What To Do This Weekend
From family festivals to new openings and the return of York's ghosts, there's so much to see and do this weekend
What’s New
In Newcastle
On Friday 18th September, Newcastle’s popular authentic Indian restaurant, Sanskrit, is reopening its doors to a completely transformed space and a brand-new menu. Don’t miss the Sanskrit Thali — a spread of curries, rice, breads and accompaniments, bringing together the flavours of India on one plate.
In Sunderland
Since opening last weekend, Culture House has attracted culture vultures from far and wide to Sunderland, but it’s a new hotspot for foodies too. Blacks Corner at Culture House is now open for bookings and the menu is built around British farmhouse cheese and charcuterie, alongside small plates and carefully-chosen wines. Don’t miss The Cheese Belt – a moving selection of British cheeses and charcuterie.
In Hartlepool
A café by day, serving wine and cocktails by night, Meraki is Hartlepool’s new go-to and opened on Church Square last weekend. Stop by now for artisan pastries, pizzas and cocktails, with charcuterie boards and pairings coming soon.
In Harrogate
Gourmet Coffee Bar opened at Harrogate Station at the start of this month and has been fuelling commuters, travellers and locals with coffee and treats ever since. The independent chain brings speciality coffee kiosks, cafés and bars to railway stations and we’re sure more will be popping up across the region in the future.
In Leeds
Manchester’s viral brunch spot, Bruncho, has brought its popular coffee and cake to Leeds, having opened a cosy new café on The Headrow. Head along for French toast, Middle Eastern brunches and iced matchas.
Who You Gonna Call?
The ghosts are back in York!
From Saturday 19th September to Sunday 1st November, 70 ghostly sculptures will appear in gardens, on balconies, along the city walls and in some of the most unexpected corners of York city centre as Ghosts in the Gardens returns. Ten brand-new wire sculpture ghosts will join familiar ones from past events, so see if you can spot them all.
That’s All, Folk
A weekend of folk festivals is bringing music to your ears
In Durham
The Easington Colliery Brass Band, Jez Lowe and Barry Kerr are among the artists performing at Durham Folk Festival from 18th to 20th September in various locations across the city. There’ll be workshops to take part in too.
In Stockton
Tees Folk returns to Stockton Globe on Saturday 19th September with another exciting line-up headlined by Mercury Prize-nominated and internationally-acclaimed group The Unthanks.
In Otley
The 35th Otley Folk Festival takes place from 18th to 20th September and Otley-based Folk For All will be running slower sessions for those who are just getting into playing. Bigger concerts will take place in venues across the town.
Story Time
Share your own stories of Blyth in Salt & Smoke
Taking place over two weekends in September (Friday 18th–Sunday 20th and Friday 25th–Sunday 27th) as part of Blyth Celebrates, the interactive theatre production Salt & Smoke: Stories of Blyth is taking audiences on a journey through 500 years of Blyth’s history. Audiences will have the chance to contribute their own stories and help shape future performances of Salt & Smoke: Stories of Blyth. Don’t miss the performance at Blyth Market Place.
Changing Seasons
It’s Harvest Festivals galore this weekend as summer sneaks away
In Newcastle
Changing the Seasons Women's Circle is celebrating its first anniversary with a Harvest Festival accompanied by crafts, a meal and a special harvest circle at Shanti Bee - Holistic Wellbeing Centre & Yoga Studio.
In Todmorden
Take the whole family along to Incredible Farm in Todmorden on 19th September for their Harvest Festival for a chance to meet the animals, enjoy good food, and learn about the methods used to produce food while supporting nature.
In Wakefield
The Hepworth Wakefield is welcoming the change of season as its Harvest Festival returns on 19th and 20th September. Some of the UK’s finest independent makers will sell blankets, candles and ceramics as well as homeware, plants, prints, textiles and seasonal food and drink at Tileyard North.
Flower Power
The Harrogate Autumn Flower Show takes place at Newby Hall & Gardens from 18th to 20th September and keen gardeners won’t want to miss it
Explore exhibits from the nation’s top plant nurseries and societies, admire floral art within the Hall, be inspired by extraordinary prize-winning fruit and vegetables, pick up expert gardening advice, and explore everything you need to design your dream outdoor space. Plus, enjoy Newby’s magnificent gardens and family-friendly adventure playground.
Open Up
Heritage Open Days ends on 20th September. Don’t miss your chance to immerse yourself in our history and culture
Whether you’re enjoying a fascinating tour through Newcastle Cathedral’s churchyard, making the most of free entry to Crook Hall Gardens, or checking out the oldest lighthouse on Flamborough Head – there’s so much to see and do this weekend.
