What To Do This Weekend
New openings, National Pie Week and a fabulous new festival - here's what to do this weekend
What’s New
In Newcastle
The latest collaboration between Fenwick and Greggs has just dropped. Available exclusively online and inside The Golden Flake Tavern, shop the new limited-edition, football-inspired capsule collection featuring reworked football shirts, graphic scarves and statement headwear. Meanwhile, film fans will love The Sky High Cinema Club which has opened in Above at the Vermont, featuring a sleek screening space and unparalleled views of the city.
In Durham
Make Porcelain Coffee your new go-to spot on Old Elvet. Decked out in dark wood with vintage touches, a visit feels like stepping back though time. Enjoy hot drinks, baked goods and a small range of savoury options. Ouseburn favourite Bibelot Nook are also opening their second location in Durham this weekend on High Street, bringing their curated selection of vintage homeware and furniture.
In Stockton
S&DR200 Festival have announced the launch of their new Trail of Discovery, a public walking and cycling route following sections from the original 26-mile journey of the world’s first passenger railway. The trail connects key heritage sites, with interpretation panels and public art, and the Trail of Discovery app (voiced by Steph McGovern) brings the trail to life with stories and podcasts about the area.
In York
Offering poetry on prescription for any emotional malady, York’s newest bookshop on Coney Street is a must visit. You’ll be hard-pressed to miss the new (bright yellow) Poetry Pharmacy and we caught up with them ahead of their opening this Friday (6th).
In Sheffield
Blending bao buns, sushi, matcha and coffee, you’ll find the new Aussie-inspired coffee shop Drop Bear Coffee on Sheffield’s Howard Street. The space is bathed in natural light and super relaxed, making it the ideal spot for a catch up.
In Leeds
Salón Madre has officially landed in Leeds, opening its new spot on Wellington Street. Loved for its moreish tacos and margaritas in Manchester and Liverpool, this is its first outpost in Yorkshire. Elsewhere, Cinnamon Kitchen is celebrating Holi (the Hindu festival of colour) with a fabulous limited edition offering until Sunday (8th). Tuck into vibrant cocktails and their spectacular Holi Sharing Feast with its bold regional Indian flavours.
Head to Blyth this weekend (5th–8th) for its first ever Festival of Energy
This four-day celebration will showcase Blyth’s fascinating maritime heritage and future as a centre for global renewable energy. Included in the free festival will be a display of Gaia and Museum of the Moon, seven-metre installations made using NASA imagery of the Moon and Earth. Catch Whale Song, a life-sized humpback whale brought to life through water, sound and light, projected where the River Blyth meets the North Sea, and visit the Tower of Light at the quayside which will come alive with pyrotechnics and light.
Easy as Pie
This is the final weekend of National Pie Week – here’s where to head
In Northumberland
Just off the A69 near Corbridge, Brocksbushes is one of our favourite farm shops for excellent deli goods and their pies are no exception. Freshly made and local, shop the full range at the deli counter. The Blagdon Farm Shop is another great option – we’re in love with their steak and ale pies.
In Whitley Bay
If you’re shopping for pie night at home, Nicholson’s Butchers are our go-to butcher in Whitley Bay. Browse their selection of excellent homemade pies, or select your meat from the butchers counter and make your own at home.
In Harrogate, Leeds and York
The Ivy Collection have introduced a special menu exclusively for National Pie Week. At their locations in Harrogate, Leeds and York, until 8th March you can tuck into the likes of classic shepherd’s pie and creamy fish pie with lobster, scallops and hake.
Shop ’Til You Drop
We’re nearing the end of the Shop York campaign so grab a bargain in the city while you can
Celebrating York’s fabulous high streets and independents during what is usually a quiet period for retailers, Shop York brings a range of in-store offers and unique shopping experiences to the city. Enjoy 10 percent off at stores including York Gin, Florian Poirot and Lucy Pittaway. Plus, collect points on your Shop York Passport and you can win a host of incredible local prizes or a £500 York Gift Card.
Here Come the Girls
Where to get involved this International Women’s Day (8th)
In Pocklington
Head to Pocklington Art Centre this Sunday (8th) for the culmination of a new creative heritage project celebrating local history and overlooked female legacies. The celebration (which marks Thunk-It’s 5th anniversary, Heritage Volunteers’ 10th anniversary, and Pocklington Arts Centre’s 25th year) will have a packed programme including original performances and heritage talks.
In Newcastle
This Saturday (7th), Wylam Brewery will host an official International Women's Day celebration featuring a two-hour silent disco event from 2pm–4pm. The event will coincide with the launch of a limited-edition can design from Wylam Brewery and Show Up Club featuring real women from the region. The cans will be available to buy from Wylam Brewery and a selection of other local independents.
In Sunderland
Stop by Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens from Friday (6th) for their newly updated exhibition Rebel Women of Sunderland. Celebrating remarkable women both past and present from the area, the show is free to visit.
In Ilkley
Book a spot at the Brilliant Bradford Lasses talk at Ilkley Manor House this Friday (6th) evening, where Bradford’s brilliant women from the 19th century to the present day will be celebrated. Hosted by an of-the-era Suffragette, discover Bradford’s fascinating history.
Mum’s the Word
Book ahead now for Mother’s Day (Sunday 15th)
In Northumberland
Matfen Hall are hosting a fabulous Mother's Day Bouquet Experience this Saturday (7th) and it’s not one to miss. While away the morning hand-tying bouquets while sipping on Champagne with Mum and indulging in afternoon tea.
In Durham
The Curious Mr Fox are hosting a Mother’s Day Sip and Paint session next Sunday (15th). With Prosecco and nibbles provided, spend time with Mum painting your very own tote bag.
In Huddersfield
Whistlestop Valley, home of the Kirklees Light Railway, have announced that next Sunday (15th) mums can go free with their families. Besides trains, enjoy outdoor play areas, crazy golf and pedal cars.
