What To Do This Weekend
New openings to try, our favourite pub lunches, pantos and getting yourself party-ready
What’s New
Lita is the new spot that’s popped up on Jesmond Road serving up expertly-crafted sandwiches, sweet treats, coffee and beer. In York, The Little Ale House has also just welcomed its first guests, offering a curated selection of real ale, craft beer, wine and whisky and in Leeds Federal Café has just opened. The first Yorkshire branch of this iconic Manchester café, expect excellent breakfast options, juices, smoothies, coffee and cocktails.
Winter Walks
A brisk winter stroll ahead of the festivities is always a good idea. The walk from Berwick to Cocklawburn beach is pleasantly quiet and being so close to the coast will help to blow off the cobwebs. The distance is only around six miles and the beach at the end is dog friendly too. For a family-friendly option, the Yarm heritage trail is fully accessible and takes in the town’s historic landmarks. Further into Yorkshire, the walk from Buckden to Kettlewell follows part of the Dales Way footpath along the River Wharfe and is only four miles in length.
Proper Grub
Sack off cooking this weekend (there’ll be plenty of that in the days to come) and head out for a proper pub lunch instead. The Broad Chare on Newcastle's Quayside is one of our city-centre favourites, and The Highland Laddie in Leeds was recently named Britain’s Best Pub by The Good Food Guide, and is definitely worth a visit. Anywhere we can get a proper pint and hearty comfort food is fine by us, and if you’d prefer to wait out the bad weather, give this easy air-fryer beef pot roast a try.
Friendmas Hosting
The big day itself is most likely reserved for family, but this weekend is the perfect opportunity to get friends together for a casual Christmas party. If you find yourself hosting, we've pulled together some top tips on making sure it goes off without a hitch. Think easy and fuss-free when it comes to recipes, like these tear and share festive options, and when all else fails, plying your guests with alcohol is always a good idea – choose from these four fabulous festive cocktails. If you’re lucky enough to be somebody else’s guest, don’t show up empty handed. Whether you’re covering dessert, bringing a bottle of something delicious or want to give the host a little something special to show your appreciation, it’s always best to shop local and independent.
Party Ready
It may be party season, but you should take the chance to enjoy some me-time and pamper yourself too. A day at the spa would always be our first choice, but if you’re short on time, it’s just as easy to treat yourself at home. These are some of our favourite products to stock up on in anticipation of a big night out and although we’re not predicting that you’ll overdo it, here are our top tips to avoid a festive hangover.
Last-minute Pantos
If panto season has passed you by so far, this is your chance to get a show in. There are still limited tickets left for Aladdin at Newcastle Theatre Royal, and Sleeping Beauty at Sunderland Empire. You can also catch Sleeping Beauty at York Theatre Royal, or head to Bradford’s Alhambra Theatre for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Check out our guide to the North East and Yorkshire's must-book pantos for this winter.
