What To Do This Weekend
School's out, temperatures are staying high and come rain or shine we're ready for a great weekend
What’s New
Cocktails, coffee and new creations – there’s so much to choose from this weekend. For a cheeky tipple, Mortal Wombat in Heaton is the new cocktail bar serving up quirky creations and low-intervention wines. The terrace to the rear is a real sun trap and a must for lazy July evenings, while in Jesmond, concept wine bar Angel’s Share opened its doors this week. For sun, sea and something delicious, The Gibraltar Rock has re-opened in Tynemouth, with breathtaking views of the coast. Tuck into seaside staples and refreshing pints downstairs, or head upstairs for something more refined. In Sheffield, May’s Coffee & Tea remains one of our favourite recent openings for a quick caffeine fix, and in Knaresborough Esme’s Coffee House & Kitchen has recently welcomed its first guests, serving açai, matcha and coffee classics. Speaking of matcha, everyone’s favourite smoothie spot Bloom Juice Co in Leeds have unveiled their new matcha ice cream – delicious!
Fabulous Festivals
Festival season is well and truly underway, and this is the final weekend to enjoy the sights and sounds of Durham Brass Festival, with performances taking place in venues across County Durham. York-based Baby Band (which provides music classes for youngsters across Yorkshire) is tuning up to stage its third annual music festival at Lotherton Hall, Leeds on Sunday (20th). Featuring live bands, dance workshops, circus skills and street food, this is a great day out for the whole family. Planning ahead? Take advantage of the warm weather and book one of these fabulous outdoor shows this summer.
Loud and Proud
The North East’s largest pride celebration, Newcastle Pride ‘25 returns this Saturday and Sunday (19th–20th) and this year’s theme is ‘unapologetically visible’. Events will be taking place across the whole city to celebrate. Pixie Lott will be headlining the Pride Arena at Times Square, where you’ll also find street food, a bar area and a second stage and The Family & Youth Zone can be found at Newcastle Theatre Royal on Saturday. Take the kids along for face-painting, storytelling and interactive workshops.
School’s Out
School’s finished for the summer, and if you’re looking for something to do with the kids this weekend, look no further than The Alnwick Garden which has launched a fun-filled timetable as part of its Summer of Play which begins this Saturday (19th) where 20 new games have been installed for the whole family to take part in, and visitors can expect a summer-long water fight complete with water pistols and refill stations throughout the gardens. Best of all? Up to four children can go free with every paying adult. Go wild with the kids in Yorkshire this weekend at RHS Harlow Carr, with a fun-filled timetable of activities for the summer. Take part in the daily Tremendous Trees Trail, stop by The Big Den Build, and keep your eyes peeled for upcoming woodland workshops.
Out and About
Avoid the hustle and bustle of the city this weekend and head out into the country for a calming riverside walk. For a gentle stroll everyone can enjoy, we love the route through Rothbury following the River Coquet. Using the public bridleway, this is a great way to enjoy the greenery of the area. The Nidd Gorge circular route skimming the edge of Knaresborough is another great choice, combining ancient woodland, historic architecture and a stunning section of the River Nidd. For more inspiration, check out our favourite scenic summer walks here.
Backyard Bliss
There’s no time like the present to get your outside space looking spick and span for al fresco hosting this summer. Whether you’re looking for your next DIY project or just want to give your outside space a refresh, here's our garden party must-haves for summer entertaining. Need some recipe inspiration? Nicholson’s Butchers in Whitley Bay have released classic barbecue packs for the summer including gourmet burgers and flavour-packed kebabs, alongside fresh salads. Sick of barbecue staples already? Try something a little different with these simple and delicious mussels.
