Events in the North East


The North East is full of exciting sporting events, unique art and culture exhibitions and the coolest music festivals..

The Great North Run ·

Over 40,000 people travel to the North East to take part in the Great North Run – one of the world’s largest running events. Participants start the run from the iconic Tyne Bridge, and scramble 13.1 miles to the coastline of South Shields each September. Though it is a gruelling challenge, the Great North Run is definitely something that everyone should tick off their bucket list. Whether you are running it, or simply watching on, it is impossible to not feel a lump in your throat when you hear the roars and cheers of the crowds during the atmospheric run.

Sunderland Air Show ·

Each year, around one million visitors pour onto Roker Seafront to watch as a number of daring aircraft demonstrations are performed by display teams from all over the world, in Europe’s biggest free airshow. Specialist aircraft take to the skies from Newcastle International Airport and head south to perform brave stunts, such as twists, turns, loops and drops for the scores of crowds below.

NE1 Restaurant Week ·

Local foodies spend their year in anticipation for the two weeks a year that over 100 restaurants in Newcastle open their doors to NE1 Restaurant Week. With tempting deals, and drool-worthy dishes on offer, this is the perfect opportunity to try some of Newcastle’s best eateries. Students can spend the week trying food from all over the globe, such as Spanish Tapas, Brazillian, Korean and Indian - without even having to leave the confines of the city.

The Best Festivals ·

Forget Reading and Leeds – the North East is definitely the place to be during festival season, with different events taking place all over the region. The most newly-devised of the local events is Newcastle’s annual ‘This Is Tomorrow Festival’ – which burst onto the music scene in 2018. Travelling South down the region is Hardwick Live Festival – which takes place in Sedgefield, County Durham. During its own festival, the Northumberland island of Lindisfarne is completely brought to life. The small isle, which is usually known for its peace and serenity, is transformed into a lively community as over 200 acts take over the weekend of the Lindisfarne Festival.

Kynren ·

Be transported back through the ages and become part of England’s 2,000-year story as you watch the inspiring show of Kynren come to life before your eyes. Grab a seat in the outdoor arena and look on in awe as the large cast of both actors and animals re-enact epic tales of Vikings, Victorians and Romans in front of an audience of 8,000 strong. This is the perfect experience for people of all ages – but History students in the region will find Kynren a particularly touching experience.

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