What To Do This Weekend
New openings, fabulous foodie events and festivals you won't want to miss - here's what to do this weekend
What’s New
In Newcastle
Head to Fenham Hall Drive (just along from FAB Bakery) for new opening Coco & Co Coffee. As well as great coffee, enjoy a range of matcha and sweet treats from the counter. There’s plenty of space to sit inside and outside, and Nuns Moor is only a short stroll away.
In Sunderland
If you’re in search of the perfect pint this weekend, we recommend The Ivy House on Worcester Terrace, which has just reopened after a thorough refurbishment. Stop by for cask ales, live music and a friendly welcome.
In Durham
Durham’s newest cultural destination is opening this Saturday (22nd) in Aykley Heads. The Light promises an eclectic programme of exhibitions celebrating art, history and culture, including a permanent exhibition dedicated to the Durham Light Infantry.
In York
Crafty people will love MeowCraft Café, now open on The Shambles. Stop by for bubble tea, matcha, and handprinted gifts from their studio – all with a distinctly feline theme. There are take-home kits for you to buy figurines and paint yourself too.
In Sheffield
The team behind former bookshop Novel are reopening this Friday (21st) as Proof, and are now offering delicious tipples alongside a curated selection of books, bakes, coffee and snacks.
Family Fun
Summer holiday family fun on a budget
In Sunderland
Sunderland Brick Festival is taking place this Saturday (22nd) and is a must for fans of Lego. The event will take place at CitySpace Fitness and will include speed building competitions, large-scale displays and a dedicated building area.
In Bishop Auckland
The Enchanted Bishop Auckland Lego Trail will take over the town centre until Sunday 30th. The free event is designed for families, and features unique brick-built characters, creatures and displays inspired by fantasy and local heritage.
In Runswick Bay
Take the kids fossil hunting along Yorkshire’s fascinating coast. There are so many great spots to explore, but Runswick Bay is one of the most scenic, and is a great place for paddling as a family too.
Near Harrogate
Get the kids out into the fresh air and enjoy a fabulous and free day out at Brimham Rocks. This is a special place with pathways to race down, amazing rock formations to scramble over and acres of wildlife-filled moorland to explore. The giant rock formations were created by a river 100 million years before the first dinosaurs walked the earth, and sculpted by thousands of years of ice, rain and wind, the rocks are now weird and wonderful shapes (look out for the Dancing Bear and the Gorilla, and make sure you crawl through the Smartie Tube).
Beside The Seaside
Enjoy the great outdoors along the coast this weekend
In Berwick
This historic town has lots to do and see and we love walking its streets. This year the port celebrates its 150th anniversary, and Berwick lighthouse (you can walk to the base) is celebrating its 200th.
In Tynemouth
Closed for nearly three years, Tynemouth Pier has just reopened and has great views of the River Tyne and the coast. A trip to the Priory is another great way to uncover the history of the coast, with amazing views too.
In Withernsea
The Withernsea Lighthouse Museum is a great day out for the family. Climb the 144 steps to the top and admire the view of the Holderness coastline, before learning more about the local history of the area.
In Hull
Spurn Lighthouse, on Spurn Point is an amazing place to explore, standing at 128ft tall and surrounded by a nature reserve. Check on tide times before visiting as opening hours can vary, and affect access to the peninsula.
Fabulous Festivals
The fun festivals you won’t want to miss this weekend
Near Ponteland
The North East Dog festival returns to Kirkley Hall this Saturday and Sunday (22nd–23rd). Expect have-a-go activities including scent hurdling, agility and recall challenges, as well as a duck-herding display, wellbeing talks and charity dog shows.
In Newcastle
This Saturday (22nd) NE1’s Quayside Carnival returns, bigger and better than ever. Enjoy everything from a silent disco and circus performances to creative workshops, arts and crafts zones, and an active zone hosting everything from dancing to Zumba.
At Sledmere House
The UK’s biggest tribute festival is set to return to Sledmere House this weekend (21st–23rd) and limited tickets are still available. Included in the line-up are tribute acts for Pink Floyd, Madonna, The Killers and Prince.
In York
The Sky Bet Ebor Festival is currently underway at York Racecourse so don’t miss out. The highlight of the weekend’s racing is undoubtedly Saturday (22nd) where York’s oldest and most famous race, the Ebor, will take place. Gates open from 11am with the first race taking place at 1.50pm.
Food, Glorious Food
Events foodies will love
In Newcastle
Hotel du Vin and Sicilian winery Planeta are hosting a series of Mediterranean-inspired outdoor dining events, and you can catch the final event this Friday (21st). Wood, Fire & Vine invites diners to enjoy fantastic food, expertly paired wines and a relaxed al fresco dining experience, beginning with a glass of sparkling Planeta wine. Tickets are available online.
In Sunderland
Sheepfolds Stables’ newest space, the Wine Bar, will be hosting a fabulous evening of cheese and wine tasting this evening with their resident head sommelier, who will guide guests through a series of high-quality wines.
In Ripley
Across Saturday and Sunday (22nd–23rd) Harrogate Food Festival returns to Ripley Castle. Enjoy live music, fabulous street food vendors, a dog show, live cooking and even a Viking heritage kitchen exploring the tradition of open-fire cooking.
In Leeds
In the mood for something mouthwatering? Head to Headingley for Here Comes the Bun. This takeaway hatch from the folks at Swine Bistro serves up truly indulgent sandwiches served in hand-rolled potato buns. It’s a small menu with sweet options too (like homemade key lime pie). The offering changes regularly and the hatch only opens on Fridays and Sundays.
