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.
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.
Picture You Dead
The Alhambra Theatre Morley Street, BradfordSuperintendent Roy Grace is back in a brand-new Peter James stage adaptation and world premiere of the bestselling Picture You Dead, which has opened to rave reviews from critics and audiences alike. Various times & prices.
The Great Yorkshire Show
Great Yorkshire Showground HarrogateThe Great Yorkshire Show is the country's leading agricultural event. Each year the Great Yorkshire Show attracts in excess of 125,000 visitors. A great day out for all the family. Adult £36.50, child £13,under 5s free, family £89.
Disney’s Aladdin – Chorley Youth Theatre
Chorley Theatre Dole Lane, ChorleyRing bells. Bang the drums. Chorley Youth Theatre presents an exciting stage adaptation of the legendary tale of the lovable thief with the heart of gold. Adult £10, child £8, family £32. Various times.
Little Shop Of Horrors
Preston Playhouse Market Street West, PrestonLittle Shop of Horrors is the ever popular dark comedy from Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, produced by the award-winning Preston Musical Comedy Society. Various prices.
Hot Ice Show XS
The Arena, Blackpool Pleasure Beach 525 Ocean Boulevard, BlackpoolThirty Olympic and world champion skaters join forces on the ice to create a show of passion, pace and nothing short of pure adrenaline. It’s nail-biting, hair-raising, awe-inspiring and tear-jerking. Various times.
Pride & Prejudice – Outdoor Theatre
Rufford Old Hall 200 Liverpool Road, RuffordJoin Chapterhouse Theatre Company as you step back in time over two hundred years and meet Elizabeth Bennet and her sisters as they navigate the mire of manners of regency society. Adult £20, child £14, family £60. Tel: 0344 249 1895.
Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice
Rufford Old Hall 200 Liverpool Road, RuffordStep back in time over two hundred years and meet Elizabeth Bennet and her sisters as they navigate the mire of manners of regency society.
80’s Live!
St. George's Hall BradfordDirect from London’s West End, we will be heading down the Atlanta Highway, so bring your jukebox money and get ready to Jitterbug.
Beatles Complete
The Met Market Street, BuryFollowing last year’s triumphant sell-out show at The Met, Beatles Complete return to Bury for another night of Beatlemania packed with massive hits from the most influential band of all time. £21.50 - £23.50.
Broadway to Hollywood
Pendle Hippodrome Theatre New Market Street, ColneEncore Dance School presents Broadway to Hollywood. Come and join Encore’s fabulous students showcase their unlimited talents! 2pm & 7.30pm.
Family Fun Day
Alkincoats Park. ColneHaving proven to be a huge success in previous years, the fun day will once again return in 2025 with an array of fun for all the family on offer. There will be something for everyone to enjoy with much of the entertainment being completely free of charge. In addition there will also be giant inflatables, food vendors, funfair rides plus a huge market.
THE MOST PERILOUS COMEDIE OF ELIZABETH I
Hoghton Tower Hoghton, PrestonElizabethan theatre is thriving, but will a new Tudor musical, featuring Good Queen Bess herself, lead to her rise or mark the start of her fall? This production promises to be historically inspired and hilariously entertaining. Outdoor theatre.
Heroes and Villains
The Grand Theatre 18 York Street, ClitheroeHeroes and Villains presented by The Grand Choir - Heroes and villains are the feature of many songs and musicals – from the blockbuster theme songs of Bond movies through to Elphaba in Wicked to villains such as the murderous Sweeney Todd. £6/£8.
“The Myths of Lytham”
Lytham Hall Ballam Rd,, Lytham St Annes,, LancashireAn A-Z creation about things people are unaware of from the past, by David Hoyle from Lytham Archives. Cash on the door £5 including refreshments.
STORY TOUR – Historical Women of Lancaster
Lancaster City Museum Market Square,, LancasterThis city centre tour by Eleanor Levin focuses on women's words and writing about women, including a nurse writing postcards home from WW1 France, an upcycling artist, a loom-breaking luddite, an anti-slavery campaigner, a child much discussed but little understood, a nun, a duke, and a poet. £10, child £2.50.
The Railway Children
Keighley & Worth Valley Railway The Railway Station, Station Road, HaworthThe show begins when you board a steam train at Keighley and then travel the full length of this historic railway. When you reach the end of the line at Oxenhope, you’ll find a purpose-built auditorium within the station’s Engine Shed - and a new version of the production, which tells the story of three children forced to move from London to Yorkshire after their father is falsely imprisoned. 1pm & 6.3opm. From £15.
UNSERIOUS BUSINESS
Harrogate Studio Theatre Oxford Street, HarrogateGet ready to laugh out loud with Harrogate’s very own hilariously talented improv troupe!
The Craft House – Talk
Gawthorpe Hall Burnley Road, PadihamThis talk by the curator of Gawthorpe Textiles Collection tells the fascinating story of Rachel Kay-Shuttleworth, who grew up at Gawthorpe Hall and had a passion for textiles and craft.
The Clare Teal Five
Settle Victoria Hall Kirkgate, SettleShe’s back! Expect exhilarating swing from award winning jazz vocalist and long time Radio 2 & Jazz FM broadcaster Clare Teal, who returns with a fabulous new show in 2025 to celebrate 25 years of touring.
Rhythm of the Dance
St. George's Hall BradfordFeaturing world class musicians who play live on stage, star vocalists singing live and world champion dancers, this mesmerising show is a completely captivating experience of pulsating rhythms with slick choreography performed at lightning speed. £30.25 - £37.75.
Royal Lancashire Agricultural Show 2025
Salesbury Hall Salesbury Hall Road, RibchesterThe Royal Lancashire Show is held annually at Salesbury Hall, Ribchester. The show is a popular family event with attractions like show jumping, livestock displays, giant tortoises, bee keeping, vintage tractors, military village, children’s funfair and much more. Various prices.
BUCKINGHAM’S RETINUE
Skipton Castle SkiptonLord and Lady Clifford are hosting a weekend of events that will showcase the life and times of late medieval life. Members of the castle household will take part in friendly competition throughout the weekend, with archery contests and combat displays - make sure to cheer for your chosen champion!
Living History Weekend
Samlesbury Hall Preston New Road, PrestonCome and see what life was like in the 1500's! Samlesbury Hall have the fabulous Sir John Saville's household reenactors over 2 days! Indoor displays, outside combats,Guns & archery, Authentic camp and1500's food display.
Wild West Trail
Happa Shores Hey Farm, Briercliffe,, BurnleyThe horses have gone wild on the ranch! Grab your boots and chaps, saddle up and help keep our horses happy and healthy on this interactive themed trail.
Dragon Boat Festival
Roberts Park Higher Coach Road, SaltaireThe event promises to be a fun filled family festival with dragon boat racing on the river and landside attractions for all to enjoy including children’s entertainment, charity stalls, catering stands, landside games, bar, live acts and much, much more. Great family day out.
Colne Grand Prix
Colne Town Centre ColneThe race is part of the British Cycling Elite National Circuit Series and utilises a closed-road 800m circuit around Colne's one-way system, making for a fast and exhilarating spectacle. As a round of the National Elite Series, the top riders in the country come to Colne to take part in this prestigious event.
GARSTANG SHORT WALK
Garstang PrestonJoin Wyre Coast & Countryside Service volunteer walk leaders for a relaxed walk along the footpaths and tracks of Garstang’s countryside and historic Market Town.
FESTIVAL OF FUN
Thornton Hall Country Park Thornton in Craven, BarnoldswickSet sail on a swashbuckling quest with the legendary Pirates of Swashbuckle Bay, then step into a land where fairytales come to life and princesses await!
WILD WEDNESDAY!
Bronte Parsonage Museum Church Street, HaworthPopular Wednesday workshops that are a great opportunity to sit down for a while with a local artist and make something Brontë-inspired to take home with you. Perfect for children, but all ages welcome!
CHOCOLATE ROCKS
National Coal Mining Museum New Road, WakefieldExplore the three main rock types, igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic, through hands-on classification. Then model the rock cycle with a fun, edible chocolate experiment!
FANTASTIC MR. FOX (2009) WITH CRAFT ACTIVITY
Skipton Town Hall High Street, SkiptonAs part of our Wes Anderson double-header, join us for a wild, witty adventure with Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009), Anderson’s stop-motion masterpiece based on the beloved Roald Dahl book.
Pony Squad
Happa Shores Hey Farm, Briercliffe,, BurnleyIf your child loves horses and wants to learn more about them in a fun and interactive environment, the Pony Squad at HAPPA is the perfect opportunity. Tailored for children of all experience levels, this program offers a chance to develop equine skills while making new friends and having fun! 10am – 12pm for ages 6-10. 1pm – 3pm for ages 11-16.
BUSY LIKE THE BRONTËS!
Bronte Parsonage Museum Church Street, HaworthThe Brontës sketched, painted, embroidered and loved to create amazing tiny books to tell imaginary stories as children. Join us to have a go at a range of activities inspired by Brontë busy-ness.
Shakespeare in the Garden at Leighton Hall
Leighton Hall CarnforthThis years' alfresco performance, set in Leighton Hall's beautiful gardens, is As You Like It. Performed by The Festival Players. Tel: 01524 734 474.
Sky Full of Stars – A Tribute to Coldplay
The Alhambra Theatre Morley Street, BradfordGet ready for an electrifying night of music and fun at A Sky Full of Stars, the ultimate tribute to Coldplay! Join us for an unforgettable evening that captures the exhilarating essence of one of the world's most iconic bands! £32.75 - £34.75.
One Night in Dublin
The Victoria Theatre Fountain Street, HalifaxReceiving rave reviews for its incredible musicians and great song choices, Middi and his award-winning tribute band cover all of your favourite sing-along Irish classics - including 'Galway Girl', 'Tell Me Ma', 'The Irish Rover', 'Dirty Old Town,'The Black Velvet Band' and many more!
SeekOut Arts & Music Festival
Gisburn Forest Stephen Park, Ribble ValleyLocated in the breathtaking woodland setting of Gisburn Forest, this one-of-a-kind micro festival offers high quality live music, DJ’s, interactive art, theatre, well-being activities and much more! Various prices. Doors open 1pm.
DIG & DISCOVER: FESTIVAL OF ARCHAEOLOGY
Skipton Town Hall High Street, SkiptonThe theme of this year’s festival is Archaeology and wellbeing so come along and join us in our Castle Critters room for a range of archaeology-based family activities.
Chorley Flower Show 2025
Astley Park Chorley, LancashireDon't miss a blooming marvellous day out at Chorley Flower Show, as it returns for its 10th anniversary. Set to captivate families, flower enthusiasts and gardening fanatics, there's plenty to enjoy for everyone, including your canine companions, at Chorley Flower Show.
Cirque: The Greatest Show – Reimagined
The Victoria Theatre Fountain Street, HalifaxGet ready for a dazzling fusion of musical theatre and jaw-dropping circus acts, taking the original Circus meets Musical Theatre spectacle to thrilling new heights. 3pm & 7pm.