What To Do This Weekend
Another bank holiday? Don't mind if we do…
What’s New
In Newcastle
On Grey Street, steak restaurant Flat Iron will be welcoming its first guests on Friday (22nd) and to celebrate they’re giving away 300 wagyu steaks from 5pm Thursday on a first-come first-served basis. From Friday, guests can expect a variety of steaks, as well as blackboard specials and sides in the restaurant.
In Durham
Just in time for the Bank Holiday, new cocktail bar Home & Botanic will be opening its doors on North Road this Friday. Expect signature cocktails, fabulous floral interiors and bottomless brunch.
In York
Another Brother is York’s newest opening, bringing a cooly refined café experience to Nessgate. As well as hot drinks, tuck into the likes of toasted banana bread, avo toast and chicken caesar wraps.
In Leeds
The Grumpy Baker, who claim to be the home of the best cheesecake in the country, have just landed on Wortley Moor Road in Leeds. Their slices are indulgent, and besides cheesecake you can also indulge in milkshakes, mocktails, loaded berries and waffles.
In Farsley
A new ultra-cool record bar has just opened at Sunny Bank Mills. With a heavy retro vibe, Pardon Me offers coffee by day and cocktails by night. The staff are as passionate about their collection of records as they are about great drinks, and love to chat music.
In Pudsey
A new independent Italian spot has opened on Robin Lane. Stop by Pino for artisan gelato made in store daily, pizza and great Italian coffee. They also have a small selection of sweet treats like cannolis and tarts.
Happy Birthday to You
The Hepworth Wakefield is hosting its 15th birthday party this Friday, and you’re invited!
Since opening on the city’s historic waterfront, the award-winning gallery has become one of the UK’s most admired contemporary art spaces, and 2026 marks its 15th year. From 6pm, head to Gallery Walk for the opening of two new exhibitions and the launch of The Hepworth Wakefield Makefield Market featuring more than 65 Yorkshire makers. Plus, guests can enjoy a street food menu in the café, ice cream from Fennell’s and a DJ.
Out & About
Take advantage of your extra day off with a long hike in the countryside
The Ravenber Way
This lesser-known coast to coast route stretches from Ravenglass in Cumbria to Berwick, following a series of bridleways and tracks. The route is 210 miles in total, and can be broken down into manageable chunks. The section between Allenheads and Hexham is particularly beautiful.
Esk Valley Walk
Explore 37 miles of the North York Moors National Park. This route is also fully waymarked and traces the valley all the way to Whitby at the coast, crossing wooden gorges and heather moorland along the way.
The Brontë Way
Covering more than 40 miles, this aptly-named route takes in many of the key locations in West Yorkshire which are referenced in or inspired the literary works of the Brontës. The village of Haworth itself is a highlight of the walk and definitely worth a visit.
Fabulous Festivals
The festivals you won’t want to miss this weekend
In Newcastle
Blackfriars Restaurant and St Dominic’s Brewery will be hosting their second annual Beer Festival this weekend (22nd–24th). The event promises to bring together local brewers, live music and medieval history, with eight local breweries and an expanded range from St Dominic’s, Blackfriars’ own onsite brewery.
In Blyth
Blyth’s biggest and best music festival is back this weekend (22nd–24th). Taking place at Meggie’s Burn, stop by Into The Fields to see tribute performances to Foo Fighters, Arctic Monkeys, Sam Fender and Oasis.
In Sheffield
From Saturday to Monday (23rd–25th) Sheffield Food festival will return for its 15th year. One of the city’s largest free events, expect nearly 60 street food vendors, an artisan food market and fabulous musical acts.
Went to Market
The UK’s largest thrift market is returning to Newcastle this Sunday (24th)
Head to Vertu Motors Arena on Scotswood Road from 11am for the return of Clothes Cycle. Bringing together more than 100 of the best vintage and independent sellers for a one-day shopping experience, this is not one to miss. As well as shopping, expect DJs, street food, a free alteration station and plenty of fun giveaways.
On With the Show
Must-book tickets for the bank holiday weekend
Newcastle Theatre Royal
Need plans for the half-term holidays? Start as you mean to go and take the kids to see The Enormous Crocodile (21st–24th). This delightful musical is based on Roald Dahl’s book. Help the jungle creatures foil the crocodile’s plans before he eats you up!
Northern Stage
Until Saturday (23rd) audiences have the chance to enjoy classic cult music comedy Little Shop of Horrors. Watch as underdog Seymour Krelborn achieves fame and fortune by keeping his man-eating plant alive. Want to know what to expect? We went along to see the wickedly funny show for ourselves.
Lyceum Theatre
The acclaimed drama Noughts & Crosses is showing until Saturday (23rd) and is a real must-watch. In a world segregated by race, star-crossed lovers pursue a romance that will lead them into life-threatening danger.
