Saturday, 5 July 2025

Things to do this weekend in Leeds, Huddersfield, London, Scotland, Ireland and more

Got plans for the weekend? Here are a few ideas of things to do in Leeds, Huddersfield, London, Scotland, Ireland and more:



A graphic of a yellow open envelope with the words The Tonic spilling out of it.
Your monthly round-up of the best of our Magazine

Issue Six – July 2025



As June rolls into July in London it’s time for us all to once again pretend we do actually really love tennis, and no we’re not just using it as an excuse to indulge in Pimms and strawberries and cream...

Anyway, we’ve none of that racket here in The Tonic. Instead we’re just serving you great articles and videos you’ll love, from netting an in-depth interview with the award-winning poet Raymond Antrobus, to rallying around Stravinsky’s London farewell.

You can take advantage of opportunities to get to know Gary Crosby’s Jazz Jamaica and Turner Prize-nominee Pio Abad, and court the music of Japan with a playlist from Frank Chickens’ Kazuko Hohki.

And we’ve a set of three pieces which give you an insight into how artists do what they do: Nature Theater of Oklahoma’s directors tell us how they create; visual artist Caroline Achaintre gives a tour of her studio; and a host of artists from this year’s New Music Biennial explain how they make music visual. Hit it.


A quiet word

The poet Raymond Antrobus, a man in his late 30s of British and Jamaican heritage with short hair, sits smiling on a wooden chair in a roughly kept garden

Raymond Antrobus: ‘I have zero interest in framing myself as some kind of victim’

Ahead of the launch of his memoir, the popular poet discusses his father, his evolution, and his life as ‘an investigator of missing sound’, with Precious Adesina.


Stage craft

Theatre directors Kelly Copper – a woman with long auburn hair piled high on top of her haid – and Pavol Liska – a bald man wearing sunglasses – stand in between a couple of motorbikes wearing biker-style t-shirts; behind them is a brick building beside a metal suspension bridge

How I create… with theatre directors Kelly Copper and Pavol Liska

The creative minds behind Nature Theater of Oklahoma explain the evolution and the key components of their creative process.


Seen and heard


The musician and artist Kazuko Hohki, a middle-aged Japanese woman with short hair that is shaved up one side and swept off to the other. The words 'My Mixtape' are placed over the artist

My Mixtape: Kazuko Hohki’s 10 Ura Matsuri favourites

The Frank Chickens singer shares a playlist of East and South East Asian artists, (almost) all of which have featured at her annual Ura Matsuri events.

A dark photograph of a pianist deep in concentration, his hand suspended in mid-air before he begins playing

Arts Unravelled: How do you make music visual?

Discover how music is turned into something you can see as well as hear by a selection of artists appearing with us at this year’s New Music Biennial.


Fitting finale

Igor Stravinsky, a small 83 year old balding man wearing black-rimmed glasses stands with arms stretched out at his stands as he conducts a rehearsal

Stravinsky conducts in the Royal Festival Hall

Journey with us back 60 years to a very special concert in our biggest auditorium.


Get tuft

Artist Caroline Achaintre, a middle-aged woman with long wavy brown hair, wearing glasses and a powder blue sweatshirt and sleeveless jacket, stands in front of one of her multi-coloured woven artworks

Studio Spotlight: Caroline Achaintre

As the Hayward Gallery Touring exhibition Material Worlds continues its tour in Nottingham, its curator, the mixed-media artist Caroline Achaintre, lets us into her studio.


Quick reads


A person wearing white, looking to the camera with a silver artwork behind them and a drawing in front

Who is artist Pio Abad?

Introducing the Philippine-born Turner Prize-shortlisted artist who found his artistic feet in Glasgow.

Jazz Jamaica, a band of 12 musicians stand in an industrial backdrop with their instruments

5 things to know about Jazz Jamaica

Get to know the London-based pioneers of ‘skazz’ with an all star line-up in more ways than one.


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Thanks for reading. We hope you enjoyed your specially selected highlights. Share your comments and photos with us by mentioning @southbankcentre or @haywardgallery.




Southbank Centre is a charity registered in England and Wales No.298909. Registered office: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX

Arts Council England

Rolling image of the bank All Men Unto Me Requiem, the cast of Ura Matsuri 2025 and a house from Nara.

Your plans are heating up



Explore brand new music at New Music Biennial, discover Yoshitomo Nara's five-star exhibition and become totally absorbed by comics, dancers and authors taking to the stage over the coming months. Read on to plan your summer!



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July audio guide

Listen to our handy audio guide and find out what's happening this month at the Southbank Centre.


Music pushing boundaries


Multiple images of same person in red jacket and hood looking up on a background that looks like the surface of the sun

New Music Biennial

FRI 4 – SUN 6 JUL

Take a deep dive with us behind the scenes of music across all genres, as the UKs best new composers share and discuss their new works.

Find some of our accessible highlights below.

Man wearing denim shirt leans over to adjust dial in front of laptop and sound system

Hardi Kurda: Voice Notes

FRI 4 JUL

The performance is British Sign Language interpreted (BSL).

Screaming mouth emerging from light grey wall

Verity Watts: PEACE

FRI 4 JUL

The performance is British Sign Language interpreted (BSL).

four people sitting on chairs with instruments in open recording studio with one man taking a video

Stef Conner: Ghost Weavers

FRI 4 JUL

The performance is British Sign Language interpreted (BSL).

A group of musicians stood against a brick wall

All Men Unto Me: Requiem

FRI 4 JUL

The performance is British Sign Language interpreted (BSL).


Explore our latest exhibition

House sculpture inside a white gallery space with the words 'place like home' with a small figure painted on the side

Relaxed Hours: Yoshitomo Nara

TUE 8 JUL

Join a guided tour of our current exhibition, or explore it at your own pace, in a relaxed environment with access to additional support.

This is a Relaxed event.

Painting of figure on chair by Yoshitomo Nara

British Sign Language Tours: Yoshitomo Nara

SAT 12 JUL & SAT  2 AUG

Join us for a British Sign Language tour of Yoshitomo Nara with artist Rubbena Aurangzeb-Tariq.

This event is British Sign Language interpreted (BSL).


Taking centre stage


two performers lie in bed while other performers gather around them. White feathers fall onto the bed.

Nature Theater of Oklahoma: No President

WED 9 – FRI 11 JUL

A darkly comic spectacle from one of the US’s most innovative and irreverent theatre companies.

The performances are captioned.

Woman in a maroon top stands at a microphone.

Out-Spoken: July

THU 10 JUL

Immerse yourself in an evening of poetry and music from artists on the rise and at the top of their game, hosted by Joelle Taylor.

The performance is Speech-to-Text transcribed.

Comic drawing of a werewolf baring its teeth with yellow eyes at a man with grey hair

Stewart Lee vs The Man-Wulf

SUN 13 JUL

Stewart Lee shares his stage with a tough-talking werewolf comedian from the dark forests of the subconscious, who hates humanity.

The performance on Sunday 13 July is Speech-to-Text transcribed.

A group of people dancing in a club

Ásrún Magnúsdóttir: Listening Party

SAT 2 & SUN 3 AUG

Get ready to be moved as London teenagers dance to their favourite songs in this word-of-mouth hit by one of Iceland’s leading theatre makers.

All performances are Relaxed.


Unique performances


Four singers stood on stage with microphones weaing gold outfits.

Ura Matsuri’s Daylight Ninjas

SAT 19 JUL

Join us for a free afternoon of East and South East Asian culture, making and transformation into ninjas.

This event is  British Sign Language interpreted (BSL).

Frank Chickens band all pull distorted faces on stage.

Ura Matsuri 2025

SAT 19 JUL

Come along to a free evening of live music, dance and storytelling celebrating the diverse heritage of the East and South East Asian diaspora in the UK.

This event is  British Sign Language interpreted (BSL).


Dive deep with authors


Black and white photograph of Irvine welsh in a dark jumper.

Irvine Welsh: Men in Love

SUN 20 JUL

The author talks about his new novel, which takes the Trainspotting crew on a riotous journey through Edinburgh, London, Amsterdam and Paris.

This performance is Speech-to-Text transcribed.

Left; Caleb Femi wears a black tshirt with a cream background, right; Jordan Stephens against a grey wall wearing a grey jacket and black baseball cap

Caleb Femi & Jordan Stephens: On the Dance Floor

FRI 25 JUL

Caleb Femi and Jordan Stephens take to the stage to discuss the importance of parties and the dance floors they’ve known.

This performance is Speech-to-Text transcribed.


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Southbank Centre is a charity registered in England and Wales No.298909. Registered office: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX

Arts Council England



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July 2025

Edinburgh this July

July is a vibrant time to be in Edinburgh, with the city buzzing in anticipation of summer’s highlights.

In this month’s newsletter, we’re diving into everything that makes the city shine this season – from world-renowned festivals to unforgettable ways to mark your graduation. You’ll also discover award-winning food and drink spots, weather-proof adventures to keep you exploring come rain or shine, and a perfect summer escape to Lost Shore Surf Resort. Plus, we’ve rounded up the top events you won’t want to miss. Let the summer begin!

Explore Edinburgh in July

Summer festivals

Looking for a mind-blowing, captivating and enthralling festival this summer? In Edinburgh, you’re spoilt for choice!

From music, theatre and dance, to art, books and film, however you like your entertainment you’re sure to find it here.

©Edinburgh International Book Festival

Explore Edinburgh’s summer festivals

Graduation celebrations

Caps off to the Class of 2025 – now it’s time to celebrate in style in Edinburgh!

Across the city, several of Edinburgh’s attractions, bars and eateries are rolling out the red carpet for graduates, so you can toast your success without draining your wallet.

©Camera Obscura & World of Illusions

Explore graduation offers in Edinburgh

Award-winning food and drink

Crowned the UK’s Most Exciting Food Destination by Good Food Guide in 2025, Edinburgh’s allure lies not just in its 7 Michelin-starred restaurants, but in its eclectic array of artisan bakeries, buzzing bars and bold, locally-driven menus.

Whether you’re planning a gastronomic getaway or a casual food tour, the city promises experiences that are as memorable as they are mouthwatering.

Explore Edinburgh’s award-winning food and drink

Weather-proof adventures

While we would love to say an Edinburgh summer is filled with wall-to-wall sunshine, sometimes it does rain.

But don't let the wet weather dampen your fun - from creative workshops to behind the scenes tours, discover things to do in Scotland’s capital that don't need a brolly.

Explore weather-proof Edinburgh

Ride the waves

Calling all adventure seekers - think you need to travel to distant lands to catch the waves? Think again - Lost Shore, the world's first inland surf resort offers fun on the waves for everyone.

A place where thrill-seekers, families and wellness lovers can all come together, read on to get a taste of your next day of adventure.

Explore Lost Shore Surf Resort

Upcoming events

For fun family days out, strap yourself in for Truckfest; enjoy traditional piping and drumming at the UK Pipe Band Championships; come face to face with the rarest and most endangered primates at Monkeys: Our Primate Family, or sing-along to some of the UK’s best tribute performers at FoxFest.

For foodies, there’s the chance to master the art of pizza making with Dough-it Yourself Pizza Masterclass, or enjoy whisky and a BBQ at one of Edinburgh’s stunning rooftop locations, with Tipsy Midgie BBQEdinburgh Foodies Festival will be cooking up a storm with celebrity chefs, a range of delicious worldwide food and drink, and live music, while for the chance to learn about the role of coffee in shaping 18th century Edinburgh, don’t miss Closes & Coffee Underground Experience

Running over 10 days, and comprising theatre, comedy, workshops, tours and exhibitions, Edinburgh Deaf Festival is an accessible celebration of deaf culture, language and heritage. Taking place at the Scottish Parliament meanwhile, The Festival of Politics has lively debates and thought-provoking panels tackling some of the most pressing social, political and environmental issues of our time.

There’s the chance to learn more about lives of Edinburgh’s medieval citizens at Edinburgh’s First Burghers.

For art lovers, two major exhibitions open this month. Featuring 180 iconic fabrics showcasing the rich history of print, pattern and design, IKEA: Magical Patterns debuts at Dovecot Studios. At Royal Scottish Academy, Andy Goldsworthy: Fifty Years features drawings, photographs, films and sketchbooks by the renowned artist.

Explore more upcoming events
PhotoDalkeith

Explore the art of photography through a range of exhibitions, workshops and tours.

©VisitScotland, Kenny Lam

360 Fest

Enjoy stunt shows and interactive sessions at this family festival.

© Andy Catlin

Tabletop Scotland

With board, card and roleplaying games, be part of one of the UK’s largest gaming conventions.

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Drum castle in bloom

Image: Drum castle

Sail into summer in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire

This summer, why not venture somewhere that feels refreshingly different, a place where castles meet coastlines, and culture lives around every corner? Whether you're craving wide-open spaces, locally inspired flavours, or a story to tell long after the journey ends, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire offer the perfect blend of exploration, connection and calm.

Image of the Bima Suci Tall Ships crew

Image credit: Port of Aberdeen - Bima Suci Tall Ships Races crew

Tall Ships Races

The world’s most breathtaking Tall Ships are sailing into Aberdeen from 19–22 July and the atmosphere promises to be electric.

Enjoy four days of free, family-friendly festivities, from live music and street performances to food stalls, ship tours, and dazzling displays along the harbour.

It’s more than a festival, it’s an unforgettable experience by the sea. With over 400,000 visits expected, we recommend booking your accommodation early to make the most of your trip.

Image credit: P&J Live

Step Into the World of Van Gogh

This summer, prepare to be immersed in art like never before. Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience arrives at P&J Live from 12 July, bringing the work of one of the world’s most iconic artists to life in spectacular fashion.

Seen by over five million people across North America, this cutting-edge experience blends more than 300 of Van Gogh’s masterpieces with stunning projections, a specially curated musical score, and the artist’s own words, guiding you through a powerful journey from darkness to light.

Craigievar Castle is a stunning pink-hued fairytale castle nestled in Aberdeenshire, famed for its classic Scottish Baronial architecture and enchanting turrets.

Image: Craigievar Castle

Explore a land of 263 castles 

From dramatic cliffside ruins to turreted fairytale estates, Aberdeenshire is home to more castles than anywhere else in the UK, 263, to be exact.

Step into the stories of Scotland’s North-east as you explore royal retreats, battlefield landmarks, and centuries-old secrets tucked into the hills. Whether you're wandering the grounds of Balmoral, marvelling at the storybook beauty of Craigievar, or discovering hidden gems like Dunnottar Castle, perched high above the sea, every visit promises something unforgettable.

Pennan Beach’s peaceful shoreline features a mix of pebbles and sand, nestled between dramatic cliffs and the charming village by the North Sea.

Image: Pennan

Find your perfect shoreline

Windswept, golden, and wonderfully uncrowded, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire’s coastline is a treasure trove of stunning beaches, each with its own unique character and charm.

Whether you’re strolling barefoot on Balmedie’s endless sands, seal-spotting at Newburgh, watching the waves roll in at St Cyrus, or venturing off the beaten path to discover quiet coves and hidden bays, there’s a perfect spot for every mood and moment.

With so many beaches to explore, every visit promises a new discovery and a fresh chance to connect with Scotland’s spectacular coastal beauty.

Maryculter House Hotel

Image: Maryculter House

Where will you rest your head?

Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire offer accommodation to suit every traveller’s style from charming boutique hotels and elegant 5-star stays to cosy cottages and welcoming country lodges.

Bringing your furry friend? Many of our stays are pet-friendly, so your whole family can enjoy the adventure together. 

Whether you’re after a stylish city break, a peaceful rural retreat, or somewhere wonderfully unique, you’ll find it here, with warm Scottish hospitality waiting to welcome you.

Looking for more inspiration? Here's some blogs we think you'll love...

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Wilderness Ireland
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Early Bird 2026
 
 

Explore Ireland's Heart & Heritage

 
 
 
 
 
 


To learn more about a country’s history or gain a sense of its culture, you might visit a museum or read about it in a book. While both are wonderful ways to explore, there’s no substitute for being there in person—seeing it, hearing it and experiencing it directly.

This year, we’re excited to introduce our brand new collection of Culture & Heritage tours across Ireland. These carefully crafted trips offer a relaxed and immersive way to experience Ireland’s history, traditions and stunning landscapes, allowing you to connect deeply with the country’s heritage. These brand new adventures are perfect for those who want to explore Ireland’s past and present at a gentle pace, accompanied by an expert local guide.

If you’ve been considering a trip, now is a perfect time to plan ahead.

Our Early Bird Promotion runs until 14th July, offering a €120 outdoor kit voucher and the chance to secure your 2026 adventure at the current 2025 price.

 
 
 
Let the Journey Begin
 
 
 
 

More Than Just a Trip

 
 
Kingdom of Kerry
 
   
  
   
 

From shimmering lakes and quiet castles to wild shores and remote islands, this small group tour blends soft walks with rich heritage and warm local encounters. Explore 5,000 years of history all set against the stunning scenery of the Kingdom of Kerry.
 

 
 
 
View Trip
 
 
Ireland's Ancient Islands
 
   
  
   
 

Explore the scenic coastlines and ancient islands of Ireland’s west. From the lively streets of Galway to the quiet beauty of Connemara and the Aran Islands, this trip offers gentle walks and boat trips to hidden isles.

 
 
 
View Trip
 
 
Northern Ireland
 
   
  
   
 

From hands-on heritage experiences to guided storytelling in Belfast, this trip offers a rich yet easygoing way to explore. Enjoy dramatic coastlines and folklore-filled landscapes with plenty of time to soak it all in.

 
 
 
View Trip
 
 
 
 

Discover Cultural Journeys

 
Culture & Heritage Tours
 
 
 
 

Our holidays reviewed in your words…

 
quote 

This trip was even better than advertised. Top notch and professional. We will be back soon!

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Julie Brown 17/06/2025
Hiking - Kerry & Clare
 
5 stars
 
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Wilderness Ireland, Unit 8A 1/2, Northwest Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo, Ireland


 


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Early Bird 2026

Book Early, Gear Up with €120




We all know that planning ahead has its perks—and this time, the early bird gets €120.

From today until Monday, July 14th, book your 2026 Ireland adventure and receive a €120 Alpkit voucher to spend on high-quality, sustainable outdoor gear.

With exciting new itineraries now live on the website and excellent availability across 2026 dates, our Early Bird Promotion is the perfect excuse to snap up your perfect Irish trip and kit yourself out for days spent exploring.

So, why not book your adventure, spend your voucher and let us and the beautiful wilds of Ireland do the rest?

Begin Your Adventure

Hiking Holidays

Hidden West
Island Hopping Cork & Kerry
The Dingle Way

Our holidays reviewed in your words…

quote

I can't say enough good things about this company and our Dingle Peninsula trip. We would not hesitate to recommend Wilderness Ireland to anyone interested in a walking trip in Ireland.

quote
Patricia Foley 02/09/2024
Hiking – The Dingle Way
5 stars
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Copyright © 2019 Wilderness Ireland, All rights reserved.

Wilderness Ireland, Unit 8A 1/2, Northwest Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo, Ireland





Alnwick Castle | Open Daily 10am - 5pm


Summer is well underway at Alnwick Castle, with a packed programme of events and activities for all ages.


On 13 June, food historian and BBC Radio 4 regular Annie Gray visits to discuss her latest book, The Bookshop, The Draper, The Candlestick Maker: A History of the High Street.


Younger visitors can enjoy Zoolab’s ‘Dads of the Animal Kingdom’ on Father’s Day or step into the past with the Percy Tenantry Volunteers, who will be performing live drills and historical demonstrations this Saturday and Sunday.


With guided tours, three on-site museums, and beautiful grounds to explore, Alnwick Castle offers a full day out this summer.

On the 5th and 6th of July, bring the family to meet your favourite sisters, Bluey and Bingo, when they visit Alnwick Castle this summer! Come and see the duo for meet and greet sessions and their toybox activities at intervals throughout the day in the Castle’s Inner Bailey.


All this plus our regular programme of activities including:


Talks & Tours | Broomstick Training | Archery | Crafts

The State Rooms | The Victorian Kitchen | Castle Grounds | Museums

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