Top August Events
Published: 27 July 2026 | Updated: 27 July 2026 | By: Zsofia Toth | 2 min read
As we near the end of summer, it’s important to make the most of the good – and sometimes record-breaking – weather before the leaves start to take on an array of red tones, and a new academic year begins.
Made Up North’s Summer Makers Market - 2 August
10:00 - 16:00 (Entry ticket £2)

(Image credit: Get into Newcastle)
Taking place in the Boiler Shop, a quick 5-minute walk away from Newcastle’s Central Station, 60 of the best Northern creatives are brought together.
Why not also enjoy a drink from the Boiler Shop’s in-house bar whilst you’re there, viewing the intricate work of local jewellers, soap makers, potters and artists on a relaxed Sunday morning.
NOVUM – 7 August to 9 August
10:00 – 19:30 (Free with optional ticketed events)

(Image credit: NOVUM)
A city-wide celebration of creativity, spontaneity and community, NOVUM is a festival that takes over Newcastle.
Full of programmes, outdoor performances, artist workshops and music at every corner, you’ll definitely find something that interests you.
Ranging from light-hearted and lively performances in front of our very own Northern Stage on campus, to celebratory city-wide dances honouring movement and percussion, NOVUM encapsulates the spirit of curiosity.
An Evening of Kate Bush at Newcastle Cathedral – 29 August
19:30 – 22:30 (Tickets from £18)
(Image credit: Newcastle Cathedral)
Have stuffy summer evenings inspired you to run up any hills recently?
Regardless of your answer, ‘Let Me In’ have got you covered with an electric and evocative exploration of Kate Bush’s discography to break up any monotony during the holidays.
Featuring special guests like the nationally renowned string players ‘Mike Nowland String Quartet’, alongside a full 10-piece band, expect the gothic walls of Newcastle Cathedral to light up on this evening.
Spanish City Summer Funfair – 27 August to 31 August
(Free entry)
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Summer arcades, rides and some of the best ice cream and fish and chips in the North?
All in one place!
Just a 3-minute walk from the aptly named Spanish City Car Park, or a 15-minute walk from the nearest metro station, why not celebrate the end of the month surrounded by Whitley Bay’s coastal charm?
Durham Classic Car Show – 31 August
11:00 - 16:00 (Free)
(Image credit: Durham Classic Car Show)
Taking place in Durham’s historic city centre, if you like vintage cars - this event is hand crafted for you!
A free city-wide display of over a hundred classic cars takes place on this bank holiday to provide a great day out, whether that’d be solo or with friends.
Whilst there, why not also take a look around the city itself, which hosts a wide array of photo spots and great restaurants.
Penshaw Monument
(Free)
(Image credit: National Trust)
Although not technically an August-special, the Penshaw Monument is a year-round striking 70-foot-high symbol of the North East.
Built to closely resemble the Temple of Hephaestus in Athens, its history, associated legends, and impact on the region are worth looking into if you’re planning to visit. On a clear day you can see up to 50 miles away, with the potential of spotting Durham Cathedral to the south!
Not to mention, during the summertime a beautiful display of wildflowers surrounds the monument, enhancing an already breath-taking panorama.
Alnwick Castle
(Yearly pass for students for £17.90)
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If you want to see a more historic side to the North East, Alnwick Castle is a great start.
Built in the 11th century, it has an extensive history with sieges, wars and Harry Potter movies.
Today though, it hosts both modern and medieval activities and tours to immerse visitors, so why not give it a visit?
Discovery Museum
(Free entry)
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(Image credit: North East Museums)
Exploring the history of Newcastle from the Roman era to today, Discovery Museum showcases extensive galleries and over three floors’ worth of heritage to give visitors a holistic view of the region over centuries.
Covering contributions from science and technology to military and fashion, the inventions and rich history of the area are out on full display.
If you want to understand and connect more with the region, or you just really like museums, you won’t be disappointed.