After a busy (and stressful) festive season, I’m highlighting some of the best feel-good activities to try this January in the North East
As I’m writing this from the comfort of my Lithuanian home (currently waiting for my passport to get renewed so I could fly back to the beautiful North East), I’m sharing some of the best feel-good activities you could explore in the month of January. They’re all aimed to make you feel relaxed, inspired and ready for 2025.
Ready, set, go…
Live Music Nights at South Causey Inn
When: Every Friday throughout January
Price: Free
Because, truly, is there anything better than sitting down with a warm drink in hand, listening to some of the best North East musicians performing live? I think not!
Relax in the cosy atmosphere of South Causey Inn, complete with a crackling log fire. And if, at any point, you start feeling peckish, grab a delicious bite from their snacks menu.
Some of the artists in their music lineup include Jack Reed, The Blue Moon Band, Sam Thomas, and many others.
southcausey.co.uk/live-music-nights
NE1 Newcastle Restaurant Week
When: From 13 to 19 January
Price: Menus from £15, £20 and £25
It’s fair to say I’m truly devastated to miss this one, but there’s no reason the North East foodies should. NE1’s Newcastle Restaurant Week is back, and this time, it’s better than ever. I don’t know about you, but I’ve got my eye on Dood and Cilantro Tapas, as these newcomers are clearly gaining momentum.
I know it’s still early days in January, and some of us are still recovering from the Christmas food coma, but missing out on some of the best restaurants in town would be a crime, right?
getintonewcastle.co.uk/ne1-events/restaurant-week
Murder on the Orient Express at Newcastle Theatre Royal
When: 14 to 18 January
Price: Tickets from £21
If you’re a fan of Agatha Christie, then this one will be right up your street. Murder on the Orient Express is one of her greatest literary achievements, with twists, turns, and unexpected happenings.
Here’s a little context if you’re unfamiliar: It’s the cold winter of 1934. An avalanche stops the Orient Express dead in its tracks. There’s been a murder, and everyone on the train is a suspect. Will the detective Hercule Poirot find the killer before it’s too late? Book your tickets and find out!
You simply can’t go wrong with a gripping murder mystery, especially in the beautiful surroundings of the Newcastle Theatre Royal.
theatreroyal.co.uk/whats-on/murder-on-the-orient-express/
The Big Flea Market at the Boiler Shop
When: 19 January
Price: £2
The Boiler Shop is really coming through this year with what might just be the coolest flea market in town. Expect to browse vintage pieces, retro furniture, quirky fashion, homeware and antiques.
As a massive lover of flea markets myself, I’m so sad to miss this one! Also, can I just say that this will be the perfect place to find a special and unique Valentine’s Day gift for that someone special?
boilershop.net/events/the-big-flea-19-01-25
Flower Power Vegan Fest at Wylam Brewery
When: 24 to 25 January
Price: Free entry
Head to Wylam Brewery this January for a vegan feast to remember! It’s the fifth year of this iconic foodie celebration, which means everyone will get a chance to try and taste delicious, nutritious bites from over ten traders.
To state the obvious, this vegan fest isn’t limited to vegans only. Everyone is encouraged to come and try some plant-based goodies that are sure to put you in a good mood.
Not so Blue Monday at Raby Castle
When: 20 January
Price: Free entry with unlimited January ticket
Yes, the most depressing day of the year is upon us. However, Raby Castle is inviting you to exchange cosy blankets and endless hours of brain rot on TikTok for a chance to socialise with fellow visitors and the team over a cuppa and a cake in The Vinery.
There’s no reason to be alone on 20 January, and this is the perfect chance to escape the rut and make a few new friends.
I must mention that this January, The Raby Castle is offering unlimited entry, meaning visitors can return to its popular attractions throughout the month for free after purchasing a ticket. This includes entry to the historic Deer Park, Walled Gardens in the grounds of Raby Castle, and nearby High Force Waterfall, as part of a new initiative to help combat the January blues.
Home Educator’s Day at Beamish Museum
When: 10 January
Price: £7.25 (museum admission applies)
There’s no place like Beamish during winter! The Home Educators’ Day is all about arts, crafts and workshops for little ones and their parents.
Workshops include Sid Chaplin-inspired sketching, where children explore local life through art and Norman Cornish-inspired writing, encouraging kids to craft stories or poems based on his works.
While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to spend some quality time with the family and enjoy the beautiful sights of Beamish. It’s a true winter wonderland!
beamish.org.uk/events/home-educators-day-jan-24/