queue, the Disney site has all the information you need about how the fast pass system works.
My absolute favourites were the Pirates of the Caribbean and the iconic 'It's a Small World' ride. We managed to watch the Frozen parade, find the hidden dragon under the castle, and just like that the morning was over.
My absolute favourites were the Pirates of the Caribbean and the iconic 'It's a Small World' ride. We managed to watch the Frozen parade, find the hidden dragon under the castle, and just like that the morning was over.
Lunch in Disneyland Paris
We decided to have lunch at Au Chalet de la Marionnette, (paid for ourselves). This was such a highlight of our day! I expected quick service food to be a bit basic if I'm honest, but the hot dogs had such a nice flavour, with a lovely soft bun and piping hot, crispy fries. I was very impressed and would recommend this restaurant, especially as it is a very quick option when you are trying to see Disneyland Paris in a day.
Afternoon in Walt Disney Studios
Walt Disney Studios Rides and Shows
After lunch, we headed straight to Walt Disney Studios which was also included in our day tickets which we booked through Klook. It was really quick and easy to gain entry to the other park. I loved walking through Walt Disney Studios and taking in all the themed restaurants and shops.
The sun continued to shine throughout the afternoon and I thought the park looked completely gorgeous bathed in golden light! I couldn't stop snapping away and taking in all the different rides.
As part of our time in Walt Disney Studios, we went to the Frozen show which was happening as part of Disney's current theme, which regularly changes. I wasn't sure what to expect but it was really good fun, I had to stop myself singing along to Let It Go, of course!
The sun continued to shine throughout the afternoon and I thought the park looked completely gorgeous bathed in golden light! I couldn't stop snapping away and taking in all the different rides.
My favourite ride in this park was Ratatouille and I would definitely recommend it for kids and big kids alike. As we didn't have much time left and queues were starting to build, we decided to go in the 'single rider' queue and just sit separately on the ride. This works well if you don't mind sitting with random groups to save a long time queuing.
After a few rides it was time for a bit of retail therapy and a coffee. I could have gone mad in the shops but the fact we only had a rucksack each as hand luggage managed to stop me buying too much.
The shops were better around Disneyland Main Street (pictured below), so with hindsight I'd advise planning to do most of your shopping in that park. I did feel that with one day it was tricky to fit in shopping as well as rides so it's good to plan time for that well-deserved retail therapy!
The shops were better around Disneyland Main Street (pictured below), so with hindsight I'd advise planning to do most of your shopping in that park. I did feel that with one day it was tricky to fit in shopping as well as rides so it's good to plan time for that well-deserved retail therapy!
Dinner at Bistrot Chez Rémy
Whilst we were in Walt Disney Studios we had dinner at the Ratatouille themed restaurant called Bistrot Chez Rémy which we paid for ourselves. We had booked this in advance and heard people being turned away on the day, so I would recommend making a reservation for your evening meal if you only have a day and there's a certain restaurant you want to eat at.
I didn't love the restaurant and after being spoilt in central Paris (check out my review of the best unlimited steak frites restaurant ever) the food just wasn't up there. It was fine, and my meal was swapped when I told the waiter, but I wouldn't rush back to this particular restaurant. It was the only part of the day which wasn't totally perfect!
Back to Disneyland for Fireworks
Time was ticking on by this point so we decided to head back to the main Disney park so I could look at a few more shops before the closing fireworks display. I didn't really know what to expect from the display at all. There was so much more to it than just fireworks and I think I even had a little cry at one point!
I'm not sure how I've managed to live under some kind of rock and miss how good this display actually is, but it was the highlight of our visit and such a memorable end to our day in Disneyland Paris.
I'm not sure how I've managed to live under some kind of rock and miss how good this display actually is, but it was the highlight of our visit and such a memorable end to our day in Disneyland Paris.
Thank you Klook for making a childhood dream come true, and all I can say is that I cannot wait to take my own children to this special place some day. If you are wondering if you can see Disneyland Paris in a day, and if it's worth it without kids, then I would wholeheartedly say that it is. As soon as you enter the park it's like going back to your childhood and completely switching off. Who doesn't need a bit of that magic once in a while?
If you are planning a visit to Paris then make sure you read about my visit to the Eiffel Tower with Klook as this is another unmissable activity for your trip!
If you are planning a visit to Paris then make sure you read about my visit to the Eiffel Tower with Klook as this is another unmissable activity for your trip!
How to see Disneyland Paris in one day
If only 6-year-old Melis could see me in 2020... I finally made it to Disneyland for the first time! I recently visited Paris for a romantic few days away with my other half as his Christmas present from me. Whilst a trip to Disney might not sound romantic to some people, he absolutely loves theme parks and I knew it would be an ideal part of his treat weekend away.
When Klook got in touch to ask if we'd like to work with them on a day trip to Disney I found myself almost jumping up and down with joy in my office! It would round off our trip perfectly and finally I could see this magical place with my very own eyes.
Booking our tickets
We booked our tickets using Klook's handy app which I have used a few times now and find very quick and easy to use. As a real bargain hunter, something I love about Klook is the certainty you have that you are getting a great price. If you find a cheaper ticket for the activity you have booked, they will refund double the difference. For most activities you can show a mobile voucher which is easily accessed through the app. It's just very easy and convenient to have everything in one place rather than having to book through various companies.
We had one day tickets for both Disneyland and Walt Disney Studios which we knew would be quite a bit to fit into one day but we were determined to see as much as possible during our short break to Paris. Let's be honest, it wouldn't be one of my weekend trips away without packing in absolutely everything!
Getting to Disneyland from central Paris
It was so easy to get to Disneyland Paris from the centre of the city. It could probably be done as a day trip whilst staying in central Paris but it would be a long day if you wanted to get to the park for opening and stay to see the closing fireworks.
I booked us an Air B'n'B (paid for ourselves) near Val D'Europe station which is one RER stop away from Disney and very convenient. I'd recommend doing something similar to save on Disneyland hotel prices if you just want to go for one day.
I booked us an Air B'n'B (paid for ourselves) near Val D'Europe station which is one RER stop away from Disney and very convenient. I'd recommend doing something similar to save on Disneyland hotel prices if you just want to go for one day.
We got the RER from Paris centre which takes 40 minutes. We arrived early, hoping to get breakfast in Disney village, but found that most of the food outlets didn't actually open until 10.00am which was when the park itself opened at the time of year we visited. Always check opening times for the dates you intend to visit as it is different throughout the year.
We ended up in Starbucks which was nice but not what we had planned - something to note if you plan to get there early and maximise your time. I would love to try Annette's Diner if I had more time in future, the menu looked amazing.
We decided to work our way round the main Disney park before lunch, Walt Disney Studios in the afternoon and then back to Disney for the closing fireworks.
We ended up in Starbucks which was nice but not what we had planned - something to note if you plan to get there early and maximise your time. I would love to try Annette's Diner if I had more time in future, the menu looked amazing.
We decided to work our way round the main Disney park before lunch, Walt Disney Studios in the afternoon and then back to Disney for the closing fireworks.
Morning in Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Rides and Shows
As soon as we arrived we were greeted with views of the beautiful Disneyland Hotel (I am determined to stay there one day!) and just loved how it looked in the bright blue sunshine.
The weather was bright and sunny for the whole time we were at Disneyland Paris and it made our day. Everything looked so gorgeous in the sunshine. We were very lucky to get this weather in February but I would highly recommend visiting in spring / summer if you can as I can imagine it isn't very fun dashing between rides on a cold and wet day.
The weather was bright and sunny for the whole time we were at Disneyland Paris and it made our day. Everything looked so gorgeous in the sunshine. We were very lucky to get this weather in February but I would highly recommend visiting in spring / summer if you can as I can imagine it isn't very fun dashing between rides on a cold and wet day.
We headed into the main park first and dashed straight for the Phantom Manor ride which we got on with only a five minute queue. I'd recommend doing a ride you really want to go on as your first priority as this will undoubtedly help you to avoid longer waiting times later in the day. As you can see below, the blossom was just starting to flower on some of the trees so it really did feel like spring!
As it was half term when we visited, queues were fairly long so we didn't go on all the rides. This suited me just fine as I am not a massive thrill-seeker and much prefer interesting rides with things to look at, rather than big roller coasters! Fast passes are a great way to maximise your time as you get a specific time to return to a ride and get to go in a much shorter queue, the Disney site has all the information you need about how the fast pass system works.
My absolute favourites were the Pirates of the Caribbean and the iconic 'It's a Small World' ride. We managed to watch the Frozen parade, find the hidden dragon under the castle, and just like that the morning was over.
My absolute favourites were the Pirates of the Caribbean and the iconic 'It's a Small World' ride. We managed to watch the Frozen parade, find the hidden dragon under the castle, and just like that the morning was over.
Lunch in Disneyland Paris
We decided to have lunch at Au Chalet de la Marionnette, (paid for ourselves). This was such a highlight of our day! I expected quick service food to be a bit basic if I'm honest, but the hot dogs had such a nice flavour, with a lovely soft bun and piping hot, crispy fries. I was very impressed and would recommend this restaurant, especially as it is a very quick option when you are trying to see Disneyland Paris in a day.Afternoon in Walt Disney Studios
Walt Disney Studios Rides and Shows
After lunch, we headed straight to Walt Disney Studios which was also included in our day tickets which we booked through Klook. It was really quick and easy to gain entry to the other park. I loved walking through Walt Disney Studios and taking in all the themed restaurants and shops.
The sun continued to shine throughout the afternoon and I thought the park looked completely gorgeous bathed in golden light! I couldn't stop snapping away and taking in all the different rides.
As part of our time in Walt Disney Studios, we went to the Frozen show which was happening as part of Disney's current theme, which regularly changes. I wasn't sure what to expect but it was really good fun, I had to stop myself singing along to Let It Go, of course!
The sun continued to shine throughout the afternoon and I thought the park looked completely gorgeous bathed in golden light! I couldn't stop snapping away and taking in all the different rides.
My favourite ride in this park was Ratatouille and I would definitely recommend it for kids and big kids alike. As we didn't have much time left and queues were starting to build, we decided to go in the 'single rider' queue and just sit separately on the ride. This works well if you don't mind sitting with random groups to save a long time queuing.
After a few rides it was time for a bit of retail therapy and a coffee. I could have gone mad in the shops but the fact we only had a rucksack each as hand luggage managed to stop me buying too much.
The shops were better around Disneyland Main Street (pictured below), so with hindsight I'd advise planning to do most of your shopping in that park. I did feel that with one day it was tricky to fit in shopping as well as rides so it's good to plan time for that well-deserved retail therapy!
The shops were better around Disneyland Main Street (pictured below), so with hindsight I'd advise planning to do most of your shopping in that park. I did feel that with one day it was tricky to fit in shopping as well as rides so it's good to plan time for that well-deserved retail therapy!
Dinner at Bistrot Chez Rémy
Whilst we were in Walt Disney Studios we had dinner at the Ratatouille themed restaurant called Bistrot Chez Rémy which we paid for ourselves. We had booked this in advance and heard people being turned away on the day, so I would recommend making a reservation for your evening meal if you only have a day and there's a certain restaurant you want to eat at.
I didn't love the restaurant and after being spoilt in central Paris (check out my review of the best unlimited steak frites restaurant ever) the food just wasn't up there. It was fine, and my meal was swapped when I told the waiter, but I wouldn't rush back to this particular restaurant. It was the only part of the day which wasn't totally perfect!
Back to Disneyland for Fireworks
Time was ticking on by this point so we decided to head back to the main Disney park so I could look at a few more shops before the closing fireworks display. I didn't really know what to expect from the display at all. There was so much more to it than just fireworks and I think I even had a little cry at one point!
I'm not sure how I've managed to live under some kind of rock and miss how good this display actually is, but it was the highlight of our visit and such a memorable end to our day in Disneyland Paris.
I'm not sure how I've managed to live under some kind of rock and miss how good this display actually is, but it was the highlight of our visit and such a memorable end to our day in Disneyland Paris.
Thank you Klook for making a childhood dream come true, and all I can say is that I cannot wait to take my own children to this special place some day. If you are wondering if you can see Disneyland Paris in a day, and if it's worth it without kids, then I would wholeheartedly say that it is. As soon as you enter the park it's like going back to your childhood and completely switching off. Who doesn't need a bit of that magic once in a while?
If you are planning a visit to Paris then make sure you read about my visit to the Eiffel Tower with Klook as this is another unmissable activity for your trip!
If you are planning a visit to Paris then make sure you read about my visit to the Eiffel Tower with Klook as this is another unmissable activity for your trip!
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