1 January to 31 December
UK City of Culture 2025
Various venues Bradford
Bradford district’s year of culture is set to deliver more than 1,000 new performances and events including 365 artist commissions, a series of major arts festivals and major national and international collaborations. Visit the website for further details.
1 January to 31 December.
https://www.visitbradford.com/
11 January to 28 September
ENGINEERY EXHIBITION
Leeds Industrial Museum, Armley Mills, Canal Rd,
Leeds
On the 300th anniversary of John Smeaton, dubbed the Father of Civil Engineering, our new exhibition celebrates civil engineering in its many forms! Uncover unique objects that were central to Smeaton’s journey and an accompanying exhibition by our Young Smeatonians group which poses challenging questions about the subject. The exhibition is on until 28th Sept 2025.
11 January to 28 September.
https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/
1 February to 31 December
From Haworth To Eternity: The Enduring Legacy Of The Brontës
Bronte Parsonage Museum, Church Street,
Haworth
The Brontës’ enduring popularity is largely explained by the power and originality of the stories they created, but the story of the Brontës’ own lives is as compelling as their fictions. The family’s home at Haworth Parsonage, and the moorland surrounding it, were a profound influence on the Brontës, and became part of the irresistible draw of Haworth for visitors from all over the world.
1 February to 31 December.
bronte.org.uk
11 February to 5 November
THE BLACKPOOL TOWER CIRCUS
Blackpool Tower Circus ,
Blackpool
Experience stunts, comedy, and legendary clowns Mooky and Mr Boo at this historic circus.
11 February to 5 November.
theblackpooltower.com
24 March to 31 December
Axe-Throwing
The Axe Imperium, The Fun House,
Colne
Axes to Ashes is coming to The Fun House, Colne. Inject some spontaneity, some excitement, some togetherness! Reconnect with your partner, your children, your friends. Do something that makes you feel alive. Release that inner Viking Lose your pent-up frustration It's therapy. It's fun. It's addictive. Axes to Ashes isn't an ordinary axe throwing venue with very limited equipment; it has Tomahawks, Angel Axes, Throwing Knives and its very own Axes to Ashes Dragon Axe®. Plus there is an Axelings™ Range which is suitable for children and those with physical impairments which may limit their ability to throw regular projectiles. Various times and prices.
24 March to 31 December.
https://www.axestoashes.com/axe-imperium
29 March to 31 December
Life Goes On – Exhibition
Salts Mill, Saltaire,
Shipley
An exhibition featuring Ian Beesley, a celebrated Bradford-born photographer. Known for his powerful images of Northern England, Beesley will showcase a collection of previously unseen works from his extensive archive. Wed - Sun 10am - 5pm. Free.
29 March to 31 December.
saltsmill.org.uk
29 March to 6 April
Exhibition – Ilkley Art Club
Ilkley Manor House,, Castle Yard,
Ilkley
Ilkley Art Club is an inclusive and welcoming group whose members have varying styles and approaches to their art, enjoying practical sessions, including working from the figure, lectures, discussions and demonstrations. Exhibition Sat & Sun. Free.
29 March to 6 April.
www.ilkleymanorhouse.org
2 April to 2 November
An Account of Life: Gawthorpe Hall in the 1600s
An exhibition bringing the household of Gawthorpe Hall in the 1600s to life, through the original account books of the Shuttleworth Family. Various opening times.
2 April to 2 November.
lancashire.gov.uk
4 April to 20 April
Train to Save a Dragon Trail
Happa, Shores Hey Farm, Briercliffe,,
Burnley
Follow the trail and complete the tasks to learn how to save a dragon. Those who complete the trail will receive a special Ready to Save a Dragon Certificate.
£4.
4 April to 20 April.
happa.org.uk
5 April
Woof Shack
Happa, Shores Hey Farm, Briercliffe,,
Burnley
Bring your dogs to this free, social event, to enjoy a talk by Alan Cope from Ginger Pig Pet Services. Talk on predatory motor pattern and Premack principle. Understand your dog's natural drive and how to work with it, not against it.
8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
https://www.happa.org.uk
5 April to 1 November
Trial By Jury
Bradford Police Museum,, City Hall, Centenary Square,,
Bradford
Experience the drama and intrigue of a Victorian-era courtroom like never before! Join us for an immersive reenactment where you become part of the story. First Saturday of each month. £15/£20.
5 April to 1 November.
bradfordpolicemuseum.com
6 April
Prince, Princess and Dragon Day
Happa, Shores Hey Farm, Briercliffe,,
Burnley
An epic adventure in a world filled with fire and legends. Prepare for tales of bravery and magic. Dress up and enter the fancy dress competition, meet the mythical dragon in the Dragon Show and then have your face painted or get a glitter tattoo, also enjoy crown or sword making in the activity room.
£15.
8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
https://www.happa.org.uk
7 April to 14 April
Build a Chocolate Bar with Jacqueline’s Chocolates
Happa, Shores Hey Farm, Briercliffe,,
Burnley
Build a 100g bar of handmade chocolate in the HAPPA Café and add toppings of your choice. All bars made will raise funds for the Charity.
7 April to 14 April.
https://www.happa.org.uk
8 April
Easter Half Term Family Activities
Bradford Cathedral, 1 Stott Hill,
Bradford
Families are invited to enjoy a variety of free activities during the Easter holiday, including crafts, colouring, trails, quizzes, and plenty of fun for all ages. 10am - 12pm & 1pm - 3pm. Family-friendly guided tours will be held at 11am, and 2pm, or visitors can explore the Cathedral on their own with a self-guided tour.
All day.
8 April to 15 April
Pony Grooming Sessions
Happa, Shores Hey Farm, Briercliffe,,
Burnley
Have you ever wanted to groom a horse or pony? Now is your chance at HAPPA. These sessions allow visitors to groom one of HAPPA’s gentle horses under staff supervision. Suitable for ages 4+.
£5.
8 April to 15 April.
https://www.happa.org.uk
9 April
The Wizarding Adventure
East Lancashire Railway, 23a Bolton St,
Bury
One return trip from Bury to Rawtenstall hauled by a genuine heritage (and spell) powered train. An approximately hour and a half wizarding experience with the region’s most pre-eminent enchanters. Wizard themed activities. Ages 5yr - 12yr but anyone is welcome. £20/£17.50.
All day.
eastlancsrailway.org.uk
9 April
Wood Owl and the Box of Wonders + Accompanying Puppet-making Workshop
The Muni Theatre ,
Colne
A beautiful new Hoglets play for pre- and primary-aged children. Featuring beautiful handmade puppets, original songs and music and an age-old message that the love we show to others comes back to us in time.
£10.
10:30 am to 10:30 pm.
https://www.themuni.co.uk/
10 April to 28 May
The Dino Adventure
East Lancashire Railway, 23a Bolton St,
Bury
Join our intrepid explorers (10th April and 28th May) on an adventure of Jurassic proportions as we give you the opportunity to get up close and personal with our baby dinosaurs. Your adventure includes a steam train ride from Bury to Rawtenstall and back, a roughly two-hour dino experience with our professional dinosaur handlers, themed activities and plenty of photo opportunities. Various times. £17.50/£20.
10 April to 28 May.
eastlancsrailway.org.uk
11 April
Echoes Of The North
Victoria Hall, Saltaire ,
Shipley
Echoes of the North: Four Chapters in Time captures the North as it’s rarely seen today. Drawn from over 100 fragments of archive film, this evocative silent movie takes audiences down the highways and byways of Northern life in the early 20th century – our communities and industries, our villages and cities, and the landmark moments that defined our lives, with BD1 Brass leading a musical and cinematic celebration of Northern England.
£10.
7:30 pm.
12 April
The Enchanted Princess Ball
The Muni Theatre ,
Colne
This Royal Princess Extravaganza is a fast paced, high energy and engaging musical toe tapping adventure that is perfect for the whole family featuring stunning sets, sparkling costumes and lots of songs, dance, laughs and audience participation! Fancy Dress to this show is highly encouraged. £20, concs £18.
1:00 pm.
www.themuni.co.uk
13 April to 14 December
Saltaire Farmers Market
Roberts Park, Higher Coach Road,
Saltaire
The Saltaire Farmers Market takes place on the second Sunday of every month It offers a wide variety of products from local and independent traders, including hot food and drinks, baked goods, cheese, cakes, pies, , brownies, chocolates, charcuterie, fish, fruits, vegetables, jewellery, candles, clothes, gifts, and treats.
13 April to 14 December.
https://realmarkets.co.uk
15 April
Angelica Sprockets Pockets
The Muni Theatre ,
Colne
Filled with Folksy’s touch of live music, puppetry, audience interaction and madness! This fun-filled show is the perfect treat for the whole family! Adult £14, concs £12, family £42.
2:00 pm.
www.themuni.co.uk
15 April
Puppet Spectacular Glow Show
Lowther Pavilion, Lowther Terrace,
Lytham St, Annes
Join us for a Puppet Spectacular Glow Show, a captivating one-hour UV puppet show featuring a cast of colourful characters that will delight audiences of all ages. Adult £13, child £11.
2:00 pm.
lowtherpavilion.co.uk
15 April
Adventures in Science
Chorley Theatre, Dole Lane,
Chorley
Seriously Silly Science For All Ages. Join 'The Magical Mr West' on an incredible adventure into the world of science! Aided by his corvid companion Crowbert and a collection of curious contraptions. Adult £12, child £10.
2:30 pm.
visitlancashire.com
16 April to 23 April
Easter Bunny Crafts
Gawthorpe Hall, Burnley Road,
Padiham
Hop on down to join in with some bunny themed crafty fun. It's time for the family to have some creative fun and make your own bunny from paper and recycled materials. 16th & 23rd April. Included in admission to the Hall (£7 adults, children FREE), drop-in, no booking needed.
16 April to 23 April.
visitlancashire.com
18 April to 19 April
Peter Rabbit at Easter
Bury Transport Museum, Bolton St Station, Castlecroft Goods Warehouse,,
Bury
Come and see the mischievous bob-tailed bunny, Peter Rabbit at intervals at Bury Transport Museum. There will be even more family fun with three theme park rides suitable for toddlers, face painters and craft activities. Complete your day out with a ride along one of our heritage steam or diesel trains through Irwell Valley. Price includes a ride on any train services on the day of your visit. Adult £20, child £17.50.
18 April to 19 April.
eastlancsrailway.org.uk
18 April to 21 April
Lowther’s Easter Surprise 2025
Lowther Gardens ,
Lytham St. Annes
Celebrate Easter with our free outdoor festival in our historic gardens for a weekend of free activities ranging from family-friendly performances of Alice in Wonderland, walk-around rabbit characters, children’s fun fair, Creative Crafts Association Marquee and much more!
18 April to 21 April.
lowtherpavilion.co.uk
20 April to 19 October
Monthly Classic Car Rally at Heskin Hall
Heskin Hall, Wood Lane,
Chorley
Monthly classic vehicle (all types welcome) rally on a Sunday. Prize for winner. £3.00 to enter. Free for those visiting to look around.Cafe at the Manor & bar are open! See website for dates.
20 April to 19 October.
heskinhall.com
20 April
Easter Bunny Trail
Gawthorpe Hall, Burnley Road,
Padiham
Angela Kay-Shuttleworth has lots of pet rabbits– but tdrop-in, no booking needed.he door of the hutch was left open and they have escaped into the grounds! Grab a clipboard and trail sheet to see how many you can find in the gardens, then claim your chocolatey prize (while stocks last). £2.50 per child, drop-in, no booking needed.
12:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
visitlancashire.com
20 April
The Magic of Science
Blackburn Empire Theatre, Aqueduct Rd,
Blackburn
Top Secret is a fast moving colourful magical science show filled with mystery, suspense, lots and lots of mess! Top Secret will inspire and educate every young budding magician and scientist, as well as proving fun and exciting entertainment for all of the family. Adult £16.50, child £13.50.
2:30 pm.
blackburnempire.com
27 April
The Annual Spring Transport Show
The British Commercial Vehicle Museum, King Street,
Leyland
Once again, the North West’s top classic vehicle show. vintage cars, lorries, buses. Famous makes and models from the UK, Europe, and the USA. Free vehicle entry.
10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
britishcommercialvehiclemuseum.com
27 April to 28 April
See the Spitfire Fly at Spitfire Visitor Centre
Spitfire Visitor Centre, Blackpool Airport, Squires Gate Lane,
Blackpool
The Spitfire Visitor Centre is hosting the Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar this season. The Spitfire of the North flight experiences offer a rare chance to fly in an iconic two seat Spitfire. Book you Spitfire flight or simply plan a visit 27th - 28th April, and experience the sight, sound and smell of the Spitfire. Adults: £10.00.Child 6 - 16 years: £6.00. Child under 5 years: free UK Armed Forces, veterans and carers: £5.00.
27 April to 28 April.
spitfirevisitorcentre.co.uk
29 April
Skipton Town Hall Spring Tea Dance
Skipton Town Hall, High Street,
Skipton
Bring your dancing shoes to the Spring edition of the ever popular Town Hall Tea Dance! You will be entertained by Blackpool Tower resident organist, John Bowdler.
£10.
1:30 pm.
skiptontownhall.co.uk
30 April
An Evening with Aggers – Beyond The Boundary
King’s Hall, Station Road,
Ilkley
Join Aggers for an evening that transcends boundaries as he takes centre stage in his solo show, regaling us with stories from his illustrious career both on and off the field.
7:30 pm.
bradford-theatres.co.uk
3 May to 4 May
Haworth Steampunk Weekend
Butt Lane, Haworth ,
Haworth
See spectacular steampunk attire, meet delightful people, enjoy tempting shops, restaurants, crown bowling, dancers, singers, steam trains, museums, cafés and market stalls, in this historic town in the heart of Bronte Country. The event raises vital funds for the Sue Ryder's Manorlands Hospice.
3 May to 4 May.
4 May
Real Food Ilkley Market
The Grove ,
Ilkley
Real Food Ilkley offers produce from fresh bread, cakes and gluten free bakes to curry sauces, cheeses, condiments and crepes. Stalls also include organic meat and veg, brownies, truffles and herbs from local producers and independent retailers. First Sun of every month.
10:00 am to 3:00 pm.
realmarkets.co.uk
5 May
Ilkley Carnival 2025
Ilkley Town Centre, Ilkley Town Centre,
The Grove, Ilkley
Ilkley Carnival 2025 starts at 11am on Monday 5th May with its spectacular parade beginning on The Grove and finishing at East Holmes Field showground which will be home to headline acts. With all profits made from ticket sales going back into the local community. Adult £8/£6, child £2.
11:00 am.
www.ilkleycarnival.org
5 May
Levison Wood: Walking The World – A Life Of Exploration And Adventure
Lowther Pavilion, Lowther Terrace,
Lytham St, Annes
This brand-new show will celebrate Levison’s remarkable adventures from the past 20 years from the icy landscapes of the Himalayas to the scorching deserts of Arabia.
£31.50.
7:30 pm.
lowtherpavilion.co.uk
10 May to 11 May
Menston Art Club Exhibition
Kirklands Community Centre ,
Menston
Come and join us for our next exhibition on 10th & 11th May 2025 in Kirklands main hall. Members paintings and crafts will be available to admire and purchase. Free entry. Cafe open during exhibition for drinks & cakes.
10 May to 11 May.
https://www.menstonartsclub.org.uk/
12 May
Simon Reeve – To The Ends of The Earth
The Grand Theatre Blackpool
Simon Reeve is an author and TV presenter, and one of the world’s most adventurous travellers. His journeys have taken him to more than 130 countries, across jungles, deserts, mountains and oceans, and to some of the most beautiful, dangerous and remote regions of the world.
£37.50.
7:30 pm.
blackpoolgrand.co.uk
12 May
An Audience with Alastair Cook
King’s Hall, Station Road,
Ilkley
An Audience with Alastair Cook - England's leading Test Run scorer of all time. Hosted by ex England cricketer & England cricket selector Geoff Miller. VIP Meet & Greet available. Various prices.
7:30 pm.
www.bradford-theatres.co.uk
14 May
Conservation In Action
East Riddlesden Hall, Bradford Road,,
Riddlesden, Keighley.
Come along and watch the Collections Team clean and care for the historic items in the Hall, find out more about the techniques they use and how they help. Free with entryto the hall.
10:30 am to 12:00 pm.
nationaltrust.org.uk
14 May
KILLER COUPLES
Burnley Mechanics, Manchester Road,
Burnley
Emma Kenny returns with an enthralling new show that plunges into the depths of love twisted into terror. After her triumphant 'The Serial Killer Next Door' tour, Emma captivates yet again, solidifying her status as one of the UK's foremost crime presenters. This time, she invites you to delve into the dark world of "Killer Couples."
£30.
7:30 pm.
blcgroup.co.uk
17 May to 18 May
1940s Weekend
Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, The Railway Station, Station Road,
Haworth
Come along and experience a journey into the past as we bring the sights, sounds, and spirit of the 1940s to life on the railway! This unforgettable weekend will transport you to a bygone era with authentic displays, entertainment, and much more.
17 May to 18 May.
kwvr.co.uk
18 May
Vintage & Classic Motorcycle Show
The British Commercial Vehicle Museum, King Street,
Leyland
If you are a biker or classic enthusiast, don’t miss this show. The biggest in the North West ! Rare machines by Triumph, Norton, BSA, Villiers,…. A real bikers’ and enthusiasts’ day out. Free Vehicle Entry.
10:00 am.
britishcommercialvehiclemuseum.com
22 May to 24 May
SKIPTON BEER FESTIVAL
Skipton Town Hall, High Street,
Skipton
An event not to be missed! Keighley & Craven CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) is delighted to present the 17th Skipton Beer Festival. There will be approx. 68 real ales on traditional gravity service, plus real ale on KeyKeg, and a range of cider and perry. Wine and soft drinks will be available for non-beer drinkers. Excellent pies will be available, supplied by local butchers, Stanforth. £4 payable on the door. CAMRA Members £1 on production of a valid membership card.
£4.
22 May to 24 May.
www.skiptonbeerfestival.camra.org.uk
24 May to 25 May
Travel through time, one vibe at a time.
East Lancashire Railway, 23a Bolton St,
Bury
Unite with like-minded music lovers and celebrate the iconic and timeless tunes of yesteryear, the music that shaped countless generations and influenced everything we know today. From the frenetic energy of Northern Soul to the vibrant energy of 1970s pop, this festival will be the largest live music event the ELR has ever held.
24 May to 25 May.
www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
2 June
An Audience with Kevin Keegan
King’s Hall, Station Road,
Ilkley
Hosted by Sky Sports presenter Peter Graves, join Kevin for an evening of chat about his spectacular career. £34.75 - £102.75.
7:30 pm.
bradford-theatres.co.uk
2 June
ADHD – Unmasked
Lowther Pavilion, Lowther Terrace,
Lytham St, Annes
Join ADHD speaker, coach, former Wright Stuff TV presenter and late diagnosed ADHD Hester Grainger live on the road with ADHD - UNMASKED. The evening promises open conversation, laughter and a refreshingly honest look at life with ADHD.
£27.50.
7:30 pm to 10:00 pm.
lowtherpavilion.co.uk
8 June
The Morris Vehicle Show Day
The British Commercial Vehicle Museum, King Street,
Leyland
Morris!! . . Morris!!. . Morris!! cars, vans, lorries, buses and military vehicles from one of Britain’s best remembered makers. Celebrate Morris Marina Owners Club’s 40th Year! Free Vehicle Entry.
10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
britishcommercialvehiclemuseum.com