- Feel Good
- 3rd Jan 2026
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Dry January dates: Things to do in the North East that don’t revolve around alcohol
As the frantic festive period begins to calm, January invites a slower, more thoughtful pace.
It’s a time when we set goals and intentions, envision the best versions of ourselves and take on new habits. Whether you’re taking part in dry January, cutting back after a month of indulgence or simply looking to try something different, there’s no reason your social life has to suffer.
This month, it’s all about plans that don’t centre around cocktails, but focus on connection – catching up with friends, fun dates, and plans that don’t involve a hangover the next day. From playful, activity-led date ideas to cosy and wholesome days out, these alcohol-free meet-up spots ensure you don’t miss out.
Fun and games
One of the Newcastle’s newest additions, Fayre Play, is filled with nostalgia and competitive fun. The venue features nine fairground games, from hook-a-duck to the classic Skee Ball, making for good clean fun. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you can indulge in loaded fries, smash burgers and chicken tenders, provided by local legends ‘Burger Drop’. Plus, they’ve got a solid mocktail menu to keep you hydrated through the next round of games.
A longtime favourite games spot in Newcastle is Lane 7 – one of our top recommendations for a first date, healthy competition is a great icebreaker. Located just a couple of minutes from the central station, and with a variety of activities such as bowling, ping pong and pool you’ll be thoroughly entertained. They also offer karaoke, so grab your girlfriends, queue ABBA and sing the night away, you don’t need alcohol to make a fool of yourself.
Step inside Level X Middlesbrough and you might not want to leave. With VR experiences, crazy golf, karaoke pods, bowling, crash team racing and arcade rooms all under one roof, you can spend hours here.
Cinema spots
A classic, sober outing is the cinema. There’s something so simple yet special about going to see the latest films, and the North has a roster like no other. Tyneside Cinema is a Newcastle institution for a reason; it has grand interiors and carefully curated independent screenings you can’t find elsewhere. Stop by the cafe bar for a coffee, soak up the decor and enjoy the vintage atmosphere.
If you’re looking for something indulgent, Everyman Cinema offers a luxe experience with plush sofas and table service. They truly know how to elevate your cinema experience, with hotdogs brought straight to your seat as well as loaded popcorn options, sweet and savoury snacks and even a fresh cookie dough dessert – the perfect hideaway from January weather.
Mocktail-ing
Seeing the words “night out?” pop in your group chat can feel daunting when you’ve committed to dry January – but it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on a good time. Across the North East, bars and venues are embracing alcohol-free options, and they are just as delicious as the real thing.
Over in Jesmond, 97 & Social offers their take on mocktails called ‘sensible sips’ with options from alcohol-free mojitos to espresso martinis – so you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll love. Pair with their iconic tacos and this is a sober social plan you won’t want to miss out on.
Rambling
Walks and rambles are an underrated activity to do with friends, you’re exercising, chatting and seeing gorgeous sights – what more could you need? And the North is far from short of trails and adventures to get the body moving and the conversation flowing.
For the perfect combination of scenic views and cosy catch-ups, head along the circular trail from the small village in Causey, along its flowing gorge and to the historic Beamish Museum. Blow away the New Year cob webs, stroll with a loved one and finish the ramble with a cup of coffee in the Causey Arch Tearoom.
Get creative
If January has you craving a creative experience, how about pottery painting? Great for a one-on-one catch-up as well as a fun group activity, The Kiln Studios in North Shields is a paint your own pottery studio and coffee shop fusion, it’s fun, creative and incredibly inclusive. Choose from mugs, plates, teapots, vases, and so much more, letting your creativity fly all while enjoying a delicious cup of coffee.
The National Glass Centre is a museum and visitor centre in Sunderland which promises a fun and interactive day out. Discover how glass arrived in Britain, how it’s made and why Sunderland has such a rich glass making heritage. You’ll be able to watch the resident glass makers keep those skills alive – and maybe try it for yourself with a hands-on glass making experience.
Or, get lost in The Biscuit Factory. Set in a former Victorian warehouse, this gallery showcases original contemporary art, craft and design from makers across the region and beyond. There’s a gorgeous shop selling wares from independent makers, as well as the Factory Kitchen where you can enjoy coffee and a light bite as you get inspired.
Molly Ferry
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