What To Do This Weekend
Cool new openings, family shows, a makers market and fabulous festivals - here's what not to miss this weekend
What’s New?
In Newcastle
Newcastle Castle have just launched their new secondhand bookshop. You’ll find this cosy space tucked on the landing between the ground floor and the first floor of the Black Gate. There are no fixed prices, and books can be bought on a donation basis.
In Sandyford
We’re always on the lookout for new spots to indulge our matcha obsession and Morning Cloud is everything we could ask for. You’ll find this new spot at local restaurant Cog & Wheel serving up speciality brews including their signature pistachio matcha latte. From the food menu, tuck into steak and eggs, shakshuka and posh BLTs.
In Alnwick
Platform Padel is Alnwick’s newest opening, and the first padel court in Alnwick. Fun, social and easy to learn, padel is a fast growing sport in the UK. Find Platform Padel at Unit 1, Alnwick Station.
In Hebden Bridge
The team at Coin in Hebden Bridge have recently extended their offering with the opening of Saltas, a deli specialising in New York-style subs stacked high with fillings, and there’s something to suit everyone – think prosciutto, burrata and honey, turkey and Emmental layered over pickles, or breaded chicken with Napoli sauce and a generous amount of Mortadella.
In Beverley
Still has recently relocated to Beverley’s North Bar Within from Hull and has set up shop offering speciality roasted in-house coffee, natural wine and cocktails, and a selection of fresh seasonal flowers.
In Leeds
Adorable independent gift and homeware brand Lisa Angel is opening its first Yorkshire location in Leeds’s Victoria shopping centre today. Think bright accessories, dried floral arrangements, and colourful homeware.
Getting Crafty
Don’t miss Baltic’s Early Spring Makers Market this Saturday (28th)
Head to Baltic’s Level 1 to discover 50 independent artists and makers from across the UK. Whether you’re shopping for prints, homeware or are just browsing, this is a great way to find one of a kind items and support small businesses. Tickets are £2 and under 18s go free.
Starry, Starry Night
This is your last weekend to take part in the annual North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales Dark Skies Festival
Showcasing the beauty of the night sky, the festival is now in its 11th year. Book your place on the six-mile Hole of Horcum evening circular walk this Friday (27th) under the International Dark Sky Reserve. There’s also public stargazing in Dalby Forest on Friday evening with the Scarborough & Ryedale Astronomical Society. On Saturday (28th), head to Ellerburn for a hands-on wirework workshop inspired by the constellations.
Flower Power
Where to see early spring blooms when you’re out and about
For Crocuses
Wallington in Northumberland is famous for its thick blanket of more than 100,000 purple crocuses which visitors can find in the secluded Walled Garden. Wallington’s much-loved gardens are a great and accessible place to explore with the family.
For Daffodils
The river path taking walkers through Durham city centre is lined with spring flowers including our favourite yellow blooms, and York’s historic City Walls are always famously covered in dancing daffodils in spring.
For Snowdrops
Fountains Abbey in North Yorkshire is currently covered in adorable snowdrops and you’ll find the best coverage on the banks surrounding the Abbey and leading to Studley Royal.
Put on a Show
The hottest tickets in town
In Billingham
Head to Billingham’s Forum Theatre for The Sooty Show this Saturday (28th), a blast from the past that grown ups and kids will love. Sooty’s guests will include Butch, Ramsbottom and Scampi, along with comedy star Russ Brown and Blackpool Tower Circus’s Michael Jordan.
In Sunderland
Matilda The Musical will be holding its last performance at Sunderland Empire this Saturday (28th) so grab your tickets while you still can. The classic Roald Dahl tale is totally reimagined, and you can find out what we thought of the show here.
In Stockton
Hear the greatest hits from Boyzone and Westlife this Sunday (1st) at Stockton Globe. Featuring Boyzone’s Keith Duffy and Westlife’s Brian McFadden, these ‘00s icons will be raising the roof together and we can’t wait.
In Sheffield
Discover the inspiring story of the Sheffield women who stepped up when they were needed in World War One at Sheffield’s Crucible theatre this Saturday (28th). What starts as a lunchtime kick around becomes a football club that will play in front of thousands.
Hot & Cold
Durham’s Fire & Ice festival returns this weekend (27–28th)
Head to Durham city centre for two days of spectacular ice sculptures, entertainment and live shows for the whole family. Completely free, visitors are encouraged to follow the themed trail of hand-crafted sculptures, live sculpting sessions and interactive installations.
