Great Things to Do This Weekend
Spring is here (even though the weather hasn't caught up yet) so here are the best ways to get your March off to a great start across the North East and Yorkshire
Fabulous theatre…
At Newcastle Theatre Royal this weekend it’s all about the kids. Head along to catch Bluey’s Big Play, a brand new show from the hit children’s television series – expect brilliant puppets, magical musical moments and all of Bluey’s typical hijinks. Limited tickets are still available for the morning and afternoon performances from Friday to Sunday (8th–10th). Elsewhere in Newcastle, fans of The Great Pottery Throw Down will not want to miss Keith Brymer Jones at Tyne Theatre & Opera House on Sunday 10th. You might know him as the teary-eyed, soft-hearted judge of the hit show who has become a fan-favourite – join him as he talks all things pottery and gives on-stage demonstrations at his pottery wheel. At City Varieties Music Hall, Leeds prepare to be amazed with a dazzling new magic show The Greatest Magician: An Evening of Wonders on Thursday (7th). Performed by James Phelan, the man famous for correctly predicting the lottery, this is not a night you’ll soon forget.
Mum’s the word…
Mother’s Day has come around again (Sunday 10th), and with it comes the panic of what to get her. Why not try a change of pace this year and head out into the country to enjoy some lovely scenery and great quality time together? Holywell Dene in the small village of Seaton Sluice is a gentle walk that combines the very best of the country and the coast. Keep your eyes peeled for the ruined remains of Starlight Castle, an often overlooked piece of history in the area, and at the end of the circular walk, head across the road to The Kings Arms for a refreshing pint and some great views of the North East coast. Further south, the walk from Malham village to the stunning waterfall at Janet’s Foss is another great option. The walk is roughly two miles long and includes stone-flagged paths, scenic woodland, and of course, the waterfall. Back in the village, drop in to The Lister Arms to warm up by the fire or enjoy a glass of wine on the terrace if the sun is out. Afternoon Tea is something of a tradition on Mother’s Day and you can find the best places to treat Mum to a special afternoon tea here.
Laugh out loud…
This is a great weekend for comedy antics across the North East and Yorkshire. Romesh Ranganathan will be at Stockton Globe Theatre on Thursday and Saturday (7th and 9th) and at Newcastle O2 City Hall on Friday and Sunday (8th and 10th). You’ll know Romesh from his knock out appearances on Taskmaster, The Last Leg, Have I Got News For You and Mock The Week. Across the North East and Yorkshire this weekend you can also catch Reginald D. Hunter on his latest hit comedy tour. Catch him at Lawrence Batley Theatre in Huddersfield on Thursday (7th), Stockton Arts Centre on Friday (8th) and City Varieties Music Hall, Leeds on Saturday (9th). But that’s not all. Head to The Glasshouse International Centre For Music on Thursday (7th) to see Rob Brydon perform A Night of Songs & Laughter – he proved his impressive vocal chops with some very memorable performances on the hit show Gavin & Stacey.
Let your hair down…
This Friday (8th) is International Women’s Day so take the chance to head out on the town and let your hair down. To celebrate, Left Bank Leeds are hosting a Big Free Disco from 7pm. The evening is open to all who want to boogie on down to divas from across the decades, from the swinging sixties right through to the 2000s, so pull on your dancing shoes and make a night of it. If a party isn’t your scene but you still want to celebrate, head to Star and Shadow Cinema in Newcastle on Sunday (10th). The volunteer-led cinema has picked a hilarious, vintage whodunnit full of femme fatales to mark the day. Want something more hands-on? At York Theatre Royal, join in the creative workshop session on Friday (8th) from 12pm–2pm, perfect for whether you love to paint, write or want to try something completely different.
Good grub…
Looking for some new dining inspiration this weekend? Head along to Bavette in Horsforth – new to the culinary scene for 2024, this neighbourhood bistro is a warm and welcome escape from March’s damp start. The menu is full of classic, seasonally-led food with stand-out dishes like braised lamb pithivier, crème brûlée with rhubarb and shellfish bisque. In the North East, The Little Dumpling House has recently opened a second location in Jesmond for its loyal customers to enjoy. Deliciously authentic and at bargain prices, it’s no surprise this is a firm favourite with locals.
Clowning around…
Try something completely different this weekend with Newcastle Circus Fest at the John Marley Centre from Friday to Sunday (8th–10th). Friday will be a relaxed introduction including circus-themed games, juggling and meeting new people. On Saturday, expect circus skills workshops from 10am to 7pm including club combat, theatre skills and hula hooping, with a performance planned in the evening to showcase your new skills.
Cracking crusts…
Craft & Crust Music Festival is headed to the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds for the very first time on Saturday (9th). This fantastic event brings together a passion for craft drinks and a love of good food. Enjoy more than 25 craft beers from local breweries as well as farmhouse ciders, pies, pizza and delicious street food. No food festival would be complete without a pie eating competition so make sure you bring your appetite with you, and if competitive eating isn’t your thing, settle back with a cold drink, some classic pie and enjoy the live music performed throughout the day.
