What To Do This Weekend
The best new local openings you need to know, a brand-new film festival and our favourite woodland walks - here's what not to miss this weekend
What’s New…
In Thornaby
LN’s loving the recently opened Hickory’s Smokehouse on Fleck Way, just outside Stockton. Bringing the flavours of the southern states to the North East for the first time, tuck into steaks, burgers and brisket and keep your eyes peeled for their next venue landing in Gateshead soon…
In Sunderland
It’s always sunny on Villette Road where Sunrise has recently welcomed its first customers. A welcoming hub for the community, shop local produce, fruit, veg and more.
In Whitley Bay
Congrats to you if you’ve stuck with your fitness goals through January. This month, try the newly-opened Wellness Lane in Whitley Bay which offers reformer and mat Pilates and even features a sleek matcha bar and recovery area.
In Kirkby Stephen
The Book Nook is a charming new independent bookshop tucked neatly on Market Square. Here, you’ll find a wide variety off titles and genres, as well as a great collection of pre-loved books, which can even be borrowed as part of an exchange scheme.
In Leeds
Luxury activewear brand Alo Yoga has opened its first Yorkshire outpost within Leeds’s Victoria Quarter. Shop their full range of men and women’s activewear, outerwear, wellness products and accessories.
In Sheffield
We’re obsessed with all things French and Aux Bon Vivant ticks all our boxes. This charming café-deli on Campo Lane serves a bistro-inspired menu, excellent bakes and regularly hosts live musicians late into the evening.
Light it Up
York BID’s Colour & Light is back and bigger than ever this month
Lighting up the city’s most iconic buildings from 4th–22nd February, the looped, 10-minute show will bring York’s historic characters to life in a family-friendly projection that’s open to all and completely free to see. For the first time, two of York’s landmark buildings will be illuminated together, as York Castle Museum and Clifford’s Tower become a combined stage for a fully choreographed projection show. The show will be running from 6pm–9pm nightly.
In the Mood for Love
Looking ahead for Valentine’s ideas? Fenwick in Newcastle have launched a swoon-worthy new offer
From next week (12th), Fuego by Fenwick will host a series of Moët & Chandon dining experiences designed to be shared with someone special. Expect an exclusive menu with fabulous food and drink pairings, including Moët & Chandon Champagne and bespoke Champagne cocktails. The series will begin with a ticketed Valentine’s dining experience on Thursday (12th), followed by a daily menu and a series of unique Moët & Chandon tasting events led by the brand’s expert sommelier. Book your tickets online now.
On the Big Screen
Enjoy a brand-new film festival this weekend as part of Blyth Celebrates
Produced by independent cinema Market Pavilion, Blyth Festival of Film (6th February–21st March) is a celebration of the old classics and new favourites. The festival kicks off this Friday with a Mamma Mia Sing-Along Party Night, then on Sunday buckle in for a Lord of the Rings Marathon Day. Looking into the week ahead, there are plenty of free viewings taking place in venues across Blyth to look forward to.
Out & About
The weather might still be staying unsettled but we’re heading out anyway. Here are three of our favourite woodland walks to try
Bothal Woods
This is a quaint patch of woodland that tends to avoid the main crowds. Thought it’s still too early for the bluebells it’s famous for, there’s still lots to love here including an abundance of wild garlic, and the postcard village nearby.
Killhope Woodland
In Upper Weardale, the trail through this area includes woodland hides which are perfect for spotting wildlife. It also features a number of historical sites which post to the areas rich history of mining and industry.
Park Gill Nature Reserve
Near Kettlewell in North Yorkshire, this area of woodland blankets a steep sided valley and is home to a range of rare wildlife and insect life. This area also includes one of the UK’s last remaining sections of temperate rainforest, which has been slowly making a comeback.
Life of the Party
Here are the festivals and gigs you don’t want to miss this weekend
In Newcastle
James Arthur brings his latest tour to Utilita Arena Newcastle this Friday (6th) with limited tickets still available. Hailing from Middlesbrough, James’s most recent album Pisces is a must-listen.
In Whitby
Whitby Steampunk Weekend returns this Friday (6th) to the town and promises to be another spectacular celebration of costumes and creativity. One of the largest steampunk festivals in the UK, expect a retail emporium, family-friendly entertainment and music.
In Sheffield
For something more upbeat, Baseline Festival is heading to Sheffield’s Forge Warehouse this Saturday (7th). The event runs from 2.30pm until 10.30pm and will be a high-energy day of fun.
