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.
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.
Bradford on Foot
Bradford on Foot BradfordDiscover Bradford on Foot, a collection of themed walks and tours exploring hidden streets, scenic countryside, and local heritage. Curated for Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, these routes have been selected by walking groups, historians, schoolchildren, artists, and locals. All available to download or pick up in paper format at Bradford libraries.
THE GOOD LIFE – Bingley Little Theatre Production
Bingley Arts Centre Main Street, BingleyWhen Tom and Barbara Good decide to exchange the pressures of the rat race for an alternative, more sustainable way of living, they set about turning their suburban home in Surbiton into a model of self-sufficiency. It’s the good life for them – but not for Margo and Jerry Leadbetter, who live next door, and are desperately trying to maintain the Surbiton status quo. 7.30pm. Sat mat 2.30pm.
Autumn Tea Dance
Skipton Town Hall High Street, SkiptonBring your dancing shoes to the Autumn edition of the ever popular Town Hall Tea Dance! You will be entertained by Blackpool Tower resident organist, John Bowdler.
Woven Through Time: Bradford’s Textile Industry – Past and Present
Bradford Industrial Museum, Moorside Road, BradfordBorn and raised in Bradford, Ian Beesley is an award winning and internationally acclaimed artist and photographer. During the 1970s and 80s, Ian was given the opportunity to photograph inside the working mills of Bradford. For this exhibition, Ian has revisited Bradford’s textile industry once again, capturing how it has changed in the decades since. Closed Mon. Exhibition ends 16th Nov.
THE ULTIMATE CLASSIC ROCK SHOW
Burnley Mechanics Manchester Road, BurnleyDust off your air guitars for an evening of the very best classic rock anthems from legends past and present.
BLACK TIE BALL
Harrogate Theatre Oxford Street, HarrogateBy turns satirical and touching, Godber turns his laser gaze onto the Black Tie Ball in all its sophisticated pomp. Told in his signature visceral style, this hilarious comedy sees the hotel staff recount an entire evening at breakneck speed from arrival at seven to carriages at midnight.
MILITARY WIVES: THE MUSICAL
York Theatre Royal St. Leonard's Place, YorkA joyous celebration of female friendship, courage and ‘unsung’ heroes. Get ready for the inspirational story of the Military Wives choir as they change the world one song at a time.
Nigel Slater’s Toast
Ilkley Playhouse Weston Road, IlkleyToast is the story of Nigel Slater’s childhood; told through the tastes and smells he grew up with. From making the perfect sherry trifle to waging a war over cakes, from the pressured playground politics of sweets to the rigid rules of restaurant dining, this is a story of love, loss and toast. 7.30pm. Sat mat 2.30pm. £5 - £14.
The Greatest Love of All Starring Belinda Davids
The Victoria Theatre Fountain Street, HalifaxWhitney Houston’s musical legacy is brought to life in this critically acclaimed tribute concert described as “mind-blowingly spot on.” Be stunned by the breathtaking vocals of Belinda Davids – as seen on Britain’s Got Talen
Cloudbusting – The Music Of Kate Bush
King's Hall Station Road, IlkleyFeaturing material from across Kate’s hugely successful catalogue of albums, all delivered with breath-taking vocals from Mandy Watson and superb musicianship from the live band.
ROSIE JONES: I CAN’T TELL WHAT SHE’S SAYING
The Studio Morley Street, BradfordJoin star of Taskmaster Rosie Jones as she heads back out on the road with her brand-new stand-up show. She's talking about the big stuff: being single, the pressures of representing huge sections of the population, and gravy. Oh, and boobs.
Railway 200Yrs Celebration Weekend
East Lancashire Railway 23a Bolton St, BuryEast Lancashire Railway is celebrating the 200th anniversary and the birth of the modern railway. There will be intensive timetable of steam and heritage diesel trains full length of the 12-miles between Heywood, Bury, Ramsbottom and Rawtenstall, including additional attractions up and down the line. Various prices.
The Story Behind Motown
Blackburn Empire Theatre Aqueduct Rd, BlackburnStep into the world of Motown and experience the magic behind the music that defined an era. The Story Behind Motown, founded by the legendary Mr Berry Gordy Jr., takes you on an unforgettable journey back to Detroit City, famously known as Hitsville USA.
The Return of the Legends
St. George's Hall BradfordBrendan, James, Pasha, Vincent and Ian together with a supporting cast are back to create another evening of spectacular dancing, hilarious camaraderie, great music and a huge amount of laughter! £32.50 - £58.00.
Oh What a Night!
Albert Halls Victoria Square, BoltonOh What a Night takes you back in time on a musical journey through the incredible career of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Don’t miss the ultimate celebration of one of the world’s greatest Rock & Roll bands!
Northern Ballet’s Merlin
Leeds Grand Theatre New Briggate, LeedsThe man, the myth and the legend are brought to life through spectacular sets and costumes, mind-boggling special effects and Northern Ballet’s signature blend of world-class dance and storytelling. 7.30pm, Sat mat 2.30pm. £23 - £68.
Heritage Open Day 2025
The Grand Theatre, St. Leonardsgate LancasterCome along for a free behind-the-scenes experience at Lancaster Grand Theatre as part of the national Heritage Open Days festival! Whether you're a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or just curious about what lies behind the scenes, this is an event not to be missed. 10am, 12pm & 2pm. Each tour last 90 mins. Free.
Saltaire Festival
Saltaire Village Victoria Road, SaltaireExperience the vibrant spirit of Saltaire, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this autumn at the Saltaire Festival! Enjoy a spectacular lineup of events and activities, including electrifying live music, mesmerising art exhibitions, fun-filled family activities, and delicious food from local stallholders.
Backstage Tour – Heritage Open Day
Bradford Playhouse 4 – 12 Chapel St,Little Germany,, Bradford.Ever wondered what Bradford Playhouse looks like behind the scenes? Find out on one of the free, guided backstage tours this September, part of our Heritage Open Day. 11am, 1pm & 3pm. Booking essential.
A Good Yarn
Bradford Industrial Museum, Moorside Road, BradfordA Good Yarn is quite the sight – a gigantic yarn ball, three metres high and wide. It was created by 2,500 residents of BD10, who plaited vast quantities of found and donated fabric into a kilometre-long rope and then wound it into a ball. After following its rolls through the streets of BD10 the yarn ball which was the brainchild of Luke Jerram, is now on display at Bradford Industrial Museum.
HERITAGE OPEN DAYS 2025: ARCHITECTURE
Ilkley Manor House IlkleyChildren can make their own mini Manor House, learning about its construction and the people who lived here. Afterwards, they can dress up as Romans and play with traditional toys in the courtyard. These family fun sessions are free and there is no need to book.
Fleetwood Bac
The Grand Theatre 18 York Street, ClitheroeFLEETWOOD BAC were the world’s first and are regarded as the UK’s most authentic Fleetwood Mac Tribute show, raved about by Peter Green’s biographer, and were the first Fleetwood Mac tribute band to fully replicate the classic Stevie, Lindsey, Christine, John & Mick ‘Rumours’ line-up.
BLACK COUNTRY, NEW ROAD
Albert Hall Manchester 27 Peter St, ManchesterFollowing the release of their new song, Besties, Black Country, New Road are coming to Albert Hall on the 13th of September!
WEST YORKSHIRE SAVOYARDS: IOLANTHE
Settle Victoria Hall Kirkgate, SettleThe West Yorkshire Savoyards, celebrating their 50th year, make a welcome return to the Victoria Hall. Settle on Saturday 13 September with the magical Gilbert and Sullivan comic-opera, Iolanthe.
Angela Barnes – Angst
The Studio Morley Street, BradfordA brand new stand-up show from Angela Barnes, star of Mock The Week and Live at The Apollo. This hilarious show has some stories of success and sound logic, but mostly features stories of unmitigated failure, a distinct lack of wisdom, a little bit of German and loads of jokes.
WARRINGTON-RUNCORN NEW TOWN DEVELOPMENT PLAN
The Trades Club Hebden BridgeGordon Chapman-Fox’s Warrington-Runcorn New Town Development Plan project sees a bold visual aesthetic and striking retro-futuristic audio identity seamlessly melded together into one evocative musical package.
THE BLACKHEART ORCHESTRA
Settle Victoria Hall Kirkgate, SettleThe Blackheart Orchestra are British multi-award winning, multi-instrumentalists Chrissy Mostyn and Rick Pilkington. They comprise a two-person ‘orchestra’ playing up to 13 instruments in their unique live show.
JOLIE HOLLAND
The Trades Club Hebden BridgeForging a timeless, haunting musical career, Jolie Holland returns to the UK to share her intimate and honest artistry spanning several albums and projects with her new and devoted fans from across the pond.
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
The Victoria Theatre Fountain Street, HalifaxEveryone's favourite fantasmagorical flying car comes to life in the musical adaptation of this beloved family film. Various timers & prices.
MUSICAL AFTERNOON TEA AT GIBBON BRIDGE HOTEL
Gibbon Bridge Hotel Chipping, Forest of BowlandMonthly musical afternoon teas are a great way to celebrate a birthday or simply meet up with friends for a chat and a cup of tea, accompanied by delicious teatime treats.
RAT PACK LIVE
The Atkinson Lord Street, SouthportCombining the full sound of big band swing with charisma, panache and swagger, the trio collectively known as The Rat Pack had attitude to spare.
NADIA REID
The Trades Club Hebden BridgeNadia Reid’s Enter Now Brightness is an album of departure and questioning, a reminder that songwriting can transform pain, joy, thoughts, and anger into something new. “I’m so much better off now that it exists,” she says. “Now feels like a new time.”
George Lewis: The Best Thing You’ll Ever Do
City Varieties Music Hall 46 New Briggate, LeedsDescribed as “the funniest dad on Instagram”, stand-up comedian George has racked up hundreds of millions of views for his hilarious online sketches about the big things in life – like owning an air fryer, watching a David Beckham documentary, and the excruciating experience of trying to do a jigsaw with your kid.
JAMES YORKSTON & NINA PERSSON
The Trades Club Hebden BridgeAcclaimed song-writer and author James Yorkston joins forces with Nina Persson (The Cardigans) once more and return with a brand new set of songs, plus choices from their widely-praised 2023 album The Great White Sea Eagle.
BURNLEY ON FILM
Burnley Mechanics Manchester Road, BurnleyAs part of Burnley Heritage Open Days 2025, Burnley on Film is a free film show provided by Burnley Film Makers showing films from the local area from the 1930s onwards. There will be two (different) one hour shows with a 30 minute break in between for refreshments. Booking required.
MOORSIDE HOUSE OPEN DAY
Moorside House Burnley Road, AccringtonAn exclusive guided tour by the current owner of Moorside House and gardens. A Grade II Listed building, once home to the pioneer of women’s suffrage, Lydia Ernstine Becker.
THE BETHS
Albert Hall Manchester 27 Peter St, ManchesterThis is the first taste of new music from the band since the release of 2023’s Expert In A Dying Field (Deluxe), the expanded version of their beloved 2022 album!
John Lydon – I Could Be Wrong, I Could Be Right
The Muni Theatre ColneLegend and icon John Lydon will talk about how he sees life, along with his unique and extraordinary career, during a one-off 45-date UK tour. Lydon will reflect on the Sex Pistols, Public Image Limited (PiL), his art and his life’s story during informal evenings of conversation and audience questions. An icon, a revolutionary and an immortal, as the frontman and lyricist of the Sex Pistols, Johnny Rotten changed the face of music and sparked a cultural revolution. He caused an earthquake which transformed music for good. During his remarkable years in Public Image Ltd he consistently pushed back the boundaries and still continues to challenge and thrive. As a writer, Lydon wrote two best-selling volumes of memoir: the excoriating Rotten: No Irish, No Blacks, No Dogs and the ridiculously entertaining and uncompromising Anger Is An Energy: My Life Uncensored. Now he is embarking on a spoken word tour, where fans will get to hear his stories up-close-and-personal. John said: “I could be shit. I could be shite. I’m left-handed. John Lydon or John Rotten.” To book, please visit www.themuni.co.uk or call 01282 661234
Nidderdale Show
Bewerley Park Pateley BridgeThe Nidderdale Show begins at 7.45 am with the judging of the Open Equitation class and closes at approximately 5.30 – 6.00 pm with the conclusion of the Show Jumping competitions. Trade stands and trade marquees, food and refreshments. To keep the little ones entertained, there are arts and crafts, face painting, also biscuit decorating, a sand pit to play in and working in the small digger area. There may even be a magic show!