FRESH START
Soar the skies… Release your inner daredevil and give skydiving a go with the guys at Skydive Academy, Durham. Based at Peterlee Parachute Centre, the experts offer a range of thrilling experiences, including tandem skydives from up to 15,000 feet, alongside static line parachute jumps and one-to-one courses for beginners. skydiveacademy.co.uk
Lend a helping hand… Do some good at Ouseburn Farm, Newcastle. The registered charity, which runs a working farmyard and visitor centre in the heart of Ouseburn Valley, is always on the look-out for volunteers to work in various areas of the farm, including livestock, horticulture, arts and crafts, photography and the support of adults with learning difficulties and disabilities. ouseburnfarm.org.uk
Go for Classic Blue… Bring a bit of the 2020 Pantone Colour of the Year into your home. Bringing calmness, confidence and connection, ‘Classic Blue’ ticks all the boxes when it comes to comfort. With that in mind, we’re loving Darlings of Chelsea’s plush, sink-in Holland Sofa. darlingsofchelsea.co.uk
20 things to do in
2020
As we enter a brand new decade, there’s never been a better time to try or buy something new… Get behind the (pottery) wheel…
Sip away… Embark on your very own wine-tasting journey, guided by the vino experts at Wine Unearthed. Held at 21, Newcastle, each experience gives everyone, from novices to budding wine connoisseurs, the chance to taste and learn all about the world’s best bottles. All topped off with an expertly-paired feast. wineunearthed.co.uk
Enjoy a cute stroll… Ever taken an alpaca for a walk? No? Then what are you waiting for? Head to Barnacre Alpacas in Northumberland for a special ‘walk and talk’ wander with members of their fuzzy herd. Meet them, feed them, stroll with them and fall in love with them. Feel-good vibes guaranteed. barnacre-alpacas.co.uk
Take to the waves… Head to the coast and get fit the fun way with the guys at Tynemouth Surf Co. The wetsuit-wearing pros offer surfing lessons for all ages and all abilities on the shores of Longsands beach – an award-winning stretch of sand that stages national surfing championships. tynemouthsurf.co.uk
A soothing pottery class could be just the ticket for stressed-out creatives on the lookout for a new hobby this year. The team at Muddy Fingers Pottery, in Jarrow, is a go-to spot for relaxed classes, guided by experienced and passionate potters. Time to get your hands dirty! @muddyfingerspot
Get starry-eyed… Go on an astronomical adventure at Battlesteads Dark Sky Observatory. Nestled in the twinkly depths of Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, it offers stargazers a range of mind-blowing talks, activities and courses, centred around the wonders of our universe. Telescopes, blankets and mugs of hot chocolate included. battlesteads.com
Do go chasing waterfalls… We’re lucky enough to have one of England’s most spectacular waterfalls on our doorstep – so why not take advantage? A gentle woodland walk in the heart of the Durham Dales will lead you to High Force, which is said to date back more than 300 million years. A beautiful, bubbling sight all year round, but there’s nothing quite like tucking in to a summer picnic while taking in the views. thisisdurham.com
Turn up the heat… We all know how good traditional yoga is for us, but this new year, why not experience the benefits of Hotpod Yoga? Grab your mat and sweat it out in a 20-person inflatable ‘pod’, which is heated to a whopping 27 degrees to supercharge your practice and make stretching easier. Give it a go in Jesmond and Whitley Bay – it’s surprisingly relaxing! hotpodyoga.com
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FEB/MAR20
