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

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

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

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

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

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

24 April
The Sensational Sixties Experience 2025
The Grand Theatre Blackpool
The Sensational Sixties Experience has the definite feelgood factor will transport you back to that magical decade that was the 1960’s. Starring Dozy Beaky Mick & Tich, The Trems (featuring Jeff Brown, former member of The Tremeloes), Steve Ellis (The Voice of Love Affair), The Fortunes, and Vanity Fare. £37.50. 7:30 pm. blackpoolgrand.co.uk

24 April
Steptoe & Son – LIVE
Blackburn Empire Theatre, Aqueduct Rd, Blackburn
"YOU DIRRRTTTYYY OLD MAN!" You wouldn’t think it was possible for this ‘rag and boning’ duo to still be at it after all this time, but here they are! Albert is still a dirty old man and Harold is as pretentious as ever! Come and join Steptoe & Son for all the hilarious conflict that our four classic episodes have to offer! See your favourite moments from the smash hit BBC television series, being performed for you live on stage – just make sure you don’t step in a present from Hercules the horse on your way in… Steptoe & Son was first seen on our screens in 1962, running for 8 series and 57 episodes, ending in 1974. It starred the wonderful Harry H. Corbett and Wilfred Brambell, as the warring father and son, trying to cope with their ailing business and having to put up with each other along the way! Cattle Productions Ltd. brings you their adaptation of the original episodes in a brand-new production, from Director Dan Lewis. The show has many hugely funny moments and we hope we’re going to make the original writers, actors and programme, very proud! We’d love for you to join us! £21.50. 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm. www.blackburnempire.com

25 April
Emilio Santoro as Elvis
City Varieties Music Hall, 46 New Briggate, Leeds
Internationally acclaimed, Emilio Santoro brings his award-winning Elvis Presley theatre show to the UK. £35. 7:30 pm. https://leedsheritagetheatres.com/

27 April
Taylor Fever – Taylor Swift Tribute Concert
The Victoria Theatre, Fountain Street, Halifax
In a show that is packed full of the icons most popular songs including ‘Karma’ ‘Shake it off’ ‘Cruel Summer’ and many more. 2.30pm & 7.30pm. All day. www.halifaxplayhouse.org.uk

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

27 April
Dionne Warwick: Don’t Make Me Over
Leeds Grand Theatre, New Briggate, Leeds
Join Dionne while she guides you through a remarkable life story from her humble beginnings as a gospel singer in New Jersey to superstardom and one of the most recognisable and successful female voices of our time. £42 - £71. 7:30 pm. https://leedsheritagetheatres.com/

29 April to 3 May
An Inspector Calls
The Alhambra Theatre, Morley Street, Bradford
Stephen Daldry's multi award-winning National Theatre production of JB Priestley's classic thriller returns after a record-breaking sell-out tour in 2022. Various times & prices. 29 April to 3 May. https://www.bradford-theatres.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

29 April
Justin Moorhouse: The Greatest Performance of My Life
The Met, Market Street, Bury
This performance is more than just a series of jokes; it's a heartfelt journey through the joys, sorrows, and hilarity of life, delivered with Justin's characteristic charisma and warmth. £18. 8:00 pm. themet.org.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

1 May to 31 May
Den of Dragons and Fiery Dragon Crafts at Clitheroe Castle
Clitheroe Castle & Museum, Castle Hill, Clitheroe
Join 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. 1 May to 31 May. https://events.apps.lancashire.gov.uk/w/webpage/event-details?eventid=1966787

2 May
Ben Portsmouth: This is Elvis 2025 Tour
St. George’s Hall, Bridge Street, Bradford
With global success in over 20 countries including sell-out performances on the same Vegas stage as Elvis, to London's West End, don't miss Ben Portsmouth: This is Elvis. £32.75 - £35.25. 7:30 pm. www.bradford-theatres.co.uk

2 May
FLEETWOOD BAC
Burnley Mechanics, Manchester Road, Burnley
Fleetwood Bac are the world’s first and best Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band, endorsed by Mick Fleetwood himself, the only Mac tribute to authentically replicate the classic ‘Rumours’ line-up. £22. 7:30 pm. blcgroup.co.uk/

2 May
Walk Right Back
Albert Halls, Victoria Square, Bolton
Immerse yourself in a wave of pure rock and roll nostalgia with Walk Right Back! Presented by the creators of That’ll Be The Day, this show recounts the tale of those two Kentucky boys who created unparalleled vocal magic – The Everly Brothers. 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm. https://www.alberthalls-bolton.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

5 May to 10 May
The Thrill of Love
Keighley Playhouse, Devonshire Street, Keighley
True 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. £12. 5 May to 10 May. http://www.keighleyplayhouse.co.uk/

7 May
The Don Banks Afternoon Variety Show
Darwen Library Theatre, Knott Street, Darwen
Come 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 2:00 pm. https://bwdvenues.com/

9 May
All Things McCartney – Unplugged
Darwen Library Theatre, Knott Street, Darwen
A 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. £22.50. 7:30 pm. bwdvenues.com

9 May
And Finally… Phil Collins
Lowther Pavilion, Lowther Terrace, Lytham St, Annes
Chris 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. £30. 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 to 17 May
Brontë
Ilkley Playhouse, Weston Road, Ilkley
In 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. 12 May to 17 May. ilkleyplayhouse.co.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

15 May
Kate McDonnell – UK Tour 2025
Skipton Town Hall, High Street, Skipton
Singer, 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. 7:30 pm. https://skiptontownhall.co.uk

15 May
Dave Spikey
King’s Hall, Station Road, Ilkley
Comedy - This show is all about Dave’s life in… well... a northern town, so no surprise there. £24.75. 7:30 pm. www.bradford-theatres.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

17 May
Lancashire Hotpots: Definitely Gravy Tour
Albert Halls, Victoria Square, Bolton
Get 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. 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm. https://www.alberthalls-bolton.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

21 May to 29 June
Mary Poppins
The Alhambra Theatre, Morley Street, Bradford
Cameron 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. 21 May to 29 June. bradford-theatres.co.uk

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

25 May
Royal Ballet: Ballet to Broadway
Settle Victoria Hall, Kirkgate, Settle
Sensuous 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. £17. 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. settlevictoriahall.org.uk

26 May to 31 May
Pride & Prejudice* (*sort of)
Leeds Grand Theatre, New Briggate, Leeds
Direct 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. 26 May to 31 May. https://leedsheritagetheatres.com/