Who’s Playing?
Headlining the event are North East icons Maximo Park, playing at ARC alongside Newcastle alt pop powerhouse Imogen and the Knife, Watford Mod-inspired outfit The Spitfires, Highlands trio The Joshua Hotel and Teesside R&B artist Marina Josephina to name a few.
Boro’s very own Finn Forster, fresh from wowing crowds at Texas’ South By Southwest festival, is taking to KU with his heartfelt, emotive lyrics and catchy melodies. He’ll be joined by Liverpudlian four-piece The Cheap Thrills, Hartlepool’s indie pop Marketplace and Bratpoppers Zela.
One of Rolling Stone Magazine’s Future of Music acts, the Midlands’ Big Special will be bringing their own brand of punk, hip-hop and electronica to headline at the Georgian Theatre. Also on the bill is Boro-raised hip-hop talent Eyeconic, North-east eight-piece jazz outfit SwanNek and Sunderland-based singer-songwriter Lottie Willis.
Elsewhere, Yorkshire nu-punk five-piece The Paddingtons will be playing The Social Room, glam-tinged rockers Picture Parlour will be at The Link, indie pop-rocker Lizzie Esau is leading the charge at NE Volume, you can catch Maximo Park support act Melanie Baker at The Green Room and rock and rollers Rolla (the clue’s in the name) are headlining Vault Hidden Bar– alongside many, many more great acts.
Where to Eat and Drink
If you want to grab some grub or a quieter drink, there are plenty of options across the borough.
In the town centre itself, pick up some mouthwatering authentic Indian food with fantastic riverside views at Vadah. Try gourmet burgers, steaks, pasta and pizza at the newly opened Noir D’Or, or pick up a top-notch parmo and traditional Italian fayre at Borge Ristorante.
The Wasp’s Nest and nearby Hope and Union just behind Green Dragon Yard – where a lot of the action is taking place – offer extensive drinks in great settings, with delicious pub favourites from the Hope.
If you’ve got time, both Norton and Yarm high streets offer a range of varied, tasty and independent restaurants, pubs and bars, including top Italian Cena in Yarm and The Scruffy Duck or Elif Turkish Cuisine in Norton.
Where to Stay
Making a weekend of it? Stockton’s Hampton by Hilton is located slap-bang in the middle of the town, perfect for a quick walk back after what’s sure to be an exhausting day.
Slightly further afield but easily accessible by car is Wynyard Hall, a beautiful 18th century grade 2 listed country house – for a touch of luxury with your stay.
There are also a number of Travelodge and Premier Inn locations within the borough too – something to suit all wallets.
Stockton Calling is brought to you by ARC, KU Promotions and Tees Music Alliance.
