What To Do This Weekend
New cafés, kicking off the Women's Rugby World Cup and where to see Will Smith this weekend
What’s New
In North Shields, Arbor House is the new dog-friendly coffee shop and kitchen you need to visit, and is a new addition to the evolving North Shields Mural Project, with fabulous artwork inspired by local musicians decorating the exterior. Harbour House has also just opened its doors in North Shields, and while it’s still preparing for a full opening in September, you can stop by Northern Rye for a coffee and sweet treat on the ground floor, and stop and smell the flowers at stunning floral business Muscari. In Darlington, everyone is loving new patisserie Shape which is serious about its sweets, and Daze Coffee House in Hull is a stylish new spot for your morning matcha.
Sporting Chance
The Women’s Rugby World Cup is back this weekend and Sunderland’s Stadium of Light will be hosting the opening match as England take on the USA on Friday (22nd). Tickets are still available so grab yours while you can. Head down to Keel Square to start the party early tonight with a free evening of music, panel discussions and street food. On match day, the Fan Village opens at 9am with fairground rides and a firework finale. Then on Saturday, enjoy Sunniside Market taking over Keel Square with circus skills, bubble shows and creative workshops. This weekend also sees the final days of this year’s Sky Bet Ebor Festival at York Racecourse and Friday features the fastest race, the Group 1 Coolmore Nunthorpe Stakes, whilst Saturday is the big race day featuring The Ebor (York’s oldest and most famous race). Tickets are still available at yorkracecourse.co.uk.
For the Grown Ups
Adults can cut loose this weekend as Weardale Railway’s much-loved Gin & Cheese Train makes a welcome return on Saturday (23rd) giving passengers the chance to enjoy local gin with a curated selection of artisan cheese as they travel through the stunning Durham Dales. If you prefer a self-guided tasting session, we’re loving Angels’ Share, Jesmond's chic new self-serve wine bar. For newbies looking to get stuck into a glass (or two), NoNo Wine Bar in Leeds has a great interactive menu to help you choose.
For the Kids
Take the kids to Ilkley this weekend (Friday 22nd and Saturday 23rd) to see the transformation of Ilkley Lido which will be the backdrop to a glittering wonderland. Expect live performances, costumed characters and outdoor movie screening. Eden Camp has announced the return of its much-loved Living History Weekend (Saturday 23rd to Sunday 24th) with historical re-enactors recreating the sights, sounds, and stories of World War II, giving visitors a unique insight into the lives of those who lived through the war. In Wallsend, Segedunum Roman Fort is hosting its Hadrian Festival this weekend (Saturday 23rd to Sunday 24th). A free event, expect weapons demonstrations, a horse parade and a cavalry display.
Put on a Show
Head to Leeds Grand Theatre for War Horse, a breathtaking show featuring amazing puppetry, and in Newcastle SIX is currently showing at Theatre Royal. Bright, bold and outrageous, the musical tells the story of Henry VIII’s wronged wives. For something even more upbeat, the Fresh Prince himself Will Smith is performing at Scarborough Open Air Theatre this Sunday (24th) and tickets are limited so grab yours while you can.
Out and About
Try something different with the family this weekend and seek out the weird and wonderful sculptures and follies waiting to be discovered in the North East and Yorkshire. We love the Emily Wildling Davison sculpture tucked away inside Carlisle Park in Morpeth which honours the life of the Suffragette. In North Yorkshire, the views from Lund’s Tower are breathtaking. Discover even more of our favourite finds here.
Bank Holiday Beaches
Enjoy your extra day of freedom this weekend by exploring one of the coast’s many gems. Why not take a trip deep into Northumberland? Bamburgh, Embleton and Craster are a stunning trio of Northumbrian villages with so much to offer, and we’ve built the ultimate guide to making the most of them. Fancy exploring the best of God’s own country? Take your pick of these fabulous things to do in Sandsend, Whitby and Robin Hood's Bay.
