Great Things to Do This Weekend
With the spring sunshine finally making an appearance, you won't want to miss out on these great things to do
Tell me a story…
Alnwick Story Fest returns from 16th–18th February with a full programme of activities celebrating the very best in literature. On Friday (16th) join David Almond, the award-winning author of Skellig, for the History, Mystery and Magic event at Alnwick Garden from 6pm. On Saturday (17th) meet author Sue Reed at Northumberland Hall as she discusses her debut novel The Rewilding of Molly Flynn and for a chance to win a copy of the book for yourself, simply enter our competition here. For the kids, we’d recommend heading along to Alnwick Playhouse on Sunday at 10am to hear everyone’s favourite story, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt.
Barrel of laughs…
Laugh yourself silly this weekend with these great comedy shows. Catch national treasure Bill Bailey at Newcastle Utilita Arena on Saturday (17th) and then again at Leeds First Direct Arena on Sunday (18th) for a show that is described as a magical, musical mystery tour of the human mind. At Sheffield City Hall on Friday (16th) you can see the wickedly funny Daniel Sloss, a Scottish comedian who has become one of the biggest names in comedy across the UK and US.
Eye for art…
At Woodhorn Museum in Northumberland beginning this Saturday (17th) you can see the Northumberland Open, an annual exhibition that is the largest of its type in the region and attracts submissions from far and wide. After exploring what the exhibition has to offer, make sure to cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award which is announced at the close of the exhibition on 6th May. This year’s theme is Northumberland Now and celebrates the groundbreaking work of the Ashington Group of Artists (known as the Pitmen Painters) who have spent decades documenting life in Northumberland.
Come rain or shine…
The weather may not have made its mind up yet, but don’t let that stop you from heading out into the great outdoors this weekend. If you’re near the coast, wrap up warm and try your hand at beachcombing to see what you can find. One of the most famous spots in the area to do this is Seaham Beach, known for the colourful sea glass that washes up on its shores. Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire is also a great choice, with beautiful golden sands and rockpools where you might find a fossil. For something a bit different, pack a torch and head inland to Yordas Cave in the Yorkshire Dales National Park (legend says a Nordic giant once lived here, so keep your eyes peeled!). The cave contains a main chamber, as well as three smaller chambers and a stunning waterfall and is free to explore.
Theatre fanatic…
This Sunday (18th) Newcastle Theatre Royal are hosting a very special talk with David Suchet, who played Agatha Christie’s famous detective Hercule Poirot for more than 25 years – the event will be a retrospective look at his astounding career. For some family fun, take the kids along to the Alhambra Theatre in Bradford for Madagascar: The Musical until 18th February. Join your favourite friends as they escape the zoo and go on a whirlwind adventure across the world.
Ready for rhubarb…
From Friday 16th–Sunday 18th February, prepare to paint the city of Wakefield pink for the return of the annual Rhubarb Festival. Enjoy the food and drink market and explore more than 50 stalls offering everything from baked goods and gin, to the finest jams and cheeses. There is also a Rhubarb Food and Drink Trail around the city which showcases restaurants and bars and their rhubarb-themed delicacies. The festival will include a programme of chef demos, family activities and street entertainment.
Fun with the Vikings…
The Jorvik Viking Festival is back until 18th February with plenty of activities for the whole family, celebrating the rich Norse heritage of the city. Each day from 10.30am–4.30pm you can visit the Viking encampment on Parliament Street to watch the Vikings at work, learn some new games and get your face painted too. At the Guildhall from 10.30am–4pm visit the Berserker Bootcamp and learn how to be a warrior with Jorvik’s expert instructors, and at St Sampson’s Square you can enjoy live music, storytelling sessions and breathtaking combat displays with free entry throughout the day.
Cosy night in…
What are the chances? This Saturday (17th) is the beginning of Real Bread Week which celebrates traditional loaves, and on Sunday (18th) it’s National Drink Wine Day, so a wine night with nibbles is a must (we don’t make the rules). Grab a bottle (or two) of your favourite wine, stop in at your local bakery, and get your friends over to your place for some relaxed drinks and great food. Need some inspiration? There’s nothing better than making fresh bruschetta with good quality bread and this recipe with baked cod and salsa is a great way to elevate a classic. If you’re not sure where to get your bread and wine, we’ve got a great list of bakeries across the region and some fantastic local wine merchants.
