What To Do This Weekend
New openings, winter family walks, festive films and where to shop local and independent for Christmas - here's what to do this weekend
What’s New
Head to Midsommar Bakery’s grand opening at Newcastle’s Grainger Market this Saturday (29th) for small-batch baking, Scandi-inspired sandwiches and great coffee. For more things between bread, head to Handsome Sandwich in Heaton which specialises in unique fillings like cornflake pork katsu, white cabbage slaw, pickles, and kewpie mayo on Zee’s milk loaf. If you’re shopping for art lovers this Christmas, head to the newly opened Twenty Four North East in the centre of Sunderland, a fine art gallery showcasing the work of great local artists. Harrogate has recently welcomed the wonderfully eccentric Johnny’s Bar and Parlour, a great new space to enjoy sophisticated cocktails and a menu of indulgent classics and reimagined bar snacks. In Leeds, the viral coffee shop Blank Street has opened its largest location ever, spread across two mint green floors and serving up a winter menu of hot drinks and bakes.
Out & About
Getting out and about as a family can be tricky when you have to consider little legs. The walk from Malham to Janet’s Foss is one of our favourites and follows a very gentle and easy to navigate path that’s pushchair friendly, apart from the very final section which becomes slightly rocky. Make it to the end and you’ll be rewarded with a stunning spout of water that falls into the fairy pool below. Further north, the path through Blyth sand dunes is around two miles long and is paved, making it an easy-going route, and we also love strolling around the edge of Derwent Reservoir in County Durham.
Shop ’til You Drop
December is nearly upon us and if you’re as behind on Christmas shopping as we are, now is the time to hit your local independents. For the house proud, Seddon and Davison is a great option, with shops in Harrogate and Ilkley. The Bath House has several stores across our region and is where to find luxurious fragrance and skincare gifts, while Acorn & Pip is an adorable hidden gem in Slaithwaite specialising in kids’ toys and accessories. Oswald’s of Bamburgh and Ruby Tuesday in Alnwick have an eclectic range of gifts to choose from, and RE and Acanthus in Corbridge are treasure troves of unique finds. Head to David Summerfield in the Metrocentre and Chester-le-Street for stunning jewellery and watches, and Jesmond’s Jules B for fashion-led gifts for him and her.
Put on a Show
We’re officially in panto season, so take the family along to Newcastle Theatre Royal this weekend for a brand-new version of Aladdin, celebrating local panto legends Danny and Clive’s 20th year on the stage. For another spin on the classic tale, City Varieties Music Hall in Leeds is showing Aladdin: The Rock ’n’ Roll Panto from Friday (28th), which promises to be a lively night of fun. We’re also in the season of festive flicks. This weekend, head to Forum Cinema in Hexham for Planes, Trains and Automobiles on Sunday (30th). Tyneside Cinema has a whole host on offer this weekend including Elf, It’s a Wonderful Life and Home Alone on Saturday (29th). York Picture House is also showing The Nightmare Before Christmas on Saturday. If you’re having a movie night in, try these fabulous popcorn brownie bites.
All Things Festive
If you’re not ready to get your Christmas decorations out, there are other ways to get into the festive spirit this weekend. Northern Lights Newcastle returns to Leazes Park from today (27th) offering new illuminations for this year. Raby Castle’s Christmas Market also returns this weekend from Friday to Sunday (28th–30th). Peruse more than 50 stalls featuring a selection of artisan crafts, gifts, seasonal produce and treats from local suppliers. You can even buy your very own Christmas tree grown on the Raby Estate. For something truly spectacular, visit The Servant’s Ball at Cragside House from this Saturday (29th). Inspired by a real-life party for staff in 1894, prepare for a topsy turvy night of fun, and make sure to visit the UK’s tallest living Christmas tree while you’re there. For a quieter festive day out, head to Helmsley for their Christmas Tree Festival at All Saints Church, beginning on Friday (28th) and coinciding with the Christmas light switch on in Helmsley Market Place.
Stay In
As temperatures continue to drop, take some time to yourself and give a new recipe a try. If you’re seeking something comforting and easy, make this creamy mushroom stew. It’s always good to have something delicious on hand if you’re expecting guests, and we're in love with these rich chocolate cakes (the black velvet cake is particularly delicious, with Champagne and Guinness).
