What To Do This Weekend
The coolest new openings to know about, our favourite family shows to book now and where to take the kids for free - here's what to do this weekend
What’s New…
In Gosforth
If you’re looking for your latest bun fix, head to the newly opened Bao Baby on Gosforth’s Hawthorn Road. Made fresh daily, their bao buns are wonderfully fluffy. Grab a matcha while you’re there and pull up a seat, or grab your buns to go.
In Newcastle
Looking ahead to Monday (16th), head to Newcastle’s Grainger Market for the soft opening of the new Rice Kitchen on Alley 4. Serving a blend of traditional and contemporary handmade onigiri alongside matcha and other drinks, until Friday (20th) you can enjoy 10 percent off the entire menu.
In Roker
Opening in time for spring, Elephant Rock is Roker’s newest café and beach bar. Transforming the old abandoned tram shelter on the seafront, this new space is a vibrant and refreshing addition to the area. Expect breakfast options, light bites, tea and coffee, as well as a more substantial cocktail and wine list.
In Leeds
After years operating as a mobile cocktail bar, The Reserve in Leeds has finally put down roots in the city. Moody interiors, unique cocktails and a warm welcome – what else could you need? You’ll find their new spot on Otley Road.
In Headingley
The Swine Bistro, one of the Good Food Guide and SquareMeal’s Top 100 Best Local Restaurants, is bringing back one of its most-loved and hotly-anticipated events; its Legendary Pie Nights. Taking place on selected dates, the lineup of pies includes beef cheek and oxtail, chicken, leek and tarragon, and fennel with hispi cabbage and butter beans.
School’s Out
If your school is breaking up for Half Term this Friday (13th), here’s how to spend a free weekend with the kids
RNLI Grace Darling Museum
This free museum in Bamburgh commemorates the life of one of Britain’s boldest heroines, who risked her life to save nine shipwrecked survivors. Discover Grace Darling’s upbringing, the events of the fateful rescue, and her fascinating personal items and letters.
The Story
This fascinating attraction lies within the Grade II-listed Mount Oswald in Durham, and brings together over 900 years of fascinating local history. Visitors are invited to engage with audio and visual devices, exhibitions and to explore state-of-the-art online collections.
Leeds Art Gallery
This ‘give what you can’ art space has a blend of permanent and temporary exhibitions to explore. Plant Dreaming is a current exhibition we love featuring textiles, ceramics, drawings and film centred around plantlife.
National Railway Museum
A celebration of the North’s proud railway heritage, York’s free museum features iconic locomotives and an impressive collection of engineering marvels. Explore the past, present and future of the railways.
Out & About
Rain, sun and maybe some snow – this weekend is set to be a mixed bag but don’t let that put you off getting outside
Hole of Horcum
This five-mile route begins at Saltergate car park on the North York Moors. Take in unparalleled views of the Hole of Horcum on this walk (known as the Devil’s Punchbowl locally).
Cochrane Pike
Coming in at just under five miles in length, this walk takes you through the rugged moorland of Northumberland. Keep your eyes peeled for Bronze Age burial sites and the remains of early settlements.
Time to Celebrate
Lunar New Year is next Tuesday (17th), and over the coming weeks there’s so many celebrations to take part in. Here’s what’s on this weekend, but keep your eyes peeled for more events soon
In Leeds
The Merrion Centre will once again play host to a fabulous celebration for Lunar New Year on Saturday (14th), and then again on Saturday (21st). Visitors can look forward to traditional dances, Tai Chi demonstrations, live musical performances and hands-on workshops.
In Sheffield
Sheffield Children’s Hospital will be lit up again for 2026 with a fabulous dragon and lantern display, with lights due to be turned on this Monday (16th). Elsewhere in Sheffield, Meadowhall will run cultural workshops from Sunday (15th), offering everything from Chinese calligraphy to mask painting.
At Home
Celebrate your way by stopping by your favourite local asian restaurant. Browse our selection of the top tables you need to book for Lunar New Year or if you prefer to indulge at home, try these fabulous five spice hoisin duck and rice bowls.
Put on a Show
Fabulous shows and fun-filled festivals – here’s what to know
In Bradford
Returning to the National Science and Media Museum from 11th–22nd February, the Yorkshire Games Festival promises to be fun for the whole family. A celebration of gaming culture, design and production, take part in free workshops and gameplay.
In Newcastle
Here we go again! Everyone’s favourite singalong spectacular MAMMA MIA! is coming to Newcastle Theatre Royal (11th–28th) and we can’t wait. Grab your tickets now for a fun-filled night.
Sunday for Sammy also returns to the city this Sunday (15th) at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena. While the final lineup will remain a mystery, past performers have included Tim Healy, Jill Halfpenny and Brian Johnson.
In Darlington
Join Peppa, George, Mummy and Daddy as they frantically get everything ready for the arrival of baby Evie in the fun-filled family show of music and mayhem coming to Darlington Hippodrome this Saturday and Sunday (14th and 15th).
