Discover 2026 Events across the Northern Saints Trails

Make 2026 the year you lace up your boots and uncover the rich history and enchanting beauty of the Northern Saints Trails across North East England. 

These six routes retrace the paths of ancient pilgrims, meandering through landscapes rich in history and natural beauty. To make your journey even more memorable, we’ve highlighted some exciting events happening along the trails in 2026.

The Angel's Way

Horticultural Show at Beamish Museum

Beamish Museum has teamed up with the North East Horticultural Society for this annual event, taking place on the museum’s Events Field running from 5 to 6 September..  Discover this fierce but friendly competition at the museum as a vast array of vegetables, flowers and crafts are judged.

Treasure: Hidden, Lost, Found at Great North Museum: Hancock

From 28 March step into the fascinating world of treasure and see some amazing archaeological finds from across the North of England. Treasure: Hidden, Lost, Found is your chance to see why buried history matters from Roman coins, Viking Age silver, and a buried stash of Tudor coins will all feature.

The Way of Learning

Monumental Exhibition at National Glass Centre  

Featuring artworks from the Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art collection, selected by 2nd and 3rd Year Fine Art students from the University of Sunderland exhibited alongside their own artwork until 14 February.

Radio 1’s Big Weekend at Herrington Country Park  

Radio 1’s Big Weekend will be held in Herrington Country Park, Sunderland, from 22 to 24 May. Over the course of the weekend, around 100 acts will perform, from the biggest names in music to exciting new and emerging artists. With around 80,000 music fans expected to attend, the event promises to be an unforgettable start to the UK’s festival season.

The Way of Life

Tom McGuinness: Out of the Darkness at Mining Art Gallery

The Mining Art Gallery presents Tom McGuinness: Out of the Darkness exhibition on display from 18 February. In his centenary year, the Mining Art Gallery celebrates this quiet man who communicated through his art. He did not seek simply to record details of the mining industry but expressed what it really felt like to be a miner.

The Way of Light

Handmade Crafts and Producers Fair at Ushaw Historic House, Chapels & Gardens

From 28 February to 1 March, celebrate the start of Spring at with handmade crafts and producers fair at Ushaw. Discover some of the North East’s most talented makers, artisans and speciality food and drink producers showcase their stunning handcrafted items, unique gifts and delicious seasonal delights.

Luther Vandross by The Candlelight at Hexham Abbey

Enjoy Luther Vandross by The Candlelight Concert, which is set to be a heartfelt evening honouring the timeless music of Luther Vandross, as a gifted vocalist and an incredible live band bring his greatest hits to life in a stunning candlelit setting on 26 February.

The Way of Love

Durham Heritage Day at Palace Green Durham

Discover Durham City’s incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site on 25 April with a day of free, family-friendly fun. Enjoy activities for all ages, including live music, medieval re-enactments, Quidditch matches, craft workshops, and so much more.

The Way of the Sea

Orchestra North East at Newcastle Cathedral

For more than 30 years, Orchestra North East has been captivating audiences with their fine classical music performances throughout the North East. Join them for an unforgettable evening as they kick off 2026 with their first concert, featuring the talented conductor Philippe Bach and the renowned pianist Martin Roscoe at Newcastle cathedral on 28 February.

Discover countless activities to experience along the Northern Saints Trails. Make 2026 unforgettable with unique adventures.