The Best Ways to Spend Your Weekend
Make the most of the final days of half term with our pick of the best family fun
Marvel at amazing puppets
Until 26th February, life-sized puppets are taking over Newcastle Theatre Royal for a new stage adaptation of the classic George Orwell fable, Animal Farm. This is a dynamic and contemporary take on the timeless tale; read our review of the show here.
Explore a century of wedding gowns
Also this Saturday, you can take a look at a collection of the most influential wedding dresses now on display at Newcastle Cathedral. Join collector and curator Kevin Thornhill for a tour to hear some of the fascinating stories hidden behind these historic gowns which include copies of Royal Wedding gowns alongside dresses by Coco Chanel.
Have a laugh
Comedian Joel Dommett is heading to King's Hall Ilkley on Sunday 27th with his show Unapologetic (If That's Ok?). He’ll brings you up to date on his life since his last live show with his usual laid-back stand up.
Take on the Tiger Trail
Visit Leeds City Museum and join in their family trail to discover the tigers (and other animals) on display. Tick off the animals as you go. For half term, there’s tiger craft sessions for children too.
Sing your heart out
Effie, Lorrell and Deena are three talented young singers in the 60s. Follow them on their musical rollercoaster ride to fame in Dreamgirls at Sunderland Empire from Thursday to Saturday. Direct from the West End, this is a dazzler of a show. And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going, Listen and One Night Only make up the perfect diva soundtrack.
Discover dragons
Nevill the Dragon and eight of his friends have landed on the terrace at Raby Castle and are guarding the keys this weekend. You need to complete the quest to find out what they’re protecting. See the medieval walls up close and enjoy amazing views across the Deer Park as you search.
Appreciate Art
This weekend sees Yukihiro Akama: Ki no ie arrive at Yorkshire Sculpture Park. From a furniture maker’s workshop in Huddersfield, Yukihiro Akama creates intricate miniature wooden houses, each one carved from a single piece of wood. He’s originally from Japan, and previously worked as an architect. To create his artwork, he begins with a hand drawn sketch on an off-cut of oak, walnut, sapele, iroko or maple. The knots in the wood often guide where he carves. After using traditional Japanese tools, he finishes with a blow torch before polishing and oiling. Don’t miss this chance to see his work on display.
Prepare for Pancake Day
Whether you’re testing your flipping skills or heading out in search of the perfect pancake, sweet or savoury, don’t forget it’ll soon be Shrove Tuesday! Rather than the usual lemon and sugar, why not turn your hand to something a little more unusual? Try these thin, rolled, pancakes with honey, orange and soft cheese which are then lightly fried. Alongside the array of gut-loving phytochemicals, these rainbow pancakes contain just four simple ingredients and not a food dye in sight.
Book ahead
The perfect Mother’s Day treat, book now for Living North LIVE 2022 (25th–27th March) in York – it’s only one month away! It’s Yorkshire's leading spring Homes, Gardens and Lifestyle exhibition, bringing together the very best of Living North magazine including shopping and Yorkshire's Festival of Food. Book your tickets (the perfect gift for Mother’s Day) here.
