What To Do This Weekend
New openings, great days out with the dog and what not to miss in the final few days of Durham Brass - here's what to do this weekend
What’s New
In Newcastle
On Low Friar Street, Canton Kitchen has taken over the former Nudo Noodle House serving up delicious Hong Kong-style comfort cooking. Around the corner on Clayton Street, Insomnia Cookies has landed in the city, with fresh sweet treats baked daily. Inside Grainger Market on Alley 2, you'll find Haku Haku, an adorable new spot for authentic matcha, and across the city at Hoult’s Yard Cullen Works is the new pottery studio from the team behind Kiln, try your hand at one of their fun, beginner-friendly workshops which can be booked online. Social darts bar Flight Club have just launched their brand new summer cocktail menu and outdoor terrace. Flight Club in Bloom offers a limited-edition menu of five cocktails perfect for the summer season including Bourbon Spritz, Caramelita and Rhubarb Refresher.
In Sunderland
Chapter 13 is the new bookshop and tearoom preparing to open its doors for the first time this Saturday (18th). You’ll find the new spot on Frederick Street, selling an assortment of books and gifts all bookworms will love.
In Stockton
Stockton’s new Waterfront Urban Park recently opened to the public, transforming a large section near the High Street into a green oasis for families. Unwind on the Oval Lawn, enjoy events in the open-air amphitheatre, take the kids to the park and gardens, and enjoy sculptures and illustrations throughout, all celebrating Stockton’s unique heritage.
In York
Brunch legends Rise have opened a new grab-and-go spot on Museum Street, only a stone’s throw form the Minster. Expect vibrant açai, matcha and bagels from what is now their second location in the city.
In Leeds
The Cut & Craft Leeds has recently reopened after a fabulous expansion. The elegant space now includes a new bar, lounge and two private dining rooms, and is a must-visit for foodies in the Victoria Quarter. Ahead of Dishoom’s opening in Leeds, the restaurant has paired with Leeds natives Doh’hut to create a limited edition chair doughnut, available from their Trevelyan Square spot until 26th July.
Family Fun
Summer holiday activities on a budget
In Alnwick
Alnwick Castle are offering reduced admissions prices through Great British Summer Savings until 1st September alongside a whole summer of events. Discover the magnificent State Rooms, explore the newly opened Victorian Great Kitchen, master broomstick training, enjoy guided tours and watch breathtaking falconry displays.
In Newcastle
Old Eldon Square’s Screen on the Green movie schedule has been announced, beginning this Monday (20th). More than 100 free movies will be packed into the six-week programme, beginning with Lilo & Stitch at 12pm and How to Train Your Dragon at 3pm. Also at Old Eldon Square, families can enjoy the return of Tiny Toon from Monday (20th). This year, the miniature Newcastle will feature the new additions of Pink Lane Bakery, Dakwala and Tyneside Cinema.
In Barnard Castle
The Bowes Museum have announced six weeks of creative family fun this summer, starting this Saturday (18th). Whether hunting for wildlife in the meadow, making art inspired by world-class collections or watching the famous Silver Swan in action, there’s so much to take part in. Keep an eye on their website for event dates.
In York
The Watchers of York is the city’s newest sculpture trail bringing together an assortment of larger than life creations inspired by the real stone carvings of York Minster. A copy of the map can be found online or picked up from the Visit York office, and the trail runs until 31st August.
In Leeds
Leeds Museums & Galleries have a whole host of activities for families across their venues. At Leeds Industrial Museum, use your skills to uncover a mystery at the mill with the Danger Detectives, and head to Abbey House Museum for The Magic Faraway Tree Museum Adventure. Make sure to check their website for their regularly updated Low Cost Events page.
In Bradford
Bradford’s self-guided City Centre Heritage Trail is a great (and free) way to get the kids out and about this summer. The route is designed to be as accessible as possible and takes walkers through the fascinating history of Bradford – a map can be found online.
Play On
Durham Brass concludes this weekend but there’s still so much to enjoy
Ending this Sunday (19th), don’t miss the final days of Durham Brass, now in its 20th year. Friday will see a Big Brass Bash taking place at both Seaham and Newton Aycliffe where guests can enjoy a free evening of live music. The Brass Boat Cruise on the River Wear will be taking place this Saturday (18th), and Durham city centre will come alive with Streets of Brass across Saturday and Sunday (18th and 19th).
Out & About
Where to walk the dog this weekend
Amble to Warkworth
This circular walk blends the very best of coast and country in Northumberland, and even features views of the iconic Warkworth Castle. A stop at Bertram’s for a coffee is a must.
Grassington and Linton Falls
There’s an easy circular walk here that follows the River Wharfe from the village centre, crossing by Linton Falls. There are plenty of cafés in Grassington to stop for a hot drink too.
Hardcastle Crags
This is a very dog-friendly National Trust location with five main trails to choose from. The difference in their length means you can choose a long day out or a quick jaunt in the countryside instead.
Book Ahead
Get ahead on your plans and book these events now
The Biscuit Factory
In Newcastle, The Biscuit Factory have announced a new event for wine-lovers you won’t want to miss. Wines for The Curious is taking place next Thursday (23rd) from 7pm and is an evening built around six bottles that wine merchant and host Danny Kitzman returns to again and again. Tickets are available online now.
Dalton Park
Don’t miss the launch of Camp Dalton, an immersive summer camp experience beginning on 1st August. From campfire stories and nature-inspired crafts to scavenger hunts, archery and team challenges, this is not one to miss.
Leeds International Beer Festival
Taking place at Kirkstall Abbey from 3rd September, this popular annual festival celebrates beer brewed in the UK and abroad. The festival also includes a fabulous street food market and tickets are available now.
Sip Fest
A new festival has been announced in Sheffield and we can’t wait. Celebrating the city’s coffee and café culture with a week of free fringe events, Sip Fest will be taking place across the city in October and early-bird tickets are available to buy online now.
Hop to It
The North East has a new must-visit art trail
Peter Rabbit: Tales on the Tyne has just launched, scattering 96 Peter Rabbit sculptures across Newcastle and the surrounding area until 14th September. Each sculpture is individually designed bringing local spaces to life with vibrant colour. Once the trail is over, the sculptures will be auctioned off to raise money for St Oswald’s Hospice (celebrating its 40th anniversary this year). The support will help the team continue their work for North East families affected by life-limiting conditions.
