The Hoppings 2024 entry rules and security as huge funfair makes Newcastle return

It's the event that makes many people's summer year after year and, on Friday, The Hoppings will open its gates once again, as Europe's largest travelling funfair makes its return to Newcastle.

Going to The Hoppings is like a rite of passage for many Geordies, whether you're brave enough to have a turn on an array of white knuckle rides or keep your feet firmly on the ground and enjoy the many side shows and food and drink offerings instead. Like with many other large events, the Covid pandemic forced the fair to be abandoned in both 2020 and 2021, meaning there was great excitement to years ago, when The Hoppings came back with no restrictions at all and plenty to enjoy.

The weather over the last few months has been far from ideal for the ground on the Town Moor, the place that has always been the event's home and, while this year's event will be 'slightly smaller' a whole host of rides have been arriving at the Moor over the last few weeks.

Read More: The Hoppings hour by hour weather forecast for opening weekend of Newcastle funfair

Read More: For all our Hoppings updates, including rides and food prices, go here

The Hoppings ride list for this year boasts two new additions, in the shape of a 60m big wheel, the largest of its kind anywhere in Europe and must for thrillseekers, the XXL white knuckle ride. The funfair will have its grand opening on Friday afternoon and then run through until Sunday, June 30. And if you're planning on going along, there are a few rules you need to be aware of.

The Hoppings 2024 entry rules and security

Are dogs allowed in?

Yes, but they must be kept on a lead at all times..

Can food and drink be taken in?

Yes, you can take your own food and drink in, but there will also be plenty of stalls to buy from too. No alcohol is to be brought on site.

Is there any entry fee?

No, as always, entry to the funfair will be completely FREE.

Can you pay for rides with card?

Yes, most rides with have contactless available, but there will be cash points dotted around the Hoppings site.

Talking about the security for this year's Hoppings, Chief Inspector Ian Cutty, of Northumbria Police, said: “The Hoppings continues to be a hugely popular event each year in Newcastle, and we hope that everyone attending across its 10 days has an enjoyable time.

“We will have dedicated patrols running at the Town Moor for the entirety of the fair to reassure the public and handle any potential issues which arise. f you do need to speak to an officer on duty, please do not hesitate to approach us. We’re here to help.”

*To report incidents of anti-social behaviour, go to www.northumbria.police.uk/report/ n an emergency, or if a crime is happening, always ring 999.