What To Do This Weekend
New openings, Father's Day ideas to book ahead and family events you won't want to miss
What’s New
In Newcastle
Officially opening today, the hotly anticipated Freight Island has arrived. [Link reel when live] This rooftop destination lies above the former Debenhams site, covering an impressive 60,000 square feet. Twelve independent kitchens will make up the line-up, featuring local favourites like I Scream for Pizza, Miso, Meat:Stack and Gosforth’s FAB Bakery. Seeking a tipple? There’ll be four bars to choose from, as well as a curated mix of DJs and live performances. Just off Grey’s Monument, Designer Exchange are opening their first Newcastle location today. Expect pre-loved luxury labels covering handbags, accessories, clothing and footwear. Laneway & Co have also just announced a new evening service of small plates, snacks, wine and cocktails. Available at their High Bridge outlet on Friday and Saturday only, we recommend booking ahead.
In Sunderland
HERD is the newest eatery coming to Sunderland’s Sheepfolds Stables this Saturday (13th). Joining the eclectic selection already available at the venue, expect delicious handmade burgers and plenty of loaded fries.
In Durham
A sleek new Italian-inspired coffee shop has just opened within the Durham Dales Centre in Stanhope. Enjoy a café-style menu by day and a larger menu for their evening service launching soon. In Durham city centre, stop by Mother Mercy’s newest location on Silver Street this Saturday (13th) – even better, sign up to their mailing list online for a free cocktail too.
In Whitby
The Treasury has officially opened, offering a curated bar and café experience in a beautifully restored building on Baxtergate. Visitors can enjoy freshly brewed coffee and cake from 8am, alongside a drinks menu available throughout the day and into the evening, with a full restaurant to launch later in the year.
In York
Topping & Co have just opened their newest location opposite the Minster on Museum Street. The largest independent bookshop in the UK has floors upon floors of books, cosy corners and plenty of tea. On Newgate, Bullion Chocolate’s new Chocolate Bar has opened its doors. Expect extravagant hot chocolates, speciality drinks, and plenty of chocolate to buy too.
In Leeds
Domo has just launched its second site outside of Sheffield. You’ll find this lively Sardinian restaurant at Tower Works, offering handmade pasta, small plates and great wine. Leeds favourite North Star Coffee Roasters have also launched a new site within the city in the Victoria Quarter with another site ready to open on Great George Street. Expect speciality coffee, light bites and great bakes. The Smithfield is another opening we love. This is a proper foodie pub with a bar and dining room on North Street.
In Sheffield
Want to get your hands on the viral dot cakes everyone is talking about? Pom on Sharrow Vale Road have jumped on the bandwagon, and you can now enjoy the colourful layers of sponge and jam for yourself.
Here Comes the Sun
Don’t miss WX - Wakefield Exchange’s summer of events
Helios by Luke Jerram is at the heart of Wakefield’s cultural calendar this year, and launches this Friday (12th). The mesmerising illuminated sculpture of the Sun will be suspended within the space at WX. The seven-metre sphere brings extraordinary solar imagery vividly to life, allowing visitors to step beneath its glowing surface and experience the Sun in astonishing detail. wxwakefield.co.uk
Out & About
Our favourite local lighthouses to visit
Amble
Sitting on Coquet Island, this lighthouse is surrounded by birdlife for half the year and can be visited by boat, though visitors cannot land on the island due to its ecological significance.
Whitley Bay
Visiting St Mary’s Lighthouse is a great family day out. At low tide, explore the rock pools for local wildlife before heading up the causeway to the island. From the rear of the island, keep your eyes peeled for seals, or head inside to discover the area’s fascinating history.
Whitby
Supposedly haunted, the West Pier lighthouse dates back to 1858 and has some of the best views of the town from the top, standing at 13 metres tall in total. Its sister lighthouse on East Pier lies just across the water but is not open to the public, though the pier is open to walk along.
Spurn Point
This lighthouse lies on the narrow peninsula at the mouth of the Humber, and stands at 128-feet tall. Open to the public, it’s found within Spurn National Nature Reserve, a fascinating area which constantly shifts with the tides.
Great Gigs
The musical events you won’t want to miss
In Newcastle
Looking ahead into early next week, Lily Allen will be returning to the Utilita Arena as part of her West End Girl tour. Limited tickets are still available so grab your while you can.
In Gateshead
Beverley Knight brings her soulful voice to The Glasshouse for one unmissable night this Friday (12th), performing her biggest hits and musical theatre favourites.
In Leeds
Head to First Direct Arena this Saturday (13th) for UB40. The ‘80s reggae band are back ahead of their newest album and will be playing all their biggest hits including Red Red Wine.
In Halifax
‘Our House’ singers Madness will be playing two nights at The Piece Hall this evening and tomorrow (11th and 12th). Head along for an evening of silliness and great tunes.
Football Crazy
The World Cup officially kicks off today – here’s how to host
If you’re hosting the World Cup kick-off this year, it’s important to have plenty on-hand to keep guests happy. These summery cocktails are perfect to make batches of and keep in the freezer, or for an after-dinner treat these strawberry margarita ice lollies are a favourite. We recommend serving dishes sharing-style and these easy cheesy tacos couldn't be easier. If you do decide to break out the barbecue, this straightforward chicken and veg platter will keep everyone happy.
Father’s Day Ideas
Book ahead for a day out with Dad this Father’s Day (next Sunday 21st)
In Northumberland
Matfen Hall is a must-visit with Dad. Hidden beneath the Great Hall, book a tasting session in the Wine Cellar, or take Dad to the golf course to experience the new 18-hole championship Douglas Course.
In Newcastle
Set in a 13th century friary, next Sunday (21st), head to Blackfriars Restaurant for their fantastic Cloister Garden Hog Roast. Enjoy sharing plates of seasonal starters, followed by spit-roast hog with pork fat potatoes.
In Leeds
On Saturdays, Kirkstall Brewery hosts brilliant brewery tours and tasting session we know Dad will love. An expert will be on hand to show you around and talk you through three of their seasonal beers.
In York
If Dad is a history buff, there’s no better city to explore on a walking tour than York. We love York’s Hidden History tours, which are hosted by two local experts. Upcoming tours include exploring York’s ‘royal route’ and the fascinating history of Hungate.
