Alan Dotchin Blog

Drakes Fisheries, York
2025-12-23 13:00 - 13:30 UTC
Drake’s Fish & Chips in York is a well‑loved family‑run fish and chips restaurant and takeaway known for serving traditional Yorkshire‑style fish and chips in the heart of the historic city centre, just off Low Petergate near York Minster and the Shambles. Established as part of a longstanding Yorkshire fishery business, it sources sustainably caught North Sea fish and prepares it fresh daily, often fried in traditional beef dripping with locally grown potatoes for thick, hearty chips. The restaurant offers a welcoming casual dining atmosphere with a fully licensed bar, gluten‑free options, and a varied menu that includes seafood platters and classic British favourites, making it a popular spot for both visitors and locals alike. With strong reviews praising its quality, service, and generous portions, Drake’s is considered one of York’s go‑to places for a classic fish and chips experience.

Association of Voluntary Guides to the City of York, York
2025-12-23 10:30 - 12:30
The Association of Voluntary Guides to the City of York (AVG) offer daily free 2-hour walking tours to visitors from all over the world.
We have been offering complimentary guided tours around York since 1951.
Our team of 80+ local expert guides take great pleasure in showcasing our beautiful city, and we look forward to welcoming you on one of our regular twice-daily tours.
Tours begin at 10.30am & 1.15pm and run every day except Christmas Day.
Our tours are free; there is no need to offer a tip.

Christmas in York
2025-12-23
York is a historic city in northern England, renowned for its rich heritage, striking architecture, and vibrant cultural life. Founded by the Romans and later shaped by Viking and medieval influences, the city’s past is vividly reflected in its well-preserved landmarks, including the magnificent York Minster, the ancient city walls, and the narrow, atmospheric streets of the Shambles. Set along the River Ouse, York blends centuries of history with modern attractions such as museums, independent shops, cafés, and festivals. This combination of old and new gives York a distinctive character, making it both a fascinating place to explore and a lively city to live in or visit.

Rasika Indian Restaurant
2025-12-20 19:30 - 22:00
Rasika Indian Restaurant in Newcastle’s Quayside is a contemporary Indian restaurant known for its blend of traditional flavours and modern culinary flair. Located on Sandhill with scenic views of the River Tyne and the Tyne Bridge, Rasika offers a welcoming atmosphere ideal for couples, families, and friends alike, whether dining for a casual meal or a special occasion. The menu features classic Indian dishes like korma, jalfrezi, and tandoori favourites, alongside signature specials such as keema murgh and bhuna kathi gosht, all prepared with careful attention to authentic spices and quality ingredients. Diners also appreciate the restaurant’s lively yet cosy setting and its combination of timeless recipes and contemporary touches.

Whitley Bay at Christmas
2025-12-20 13:00 - 17:00
Whitley Bay is a charming seaside town on the northeast coast of England, known for its sandy beaches, coastal views, and the iconic Spanish City dome. During Christmas, visiting the Spanish City café is a festive treat, offering warm drinks, seasonal treats, and a cosy atmosphere with views of the sea. After enjoying coffee, a scenic walk along the coastline from Whitley Bay to St Mary’s Lighthouse provides stunning vistas of the North Sea, cliffs, and sandy beaches. The lighthouse itself, set on a small tidal island, is a popular spot for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of the area, making this combination of festive indulgence and coastal exploration a memorable experience.

The National Gallery, London
2025-12-18 16:30 - 17:00
The National Gallery in London is one of the world’s leading art museums, located in Trafalgar Square and home to an extensive collection of European paintings dating from the 13th to the 19th centuries. Its galleries feature masterpieces by renowned artists such as Van Gogh, Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Turner, offering visitors a journey through art history. The museum provides free admission to the permanent collection, making it accessible to all, and hosts special exhibitions, educational programs, and guided tours. With its impressive architecture, rich collections, and central location, the National Gallery remains a cultural highlight of London and a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts.
Read More

RAF Museum Hendon, London
2025-12-18 10:30 - 14:30
The RAF Museum Hendon, located in North London, is a dedicated museum celebrating the history and heritage of the Royal Air Force. It features a vast collection of aircraft, from early biplanes to modern jets, as well as uniforms, medals, and interactive exhibits that explore the stories of the men and women who have served in the RAF. Visitors can learn about the evolution of aviation, major conflicts, and technological innovations, making it both educational and engaging for all ages. With its impressive displays and hands-on experiences, the RAF Museum Hendon offers a fascinating insight into Britain’s aviation history and the role of the RAF in national and global events.
Read More

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
2025-12-17
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a popular seasonal event held each year in London’s Hyde Park, transforming the park into a festive attraction during the winter months. It features a wide range of entertainment, including fairground rides, ice skating, Christmas markets, live shows, and food stalls offering seasonal treats from around the world. The event attracts visitors of all ages and creates a lively holiday atmosphere in the heart of the city. With its lights, music, and festive spirit, Winter Wonderland has become a much-loved part of London’s winter celebrations.
Read More

Trafalgar Square, London
2025-12-17
Trafalgar Square is one of London’s most famous public spaces, located at the heart of the city and steeped in historical and cultural significance. It was created in the 19th century to commemorate Britain’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar, with Nelson’s Column standing prominently at its centre. The square is surrounded by notable landmarks, including the National Gallery, and features iconic fountains and lion statues. As a popular gathering place for celebrations, protests, and events, Trafalgar Square plays a vital role in London’s public and civic life.

Regent Street, London
2025-12-17
Regent Street is one of London’s most prestigious and iconic shopping streets, running through the heart of the West End. Designed in the early 19th century by architect John Nash, it is renowned for its elegant curved layout and grand architecture. The street is home to a wide range of flagship stores, international brands, and historic shops, attracting millions of visitors each year. Especially famous for its festive Christmas lights, Regent Street combines retail, history, and architectural beauty, making it a central feature of London’s commercial and cultural life.

Piccadilly Circus, London
2025-12-17
Piccadilly Circus is one of London’s most famous and recognisable landmarks, located at the junction of several major roads in the West End. It is best known for its large illuminated advertising screens and the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain, often associated with the statue of Eros. The area is a busy hub of activity, linking popular destinations such as Regent Street, Soho, and Leicester Square. With its constant movement, bright lights, and central location, Piccadilly Circus symbolises the energy and excitement of London’s city life.

Leicester Square, London
2025-12-17
Leicester Square is a bustling public square in the heart of London’s West End, best known as the centre of the city’s entertainment and cinema scene. Surrounded by major cinemas, theatres, restaurants, and shops, it regularly hosts high-profile film premieres and red-carpet events. The square itself offers a lively gathering space with statues celebrating famous film and television characters, as well as areas to relax amid the surrounding energy. As a focal point for nightlife, tourism, and popular culture, Leicester Square captures the vibrant spirit of central London.

Christmas in Covent Gardens, London
2025-12-17
Covent Garden is a lively and historic district in the heart of London, famous for its vibrant atmosphere, street performers, and cultural attractions. Once a fruit and vegetable market, it is now home to the iconic Covent Garden Market, offering boutique shops, crafts, cafés, and restaurants. The area is also closely associated with the performing arts, with the Royal Opera House and numerous theatres nearby. Blending history, entertainment, and modern city life, Covent Garden remains one of London’s most popular and characterful destinations.

A visit to the Imperial War Museum, London
2025-12-17
The Imperial War Museum in London is a major national museum dedicated to exploring the impact of modern warfare on people and society. Located in a former hospital building in Southwark, the museum covers conflicts from the First World War to the present day through powerful exhibitions, personal stories, and extensive collections. Its displays include military vehicles, aircraft, weapons, photographs, and immersive galleries such as the Holocaust Exhibition. By focusing on human experiences alongside historical events, the Imperial War Museum offers a moving and educational insight into the realities and consequences of war.

Winchester - The Great Hall
2025-12-16
Winchester Great Hall is one of the finest surviving examples of medieval halls in England and a powerful symbol of the city’s royal past. Built in the 13th century during the reign of Henry III, it is all that remains of Winchester Castle, once a major royal residence. The Great Hall is best known for housing the legendary Round Table of King Arthur, which hangs on its west wall and dates from the late medieval period. With its impressive high vaulted roof, tall windows, and historic atmosphere, Winchester Great Hall offers a striking glimpse into England’s medieval governance, legend, and architectural heritage.

Windsor
2025-12-15
Windsor is a historic town in Berkshire, England, best known for Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world and an official residence of the British monarch. Situated on the River Thames, Windsor combines rich royal heritage with a charming town centre filled with shops, cafés, and traditional pubs. The town attracts visitors from around the world who come to explore the castle, stroll along the riverside, and enjoy nearby attractions such as Windsor Great Park. With its blend of history, culture, and scenic surroundings, Windsor remains one of England’s most iconic and picturesque towns.

Camden
2025-12-14
Camden is a vibrant and culturally diverse area of North London, renowned for its alternative spirit, creative energy, and rich musical heritage. Famous for Camden Market, the area attracts visitors from around the world with its eclectic mix of street food, independent stalls, vintage fashion, and handmade crafts. Camden has long been associated with live music and counterculture, having played a key role in the careers of iconic artists and bands, and it continues to thrive as a hub for emerging talent. Set alongside the Regent’s Canal and close to green spaces such as Primrose Hill, Camden combines urban intensity with scenic surroundings, making it one of London’s most distinctive and dynamic neighbourhoods.

An Evening of Pink Floyd at Newcastle Cathedral
2025-11-29 19:30 - 22:15
Overview

An Evening of Pink Floyd – full live band, with string & brass ensemble in the ethereal surroundings of Newcastle Cathedral.

“Hello… is there anybody in there?”
Let Me In Presents are back, returning for a UK Cathedral Tour, this Autumn, of their brand new production – An Evening of Pink Floyd – following their sell-out, acclaimed tour of An Evening of Radiohead. It promises to be a spectacular live show featuring a full live band, vocalists and a string & brass ensemble, performing in some of the most breathtaking buildings in the UK.
Witness the iconic sound of Pink Floyd’s vast and ethereal catalogue of music, performed live by the acclaimed Let Me In House Band, alongside the Mike Nowland String and Brass Ensemble – featuring a total of 18 musicians, embodying the timeless songs of one of the most popular artists of all time.
Expect to hear hits and hidden gems from across their discography, with a particular focus on the inimitable run of records from the 1970s, including Dark Side of The Moon, Wish You Were Here and The Wall.
We are welcoming the return of the acclaimed band from An Evening of Radiohead, featuring additional musicians to employ the great, epic sound created by . The band will be fronted by Christopher Buckle and Musical Director – Ewan Steady, and will include musicians and Floyd lovers – Alfie Woods, Bruce Higgs, Daniel Anketell, Josh Semans, Eleanor Kinsey, Lydia Karaviotis and more. The band will be accompanied by very special guests and nationally renowned string and brass players – Mike Nowland, Mathias Svensson, Caroline Bodimead, Kate Scrivens, Laurie Dempsey, Hannah Paterson, Julian Turner, Andy Clennell & Chris Beagles.
NOTE – We believe that the arts have both the potential and responsibility to support the strengthening of communities and in actively fighting against injustices that provide a select few in society opportunities that should be accessible to everyone. We are constantly pushing ourselves to find new ways to collaborate with individuals and communities across the Midlands in seeing how we can develop projects that aren’t just artistically enjoyable but that enable space for reflection on how to make our communities more open, safe and without prejudice. Because of this, we do not want to put any financial barriers between our work and our audiences – if you find this is the case, please email us on chris@letmeinpresents.co.uk and we can discuss alternative ticketing arrangements to enable you to come to the event if you wish to.

FAQs
When do doors open?
Doors will open 45 minutes before the music begins, meaning they will open at 6.45pm. This will give you ample time to come into the space, find your seat and relax before the music begins at 7.30pm.
What are the stage times?
There is no support act, so the music will begin at 7.30pm sharp. There will be two sets with a 20 minute interval, with the event finishing around 10.15pm.
Will there be strobes/haze/flashing lights?
Yes, there will be strobes and flashing lights throughout the performance, so we recommend that this production is not suitable for those with epilepsy or that struggle with strobes and flashing lighting.
Haze will be used where possible, venue permitting.
What age is the performance suitable for?
This performance is suitable for all ages, however, there are some intense lighting and sound moments throughout the evening, and we would recommend parental discretion. Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult (18+).
What are the seating arrangements?
When you book your tickets, you can select which section you would like of unreserved seating. This gives you first-come-first-served access to that section of seating and does not guaratee you a particular seat. We will ensure that all parties are sat together.
Is there disabled access?
It is incredibly important to us that our performances are accessible to everyone that wants to come – therefore, we have ensured that An Evening ofis accessible to all.
We recognise that not all accessibility is visible, therefore we have separated ticketing into two bands – Accessible and Wheelchair Accessible.
Please ensure you book the specific ticket for your needs, this way we can make sure we have ample staff and space to make sure you are all as comfortable as possible. From here, our staff will ensure everyone is happy and comfortable. Please note that companion tickets are free of charge, when purchased with an Accessible Ticket.
What is the view like in the “restricted view” section?
The restricted views seats are at the sides of the main nave, and can range from a decent view to being behind a pillar. These are unreserved, so you can end up getting a great spot if you arrive early, however, the price reflects the inconsistency of these views.
Will there be refreshments on site?
There will be an affordable selection of refreshments being sold on site, and you are encouraged to buy from the on site bar to help the Cathedral continue the community engagement work it does.
Will there be parking on site?
There are various car parks nearby to the venue, including city centre parking.
Will there be toilets on site?
Yes, there are toilets on site.
What if I need more information?
Feel free to email Chris at chris@letmeinpresents.co.uk with any questions you may have. We are always happy to help and our door is always open!

National Emergency Services Museum
2025-11-22
The National Emergency Services Museum is a fascinating and unique heritage attraction in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history of Britain’s emergency services. Housed in one of England’s first purpose-built combined police, fire and ambulance stations, the museum occupies a striking Victorian building dating back to around 1900, complete with many original features such as the old police cells and the engine house where fire appliances were once housed.
Inside, visitors can explore three floors of interactive exhibitions that trace the development of emergency services from their earliest incarnations to the modern day. The museum’s extensive collection includes around 150 historic vehicles, with about 40 on display at any one time — from horse-drawn fire engines and early ambulances to vintage police cars and even a 47-foot RNLI lifeboat. These exhibits are complemented by uniforms, equipment, badges, and other artefacts that tell the stories of the people and technologies that helped shape lifesaving services over centuries.
What sets this museum apart is its blend of informative history and hands-on engagement. Many displays use lights, sound, and sensory effects to bring scenes to life, such as a recreated Blitz-era house that immerses visitors in the experiences of air raid nights during the Second World War. There are interactive elements where visitors can climb aboard vehicles, try on uniforms, or explore challenges faced by emergency responders — making it especially appealing for families and younger guests.
As an independent, self-funded charity, the museum also serves as a community and educational resource. It offers school-friendly workshops, group tours, and special seasonal events, while its café and gift shop provide pleasant spaces to relax or pick up a souvenir after a visit. Recognised nationally for its family-focused approach, the museum has won awards for its engaging displays and welcoming environment.
Overall, the National Emergency Services Museum offers a rich, immersive journey through the history of 999 services, highlighting both the technological evolution and the personal stories behind the uniforms and vehicles that have become iconic in British public life.

Sheffield
2025-11-21
Sheffield is a vibrant city located in South Yorkshire, England, known for its rich industrial heritage and stunning natural surroundings. Once famed as the heart of Britain’s steel industry, Sheffield has transformed into a modern, green city that balances its proud history with innovation and culture. The city is home to two major universities—the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University—which contribute to its lively student population and strong academic reputation. With the scenic Peak District National Park on its doorstep, Sheffield offers a unique blend of urban life and outdoor adventure, featuring numerous parks, woodlands, and rivers. Today, it thrives as a centre for creative industries, advanced manufacturing, and music, embodying both resilience and regeneration.

David Olusoga: A Gun Through Time
2025-11-20 19:30 - 21:30
Have you ever considered how a single weapon could change the course of history? What stories lie behind the guns that shaped empires, wars, and even criminal underworlds? How did these firearms influence not just battles, but entire societies?
Known for his acclaimed documentaries Black and British: A Forgotten History and A House Through Time, David Olusoga offers remarkable storytelling in this powerful, unexpected and enlightening social narrative.
Join David as he uncovers the story of three firearms that changed the world and the lives of our ancestors.
The Thompson Sub-Machine Gun was the wonder weapon that was supposed to end the slaughter of the First World War. But in the hands of the gangsters of Prohibition-era America it became the infamous ‘Tommy Gun’.
The Maxim gun enabled Europeans to conquer Africa in the 1890s, but 20 years later it became one of the biggest killers in European history when deployed on the Western Front. It is still being used to considerable effect on the battlefields of Ukraine.
The Lee Enfield rifle was woven into the lives of two generations of our ancestors. With 17 million of them produced it was the weapon the British Army took to war in 1914 and 1939.
See these legendary firearms up close on stage and delve into their mind-bending hidden social histories. You’ll also have the chance ask David your own questions about any historical topic.

The Choral
2025-11-17 14:30 - 16:30
The Choral is a British historical drama film directed by Nicholas Hytner and written by Alan Bennett, two titans of British theatre and cinema. It is set in Yorkshire in 1916, during the First World War, and revolves around a local choral society in a fictional mill town called Ramsden. The movie explores how community, grief, music, and class intersect in times of national crisis.
The film’s world premiere was at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in 2025, and it is released theatrically in the UK on 7 November 2025. With a runtime of approximately 113 minutes.

R&B Classics in Newcastle Cathedral
2025-11-14 19:00 - 22:00
Overview

Get ready to experience the golden era of R&B reimagined by a live orchestra..

R&B CLASSICS NEWCASTLE CATHEDRAL! Get ready to experience the golden era of R&B reimagined by a live orchestra, surrounded by soaring arches and the glowing lights of the majestic Newcastle Cathedral!
This is not your average gig—it’s an immersive, classical-meets-contemporary celebration of the best in 90s & 00s R&B. From slow jams to dancefloor anthems, expect to hear the soulful sounds of Alicia Keys, Usher, Brandy, Mary J. Blige, TLC, Ne-Yo, Destiny’s Child and more—performed by The Infinity Orchestra & Okiem, an ensemble of talented musicans and vocalists like you’ve never heard them before!
Come experience R&B like never before.. in one of the most magical settings in Newcastle! This event is only limited capacity and will sell out in advance.
Please note this is a standing event.
**Please be aware that the cathedral is a historic building and therefore has uneven floor surfaces, so appropriate footwear is advised at the event.**
https://www.facebook.com/reel/2030201164461217

Predator: Badlands
2025-11-09 18:00 - 20:11
Over three films, director Dan Trachtenberg has been reinventing the Predator franchise, pitting the alien hunter against Comanche warriors in Prey; battling Vikings, samurai, and WWII pilots in the animated Predator: Killer of Killers; and now flipping the script and making the predator our hero. In Predator: Badlands, an outcast predator (Demetrius Schuster-Koloamatangi) seeks redemption through a big game hunt on a hostile planet. Helping him is a Weyland-Yutani synth played by Elle Fanning, fueling rumors that we’ll be seeing another direct crossover between the Alien and Predator franchises before long. — James

Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 24
2025-11-09 15:00 - 17:00
Fiery. Cheeky. Leave with a smile.
Who’s on stage
We’ve got the home side playing tonight – Royal Northern Sinfonia and their Artistic Partner, the brilliant Maria Włoszczowska, plus star pianist Martin Helmchen.
What they’re playing
Music that’s old and new(ish). Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 24 and Symphony No. 35 are at the heart of the concert. Mozart’s music is wrapped up in music by Sergei Prokofiev and Igor Stravinsky, with the Symphony No. 1 and Pulcinella Suite – both pieces inspired by earlier composers.

What you’ll hear

Sergei Prokofiev Symphony No. 1 ‘Classical’
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Piano Concerto No. 24
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Symphony No. 35 ‘Haffner’
Igor Stravinsky Pulcinella Suite

Who’s playing it

Maria Włoszczowska director
Martin Helmchen piano
Royal Northern Sinfonia

What’s happening in the music

There’s nothing like music by Mozart to ensure you leave the concert with a smile on your face. His Symphony No. 35 is classic Mozart – on one level you can be swept away by the melodies and drama, but dig a little deeper and there’s complex, deep emotion too. Piano Concerto No. 24 is a darker and more complex piece, at times muscular and powerful, but with the composer’s radiant charm and wit never far away.

THE RETURN OF TEDxDURHAM
2025-11-02 11:00 - 17:00
Sun, 2 November 2025

Gala Theatre Durham
After spending many years across the pond near the neo-gothic spires of Duke University and the tobacco farms of North Carolina, we’re extremely excited to be repatriating TEDxDurham back to North East England on Sunday, 2nd November 2025!
Speakers

https://maps.app.goo.gl/VDxywkW6fXUh6CkJA
Home

Speakers

The Lowry – Salford Quays: Where Art, Theatre, and Architecture Meet the Spirit of the North
2025-11-01
Standing proudly on the waterfront of Salford Quays, just a short tram ride from Manchester city centre, The Lowry is one of the North West’s most inspiring cultural landmarks. Named after the celebrated local artist L.S. Lowry, it’s far more than just an art gallery — it’s a living, breathing arts complex that celebrates creativity in all its forms.
Blending striking architecture, world-class theatre, and the world’s largest public collection of Lowry’s work, The Lowry has become a symbol of Salford’s transformation from industrial docklands into a vibrant cultural destination. It’s a place where art meets community, and where the industrial past is celebrated through a modern, creative lens.
Read More

Imperial War Museum North – A Journey Through Conflict, Memory, and Reflection
2025-11-01
Perched on the banks of the Manchester Ship Canal in Salford Quays, the Imperial War Museum North (IWM North) is one of Britain’s most thought-provoking and architecturally striking museums. It is not simply a collection of military artefacts; rather, it’s a place that invites visitors to reflect deeply on the impact of war — not just on nations and soldiers, but on ordinary people whose lives have been shaped, disrupted, and sometimes destroyed by conflict.

Manchester Art Gallery
2025-11-01
Manchester Art Gallery, located in the heart of Manchester city centre, is one of the most significant cultural institutions in the United Kingdom. Renowned for its rich and diverse collection, its striking neoclassical architecture, and its role as a hub for education and community engagement, the gallery embodies both the city’s industrial past and its forward-looking cultural ambitions. For more than a century and a half, it has been a place where art, history, and society meet, offering visitors an opportunity to explore works spanning over six centuries.
Read More

Manchester Cathedral
2025-11-01
Manchester Cathedral, formally known as the Cathedral and Collegiate Church of St Mary, St Denys, and St George, is one of the city’s most enduring landmarks. Situated near the River Irwell in the heart of Manchester, the cathedral has stood for centuries as a spiritual, cultural, and architectural focal point. It is a building that reflects not only the history of Christianity in the region but also the growth and transformation of Manchester from a medieval parish town into one of the world’s great industrial and modern cities. With its striking Gothic architecture, rich heritage, and continuing role as a place of worship and community engagement, Manchester Cathedral remains a living symbol of resilience, faith, and continuity.
Read More
