What's On This Weekend in South Shields & the North East (13-15 June)

Three very different events in South Shields this weekend -- free live music at a Roman fort, creative writing at The Word, and hands-on laser cutting. Plus the 160th Miners Picnic, a Viking market at Bamburgh, and Tynemouth Station Market just across the river. Here is what is on from Friday to Sunday.

Tunes in June: The Black Corner Band at Arbeia

Friday 13 June at Arbeia Roman Fort. FREE. Live music in one of South Shields' most atmospheric settings. The Black Corner Band perform at Arbeia as part of the Tunes in June series, with the reconstructed Roman gateway as a backdrop. A wonderful free Friday evening on your doorstep.

Therapeutic Writing Workshop -- The Word

Friday 13 June at The Word, South Shields. A guided creative writing session designed to help you explore your thoughts and emotions through words on the page. No experience necessary -- just bring a willingness to write. Held at The Word on the waterfront.

Laser Cutting Course

Sunday 15 June at The Word, South Shields. Learn the basics of laser cutting in The Word's FabLab. A hands-on session where you will design and cut your own piece to take home. Ideal for beginners and makers alike.

Northumberland Miners Picnic -- Woodhorn

Friday 13 June at Woodhorn Museum, Ashington. FREE. The 160th anniversary of the Northumberland Miners Picnic, with brass bands, colliery banners, speeches, and stalls. A powerful day out and a living piece of North East heritage.

The Bebbanburg Market -- Bamburgh Castle

Friday 13 to Saturday 14 June at Bamburgh Castle. A Viking-themed artisan market set against the dramatic backdrop of Bamburgh Castle, with living history, handmade crafts, and food stalls.

Tynemouth Station Market

Saturday and Sunday at Tynemouth Station. FREE entry. Just across the river, the region's favourite weekend market offers handmade crafts, vintage finds, street food, and live music under the Victorian canopy.

Indian Cookery Workshop -- Blackfriars Newcastle

Saturday 14 June at Blackfriars, Newcastle. Hands-on Indian cookery in a 13th-century friary. Ingredients provided, and you eat everything you make. A great Saturday for food lovers.

Heritage Train Rides -- Stephenson Steam Railway Opening Day

Saturday 14 June at the Stephenson Steam Railway, North Shields. Steam-hauled train rides as the 2026 season opens. A short trip across the river from South Shields.

Relaxed Sunday Session -- Life Science Centre

Saturday 14 June at the Life Science Centre, Newcastle. A quieter, sensory-friendly session with reduced lighting and lower noise. Ideal for visitors who prefer a calmer environment.

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See all events on our events calendar.

Know something happening this weekend? Get in touch.