UK City of Culture 2025
Various venues BradfordBradford 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.
ENGINEERY EXHIBITION
Leeds Industrial Museum Armley Mills, Canal Rd, LeedsOn 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.
From Haworth To Eternity: The Enduring Legacy Of The Brontës
Bronte Parsonage Museum Church Street, HaworthThe 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.
THE BLACKPOOL TOWER CIRCUS
Blackpool Tower Circus BlackpoolExperience stunts, comedy, and legendary clowns Mooky and Mr Boo at this historic circus.
Axe-Throwing
The Axe Imperium The Fun House, ColneAxes 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.
Life Goes On – Exhibition
Salts Mill Saltaire, ShipleyAn 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.
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.
Trial By Jury
Bradford Police Museum, City Hall, Centenary Square,, BradfordExperience 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.
The Dino Adventure
East Lancashire Railway 23a Bolton St, BuryJoin 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.
Saltaire Farmers Market
Roberts Park Higher Coach Road, SaltaireThe 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.
Monthly Classic Car Rally at Heskin Hall
Heskin Hall Wood Lane, ChorleyMonthly 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.
Den of Dragons and Fiery Dragon Crafts at Clitheroe Castle
Clitheroe Castle & Museum Castle Hill, ClitheroeJoin us at the museum throughout May to search for our friendly toy dragons hiding in the museum galleries. How many will your young museum explorers find? With ten galleries to explore there's lots to see and do. The dragon hunt runs daily and all entries go into a prize draw for a chance to be the lucky winner of a goody bag of great souvenirs from our shop. There's fiery dragon crafts too. Choose from dragon glider's (£1.50), ceramic dragon decorations (£2.50) and wooden dragon windmills (£3.99). There's free activity sheets and a cosy reading corner to enjoy too. The dragon hunt is free with museum admission. All kids and young people 18 years or younger go free. Museum admission does not apply to join in with crafts. We look forward to seeing you all soon.
Ilkley Carnival 2025
Ilkley Town Centre Ilkley Town Centre, The Grove, IlkleyIlkley 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.
Levison Wood: Walking The World – A Life Of Exploration And Adventure
Lowther Pavilion Lowther Terrace, Lytham St, AnnesThis 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.
The Thrill of Love
Keighley Playhouse Devonshire Street, KeighleyTrue drama by Amanda Whittingham. Ruth Ellis was the last woman to be hanged in Great Britain in 1955 after being convicted of shooting her lover David Blakely in cold blood.
The Don Banks Afternoon Variety Show
Darwen Library Theatre Knott Street, DarwenCome along on a nostalgic journey down memory lane back to those good old days for an afternoon of uplifting songs, stories and laughter. £4.50/£5.50
All Things McCartney – Unplugged
Darwen Library Theatre Knott Street, DarwenA unique acoustic celebration of the music of Paul McCartney, Wings, and of course The Beatles. Steve Littlewood’s performance is pivotal and engaging as he hosts and charms with his captivating portrayal of the great man.
And Finally… Phil Collins
Lowther Pavilion Lowther Terrace, Lytham St, AnnesChris O’Connell brings the charisma and style of the man who fronted Genesis and sold over 150 million albums world-wide in his magnificent solo career.
Menston Art Club Exhibition
Kirklands Community Centre MenstonCome 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.
Brontë
Ilkley Playhouse Weston Road, IlkleyIn a collision of dreams, imaginings and memories, playwright Polly Teale shows how three great writers emerged, three sisters, three landmarks of the Yorkshire moors, entwined by ties of family, isolation and a passion for the written word. 7.30pm. Adult £10, concs £6.
Simon Reeve – To The Ends of The Earth
The Grand Theatre BlackpoolSimon 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.
An Audience with Alastair Cook
King’s Hall Station Road, IlkleyAn 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.
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.
KILLER COUPLES
Burnley Mechanics Manchester Road, BurnleyEmma 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."
Kate McDonnell – UK Tour 2025
Skipton Town Hall High Street, SkiptonSinger, guitarist, songwriter and recording artist from Albany, NY, USA, Kate McDonnell has captivated audiences around the globe for decades with her award-winning songwriting skills, unique and jaw-dropping “upside down and backwards” guitar style, her infectious personality and stunning voice. £12.50, under 18s £8.
Dave Spikey
King’s Hall Station Road, IlkleyComedy - This show is all about Dave’s life in… well... a northern town, so no surprise there.
1940s Weekend
Keighley & Worth Valley Railway The Railway Station, Station Road, HaworthCome 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.
Lancashire Hotpots: Definitely Gravy Tour
Albert Halls Victoria Square, BoltonGet ready for a big Saturday night with The Lancashire Hotpots. Bernard and the boys are back to give you a fun filled evening packed with silly songs and the humour that that made the Hotpots famous throughout the land. £19.75 £21.75.
Vintage & Classic Motorcycle Show
The British Commercial Vehicle Museum King Street, LeylandIf 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.
Mary Poppins
The Alhambra Theatre Morley Street, BradfordCameron Mackintosh and Disney’s spectacular production of the classic multi award-winning musical Mary Poppins. The story of the World’s favourite nanny arriving on Cherry Tree Lane is even more magical than ever before featuring dazzling choreography, incredible effects and unforgettable songs. Various times & prices.
SKIPTON BEER FESTIVAL
Skipton Town Hall High Street, SkiptonAn 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.
Travel through time, one vibe at a time.
East Lancashire Railway 23a Bolton St, BuryUnite 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.
Royal Ballet: Ballet to Broadway
Settle Victoria Hall Kirkgate, SettleSensuous contemporary ballet meets the energy of musical theatre in four distinctive short works. Fool’s Paradise, The Two of Us, Us, An American in Paris: four works showing the remarkable choreographic range of The Royal Ballet's Artistic Associate, Christopher Wheeldon.
Pride & Prejudice* (*sort of)
Leeds Grand Theatre New Briggate, LeedsDirect from its triumph in the West End where it won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Comedy and the Evening Standard Award, Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of) returns to Leeds Grand Theatre by public demand and is a unique and audacious retelling of Jane Austen’s most iconic love story. 7.30pm, Wed & Sat mat 2.30pm. £27 - £50.
The Music of Hans Zimmer & Others
St. George's Hall Bridge Street, BradfordExperience the unique and best film scores from Dune, James Bond, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Lion King, Gladiator, The Dark Knight, Inception, Interstellar and many more top productions in a fascinating concert featuring film orchestra, choir, guest soloists, a special guest from the films, and selected film clips! £37.65 - £80.65.
Everybody’s Talking About Jamie
The Grand Theatre BlackpoolInspired by a true story, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is an award-winning hit musical for today. This funny, fabulous musical sensation has thrilled audiences and critics alike since its premiere at the Crucible Theatre, Sheffield in 2017. 7.30pm, Thurs & Sat mat 2pm. £20 - £39.
Danny Lee Grew: 24K Magic
Skipton Town Hall High Street, SkiptonJoin top magician Danny Lee Grew in his brand new mind boggling one man show 24K Magic – no rabbits, no top hats and most importantly, no ‘magic tricks’… just miracles. Expect a spellbinding evening of jaw dropping magic, illusion, laughs, gasps, and stunning sleight of hand sorcery – all performed live, in the flesh and under the most impossible conditions. £10 - £15.
Adele The Candlelight Concert
The Muni Theatre ColneExperience the magic of Adele’s music like never before with Adele – The Candlelight Concert, an immersive candlelit tribute concert brought to you by Xperience Live. Talented tribute artist Natalie Black will perform Adele's greatest hits, delivering the emotion, soul and captivating presence of her iconic sound.
MEDIEVAL REVIVAL
Hoghton Tower Hoghton, PrestonVisit this authentic encampment, with Sir John Savile’s Household and take a glimpse back into medieval times. Living history displays and demonstrations will include weapons and trades from the medieval period. Activities will be taking place throughout the day. Adult £10, children free but must be accompanied by an adult.
QWEEN UK – The Live Experience
Preston Playhouse Market Street West, PrestonQWEEN UK are the premier UK Queen tribute band consisting of four experienced and professionally seasoned musicians.
An Audience with Kevin Keegan
King’s Hall Station Road, IlkleyHosted by Sky Sports presenter Peter Graves, join Kevin for an evening of chat about his spectacular career. £34.75 - £102.75.
ADHD – Unmasked
Lowther Pavilion Lowther Terrace, Lytham St, AnnesJoin 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.
Abigail’s Party
Pendle Hippodrome Theatre New Market Street, ColneAt the height of 1970s suburbia, social class and ambition, Beverly Moss, the Hostess with the Mostess, is inviting you to her cocktail party. The latest tracks are on the record player, the drinks are flowing and there’s even a bowl of olives
ALL HAIL HYENA
The Muni Theatre ColneLancashire’s own ALL HAIL HYENA, the cult-favourite trio with a global fan base, over a million streams on Spotify, and more than 60 million views on social media, are set to play their biggest headline show to date at the iconic Muni Theatre in Colne. Celebrating eight years of musical innovation, the band promises a wild, high-energy, and unpredictable live experience that fans won’t want to miss.
Black Dyke Band
Skipton Town Hall High Street, SkiptonBlack Dyke Band is the most recorded band in the world with over 350 recordings and growing every year, in October 2020 the band’s recording of music by John Rutter become the first by a brass band to reach No.1 in the classical music chart.
Murder: Staged
King’s Hall Station Road, IlkleyFollowing the success of Crime Viral’s sell out UK serial killer tour, research psychologist and psychopathy expert Cheish Merryweather will be bringing to the stage for the very first time Murder Staged. This is an unmissable evening for any true crime fan.
Flook: Celebrating 30 years in 2025!
The Met Market Street, BuryThe iconic, ground-breaking Irish/English folk group returns to Bury. Thirty years after their first gig together, they continue to inspire and enchant audiences of all ages. £24-£26.
THE ELO EXPERIENCE
Burnley Mechanics Manchester Road, BurnleyThe ELO Experience - The world's foremost multi award winning tribute to The Electric Light Orchestra. With sensational string section, stunning light show and large screen projection, why not come along and enjoy this incredible show which takes you on a magical musical journey through time.
Jazzin’ the Park 2025
Winckley Square Town Centre, PrestonA Festival of music and culture for Lancashire. Jazzin' the Park is a free live music event that brings together diversity and community through music and art.
Music for a Summer Evening
St Silas' Church Preston New Road, PrestonBlackburn Music Society and East Lancashire Concert Band join together to present a cornucopia of music for a summer evening. Under 19s free.