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Unforgettable Social Programmes for Conference Delegates in North East England – Foodie Finds

It is widely recognised that food has a great unifying power. It is a fantastic way to bring people together, to share culture and get to know places and people better. At conferences, the power of connection is hugely important and we know that any good social programme will enable delegates to connect seamlessly. With a food and drink offer that has been rated best in the UK, Newcastle and Gateshead have fantastic foodie experiences that delegates can enjoy together.

Triple A Food Tours

Shining a spotlight on local businesses, Triple A Food Tours are a fantastic way to explore the culinary scenes of Newcastle, Northumberland or Durham on foot whilst soaking in the city’s top sights. The tours offer a range of dining styles, from homey street food to Michelin Guide restaurants. Indulge in delightful dishes consisting of completely local, organic and sustainable foods from around the region while also learning about some of the history behind it.

Triple A offers private hire options, making it the perfect out-of-the-box social experience for your conference programme. Why settle for just one sit-down dinner when you can discover the vast array of flavours the region has to offer?

Triple A Food Tours are also wheelchair friendly and accessible to individuals with access needs, older guests and families. Watch their 360-degree virtual reality tour here.

Blackfriars Restaurant

Thought to be the oldest dining hall in the UK, Blackfriars was built in the 13th century as a Dominican friary but is now a restaurant serving high-quality and delicious food made from locally sourced produce. On top of their a-la-carte offering of modern twists on European classics, Blackfriars offer:

  • An award-winning cookery school, including lessons in Lebanese, Indian and Mexican cuisine to name a few
  • A hearty Summer BBQ in their Cloister Garden during the warmer months
  • A tour of their microbrewery, St Dominic’s Brewery, followed by a three-course lunch
  • A history tour of the building including a three-course lunch
  • An authentic medieval banquet in the Banqueting Hall, offering the chance to transport your delegates back in time

Blackfriars Cookery School

Get stuck in and learn how to cook dishes from all around the world at one of Blackfriars’ award-winning cookery classes. With cuisines ranging from Lebanese to Mexican, delegates can master a range of cooking techniques alongside fellow delegates in a relaxed environment and enjoy their meal together afterwards.

You can grow your skills in no time with help from the Blackfriars Cookery School team, who achieved Experience of the Year at the North East England Tourism Awards 2024.

Blackfriars run evening, one-hour express and weekend classes to cater to those with time constraints and other planned activity.

Big River Bakery Stottie Making

After the first National Stottie Cake Week took place in early 2024, the iconic North Eastern bread has been gaining recognition. Big River Bakery, located a stone’s throw away from Newcastle City Centre, offers sessions where aspiring chefs can learn to bake and take home their very own stotties.

As well as stottie-making lessons, Big River Bakery also host introductory classes for general breadmaking and afternoon tea making. These classes are ideal for delegates looking to learn a new skill and have lots of fun while doing it.

Get in touch with us to see what we can offer you and your delegates. Our experienced team is on-hand to make sure your event is unique and unforgettable by helping you craft a bespoke social programme.

Contact us now at conventionbureau@ngi.org.uk to get started.


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