- Play Hard
- 1st Apr 2026
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The North East’s most unique and irresistible Easter treats
Let’s be honest as much as we love a classic chocolate egg, Easter deserves something a little more… imaginative.
This year, swap foil-wrapped sameness for flaky pastries, seasonal bakes and limited-edition treats that feel a bit more you.
From artisan bakeries to indulgent dessert spots, here’s where to find the region’s most egg-citing Easter goodies (no cracking required).
HOT CROSS BUNS – REINVENTED
Easter isn’t Easter without a hot cross bun – and these bakeries in Newcastle and beyond are leaning into bold, modern flavours.
Pink Lane Bakery, Newcastle
At Pink Lane Bakery, Newcastle, expect beautifully made, small-batch buns with just the right balance of spice and sweetness. They’re known for keeping things traditional but elevated – the kind of bake that reminds you why classics exist in the first place.
Northern Rye, Ouseburn
Over in Ouseburn, Northern Rye continues to set the standard for artisan baking in the region, especially after being named in the Top 50 Bakeries by the Good Food Guide. drops, their hot cross buns are back with some other creative twists on Easter staples – think enriched doughs, unexpected fillings and that signature perfectly blistered crust. They’ve even teased PAASBROOD, their take on a Dutch Easter classic, packed with fruit and almond paste, coming to shops soon.
Penshaw Farm Shop, Houghton Le Spring
In Houghton Le Spring, Penshaw Farm Shop is one to watch for more contemporary twists – often pairing their bakes with standout speciality coffee for the ultimate Easter weekend stop (and don’t forget to embrace the iconic view of Penshaw Monument).
PASTRIES THAT FEEL LIKE A TREAT (BECAUSE THEY ARE)
If buns aren’t your thing, the North East’s pastry game is strong enough to carry Easter all on its own.
PureKnead, North Shields
PureKnead in North Shields is worth the trip alone Their slow-fermented doughs and handcrafted pastries mean every bite feels considered – and this Easter weekend you’ll be served, custard tarts, salted caramel tarts, frangipane tarts and vegetable quiche that reflect the season.
Thirteen Café, Whitley Bay
And if you’re exploring the coastal route, the small, independent hotspot Thirteen Café located in Whitley Bay often rolls out limited-edition pastries over Easter weekend – ideal for a sea-view sugar fix. We loved their Easter Bunny latte art – so cute.
DOUGHNUTS, COOKIES & BAKES THAT GO BIG
For those who want their Easter treats unapologetically indulgent, these recommendations are for you. Plus, some of these can even be delivered to your door.
Deep North, Ouseburn
Deep North is a Newcastle staple for a reason – their handmade doughnuts are constantly changing, with seasonal specials that often land just in time for Easter. Expect nostalgic flavours, playful toppings and the kind of fillings that require extra napkins. Plus, don’t miss their Easter Bank Holiday Monday fun in the Ouseburn Valley, with prizes, giveaways, and a bumper main prize – details coming soon.
Cake Box, Gateshead
If you fancy trying out various cheesecake sundaes, then Cake Box in Gateshead is the place to go. Their Easter selection features over-the-top creations and inventive twists that feel more like dessert experiences than simple bakes. Think Dubai chocolate Mini Egg cake, Easter cheesecake nest sundae and a nutty pistachio Mini Egg cake.
Batch’d, Gateshead
But, if cookies are more your thing, independent bakers like Batch’d in the Metrocentre are embracing NYC-style chunky cookies, often decorated or flavoured for the season. Think gooey Mini Egg brownie boxes or slice after slice of their iconic Mini Egg cookie pie – and honestly, who’s stopping you?
SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT
If you really want to switch things up this Easter, the North East has plenty of unexpected options.
High Force Hotel, County Durham
Afternoon teas across the region often get a seasonal twist – with spring-themed patisserie, mini cakes and savoury bites that feel far more exciting than a standard chocolate egg. High Force Hotel in County Durham is currently offering a limited-edition Easter afternoon tea menu this Sunday that you won’t want to miss.
Love Lily Bakery, Sunderland
For a modern take, dessert bars and coffee spots are experimenting with flavours like matcha, pistachio, blood orange and floral infusions – bringing a fresh, global influence on traditional Easter treats. Love Lily Bakery in Sunderland is currently offering Mini Egg iced matcha lattes and Easter nest chocolate shakes – it doesn’t get much better than that.
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