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What To Do This Weekend Mother Mercy
What's on
January 2026
Reading time 3 Minutes

An artisan market, the coolest new openings and the best rainy day activities - here's what to do this weekend

Brave another wet and windy weekend with these fabulous things to do.
India Bistro India Bistro

What’s New…


In Newcastle

SIX Rooftop at Baltic in Gateshead is hosting a special, one-night-only Veganuary Supper Club this Friday (30th) to mark the end of the month. Expect a fully plant-based tasting menu and unparalleled views from the sixth floor of BALTIC.

In Washington

Bianco, Sunderland’s much-loved Italian grill, have recently opened a second location in Washington serving their popular pizza and pasta dishes, as well as great options from the grill.

In Sunderland

Sheepfolds Stables has welcomed The Wine Bar, a stylish space inspired by the 1940s with plush booths and a hint of art deco, and offering hand-picked wines, cocktails, mocktails and Champagne, open Thursday to Sunday.

In Harrogate

Wine lovers will love Ake & Humphris’ new location on Harrogate’s Leeds Road. This independent wine and beer merchant regularly hosts wine events and has so much on the shelves to explore.

In Leeds

India Bistro is bringing the authentic flavours of India to Chapel Allerton. Dine on a diverse range of fiery small plates, chaat and options from the grill.

Dalton Park Dalton Park Artisan Market

Health is Wealth


Dalton Park’s Wellbeing Artisan Market (Saturday 31st–Sunday 1st)


Make some time for yourself this weekend and head to Dalton Park’s Wellbeing Artisan Market, part of their fabulous Wellness Week which celebrates the importance of self-care. Browse a curated selection of local traders selling wellness products, self-care essentials and treats to help you feel your best including The Little Rabbit Soap Company’s handcrafted botanical skincare, and Rituale Matcha Bar’s high-grade matcha products. Why not make a day of it and explore Dalton Park’s many fabulous dining and shopping options? Find more information and a full list of exhibitors here

Dine at a Discount

Durham Restaurant Week returns from 30th January to 6th February with plenty of deals to dine at a discount, from authentic Italian cuisine and Indian dishes to fine-dining favourites (think Faru, FIIK and Notch) – just be sure to book your table fast!

Howick Howick

Winter Walks

If you want to brave the weather over what looks set to be another awfully wet weekend, here’s where you should go.

Howick

We love the Northumberland Coast Path (particularly around Howick). Breathtakingly rugged (and slippery when wet, so good boots or wellies are a must), it runs along the cliff edge, dropping down to sandy coves and along the dunes as it makes its way south towards Boulmer and passes by The Bathing House, a favourite landmark here. 

Gargrave

The Gargrave Ramble takes you on a circular route from Gargrave, heading south along the Pennine Way to East Marton before turning back along a section of the Leeds-Liverpool Canal towpath. 

Need more inspiration? Here are a few of our favourite walks you'll love

True Padel True Padel

Game On…

We’re not relying on the weather for anything outdoors this weekend, but there’s still plenty to do inside. 

In York

Play the UK’s fastest-growing sport at The Pickleball Shed. Open to everyone, this welcoming indoor venue is where to go for a fun game between friends. 

In Durham

Describing itself as the heart of Padel in the North East, True Padel in Durham now has a second venue in Sunderland. Creating a social hub with world-class facilities, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting you can get involved in friendly matches and social tournaments.

In Barnsley

Base71 is a newly opened centre for young people with sessions covering everything from football and cookery to theatre classes and archery. At just 50p per visit, kids have access to a climbing wall, gym, recording studio, martial arts room and 3G kick pitch.

Tickets, Please!

In Stockton

Everyone’s favourite funnyman Russell Howard is at Stockton Globe and although this Saturday’s performance has sold out, an extra date has been added with tickets still available for Sunday (1st). 

In Sheffield

Throughout this weekend you can catch To Kill a Mockingbird at Sheffield’s Lyceum. Aaron Sorkin’s award-winning adaptation brings the world of America’s deep south to life. 

In York

For a change of pace (and for the ultimate reset), This is Yorkshire Beauty is inviting women to reset with clarity, calm and confidence at The January Reset, a restorative event taking place on Friday 30th in the elegant Etty Room at The Ivy, York, with yoga teacher and Living North columnist Roxy Shahidi.

Public Public

We’ll Drink to That…

As Dry January finally comes to an end, celebrate your new freedom at one of our favourite cocktail bars. 

In Durham

Bar 33 is a great speakeasy (complete with a secret entrance) that’s recently been refurbished. 

In Newcastle

Mother Mercy is always a given, and their bartender James Brown was recently shortlisted for Rising Star in the prestigious Top 50 Cocktail Bars 2026 awards. 

In Sheffield 

Head to the effortlessly cool Public. Occupying the former gent's toilet below the Grade I-listed Victorian town hall, this is a tiny haven serving up the finest drinks.

If you're celebrating at home, here are some of our favourite cocktail recipes you'll love.

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