Looking for something to do at the start of September 2025 in the North East? I’ve got you covered with this list. As part of my feature on BBC Tees and Newcastle, I select my top picks of things happening across the North East, and here’s what I’ve chosen for Thursday 3rd to Friday 12th September.
Last Train Home Festival – Darlington Hippodrome, Forum Music Centre and The Hullabaloo – Sat 6th
Hop aboard for a day of musical magic at the Last Train Home Festival on Saturday 6th September. Taking over Darlington Hippodrome, Forum Music Centre, and The Hullabaloo, this multi-venue event is packed with emerging talent, local legends, and toe-tapping tunes across genres. Whether you’re into indie, punk, folk or something a little more experimental, there’s something to keep your ears happy. This year the event is part of the S&DR200 fringe festival, celebrating the bicentenary of the passenger railways, which started in Darlington – what better way to celebrate than getting a train to a music festival! With great vibes, good food and, of course, that all-important last train home, it’s the perfect way to soak up Darlington’s creative energy. Just don’t miss your stop or the headline acts! Book your tickets via the Tracks website.
Sailors & Suitors: A Jane Austen Regency Weekend – National Museum Royal Navy Hartlepool – Sat 6th and Sun 7th
Prepare to swoon (and perhaps duel?) at Sailors & Suitors, a delightfully dashing Jane Austen Regency Weekend at the National Museum Royal Navy Hartlepool, running Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th September. Step into Austen’s world with period dancing, elegant costumes and naval tales, including Austen’s own links to the Royal Navy and the life of her brothers in the themed tours and object sessions. Whether you’re a Mr Darcy devotee or simply fancy promenading in full Regency finery, it’ll be a charming way to travel back in time. Tea will be poured, fans will flutter and your inner romantic is guaranteed to rejoice! The event is free with museum entry, so visit the NMRN Hartlepool website to book your admission.
Wolsingham Show – Sat 6th and Sun 7th
Get your wellies ready for a proper countryside celebration at the Wolsingham Show, galloping into action on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th September. As England’s oldest agricultural show, it’s a glorious mix of livestock displays, thrilling fairground rides, tasty local treats and rural fun for all ages. Saturday brings big machinery and heavy horses, while Sunday is all about family entertainment, vintage vehicles, and daredevil stunts. There’s even a dog show if your pooch is feeling competitive. From prize pumpkins to tractor parades, it’s a feel-good weekend that brings out the best of country life! Get your tickets via the Wolsingham Show website.
Sunderland Restaurant Week – Sat 6th to Sun 14th
Loosen your belt because Sunderland Restaurant Week is back from Saturday 6th to Sunday 14th September, serving up delicious deals across the city. With set menus at mouth-watering prices, it’s the perfect excuse to sample somewhere new or revisit your favourite foodie haunts. Whether you’re craving gourmet burgers, global street food or fine dining with a sea view, there’s something tasty for every palate and pocket. Some of my highlights include two tacos and a side for £20 at Mexico 70, three courses for £25 at Pho 179, and a 14” pizza, dip and milkshake for £15 from I Scream For Pizza. Tables will get booked up quickly for this, so visit the Sunderland BID website to decide where you want to go.
2:22 A Ghost Story – Sunderland Empire – Mon 8th to Sat 13th
Feel a chill in the air? That’s the suspense of 2:22 A Ghost Story, haunting the Sunderland Empire from Monday 8th to Saturday 13th September. This spine-tingling, modern thriller has had audiences on the edge of their seats and questioning every creak in the night. Expect tense dialogue, eerie twists, and a brilliantly clever plot that’ll have you guessing until the very last moment. And this run features Strictly’s Kevin Clifton and Stacey Dooley, so it’ll be fab to see them perform. So is the house haunted? Come along, bring a brave friend, and see if you make it to 2:22… Book your tickets now on the Sunderland Empire website.
War Horse – Newcastle Theatre Royal – Wed 10th to Sat 20th
The unforgettable stage epic War Horse gallops into Newcastle Theatre Royal from Wednesday 10th to Saturday 20th September, and it’s every bit as powerful as you’ve heard. Based on Michael Morpurgo’s beloved novel, this award-winning production brings the touching story of Joey, a young boy’s horse caught in the horrors of WWI, vividly to life with breathtaking puppetry and stirring music. It’s theatre that pulls at your heartstrings (and might even draw a tear or two). If you’ve never seen it, now’s your chance, and if you have, you know it’s worth a repeat ride. Get your tickets now on the Newcastle Theatre Royal website.
Heritage Open Days – across the North East – Fri 12th to Sun 21st
History comes out to play during Heritage Open Days, running across the North East (and the rest of the UK) from Friday 12th to Sunday 21st September. From secret tunnels to stately homes, ancient ruins to quirky landmarks, this annual celebration unlocks doors to hidden gems, all for free! Expect fascinating tours, pop-up exhibitions, and stories from the past brought vividly to life. Whether you’re a history buff or just nosy about what’s behind those “No Entry” signs, it’s the perfect excuse to explore. Some of my highlights include free exhibition entry at Land of Iron in Skinningrove, WWII tours of the Victoria Tunnels in Newcastle, and guided bike rides at Crook Hall Gardens in Durham, but there are so many more things to do. Check out the Heritage Open Days website and search by location to see everything that’s available.
Make sure you check back next week for more amazing events!
