What To Do This Weekend
The very best ways to spend your weekend
What’s New
Grab your boots and hats for a rootin’ tootin’ night in Newcastle this weekend at brand new Ruby Rae’s, the city’s first western-themed bar offering live music, drinks and a whole lot of fun. For those with a sweet tooth, Fenwick Food Hall is now home to Chocofruit, offering Belgian chocolate-covered fresh strawberries by the cup. Harrogate is turning up the heat with the opening of Jodhpur, a delicious new Indian restaurant, and anyone who has recently jumped on the natural wine bandwagon will be thrilled to hear about the opening of Rinse in Leeds, a new bottle shop, bar and micro deli specialising in all things natural.
Daddy Cool
This Sunday (15th) is Father’s Day and what better way to treat him than with a (free) family day out? At Raby Castle, Dads can enjoy free entry this weekend (Saturday to Sunday) when accompanied by a child and with a Plotter’s Forest or Park and Gardens ticket. Dads can also visit Yorkshire Wildlife Park for free this weekend (Saturday and Sunday) when accompanied by any pre-paid guest. In Northumberland, Dads can visit Whitehouse Farm for free on Saturday and Sunday when accompanied by a full-paying child.
Show Time
An absolute classic is coming to Newcastle Theatre Royal this weekend. Joseph and The Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat (starring Joe McElderry as Pharaoh) will be showing until Sunday (15th) and is not one to miss. For a night of laughs, catch Katherine Ryan at Middlesbrough Town Hall on Friday (13th) and at Sunderland Empire Theatre on Saturday (14th). All-round eccentric Tim Minchin will be performing at Sheffield City Hall on Friday (13th) and at Connexin Live in Hull on Saturday (14th).
Culinary Delights
Book your tickets in advance for the Spritz, Pizza and Paint Party at Clocktower Terrace, Rudding Park next Thursday (19th) where guests will be guided through a 90-minute painting session accompanied by wood-fired pizzas and drinks enjoyed al fresco. Tickets can be bought online here. In Durham this month, something extra special is happening at Faru. MasterChef: The Professionals 2024 winner, Dan Merriman, will be in the kitchen for a limited-time takeover from Thursday 12th to Saturday 14th only, creating a collaborative tasting menu that celebrates the best of British cuisine.
Van Life
The North East’s award-winning family festival, Mighty Dub Fest, is set to return to the iconic Alnwick Castle Pastures from 13th–15th June. Celebrating van life culture, live music, and festival fun, this year's event promises an unforgettable weekend for all ages. Stop by the main stage for live music, the tiki stage for family-friendly entertainment and the jam tent for collaborative music workshops. Tickets are available online now.
Gin and Bear it
This Saturday (14th) is world gin day, and we know just the places to celebrate. The Nuthatch in Middlesbrough is known for its experimental style and stocks more than 100 spirits. Over & Above is Harrogate’s newest hidden cocktail joint you need to visit too. Prefer to try your own hand? Here's four gin-based cocktail recipes to try for yourself.
