It’s not easy thinking up what to do on a weekend, which is why I launched my Weekend Directory – to help you wonderful people search up ideas in the areas you live or are visiting.
Directory aside, I’ve also had a crawl through the internet and found a scoop of things to do this weekend. Each inclusion is in here because it would be something I’d be doing this weekend (if I didn’t have plans and was nearby).
So rest assured, if it’s featured on ‘This Weekend’ it’s because I think it’s something worthy of your Saturday or Sunday. Ps: If you do end up going to one of these sweet things below, swing by the comments below and let me know!
Edinburgh | Giant Lanterns of China
Sat 19th & Sun 20th | 4:45pm – 9pm
Over 450 dazzling giant lanterns will light up Edinburgh Zoo this weekend in a beautifully-lit, nocturnal trail throughout the Zoo, focusing on the themes of China, Edinburgh Zoo and The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s worldwide conservation work.
Each lantern has been made by hand by Chinese craftsmen from Sichuan; they’ve poured a total of over 25,000 hours of expertise and love into the incredible works of art you’ll see. The lanterns feature over 200 large scale animals, including giant pandas, lions, penguins and flamingos.
Edinburgh Zoo is the only place in Scotland to host such an event, so if you’re nearby – it’s a must-do!
Newcastle | Beginner’s Meditation Weekend
Sun 20th | 2:30 pm
I want, no need, more meditation in my life – if you also fancy finding your inner peace and you’re nearby this weekend, then why not swing by the Dhammakaya Meditation Centre of Newcastle. It’s running a meditation class for beginners to help kick-start the happiness habit.
Cheltenham | The Rocket Man (A Tribute to Elton John)
Sat 19th | 7:30 pm
The Christmas advert may have driven you crazy last year, but there’s no escaping from the fact that Elton John is a British legend. I’m more a fan of the hits, than the man, so I’d be up for this to make it a rocking weekend.
Expect a musical journey, charting the rise to fame of one of the biggest selling artiste of all time. Combining breath-taking vocal and piano performances, flamboyant costumes, a dazzling light show – all accompanied by an outstanding band and backing vocals.
The show lands in Cheltenham this weekend, then continues it’s journey across the country.
Forest of Dean | Cycling Break
Tudor Farmhouse
If it’s a fresh air and forest weekend you’re after, then the wonderful Tudor Farmhouse in the Forest of Dean has a special two-night package that you might want to pedal off with. It includes dinner both nights, a waterproof cycling map and a packed lunch.
I went to Tudor Farmhouse last year for a weekend in the woods and loved my stay there – it’s more of a farmhouse B&B than a hotel, and has the best of both worlds. It’s not a cheap package, mind you (from £490) but that does include dinner on both nights in Tudor Farmhouse’s wonderful restaurant.
Kent | A History of Winston Churchill
Chartwell House | 10am – 4pm
Chartwell, if you’re unfamiliar with it, is the family home of Winstone Churchill. This beautiful red-brick house is where he lived from 1922 to 1965 and is now managed by the National Trust. Inside, it is almost identical to how it was during Churchill’s lifetime with pictures, books and personal mementoes evoking the career and wide-ranging interests of this great statesman, writer, painter and family man.
In my opinion, Chartwell is worth a visit on any weekend (and it’s on my list) but this weekend sees a brand new exhibition open. Telling a unique story via Churchill’s own personal treasures that he collected during his lifetime, it gives you new insights into this remarkable man. Entry to the exhibition is free with entry to Chartwell.
Oxford | Writer’s Brunch
Jam Factory | 12pm – 3pm
I can’t think of a better way to spend this weekend – but I am biased! This meet-up for writers is a brilliant chance to flex your creative muscles in the company of fellow writers.
It’s a free-flow kind of meet; there are no prompts or exercises, but it’s a great way to motivate yourself to put pen to paper if you’ve been struggling to do so on your own. There are regular mingle-breaks so you’ll have a chance to pick the brains of the scribes next to you.
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