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We’re such huge supporters of the Great Run movement we’re offering 10% off travel to their big events. That includes the original and biggest of all, the Great North Run in Newcastle. Running the half marathon is a fabulous experience (except the hill crawl up John Reid Road!) culminating in an epic party at South Shields. Get there on Friday for a Quayside knees-up. Saturday in the city is all fun runs and pasta parties. Sunday: it’s down to business. Just watching? The best spot to spy Mo Farah and the front-runners is just south of the Tyne Bridge.
Heritage Open Days is a nationwide celebration of culture and history which this year celebrates its 25th anniversary. That’s why the Oriental Museum in Durham is throwing open its doors for free – and there’s a curator-led tour on 21 September. Archaeological finds from Ancient Egypt, North Africa and Asia are housed in a historic setting. You’ll definitely dig it.
Once you arrive by rail in the heart of Sheffield there are so many fantastic ways to explore the city, including on the iconic trams. But, for us, the best way to learn about the people and the place is on foot. This September there are 40 walks, all hosted by knowledgeable guides and completely free, winding through the urban environments and beyond. There are routes to suit all: from the slow and steady to seasoned shufflers.
The plight of our oceans is a hot topic and this touring festival shines a spotlight on the mesmerising world beneath the waves. The only stop north of the border is in Edinburgh and what better way to travel to the venue than by ditching your gas-guzzling car and jumping on a TransPennine Express train?
Realise your cocktail dreams as 40 venues take part in Glasgow’s ultimate mixer for drinks lovers. This four-day weekend will introduce you to new flavours, cool hangouts and some of the world’s best bartenders. The centrepiece? Cocktail World in Glasgow’s famous Arches, with tastings, demos and your chance to try a bit of mixology. Your £10 ticket gives you ten free samples, goodies and discounts across participating venues.
Got the back-to-school blues? You’re in good company… The Edwardian splendour of the Crown and Mitre hotel will once again provide a stunning backdrop to Carlisle’s nationally acclaimed blues and rock festival. Sixteen acts will shake the chandeliers of the cavernous ballroom, with afternoon and evening sessions from Friday through to Sunday. You might want to dip in and out as the town is also playing host to Cumbria Pride on Saturday. What a weekend!
22 years ago this festival launched with the humble aim of proving Manchester is a foodie-friendly city. Ever since, critics have been eating humble pie. On the menu this year are a host of events and culinary experiences – celeb chef cameos, pop-up restaurants, music, food and drink to suit every fancy. We’ve pencilled in A Plant Based Evening with Shaun Ryder to hear the Happy Mondays legend lay bare his struggles to become vegan. 24-hour Pine Nut People anyone?
Artist and activist Keith Haring was big in the 1980s New York art scene, collaborating with Andy Warhol and designing iconic album covers. His bold work is instantly recognisable and on show now at Tate Liverpool on the Albert Docks. Not an art expert? Daily talks will ease you in. Want to know more about Keith Haring’s work, which deals with issues from AIDS to the environment, homophobia to drug addiction? There’s a curator-led talk at 11am on 24 September.
This September is packed with must-see events in the North and Scotland so book an Advance ticket now and don't miss a thing.
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