Carols by Candlelight
6 Dec, 13 Dec
A festive carol service in St Mary's Church, with a local school choir leading traditional carols for attendees to sing along to by candlelight.
North Yorkshire
North Yorkshire offers a mix of historic cities, national parks, castles, and coastal resorts with well-connected transport links and rich cultural heritage.
Near St Mary's, Studley Royal
The Church of St Mary, Studley Royal, is a Victorian Gothic Revival church built in Early English style by architect William Burges. Situated within Studley Royal Park near Fountains Abbey, North Yorkshire, it was constructed as a memorial to Frederick Vyner. The church is renowned for its rich interior, fine stained-glass windows, and status as a Grade I listed building.
Illuminated Whitby Abbey
23–31 Oct
Visitors explore Whitby Abbey’s illuminated ruins after dark, encountering four performance stations with stories inspired by Victorian Gothic horror, local folklore and maritime history. The event also includes interactive family performances and food and drink from local vendors.
Near Whitby Abbey
Whitby Abbey is a historic 7th-century Benedictine abbey ruin overlooking the North Sea on the East Cliff in Whitby, North Yorkshire. The substantial ruins are a Grade I listed building cared for by English Heritage, featuring a site museum in Cholmley House. The abbey is known for its role in the Synod of Whitby and for inspiring Bram Stoker's Dracula.
Located in Whitby
Whitby is a historic coastal town in North Yorkshire, England, known for its iconic abbey ruins, maritime heritage, and literary connections including Bram Stoker's Dracula. It offers a mix of cultural experiences, scenic cliffs, beaches, and vibrant festivals.
Pokémon joins Fountains Abbey’s Summer of Play
30 Aug–6 Sep
Pokémon joins Fountains Abbey's Summer of Play with activity stations on the ball games field including Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution play zones, soft archery, space hopper racing, balance bike races and a play area for children. The event runs from 18 July to 6 September with standard admission charges applicable at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden.
Near Fountains Abbey
Fountains Abbey is a historic ruined Cistercian monastery near Ripon, North Yorkshire, with architecture dating from the 12th century. It is part of Studley Royal Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring landscaped gardens and industrial heritage. The site is owned by the National Trust and maintained by English Heritage, offering visitors extensive ruins, exhibitions, and scenic outdoor areas.
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Otter Madness for October Half-Term
24 Oct–1 Nov
An outdoor otter-themed trail in the gardens at Nunnington Hall, with family-friendly activities, challenges and games about otters.
Near Nunnington Hall
Nunnington Hall is a Grade I listed 17th-century country house in North Yorkshire featuring rich historic interiors, art collections, and period furniture. The hall sits beside the River Rye and is surrounded by organically managed gardens and orchards. It is managed by the National Trust and open to visitors interested in English heritage, architecture, and gardens.
Christmas Market
28–29 Nov
A Christmas market in Airedale Barn, with stalls selling gifts, handcrafted items and seasonal treats, alongside warming refreshments.
Near East Riddlesden Hall
East Riddlesden Hall is a 17th-century historic manor house in West Yorkshire featuring well-preserved interiors, a medieval tithebarn, walled gardens, and a tea room, offering both indoor and outdoor experiences. It is notable for its architecture, royalist symbols, and as a filming location for various TV series and films.
Located in Keighley
Keighley is a historic market town in West Yorkshire featuring Victorian architecture, a heritage steam railway, diverse cultural attractions, and a vibrant shopping and food scene.
Bath House Gift Shop –The Artisan Collective
14 Oct–15 Nov (next week)
Two artisans bring together work by their creative friends, offering visitors a showcase of handmade work and a shopping opportunity.
Near RHS Garden Harlow Carr
RHS Garden Harlow Carr is a horticultural destination in North Yorkshire known for its extensive gardens, seasonal displays, and visitor facilities including cafés and a garden centre. Visitors can explore outdoors through varied garden areas and enjoy seasonal food offerings onsite.
Located in Harrogate
Harrogate is a historic spa town in North Yorkshire, England, renowned for its spa waters, RHS Harlow Carr gardens, and rich cultural scene including festivals, galleries, and theatres. It is well-connected by rail and bus, with a walkable town centre featuring shopping, dining, and significant landmarks such as the Royal Pump Room and Royal Hall.
Thresholds: Light, Memory, and Place
24 Oct, 26–28 Oct…
Artist in Residence Matthew Eyles presents an exhibition of works inspired by East Riddlesden Hall and its surrounding landscape, exploring architecture, interiors, gardens, light and memory through drawing and painting.
Garden and abbey tour
30 Aug–6 Sep
Join a volunteer-guided tour at Studley Royal Water Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to learn about the garden and abbey, their historical and landscape significance. The tour lasts 1 hour 30 minutes and runs twice daily until 1 November 2026.
Near Markenfield Hall
Markenfield Hall is a well-preserved medieval moated manor house in North Yorkshire, offering limited guided tours that explore historic rooms and vaulted areas. The house provides wheelchair access to the ground floor and a tranquil, authentic visit focused on history and heritage without modern distractions like cafes or shops. It is free for Historic Houses members on select days, with tours including traditional tea and cakes.
Heritage Open Days at Nostell
18–19 Sep
Heritage Open Days at Nostell offers visitors a chance to explore the history of Nostell, including the house, gardens, woodland walk, and parkland. Visitors can meet a Tudor family reenactment and uncover secrets in the Thomas More family portrait. The event supports conservation work with opportunities to enjoy food from the café and pizza trailer. No booking is needed, but there is a parking fee for non-members.
Near Nostell
Nostell Priory is a historic Palladian house in West Yorkshire, England, featuring original 18th-century furnishings, extensive parkland with lakeside walks, notable artwork and furniture collections, and a rich monastic history dating back to the 12th century.
Deer walk
17 Oct, 24 Oct…
Join wildlife volunteers for a walk through the deer park to see the deer and learn about the Red, Sika and Fallow Deer that live at Studley Royal.
History of Garden Design
24 Oct
A workshop led by garden designer and horticulture lecturer Richard Easton exploring the history of garden design, from early gardens through to modern and naturalistic styles.
Near Ripley Castle and Gardens
Ripley Castle and Gardens is a historic 700-year-old castle near Harrogate with beautiful gardens, lakes, and a deer park. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the castle in season, explore extensive outdoor grounds, and use accessible facilities including a café. It offers an engaging experience blending history and nature with family-friendly amenities.
The Fabric of East Riddlesden: Inspiration from the Hall and its grounds
7 Oct, 10–14 Oct…
An exhibition by textile artists Textilia 3, featuring artworks inspired by East Riddlesden Hall’s architecture, historic collection, past inhabitants and landscape. The works use techniques including stitching, felt, mixed media, ceramics, dyeing and print.
Christmas Willow Decorations
28 Nov
Participants can join a morning or afternoon willow-weaving workshop with tutor Rachel Hutton to make Christmas decorations, choosing from guided projects or designing with the materials provided.
Gawthorpe Textiles Collection exhibition
7–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct…
An exhibition across five rooms displays historic textiles collected by Rachel Kay-Shuttleworth, including embroidery, patterned and printed fabrics, wool work, metallic threads and costume pieces, presented around the theme of colour.
Near Gawthorpe Hall
Gawthorpe Hall is a Grade I listed Elizabethan country house located on the banks of the River Calder in Lancashire. The house features historic architecture with roots as a pele tower, extensive restoration by Charles Barry, ornamental gardens, and serves as a trailhead for the Brontë Way footpath. The site also includes Burnley Football Club's training complex on its grounds.
Located in Burnley
Burnley is a historic market town in Lancashire, England, known for its industrial heritage as a major cotton production centre and ongoing advanced manufacturing, as well as cultural attractions including historic mills, museums, music festivals, and a lively nightlife scene.
October Half Term – Spooky plants
24 Oct–1 Nov
A spooky half-term event about unusual and magical plants, featuring a garden trail, animal encounters, planting and craft activities, and Garden Detectives sessions.
Day in the life of a monk family tour
1 Sep, 5 Sep
The Day in the life of a monk family tour at Fountains Abbey offers a free guided family tour exploring what life was like for the monks. Attendees can try to keep a vow of silence, follow abbey rules, and learn about daily life in the past. Family members can borrow robes to wear during the tour, which lasts about an hour. The event takes place outdoors around the abbey ruins and requires attendees to dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes.
Heritage Open Days
18–19 Sep
Heritage Open Days at Nunnington Hall offers free entry during the two-week festival with the hall open on Friday 18 and Saturday 19 September 2026. Visitors can explore the historic house, learn about its history and collections, and enjoy the gardens, orchard, and riverside setting. No booking is needed, and the tour includes areas upstairs without lift access.
3 miles from Helmsley Archaeology Store
Helmsley Archaeology Store offers access to extensive archaeological collections from English Heritage sites in Northern England, spanning from Prehistory to modern times. Visits are free but by appointment only, with store tours resuming in April 2026. The venue is primarily an indoor research and archive facility.
Summer of Play: Bushcraft Thursdays
27 Aug
Summer of Play: Bushcraft Thursdays is a drop-in bushcraft adventure event held at Ormesby Hall woodland area. Families and young adventurers can explore and try hands-on bushcraft activities such as fire striking, rope and knot tying, seed bomb making, den building, and survival shelters this summer. No booking is required, but normal venue admission charges apply.
Near Ormesby Hall
Ormesby Hall is a Grade I listed 18th-century Georgian mansion in North Yorkshire, offering visitors a blend of historic indoor interiors, including plasterwork and Victorian kitchens, alongside expansive gardens and estate walks. The venue showcases local heritage with a public model railway and hosts various events throughout the year.
Located in Middlesbrough
Middlesbrough is a historic port town in North Yorkshire known for its industrial heritage, cultural venues, parks, and modern university presence.
Harvest at Beningbrough
7–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct
Harvest at Beningbrough celebrates seasonal garden produce with guided tours of the walled garden, harvest displays, apple-pressing demonstrations and tastings. Some dates also feature jam and curd tastings or dried flowers for sale.
Near Beningbrough Hall
Beningbrough Hall is a large Baroque mansion near Beningbrough, North Yorkshire, featuring historic interiors, extensive gardens, and an art gallery exhibiting 18th-century portraits. The venue includes a restaurant, garden shop, and activities for families including a wilderness play area.
Walk through time at Malham Tarn
9 Oct
A volunteer-led 7km walk around Malham Tarn explores the landscape’s formation and local history, including stories of glaciers, cave men, monks and drovers. The route follows grassed paths and estate tracks, with stops to hear about points of interest and a lunch break.
Near Yorkshire Dales
Malham Tarn Estate in the Yorkshire Dales offers extensive outdoor experiences including a National Nature Reserve with boardwalks, diverse walking trails, and natural wildlife habitats. It is dog friendly, offers scenic countryside and woodland walks suitable for families, and provides mobility support through Tramper hire.
Wild Heather Wellness: Golden hour forest bathing
25 Sep
Wild Heather Wellness offers a guided golden hour forest bathing session at Hardcastle Crags. Led by a certified Forest Therapy Practitioner, this monthly session includes a mindful walk, sensory meditation, exploratory invitations to forest bathing, herbal tea, and guided journaling to deepen connection with nature and self. It is aimed at those seeking calm, grounding, and nature connection.
Near Hardcastle Crags
Hardcastle Crags is a large woodland beauty spot in West Yorkshire featuring more than 15 miles of trails, historic Gibson Mill with its sustainable off-grid building housing a café and bookshop, and a variety of outdoor activities including orienteering and wildlife watching. The site offers facilities for dogs and is accessible with an emphasis on natural and industrial heritage.
Little Bird Made artisan Christmas market
29 Nov
Browse gifts and handmade crafts from Yorkshire makers, artists and food producers at an outdoor Christmas market organised by Little Bird Made Artisan Markets.
Summer of Play: crafty Mondays
31 Aug
Summer of Play: crafty Mondays is a crafting workshop event held every Monday at Swanley Grange, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden. It is led by volunteers and open without booking. The event is free to attend but normal venue admission charges apply. The event runs from 10:00 to 16:00.
Harlow Carr Library Talk: Houseplant Trends Through Time
5 Nov
A librarian from RHS Garden Harlow Carr gives a short talk tracing the history of houseplants in the UK up to 1950, including changing plant trends and inventions that enabled indoor cultivation.
Make a Christmas Wreath
27 Nov
A Christmas wreath-making workshop led by Kathrine Armstrong-Bisson. Participants will construct a wreath using a metal frame, seed heads, berries, dried fruit, cones and Christmas decorations.
Walkies
14 Oct (next Wednesday)
Walkies gives visitors the opportunity to explore the outdoor areas of RHS Garden Harlow Carr with their dogs. Dogs must be kept on a short lead and follow the garden’s stated rules.
Garden tour
18 Sep
Join a guided garden tour at Ormesby Hall with the Senior Gardener to explore the formal garden and orchard, learn about the garden's history and seasonal planting displays, and receive gardening tips. The tour is free as part of Heritage Open Days and does not require booking.
3 miles from Roseberry Topping
Roseberry Topping is a distinctive hill in North Yorkshire offering scenic outdoor experiences with panoramic views, historical significance, and geological interest within the North York Moors National Park.
Christmas Seedpod Earrings
21 Nov
In this workshop, participants will learn about botanical-inspired jewellery design and make a pair of seedpod earrings to take home, guided by jewellery maker Charlotte Whitmore.
What Now? November/December
6 Nov
A gardening workshop with tutor Olive Green covering seasonal jobs for November and December, including bulb planting, taking cuttings, garden maintenance, planting bare-root plants and winter pruning.
Mushroom Rock circular guided walk
3 Sep
Mushroom Rock circular guided walk is a free group walk event held at Brimham Rocks. The walk covers a 3-mile circular trail around Brimham Rocks including woodland, rocks, and moorland, led by volunteers. Participants enjoy scenic views and walk over uneven, narrow, muddy, and wet paths. Dogs are allowed on short leads. The event is suitable for beginner walkers but is not wheelchair accessible. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The walk starts and ends at the refreshment kiosk, where a hot drink can be enjoyed afterwards.
Introduction to Botanical Illustration Watercolours
23 Oct
A beginner-level workshop introducing botanical illustration in watercolour, using live plant specimens. Participants will learn observation, drawing and painting techniques through group and individual tuition, with plants and equipment provided.
Guided house tours
11 Oct, 19 Oct
Visitors can join a volunteer-led tour of East Riddlesden Hall to learn about the house’s history and collection.
Members' Event: Experience Yorkshire - Whitby Walking Tour
10 Nov
A guided walking tour of Whitby led by Blue Badge Guide Sarah Milne-Day, exploring the town’s history, industries and notable characters, from the abbey down the 199 steps to the town and harbour.
Heritage Open Days
12–13 Sep, 19–20 Sep
Heritage Open Days at Goddards offer free visits to the five-acre gardens of the former Terry family home on weekends 12-13 and 19-20 September 2026. Visitors can explore the kitchen garden, relax on deckchairs, enjoy lawn games, and follow a nature trail suitable for families.
Near Goddards
Goddards House and Garden in York is an Arts and Crafts historic house museum with well-preserved 1930s interiors and an extensive formal garden featuring a cruciform lily pool. Originally built for the Terry chocolate family, it now operated by the National Trust offers indoor heritage exhibits and outdoor garden exploration.
Harvest at Nunnington
17–18 Oct (next weekend)
Harvest at Nunnington explores harvest traditions and autumn displays, with visitors able to join a guided garden tour to learn about the gardens as they change for the season.
3 miles from Beadlam Roman villa
Beadlam Roman villa is an archaeological site featuring the remains of a large Romano-British farm from the third to fifth centuries AD, located on the east bank of the River Riccal in North Yorkshire. Visitors can view in situ walls and earthworks of the villa buildings, highlighting Roman history in the region.
Wedding Open Days - Booking Not Required
18 Oct, 15 Nov…
Newly engaged couples can explore the Airedale Barn at East Riddlesden Hall, view décor ideas and speak with the wedding team about recommended suppliers.
Collectors' Book & Media Sale
16–18 Oct, 22–25 Oct
Browse and buy a selection of vintage and collectable books, artwork, films and music at a sale in the Riding School. Items include rare and unusual books and other pre-loved finds.
Talk: Sir Charles Barry and Gawthorpe Hall
24 Sep
Historian Rachel Pilling gives a talk about Sir Charles Barry's renovations to Gawthorpe Hall in the 1850s, discussing the drawings, letters, and the involvement of the Kay-Shuttleworth family. The event includes entry to Gawthorpe Hall to see the Victorian rooms and takes place in the Servant's Hall basement room.
3 miles from Towneley Hall
Towneley Hall is a historic house and museum set in over 400 acres of parkland in Burnley, Lancashire, featuring fine art collections, original period rooms, and extensive outdoor grounds with woodland trails and a children's play area. Visitors can explore the Victorian kitchen and enjoy accessible facilities including a café and parking.
Gardening Talks
11 Mar, 22 Apr…
Join East Riddlesden Hall’s head gardener for seasonal talks on garden care, or propagation demonstrations covering seed sowing and taking cuttings.
Annie Geddes: Artist in Residence
13 Oct, 10 Nov
Artist Annie Geddes demonstrates continuous line drawing while creating works inspired by East Riddlesden Hall and Keighley, and talks with visitors about her methods and practice.
Summer of Play: The music workshop
30 Aug, 6 Sep
Summer of Play: The music workshop at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden is an interactive music workshop by The Music Workshop Company. Attendees can drop in any time between 10am and 4pm on specified dates to learn different drumming patterns from around the world. The event is free but normal venue admission charges apply.
Geology tour
25 Sep
This event is a 90-minute guided geology walk at Brimham Rocks led by volunteer guides. Attendees will learn about the formation of Brimham Rocks during the walk. The event is free to attend but requires normal admission to the venue. It is aimed primarily at adults and meets at the Welcome Hut in the car park. The terrain is rugged, making the event unsuitable for wheelchairs.
Garden and abbey tour
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A volunteer-guided tour explores Studley Royal Water Garden and the abbey ruins, explaining the garden’s design and its place in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tour lasts about 90 minutes.
3 miles from Brimham Rocks
Brimham Rocks is a natural Site of Special Scientific Interest in North Yorkshire, England, known for its fascinating weather-eroded rock formations spread across heathland and woodland in the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The site offers outdoor exploration, notable geological features, diverse flora and fauna, and is popular for family visits and rock climbing. Facilities include a National Trust visitor centre with food offerings and child-friendly discovery trails.
Guided sensory tour
1 Sep, 6 Oct
Guided sensory tour at Treasurer's House, York focuses on experiencing the history of the house through touch, sound, and imagination, designed for visually impaired visitors. It includes tactile collection items and tailored audio descriptions in each room.
Near Treasurer's House, York
Treasurer's House is a Grade I listed historic house museum in York, showcasing architecture from the 12th century onwards with significant restoration by Frank Green. Owned by the National Trust, it offers tours including cellar and attic, features Roman archaeological remains, and a café and garden accessible to visitors. The house is notable for its reputed Roman soldier ghost sightings.
Heritage Open Days
13 Sep, 16 Sep
Heritage Open Days at East Riddlesden Hall allow visitors to explore the 17th century farming manor and its history for free without needing a booking. The event includes guided house tours, outdoor garden spaces, play areas for children, opportunities to spot wildlife, and a tearoom. Tours run twice a day and are limited to 15 people per session on a first come first served basis.
Time to Scrat! Apple Pressing
30 Oct
The garden team demonstrates apple pressing with a scratter, and visitors can join in making apple juice from windfall apples.
Summer of Play: Owl Adventures
31 Aug
Summer of Play: Owl Adventures is an outdoor event at Nostell featuring flying displays from birds of prey in front of the house, with static displays available throughout the day. Attendees can watch flying shows and get close to the birds. Booking is not needed, but the event includes the cost of a parking ticket, with National Trust members parking free and non-members paying £5 per car.
Murder Mystery Night at Ormesby Hall - Death at Downturn
25 Sep
Murder Mystery Night at Ormesby Hall titled 'Death at Downturn' is an interactive murder mystery event presented by Tall Tales Mysteries. Attendees become detectives and explore the mansion in teams to solve the murder of the Earl of Grabham. The event includes a two-course meal and takes place in a marquee and around the historic mansion. It is scheduled for the evening of Friday 25 September 2026, starting at 7.30pm. The event is for adults age 16 and over and booking is essential.
British Sign Language (BSL) Interpreted Tour
14 Jul, 11 Aug…
A British Sign Language (BSL) interpreted small group guided tour of Treasurer's House in York, providing insights into the house's history and its collection, with simultaneous BSL interpretation. The tour lasts approximately one hour and welcomes both Deaf and hearing participants.
Near Coppergate Shopping Centre
Coppergate Shopping Centre is an open-air shopping venue in York featuring covered walkways, public squares, cafes, shops, and the Jorvik Viking Centre museum. It hosts seasonal displays and cultural events.
Summer of Play at Ormesby Hall
21–31 Aug
Summer of Play at Ormesby Hall offers families a variety of playful activities throughout the garden and play field, including circus skills like plate spinning and juggling, active sports such as tennis, races, badminton, and archery, as well as music and sand play. Normal venue admission applies but the activities themselves do not have an extra charge. Booking is not required to join in these activities during the summer holidays.
Summer of Play: Craft in the gardens
1 Sep
Summer of Play: Craft in the gardens is a drop-in event held outdoors in the American Garden at Beningbrough where attendees can engage in nature-themed crafts during the summer. Booking is not needed, but normal venue admission charges apply.
Near Beningbrough
Beningbrough is a historic hall and art gallery surrounded by extensive gardens and parkland in Yorkshire, featuring formal gardens, a walled kitchen garden, and new garden areas including a Pergola and upcoming Mediterranean Garden, with facilities for families and dogs.
Breakfast with Santa
5–6 Dec, 12–13 Dec…
Families can enjoy a festive breakfast at Nostell’s Coach House, followed by a meeting with Father Christmas. Breakfast options are provided for adults and children.
Halloween non-booking days at Ormesby Hall
24–27 Oct, 1 Nov
Visitors can explore Ormesby Hall’s Halloween-decorated rooms, follow a garden trail and make a Halloween surprise card to take home. The non-booking dates do not include the Halloween show.
Halloween half-term at Scarborough Castle
24 Oct–1 Nov
A Halloween half-term event at Scarborough Castle with family activities including interactive storytelling, spooky games and a themed trail. Visitors can also take part in a daily fancy dress competition.
Near Scarborough Castle
Scarborough Castle is a historic 12th-century medieval fortress perched on a rocky headland overlooking the North Sea and the town of Scarborough. Visitors can explore its ruined keep, extensive curtain walls with towers, and an exhibition housed in the 18th-century Master Gunner's House. The site also includes earlier Iron Age, Roman, and Anglo-Scandinavian archaeological remains, and offers spectacular views and family-friendly events throughout the year.
Located in Scarborough
Scarborough is a historic seaside town in North Yorkshire, England, known for its sandy beaches, castle, cultural venues, and vibrant tourism and fishing industries.
National Alpine Garden Show
10 Oct (this Saturday)
The National Alpine Garden Show celebrates alpine plants and autumn-flowering bulbs, with displays from specialist growers and Alpine Garden Society members. Visitors can speak with exhibitors for growing advice and join a behind-the-scenes Alpine Garden Team tour.
Nature's Noel: A Greener Christmas
19–22 Nov, 26–29 Nov…
A Christmas display at Nunnington Hall features around 20 trees decorated by local organisations with natural or recycled materials, alongside natural displays, garlands, wreaths and swags. The decorations explore caring for nature and community involvement.
3 miles from Hovingham Hall
Hovingham Hall is an attractive historic family home featuring varied architectural styles, important collections, and the reputed oldest private cricket pitch in England. Visitors can explore both the elegant indoor spaces and the beautiful surrounding gardens with historic features.
The Pikachu Art Adventure at Nostell
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Explore 30 Pikachu trading cards illustrated by different artists, learn facts about the character and design a Pikachu trading card of your own.
Heritage Open Days
18–19 Sep
Heritage Open Days at Beningbrough allows free entry to the public during the festival. Visitors can explore the historic ground-floor rooms of the Hall and roam the eight acres of gardens and parkland. The event takes place over two days with no booking needed.
Antiques Valuation Event with Charles Hanson
9 Oct
Attendees can bring up to three small antiques, collectables, jewellery or curiosities for appraisal by auctioneer and antiques expert Charles Hanson.
Apple Weekend
31 Oct–1 Nov
Apple Weekend at Helmsley Walled Garden features traditional apple pressing and juice tasting, garden tours, apple-pruning demonstrations and a pumpkin trail for children. Sunday also includes demonstrations of pottery, willow weaving and wood carving.
Near Helmsley Walled Garden
Helmsley Walled Garden is a five-acre historic kitchen garden in North York Moors National Park, restored as a beautiful outdoor space featuring gardens, nature trails, and therapeutic activities. It includes a labyrinth, sculpture trail, a native plants border, and an open glasshouse, welcoming dogs and visitors with refreshments and plant sales.
Located in Helmsley
Helmsley is a historic market town in North Yorkshire, England, known for its medieval layout, castle ruins, scenic location near the North York Moors, and vibrant arts and tourism scene.
Beneath the Surface: Unlocking the Secrets of the Thomas More Painting
2–7 Sep, 9–14 Sep…
Beneath the Surface: Unlocking the Secrets of the Thomas More Painting is an event showcasing advanced imaging technology used to uncover hidden details of a Thomas More portrait, offering new insights into its creation and history through live displays and expert talks at Nostell house.
Volunteering day: Beech thinning
4 Oct
Volunteering day: Beech thinning is an outdoor conservation event at Hardcastle Crags where participants help Rangers remove small beech saplings to boost biodiversity. The event includes a 30-minute walk from the upper car park at Midgehole to the work site and requires suitable clothing and gloves. Older children accompanied by an adult are welcome, but the event is not suitable for young children.
Near Hardcastle Crags
Hardcastle Crags is a scenic Pennine valley in West Yorkshire featuring extensive woodland, walking paths, and the historic Gibson Mill, a renovated 19th-century water-powered cotton mill with sustainability exhibits. The site offers both indoor and outdoor experiences for nature and history enthusiasts.
Deadtime Stories for Families
29 Oct
Families gather in Treasurer’s House’s Great Hall for an after-hours storytelling session led by an actor portraying King Edward VII. The atmospheric stories draw on local history and include gentle audience participation, with the experience aimed at children aged 6 to 12 and their accompanying adults.
Near Fairfax House
Fairfax House is a finely restored Georgian townhouse in York showcasing 18th-century city-living with richly decorated interiors, historic furniture, and guided tours. It highlights the lifestyle of the Georgian gentry with authentic period settings and offers educational group visits.
Wedding Open Evening - Booking Required
8 Oct, 5 Nov…
An open evening for newly engaged couples to explore the Airedale Barn, view wedding décor ideas and talk with the wedding team about recommended suppliers.
Ormesby 10k run
18 Oct, 29 Nov…
The Ormesby 10k is a timed monthly Sunday run on a route through farmland, woods and parkland, using a mix of tarmac and gravel drives, field margins and woodland trails. Runners aged 14 and over can take part.
Behind the Scenes Tour
7 Oct, 13–14 Oct…
A volunteer guide leads visitors through areas of Nunnington Hall that are normally closed to the public, introducing collection objects and the work involved in preserving the hall.
Summer of Play: Storytelling with Ripon Library
4 Sep
Summer of Play: Storytelling with Ripon Library is a quiet, calm storytelling event held every Friday during the Summer of Play at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden. Attendees can drop by the Chill Zone on the ball games field for this storytelling session from 10:30 to 12:30. The event is free, but normal venue admission charges apply. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The setting is outdoor with level access paths nearby, but possibly difficult terrain in wet weather.
At the bend in the river: Paintings by Nancy Cadogan
10–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct…
An exhibition of newly commissioned and existing paintings by Nancy Cadogan, inspired by Beningbrough’s landscape, gardens and literary history. Visitors can view large-scale landscapes and more intimate works exploring women, time and storytelling.
October half term spooky crafts
28 Oct
Visitors can make a spooky woolly ghost to take home and explore the Hall to spot hidden bats. The Halloween craft activities are aimed at families.
Forever After Collective: Christmas Market at Nostell
7–8 Nov, 28–29 Nov
A Christmas craft market hosted by Forever After Collective, featuring more than 30 stalls from local businesses and independent makers selling handmade and locally sourced goods.
Autumn Market
12–13 Sep
The Autumn Market at Nunnington Hall celebrates autumn with local craftsmanship, creativity and community. Visitors can browse stalls with handcrafted gifts, artwork, artisan food and seasonal produce, enjoy refreshments, meet alpacas, and explore the house, gardens and art exhibition. Admission is half price with free entry for National Trust members.
Festive Storytelling with Mrs Claus
28–29 Nov, 5–6 Dec…
Families can hear a festive story with Mrs Claus in the Great Hall, write Christmas wishes at a letter-writing station, and try festive crafts.
Conservation Takeover Day
8 Oct
Visitors can meet Ormesby Hall’s conservation team, learn how they care for the house and collections, and see conservation work in action, including the care of textiles, ceramics, books and furniture.
Halloween Evenings
28–29 Oct
A family-focused Halloween evening at Ormesby Hall, where visitors can explore themed rooms in the mansion and encounter ghostly characters and spooky surprises.
Mill tour
13 Oct (next Tuesday)
A volunteer-led tour of Fountains Mill explores the estate’s oldest building, its 12th-century origins and how it has changed over the years.
Victorian Christmas weekend
28–29 Nov
A Victorian-themed Christmas event at Gawthorpe Hall, with the Hall decorated for the season, music and bellringers, and a traditional kitchen display. Visitors can take part in children's crafts and meet Father Christmas.
Boxing Day Pilgrimage
26 Dec
An annual Boxing Day pilgrimage retraces the route from Ripon Cathedral to Fountains Abbey, recalling the monks who founded the abbey. Attendees can join a Eucharist service at the cathedral, walk about four miles to the abbey and take part in carols and prayers in the Cellarium.
The Rebels of Raby Talk with Castle Curator
10 Oct (this Saturday)
Raby Castle’s curator gives a talk exploring the castle’s connections to the Rising of the North, the Wars of the Roses and the political life of Sir Henry Vane the Younger. The ticket also grants access to the castle, deer park and gardens for the remainder of the day.
Near Raby Castle, Park & Gardens
Raby Castle is a medieval fortress set in 200 acres of parkland in County Durham, offering historic interiors, a restored walled garden, deer parks, a woodland adventure playground, dining at The Vinery cafe, and a shop. Visitors can explore both indoor castle rooms and the extensive outdoor grounds featuring wildlife and gardens.
Autumn craft
26–30 Oct
Join artist Alice Dunsmore at Swanley Grange for autumn-themed craft workshops, making leaf fairies, toadstools and seasonal decorations from natural materials gathered around the site.
Harlow Carr Library Talk and Garden Walk: The Oak Tree
26 Nov
A library talk explores the history and legends of oak trees in the UK, followed by a guided walk led by an RHS arborist to see the oaks at RHS Garden Harlow Carr.
Northern School of Art student exhibition
8–12 Oct (another 3 days)
An exhibition of artwork by A-level students from The Northern School of Art, inspired by Ormesby Hall and the stories of Ruth and Jim Pennyman. Visitors can see photography, ceramics, textiles and paintings displayed in different rooms of the house.
Christmas Through the Ages
28 Nov–2 Dec, 5–9 Dec…
Explore decorated rooms at East Riddlesden Hall presenting Christmas traditions from the Tudor and Jacobean periods through to the present day. Live music featuring 16th-century melodies is performed in the Great Chamber on 29 November and 20 December.
Summer of Play: Personal trainer Mondays
31 Aug
Join Personal Trainer Ryan for a series of cardio focused exercises designed to increase your heart rate. These sessions are part of the Summer of Play activities at East Riddlesden Hall and are appropriate for all ages. The sessions last 1 hour, and participants can drop in and out as they please.
Conservation in Action
11 Sep, 18 Sep
Conservation in Action at Ormesby Hall is a free event during Heritage Open Days, where visitors can meet staff and volunteers demonstrating how they care for the house's collections, including textiles, ceramics, furniture, and books. The event takes place indoors between 10:30 am and 1:30 pm, offering a rare chance to see conservation work and book cleaning demonstrations up close. No booking is required for this event.
October Half Term: Ghost Walks
24–25 Oct, 31 Oct–1 Nov
Join local ghost expert The Curator for an evening walk through Nostell’s parkland and gardens, exploring the estate’s spooky history and looking for ghostly sightings with a handheld lantern.
Meet Father Christmas at Nunnington Hall
21 Nov, 28 Nov…
Children can meet Father Christmas and his elf in the Panelled Bedroom at Nunnington Hall, share their Christmas wishes and receive a book. Each child’s visit lasts 10 minutes.
Christmas storytelling for under 5s
30 Nov, 7 Dec…
Children under five can listen to Mrs Claus tell a Christmas story in the Great Hall and visit a station in the Discovery Room to write their Christmas wishes to Santa.
Electric Press Productions present Cinderella
4–5 Dec, 11–12 Dec…
Electric Press Productions presents an immersive Christmas pantomime of Cinderella at East Riddlesden Hall, with audiences moving around the grounds and meeting characters as the story unfolds. The performance features live music and is suitable for children aged five and over.
Haunted Raby: Ghost Walk Tour
24 Oct–1 Nov
A torchlit guided tour of Raby Castle explores reported hauntings, ghost stories and accounts of past residents. The route begins in the walled garden and continues through castle rooms, including some not usually open to the public.
Summer of Play: Harrogate Town AFC
3 Sep
Summer of Play: Harrogate Town AFC is a series of outdoor sports activities for children led by Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation. It includes football and cricket sessions with drills, mini-games, and friendly matches. The sessions alternate weekly and aim to teach skills in a safe, supportive environment during the school summer holidays.
Autumn Weekend
16–18 Oct (next weekend)
RHS Garden Harlow Carr’s Autumn Weekend celebrates the garden’s autumn colours and produce, with a fruit and vegetable competition, an apple display and expert advice. Visitors can also attend talks and join fungus forays, which require pre-booking.
Monastic wealth tour
20 Oct
Join a volunteer guide for a tour exploring how Fountains Abbey became a wealthy and self-sufficient Cistercian monastery, including the products it made and the systems it used.
Garden Talks: Grow Your Own Veg
7 Sep
Garden Talks: Grow Your Own Veg is a series of monthly talks held by Nostell's Senior Gardener in the Kitchen Garden. The sessions provide practical advice and expert tips on growing vegetables, caring for fruit beds, and seasonal gardening techniques. The talks require garden admission and booking is advised as places are allocated on a first come, first served basis.
October Half Term: Ghosts!
24 Oct–1 Nov
Families can follow a spooky ghost-hunting trail through Nostell’s house and gardens, looking for hidden ghosts and clues. The activity also includes finding pumpkin rocks in Joiner’s Wood.
Deadtime Stories for Adults
30–31 Oct
Visitors explore Treasurer’s House after hours by candlelight, moving through its rooms and hearing stories about the people connected with the house over the centuries. The event is for adults aged 18 and over.
Near York Castle
York Castle is a historic fortified complex in York, England featuring the ruins of Clifford's Tower, a unique medieval stone keep, and buildings housing the York Castle Museum and York Crown Court. It offers both indoor and outdoor heritage experiences reflecting its rich history from the Norman period through to a 17th-century explosion and beyond.
October Half Term: Bat Walks
25–27 Oct
A guided dusk walk through Nostell’s Pleasure Grounds and Menagerie Garden, where attendees can learn to use bat detectors and about local bat species, flight paths and feeding habits. Bat sightings are not guaranteed.
Summer of Play: Family trail
30 Aug–20 Sep
Summer of Play: Family trail is a new family trail event at Beningbrough gardens led by Dart the Dragonfly. It offers interactive panels and activities to enjoy outdoor time in nature over multiple days during late August and September 2026.
Monk's walk to Fountains Abbey
30 Aug, 27 Sep
A monthly guided outdoor walk following the historic trail of the Cistercian monks from Brimham Rocks to Fountains Abbey, covering 8 miles with expansive scenic views and a bus return option. Dogs are welcome but must be on a short lead and able to climb over stiles. Booking is not required and the walk is free but normal venue admission charges apply.
Wow! I didn't know that! walk
9 Sep
A guided walk at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden where participants discover unusual facts about the trees and wildflowers, exploring wildlife and nature. The walk is suitable for adults and young naturalists aged 11 and above and lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes.
2 miles from Brimham Rocks
Brimham Rocks is a natural outdoor attraction in North Yorkshire featuring distinctive giant rock formations formed over millions of years. The site offers accessible trails, a refreshment kiosk, walking and cycling paths, and family-friendly activities in a scenic moorland setting.
Secrets of the Collection: Art
21–31 Aug, 3–7 Sep…
Secrets of the Collection: Art is an exhibition at Ormesby Hall showcasing the Pennyman family’s artistic legacy and their connections to prominent artists. The exhibition displays highlights from the Pennyman art collection and the stories behind them, held on the first floor of the house accessible only by stairs. It takes place during the open days of Ormesby Hall, with normal admission charges applying and no booking needed to attend.
Live Wild: Bushcraft and survival day
26 Sep
Live Wild: Bushcraft and survival day is an immersive outdoor workshop at Hardcastle Crags led by qualified bushcraft instructors. Participants aged 12 and above (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult) will learn skills including ancestral fire lighting, natural shelter building, water harvesting and purification, natural navigation, and safe use of axes and tools. Booking is essential.
Fountains by Floodlight
9–10 Oct, 16–17 Oct…
Explore Fountains Abbey after dark, with floodlighting and projected animations bringing the ruins’ history to life. The event also includes guided tours, live choral performances and Gregorian chant.
Summer of Play at Nunnington Hall
18 Jul–6 Sep
Summer of Play at Nunnington Hall is a family-friendly event running from 18 July to 6 September 2026, featuring a 10-point family trail inspired by fairy tale illustrations from the Gina Kaminski book series. Activities include helping the Three Little Pigs build houses, racing Cinderella's carriage, archery with Robin Hood, sorting Snow White's apples, breadcrumb trails of Hansel and Gretel, frog prince hunts, dressing up, creative play, meadow games, and hands-on activities in a Creative Hub.
Winter Ceilidh
20 Nov
An evening ceilidh in Airedale Barn with live music from Thom Hardaker Music and dancing. A bar will serve drinks and snacks.
Apple ID Day
28 Oct
A hands-on apple identification activity at Nostell, where visitors can bring two or more apples and try to identify their variety with help from the garden team.
Summer of Play: Wildlife Wednesdays
26 Aug
Summer of Play: Wildlife Wednesdays is an outdoor event at Ormesby Hall where attendees can join in the garden for bug and bird spotting using magnifying glasses and binoculars. The event occurs during the summer holidays and is free to attend, but normal admission charges to the venue apply. Booking is not required.
Monastic bread, beer and wool tour
15 Sep, 6 Oct
The Monastic bread, beer and wool tour at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden invites visitors to join a volunteer guide to learn about how monks sustained themselves through food, drink, clothing, and trade. The tour starts at Porter's Lodge and lasts for approximately one hour. It covers the history and economy related to the estate's mill and its products. The tour is free but requires payment of usual venue admission, and does not require advance booking. The event takes place indoors and outdoors with some parts involving walking on uneven ground.
Halloween at Gibson Mill
7–31 Oct (another 22 days)
Halloween at Gibson Mill is a family event featuring spooky decorations, photo opportunities and Halloween-themed games. Visitors can take part in self-led arts and crafts activities, with pumpkin decorating offered during the final weekend.
Abbey tour
30 Aug–6 Sep
Join a volunteer guide for an outdoor one-hour tour to discover the history and monastic secrets of Fountains Abbey, the largest and most complete monastic ruins in the UK, located within a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tours run twice daily at 1pm and 3pm, seven days a week until 1 November 2026, meeting at the abbey cloister. The tour is weather dependent and may be cancelled if guides are unavailable.
Guardians of the Garden
7–11 Oct, 13–18 Oct…
An exhibition of contemporary textile artworks inspired by pollinators, including bees, butterflies, moths and hoverflies. The exhibition explores the role these creatures play in gardens, countryside and natural habitats.
Half-term Pumpkin trail
24–28 Oct, 31 Oct–1 Nov
A half-term Halloween trail at East Riddlesden Hall invites visitors to search the Hall and gardens for pumpkins and discover a hidden word. Visitors can also make a spooky Halloween craft in the Discovery Room.
Harlow Carr Library Talk: Elizabeth Blackwell and her Curious Herbal
22 Oct
A short talk explores Elizabeth Blackwell’s 18th-century herbal and the plants and remedies used in medicine at the time, drawing on RHS Libraries’ rare books, art and archives.
Summer of Play: Wrongsemble Theatre presents Rapunzel
30 Aug
Wrongsemble Theatre presents an interactive outdoor performance of Rapunzel at Nostell. The show includes storytelling and audience participation with two 45-minute drop-in performances at 11am and 1pm. The event is held on the grass in front of the house and is suitable for families with children aged 3 and over. No booking is needed and the event is included in the price of parking.
Abbey tour
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Join a volunteer guide for a one-hour tour of Fountains Abbey’s monastic ruins, exploring the abbey’s history and the daily routines of the monks who lived there.
Heritage Open Days (FREE ENTRY)
11–13 Sep, 18–20 Sep
Heritage Open Days 2026 at Ormesby Hall offers free entry on specific September dates to explore the historic house, Pennyman family stories, Northern School of Art students exhibition, model railway layouts, garden flowers, and a new multi-user trail through the estate. Visitors can also access the cafe and secondhand bookshop for free on these days.
The Pikachu Art Adventure at Fountains Abbey
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Follow a trail of 30 Pikachu trading-card artworks around Fountains Abbey, discover facts about the character and design your own card. Visitors can collect a gallery sheet and use a Pikachu stamper at Fountains Mill.
Carols around the Christmas Tree
6 Dec, 13 Dec…
Join in singing festive favourites around the Christmas tree in the courtyard, with live choirs performing on selected dates.
Apple Pressing
27 Oct
Visitors can learn how estate-grown cider apples are turned into juice and try traditional apple pressing themselves at Swanley Grange. Apple juice and mulled cider will also be available to taste and buy.
Summer of Play at East Riddlesden Hall
25 Jul–31 Aug
Summer of Play at East Riddlesden Hall offers playful family days out from 25 July to 31 August with activities such as croquet, hopscotch, chalk games, and puppet shows in the gardens, alongside weekly drop-in fitness classes including personal training, yoga, and dance sessions.
Summer of Play: Pop-up sports day
3 Sep
Summer of Play: Pop-up sports day is an outdoor event held on the south lawn at Beningbrough, York, North Yorkshire. Visitors can find various pop-up games to play. It occurs on 3 September 2026 from 11:00 to 15:00. The event is free to attend, but normal admission charges to the venue apply and no booking is needed.
Meet costumed re-enactors
24–25 Oct
Meet costumed re-enactors presenting demonstrations and workshops inspired by illuminated manuscripts and medieval monastic life. The re-enactors move around the estate, so visitors can ask the welcome team where to find them.
Orchard talk with Nostell's Senior Gardener
26 Oct
Join Nostell’s Senior Gardener for a stroll and talk in the orchard, learning about its history, garden care and the varieties of English Heritage apples and pears growing there. There may also be an opportunity to taste some fruit.
Christmas trail
28 Nov–3 Dec, 5–10 Dec…
A festive outdoor trail through the ruins of Fountains Abbey and the water gardens. Visitors pick up a trail sheet and follow clues to discover seasonal highlights across the estate.
Live Wild: Foraging taster sessions
10 Sep, 17 Sep…
Live Wild: Foraging taster sessions are guided by foraging expert Leonie at Hardcastle Crags. The sessions provide an introduction to foraging, including safety, legal considerations, seasonal wild edibles, identification, sustainable harvesting, and feature seasonal wild food samples. Suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult). Booking is essential.
By appointment tour
7 Oct, 10 Oct…
A guided tour of Treasurer’s House explores Frank Green’s vision for the historic house and its collection of furniture, clocks and art, alongside research into his life and the property.
2 miles from York Cold War Bunker
The York Cold War Bunker in York is a preserved two-storey semi-subterranean bunker built in 1961 for nuclear monitoring during the Cold War, now an English Heritage site and museum showcasing Cold War operations and defence technology.
Brimham through the ages tour
29 Oct
Join a guided walk at Brimham Rocks exploring how the landscape formed during the last ice age and the stories of the people who lived there.
A taste of Brimham tour
17 Oct, 24 Oct…
A volunteer guide leads a 30–40 minute walk through Brimham Rocks, explaining the site's history and how its distinctive rock formations came to be.
Uncover the mysteries of the masons' marks
8 Oct, 22 Oct
A volunteer guide leads an interactive tour of the masons’ marks carved into Fountains Abbey’s ruins, exploring their different forms and possible meanings.
Live Wild: Nature Queers
5 Sep, 24 Sep
Live Wild: Nature Queers is an outdoor event at Hardcastle Crags focusing on connecting LGBTQ+ individuals with nature and community through practical outdoor skills such as bushcraft, foraging, fire skills, natural crafting, whittling, survival skills, shelter building, and herbalism. The event includes nature connection practices for a sense of belonging and peace and welcomes both experienced and new outdoors people.
Halloween pre-booking days at Ormesby Hall 2026
28–31 Oct
Visitors can explore Ormesby Hall’s Halloween-decorated house and garden monster-seeker trail, make a surprise card in the stables, and watch a performance of The Skeleton Bride by The Walking Theatre Company.
Explore the Great Barn
7 Oct, 14 Oct…
Visitors can explore Gawthorpe Hall’s Grade I listed Great Barn with a knowledgeable volunteer and learn about its history, former uses, restoration and future plans.
Halloween Trail
31 Oct
A Halloween-themed trail through the grounds of Gawthorpe Hall, where visitors can look for hidden ghosts, pumpkins, black cats and witches. Participants collect a trail sheet at the Hall before exploring.
Traditional games
21–23 Dec, 26 Dec 2026–3 Jan 2027
Visitors can play a collection of traditional games at Swanley Grange, including backgammon, charades and Pictionary, and use the puppet theatre. The games are available for all ages.
Meet the Maker: Textilia 3
15 Sep
Meet the Maker: Textilia 3 is an art exhibition event at East Riddlesden Hall where visitors can meet some of the artists behind the exhibition 'The Fabric of East Riddlesden: Inspiration from the Hall and its grounds'. The artists will be working on new artwork in the exhibition space and available to answer questions.
October Half-Term at Beningbrough: Autumn Treasures Scavenger Hunt
24–25 Oct, 28 Oct–1 Nov
A half-term scavenger hunt through Beningbrough’s gardens, where young explorers can look for colourful leaves, unusual seeds and other signs of autumn.
The Sharing of Diwali
7–11 Nov
The Sharing of Diwali is a five-day festival at East Riddlesden Hall, with activities including puppet shows, live music, lantern making, textile and drumming workshops, storytelling, a lantern parade and light displays.
Festive evening at Ormesby Hall
4 Dec, 11 Dec
A late-night Christmas opening at Ormesby Hall, where visitors can explore the house decorated as different fairy-tale realms. The evenings also include festive music, storytelling in the library and marshmallow toasting by a fire pit.
On the hoof
5 Dec, 13 Dec…
Visitors can watch wild deer feeding near St Mary's Church, examine antlers and speak with the wildlife team. A deer ranger will explain how to distinguish Red, Sika and Fallow deer and describe managing the herd.
Create Bulb Displays for Indoors and Out
30 Oct
A two-hour horticulture workshop with RHS tutor Esther Wolff on creating spring bulb containers using the “bulb lasagne” technique, as well as an indoor display container with fragrant and decorative plants.
Heritage Walk (by More Than A Run)
12 Sep
Join More Than A Run (MTAR) for a Heritage Walk following the Park-to-Park Route at Ormesby Hall as part of the Heritage Open Days. The walk covers about 3 miles through parklands, fields, and woods, including access to the house and gardens, with opportunities to visit the mansion, garden, and cafe afterwards. Pre-booking is essential and the event operates on a pay-as-you-feel donation basis.
Traditional 16th century music
1 Nov, 29 Nov…
Musicians from Dulciana share 16th-century music and demonstrate period instruments, exploring how music was played and enjoyed in homes of the era.
Fixing Fairytales with Gina Kaminski
30 Aug–6 Sep
Fixing Fairytales with Gina Kaminski is a family-friendly exhibition at Nunnington Hall featuring hands-on activities and colorful illustrations where Gina Kaminski, a problem-solving protagonist, helps fix mistakes in fairy tales with a creative twist.
The Duke's Theatre Presents 'A Most Wonderful Time'
18–19 Dec
The Duke’s Theatre presents a live festive concert featuring arrangements of Christmas classics, seasonal stories and readings from writers including Dickens and Shakespeare.
A Fairy tale Christmas
27–30 Nov, 4–7 Dec…
Ormesby Hall is decorated as a series of fairy-tale settings for a Christmas experience, with rooms inspired by stories including The Snow Queen, Alice in Wonderland and The Little Mermaid. Visitors can wander through the themed rooms and explore the hall.
Bah, Humbug! A Christmas Carol at Fountains Hall
28–29 Nov, 5–6 Dec…
Visitors can wander through Fountains Hall, decorated as a Victorian Christmas inspired by Charles Dickens’ *A Christmas Carol*, and see festive scenes, hear carols and explore rooms evoking the story.
Have a go at dog agility
18 Sep, 20 Sep
Have a go at dog agility is an outdoor event at Nostell where visitors can try out a dog agility course suitable for dogs of all sizes. The event requires no booking and is included in the price of the parking ticket. It is an opportunity for dogs to explore and socialize on the grass area in front of the house.
Halloween half-term at Whitby Abbey
24 Oct–1 Nov
A Halloween half-term event at Whitby Abbey with family activities including interactive storytelling, spooky games, a themed trail and a fancy-dress competition.
Storytime with Father Christmas
5–6 Dec, 12–13 Dec…
Children can join a 30-minute Christmas storytime session with Father Christmas, tell him about their year and share a wish list. Each child receives a book, and there is an opportunity to take festive photos.
Meet the Maker: Matthew Eyles
25 Oct, 19 Dec…
Meet artist in residence Matthew Eyles and learn about his exhibition, ‘Thresholds: Light, Memory, and Place’. He will share his sketchbooks and works in progress and discuss how he creates his artworks and what inspires them.
Turning back time tour
11 Oct, 18 Oct…
A tour at Treasurer’s House explores the lives and legends of some of its former residents, tracing the history of the house and its connections to York.
2 miles from Middlethorpe Hall
Middlethorpe Hall is a historic 17th-century English country house near York, set in extensive grounds with restored gardens and a lake. Owned by the National Trust and operating as a hotel, it offers visitors both indoor architectural heritage and outdoor natural beauty.
Harlow Carr Embroidery: Summer and Autumn
8–31 Oct (another 22 days)
View two seasonal garden scenes embroidered by Richmond & Leyburn Creative Stitchers, depicting Harlow Carr’s Main Borders in high summer and autumn. The exhibition is displayed in Harlow Carr Library.
Summer of Play: Step into the Thomas More Painting
30–31 Aug
Summer of Play: Step into the Thomas More Painting is a pop-in exhibition at Nostell house where visitors can explore the famous Thomas More portrait through interactive games and Tudor dress-up activities. It offers a family-friendly experience to recreate Tudor family portraits with costumes and discover the social significance of Tudor clothing, without touring the whole house.
Owl About Goddards Trail
10–11 Oct, 17–18 Oct…
Visitors can follow a family-friendly trail through Goddards Gardens, finding hidden owls and collecting letters to solve an owl-related word. Completing the trail earns a sticker.
Dusk deer walk
9 Oct
Join wildlife volunteers for an evening walk through Studley deer park to learn about its red, fallow and sika deer and see and hear the rut as the season begins.
Garden Talks: A Bed Full of Roses
21 Sep
Garden Talks: A Bed Full of Roses is a guided talk and gentle stroll through Nostell's Kitchen Garden focusing on the history and varieties of roses cultivated there. Led by the Senior Gardener, attendees explore the garden at their own pace, learning about heritage planting, personal stories, and the living legacy of Nostell's roses. The event combines informal talk and self-paced garden exploration.
Music at the abbey
28–29 Nov, 5–6 Dec…
Listen to festive music performed by choirs and bands in the abbey’s cellarium, then stroll around to see the abbey and trees illuminated with colourful lights.
Bath House Gift Shop- Whispers of Summer and Autumn Hues
8–11 Oct (another 2 days)
A collection of handmade gifts and other work by local artists and makers, inspired by the natural world and its beauty, is displayed in the Bath House Gift Shop.