January is all about fresh starts – no ‘new year new me’ here though, just ‘new year better you’, and there’s no better way to embrace the new year than by prioritising your wellness. Picking up where we left off before Christmas with our solo inspiration, here’s the first Solo Sunday blog post of 2025 – wellbeing group activities in Newcastle.

For this first post in January, I’m combining both wellbeing activities with group activities, and as always providing Newcastle/North East recommendations. So these are all wellbeing events or things you can go to solo, but the activities themselves are carried out in a group. This might seem a bit daunting to some, but you’ll be very surprised how many people go to these kinds of things alone and meet people there. 

Often it’s those who have interests that aren’t shared by friends, or parents wanting an hour or so to themselves, or people who have moved location and want to meet like minded others. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter what your reason is.

If you’re new here take a look at the first blog in this series, the 7 day solo challenge, which explains a bit more about it, and join my Solo Girls Club broadcast channel on Instagram. Essentially, we’re sharing and embracing doing more things solo – regardless of your relationship status.

Third Places

These types of places can be referred to as ‘third places’. A third place is somewhere that isn’t home or work, where you go for other activities and are likely to spend time with people outside of your usual circle of friends and family. They could be the gym class you go to, a book, photography or art class, a run club, or anywhere else that you go to and can form connections. I shared a reel with some of mine here.

So bringing all that together, here’s the wellbeing activities in Newcastle, groups and events you could go to solo, and some of them might become your third places.

Newcastle Wellbeing Group Activities

January can be a lonely, boring month, so it’s an ideal time to try new things, build your community, and focus on your personal wellbeing. Whether it’s cold water dips (NOT for me), yoga, guided walks, or a vision board workshop, these Newcastle wellbeing group activities are perfect for going solo while meeting others with similar interests. They definitely aren’t all active, there is a mix of activities and events that are designed to nurture your mind, body, and soul.

*photos below are all mine and therefore some of them aren’t of the events mentioned.

Dip Club – Cold Water Therapy

One I will never do but it’s obviously so popular in the North East, and Dip Club have built a community of over 15,000 people embracing cold water therapy for mental health and sobriety journeys. As well as just for fun (if you’re that way inclined!). Dip Club hosts regular group dips in North Tyneside and beyond, offering a dopamine boost and natural therapy in the North Sea.

Why it’s great solo: You’ll join a friendly and supportive group where everyone is there for the same reason, and get the cold water therapy benefits that have become very sought after in recent years.

How to get involved: Follow the Dip Club Instagram to find local dips. Volunteer to set up a Dip Club in your area if you’re not local to North Tyneside.

Tyne to Summit Hiking Group

This Northumberland-based hiking group runs monthly group hikes across the stunning Northumberland National Park and landscape. They’re also hosting a January Step Challenge to inspire movement and community participation so take a look at that too even if you’re not in a position to do big hikes.

Why it’s great solo: You’ll connect with fellow outdoor lovers and be in safe hands with experienced local hikers, while discovering Northumberland’s breathtaking landscapes.

How to get involved: Follow tynetosummit on Instagram for updates and info. Sign up for their hikes via their Facebook group or website

Ernest Ouseburn Soberista Social

If you’re doing dry January, or already lead an alcohol-free lifestyle then this tasting event is for you. Held at Ernest, Ouseburn, on 22nd January, the tasting event will feature non-alcoholic drinks and delicious nibbles.

Why it’s great solo: It’s a casual and inclusive way to meet others exploring alcohol-free lifestyles.

How to get involved: Purchase tickets via Ernest’s website or Instagram.

Hii Club Gosforth

This aesthetic and relatively new fitness studio by the Town Moor offers a full range of active classes and experiences to elevate your life. You might have seen that I shared my experience of the Hii Balance pilates classes last year and this is one I’m going to do personally. 

As well as a full workout, fitness and gym programme, they also offer a variety of lower impact classes as part of the Hii Balance concept. This includes pilates, yoga and breathwork, and they also host their popular Neighbourhood Run Club too. You can book as a member, in blocks, or pay as you go. There is a gorgeous cafe here too which is a great place to work, grab coffee or a smoothie.

Why it’s great solo: Their ethos is that nobody trains alone, and the instructors are all so nice, encouraging and welcoming. They have classes for all levels at all times of day – if I can do it you definitely can.   

How to get involved: Check their Instagram and app for class schedules.

Cove Lifestyle Studio Yoga

A yoga event hosted by Cove Lifestyle Studio at The Exchange, North Shields, on 25th January. The session is led by Rachel, whose friendly approach makes yoga accessible for all levels. Her yoga lessons in the studio itself are also gorgeous to do in winter as the studio is so cosy.

Why it’s great solo: This relaxed and welcoming environment is perfect for beginners or anyone seeking mindfulness and balance.

How to get involved: Reserve your spot via the website.

Dance Envy Adult Dance Class

One of my best friends Lucy runs Dancy Envy dance school for kids, but every week she runs a 45 minute adult dance class. They’re starting up again every Monday evening at St Thomas Moor High School from Monday 13th January, 7:05 – 7:50pm

Why it’s great solo: a good way to get moving and meet others who enjoy dance over gym classes

How to get involved: message Lucy via Dance Envy Instagram and tell her I sent you!

Wellbeing Expo Newcastle 2025

I spotted this free expo at Newcastle Britannia Hotel on 19th January, from 10 AM to 4 PM, which has a schedule featuring wellness products, workshops, and expert talks.

Why it’s great solo: A day full of wellness and a chance to meet other enthusiasts while exploring new products, attending workshops, and hearing inspiring speakers.

How to get involved: Grab your free ticket on Eventbrite.

Northumberland National Park Guided Walks

The Northumberland tourist board offer a series of guided walks through Northumberland’s stunning landscapes and they have a few planned for January. I’ve done this in the past from The Sill up to Sycamore Gap and back. Full details are on the website but upcoming walks include:

Newbrough Circular Walk (8th Jan)

Tarset and Dally Castles (19th Jan)

Hillforts of the Breamish Valley (29th Jan)

Why it’s great solo: You’ll explore breathtaking scenery while enjoying the camaraderie of a group setting.

How to get involved: Check the Northumberland National Park website for details.

Newcastle Wellness Club

I recently discovered these guys on Tik Tok and Instagram, they’re a female-run community who host group activities in Newcastle and they put on monthly wellness meetups and workshops. Their January events include:

Vision Board Workshop (19th Jan) at AM Space

Sip and Yap (21st Jan) at Billy Bootleggers

Pub Quiz (30th Jan) at the Tanners Arms

Why it’s great solo: Each event is designed to encourage connections in a welcoming and supportive environment.

How to get involved: Follow Newcastle Wellness Club on Instagram for booking links.

Additional Suggestions for January Wellness Activities

Park Run: Join a local park run to combine fitness with a social atmosphere.

Art Therapy Classes: Try pottery or painting sessions for creativity and relaxation.

Meditation Meetups: Look for group meditation sessions to find inner calm.

Tips for Attending Solo Group Activities

Arrive Early: Get comfortable and start conversations with others.

Be Open: Everyone is there for a shared experience, so don’t hesitate to connect.

Embrace the Experience: These activities are about wellness and community, not competition.