How to End June on a High
Take advantage of the sunshine this weekend
Going mad…
Welcome to the house of fun as Madness take to the stage post the Gosforth Park Cup Night at Newcastle Racecourse this Friday (28th). Enjoy great racing alongside one of the great entertainers of a generation – so get your baggy trousers on and don’t lose your shirt! Saturday brings the most spectacular day of summer racing by a distance as Northumberland Plate Day takes centre stage. This is the social and sporting occasion of the year, plus the brilliant Hacienda Classical will keep the party going in style – don’t miss it. newcastle-racecourse.co.uk
All aboard…
If you’re looking for something extra special to do with the kids this weekend, look no further than Whistlestop Valley in West Yorkshire. There’s so much to enjoy from a ride-on miniature train, two adventure playgrounds and a jumping pillow to crazy golf and pedal cars. Dogs are welcome too so the whole family can get involved and there’s plenty of space for picnics. Hop on the larger train for a ride through the Yorkshire countryside. At weekends there’s also the added bonus of face-painting and fairground rides included in the price of your ticket – what’s not to love? Keep an eye on their website for special upcoming events later in the year including appearances from Paddington Bear and Bluey.
whistlestopvalley.co.uk
Raise the roof…
At The Piece Hall in Halifax on Sunday (30th), you can watch Tom Odell of Another Love and Black Friday fame. At The Glasshouse International Centre For Music musical theatre fans will be thrilled to hear that the famous Lea Salonga will be performing on Saturday (29th) with numbers from her most iconic roles including Miss Saigon, Aladdin and Mulan.
Set sail…
Something spectacular has just arrived on the Tyne – the Galeon Andalucía is in Newcastle as part of its tour of UK ports. A replica of the ships that were used by Spanish explorers between the 16th and 18th centuries, the breathtaking floating museum (which is more than 160ft long) will be moored at Spiller’s Quay until 7th July, so get your tickets and take a look now.
Take a dip…
We can’t think of a better way to cool off this weekend than with a dip in one of the many brilliant wild swimming spots across the North East and Yorkshire. If you’re after some saltwater therapy, Druridge Bay is a beautiful seven-mile stretch of coast to enjoy some sun, sea and sand. Kisdon Force in Swaledale sits deep in a woodland gorge is a great fresh water option and is one of the top spots for wild swimming in the area. Need more inspiration? Check out this list of the best wild swimming spots in the North East and Yorkshire.
Hopping mad…
No summer would be complete without some fun at the fair. The Hoppings, is currently in Newcastle and this is your last weekend to enjoy all it has to offer. Packed full of thrilling rides (like the Star Flyer which will launch you 200 feet in the air), attractions and stalls, this is a great way to spend a fun-filled day. With loads of attractions to choose from, you won’t know where to start (hook a duck anyone?)
Al fresco or bust…
What better way to enjoy the heat than eating outside? A new Champagne terrace and oyster bar has opened at The Old Liquor Store in York. In a quiet courtyard garden area, this is the perfect place to tuck into their dedicated menu full of delicious small bites, or simply kick back with a cocktail or glass of cold champagne. In Durham, The Curious Mr Fox has great views of the river and cathedral from its outdoor seating area and always gets plenty of sunshine. If you prefer the comfort of your own garden but still want something summery and delicious, make this steak salad with purple broccoli and chilli dressing.
Step into nature…
Although we’re always partial to a stroll through the woods, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Foraging has grown in popularity in the past few years and this is a great time of year to find out more about what’s on your doorstep. The Cramlington Forager in Northumberland offers great beginners’ courses to help you get to grips with what you can (and can’t) use in nature. Forest bathing is also a growing practice, where you take time to be present and relaxed among the trees. In South Yorkshire, Ecclesall Woods is a great place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life this weekend.
