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.
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.
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.
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.
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
The Alhambra Theatre Morley Street, BradfordGet ready for the adventure of a lifetime as the West End smash-hit production of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe comes to Bradford. Step through the wardrobe into the magic kingdom of Narnia where a world of wonder awaits. 7pm. Wed mat 2pm, Sat mat 2.30pm. £18.75 - £58.75.
More than a Mum
Bradford Playhouse 4 – 12 Chapel St,Little Germany,, Bradford.Join Susie for a hilarious one-woman comedy show that dives into what it is to be a mother. Have any of us worked it out? Who has the answer?
Opera North’s The Secret Of The Black Spider
Leeds Grand Theatre New Briggate, LeedsJoin the Opera North Youth Chorus and Youth Orchestra for a performance which will delight the whole family. Friday 7pm, Saturday 2pm. £10 - £16.
BOB MARLEY: HOW REGGAE CHANGED THE WORLD
Darwen Library Theatre Knott Street, DarwenJoin Duane Forrest on an acoustic journey through the roots of reggae to the global influence of Bob Marley.
10CCLO: The Greatest hits of 10CC and Electric Light Orchestra
Bingley Arts Centre Main Street, BingleyDreadlock Holiday, Mr Blue Sky, I’m Mandy Fly me, Livin’ Thing, Evil Woman, The Things We Do for Love, Wild West Hero, Life is a Minestrone, Art for Art’s Sake, Turn To Stone, I’m not in Love, Roll Over Beethoven, Rubber Bullets… Just a few among the many massive hits that make up the timeless repertoire of 10CC and The Electric Light Orchestra.
Festival of History
Heskin Hall Wood Lane, ChorleyFestival of History is our annual celebration of all things in our country’s history. A multi period event featuring living history displays and exhibitions. These are from various eras presented by some friendly and knowledgeable re-enactors. There will be stalls, live entertainment, cafe & bar.
Twentieth Century Diva: Julie Andrews at 90
The National Science and Media Museum Pictureville, BradfordDuring the week of her 90th birthday, Widescreen Weekend at National Science & Media Museum, Bradford presents Twentieth Century Diva: Julie Andrews at 90, a celebratory programme honouring her cinematic legacy. Various times.
Katharine Holmes and Three Generations of Painting and Living in a Malham Cottage
The Folly, Victoria Street, Settle BD24 9EY The Folly, Victoria Street, SettleThis exhibition explores Katharine Holmes’s stunning modern paintings alongside the work of her mother and grandmother, Phillipa Holmes and Constance Pearson. Selected works by Katharine Holmes will be for sale. Runs until Sat, 3 January 2026
COLNE 70S FESTIVAL
Colne High Street ColneFor the first time, Colne BID present a 70s Festival for all those who love the decade.
Jive Talkin’ perform The Bee Gees Live in Concert
Albert Halls Victoria Square, BoltonRenowned as the original and very best Bee Gees tribute show, and the only Bee Gees tribute show that has actually performed with the original Bee Gees!
GRATEFUL DUDES
The Trades Club Hebden BridgePlaying the music of The Grateful Dead, the Dudes explore the songs and improvisations from their vast repertoire, emulating the sound, style, freedom and adventure of their live shows.
THE MEL OUTSIDER REFORMATION
The Muni Theatre ColneMel Outsider is a prominent figure in the UK music scene, particularly in Lancashire, where he has been active for over five decades. He is recognised as a flamboyant frontman and songwriter, having collaborated with various notable artists and produced numerous albums. His work reflects a positive and upbeat attitude, often infused with a touch of magic.
The Vintage Home Show
Pudsey Civic Hall, LeedsA fantastic selection of Vintage interior styling from 40 specialist dealers at our Leeds venue, Pudsey Civic Hall. Shop Furniture, Ceramics, Art, Homewares and Records.You’ll find unique and fabulous items from the 1930’s-1990’s. Prices from £1 to £1000’s.
Songs From The Rat Pack – The Northern Swing Orchestra
Blackburn Empire Theatre Aqueduct Rd, BlackburnIt’s all systems go for Yorkshire’s premier Big Band, The Sixteen Piece Northern Swing Orchestra, as they gear up for an electrifying performance.
KIM CARNIE
Settle Victoria Hall Kirkgate, SettleAward-winning singer and composer, Kim Carnie, has featured not only on some of the UK’s biggest stages, but across the world via film and computer game soundtracks, including Netflix’s Outlaw King, Black Mirror and The Bard’s Tale.
TOM HICKOX
The Trades Club Hebden BridgeTom Hickox is a singer, songwriter and composer specialising in the art of storytelling through music.
CUTE & CREEPY HALLOWEEN CREATIONS
Clitheroe Castle Castle Hill, ClitheroeMake something spooktacular this month! Your little monsters can decorate a Wicked Wooden Halloween tealight (£3.50) or a Frightfully Fun Treat Bag (£2.50).
SH!T-FACED SHAKESPEARE® HAMLET
Albert Halls Victoria Square, BoltonFeaturing a cast of professional Shakespearean actors, this unique production takes an unpredictable twist each night as one performer is chosen to be deliberately intoxicated for up to four hours before showtime.
SANDI TOKSVIG: FRIENDS OF DOROTHY
St George's Hall Bridge St, BradfordCome and join the comedian, broadcaster, campaigner (and tiny Danish beacon of hope) for an evening celebrating her love and passion for writers and books.
ABBAMANIA
King's Hall Station Road, IlkleyOne of Europe's leading ABBA tributes continues to entertain audiences with their outstanding vocals and live musical performance on stage.
FILEY FOLK NIGHT
The Imperial 14 Hope St, FileyAn evening of traditional and modern folk music, with performances from local musicians.
BRITISH TEXTILE BIENNIAL
Various Venues KnareboroughBritish Textile Biennial (BTB) is a free festival of contemporary art, commissioning artists and designers from all over the world to make work inspired by the context and legacy of the textile industry in East Lancashire and its global impact, often in the places that were created by it.
JOHN GRANT
St George's Hall Bridge St, BradfordThe incomparable singer-songwriter performs his first headline show in the city – exclusively live for Bradford 2025.
Ilkley Literature Festival
Various venues in IlkleyIlkley Literature Festival, established in 1973, is the longest-standing literature festival in the north of England. Running for 17 days every October, the festival features over 100 events, including talks, panel discussions, poetry readings, performances, writing workshops, and interactive experiences.
SECRET SHIBDEN TOUR AT SHIBDEN HALL
Shibden Hall Lister's Road, HalifaxThis unique guided tour offers a rare glimpse into the historic and often unseen parts of the hall, including ornate wall paintings and the Tower Library.
OKTOBERFEST SHEFFIELD
OEC Sheffield Penistone Road, SheffieldWith a high-energy live oompah band, hilarious on-stage antics and plenty of opportunities to sing along, this lively event promises laughs, dancing, and plenty of stein swinging.
TALON – THE BEST OF EAGLES 25
Burnley Mechanics Manchester Road, BurnleyTalon have risen from humble beginnings to become one of the most successful theatre touring shows in the UK and BUSY BEING FABULOUS ‘25/26 will once again feature the Eagles timeless back catalogue including Hotel California, Take It Easy, One Of These Nights, Take It To The Limit, Desperado and many more.
Spiders Web by Agatha Christie
The Grand Theatre, St. Leonardsgate LancasterClarissa, married to a top diplomat, loves to spin tales just like a spider spins a web. However, when someone is murdered right in her drawing room, that’s another matter! Live drama is so much harder to cope with! Presented by Lancaster Footlights.
Opera North’s Susanna
Leeds Grand Theatre New Briggate, LeedsOpera and dance combine in this story with a dark heart and strong contemporary resonance. This collaboration between Opera North and Phoenix Dance Theatre is set against some of Handel’s most memorably melodic music. Various prices.
WOOF SHACK
Happa Shores Hey Farm, Briercliffe,, BurnleyOn the first Sunday of every month there is a monthly dog socialisation group – Woof Shack! Enjoy group walks around one of the local dog-friendly routes at HAPPA, games, specialist talks, advice and much more!
HAYSEED DIXIE
Barnoldswick Music & Arts Centre, BarnoldswickCreators of their own musical genre, "Rockgrass", Hayseed Dixie initially formed in 2000, covering classic AC/DC tracks in their own unique style, and hitting the road soon after to play some live shows, chase some women, and drink some beer. And they haven't stopped since.
Hello Again: The Neil Diamond Songbook
City Varieties Music Hall 46 New Briggate, LeedsCelebrating 60 Diamond Years, the smash-hit show Hello Again is back in 2025 with a brand-new, mind-blowing production – it’s the world’s greatest celebration and tribute to the life and work of Neil Diamond.
An Evening with Professor Alice Roberts
St. George's Hall BradfordJoin Professor Alice Roberts as she takes us on an investigative journey to establish who spread Christianity, how and why; the story of the fall of an Empire – and the rise of another. Celebrating the publication of her new book, Domination,
BOWLAND LECTURE
Cow Ark Ribble ValleyIn this lecture, “Are You Lost? The past, present and future of Bowland", Dr Rob St John explores a series of historical moments over the last 150 years to narrate a story of the invention of contemporary Bowland, including, significantly, the designation of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1964.
THE DRESSER
Colne Little Theatre River Street, Colne, United KingdomBased on the author's own experiences as dresser to Sir Donald Wolfit, this bracing, heartbreaking drama is an elegy to a by-gone era.
TALK ON: WITCHES, DARK ARTS AND DEMONOLOGY
Gawthorpe Hall Burnley Road, PadihamPopular speaker Dr Colin Penny is back with a new talk about why there was a moral panic about witches and what were the horrors of the supernatural in the 1600s?
LOVE LANCASTER LIVE
Town Centre, Lancaster LancasterA weekend of live music taking place throughout Lancaster city centre. Over 50 venues will host performances alongside a packed schedule of live local acts performing a free show in Market Square to ensure the festival is accessible to all.