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

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

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

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/

27 May
The Music of Hans Zimmer & Others
St. George’s Hall, Bridge Street, Bradford
Experience 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. 7:30 pm. bradford-theatres.co.uk

28 May to 31 May
Everybody’s Talking About Jamie
The Grand Theatre Blackpool
Inspired 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. 28 May to 31 May. blackpoolgrand.co.uk

30 May
Danny Lee Grew: 24K Magic
Skipton Town Hall, High Street, Skipton
Join 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. 7:30 pm. skiptontownhall.co.uk

30 May
Adele The Candlelight Concert
The Muni Theatre , Colne
Experience 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. £27. 7:30 pm. themuni.co.uk

31 May to 1 June
MEDIEVAL REVIVAL
Hoghton Tower, Hoghton, Preston
Visit 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. 31 May to 1 June. hoghtontower.co.uk

31 May
QWEEN UK – The Live Experience
Preston Playhouse, Market Street West, Preston
QWEEN UK are the premier UK Queen tribute band consisting of four experienced and professionally seasoned musicians. 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm. prestonplayhouse.co.uk

2 June
An Audience with Kevin Keegan
King’s Hall, Station Road, Ilkley
Hosted by Sky Sports presenter Peter Graves, join Kevin for an evening of chat about his spectacular career. £34.75 - £102.75. 7:30 pm. bradford-theatres.co.uk

2 June
ADHD – Unmasked
Lowther Pavilion, Lowther Terrace, Lytham St, Annes
Join 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. £27.50. 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm. lowtherpavilion.co.uk

4 June to 7 June
Abigail’s Party
Pendle Hippodrome Theatre, New Market Street, Colne
At 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 £10. 4 June to 7 June. pendlehippodrome.com

5 June
ALL HAIL HYENA
The Muni Theatre , Colne
Lancashire’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. £12. 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm. themuni.co.uk

5 June
Black Dyke Band
Skipton Town Hall, High Street, Skipton
Black 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. £21. 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm. skiptontownhall.co.uk

5 June
Murder: Staged
King’s Hall, Station Road, Ilkley
Following 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. £23. 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm. bradford-theatres.co.uk

5 June
Flook: Celebrating 30 years in 2025!
The Met, Market Street, Bury
The 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. 8:00 pm. themet.org.uk

6 June
THE ELO EXPERIENCE
Burnley Mechanics, Manchester Road, Burnley
The 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. £30. 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm. blcgroup.co.uk

7 June
Jazzin’ the Park 2025
Winckley Square, Town Centre, Preston
A 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.         11:00 am to 3:00 pm. visitpreston.com

7 June
Music for a Summer Evening
St Silas’ Church, Preston New Road, Preston
Blackburn Music Society and East Lancashire Concert Band join together to present a cornucopia of music for a summer evening. Under 19s free.       £12. 7:00 pm to 9:30 pm. www.visitlancashire.com

7 June
Brass At The Playhouse
Preston Playhouse, Market Street West, Preston
Join the famous Leyland Band for an unforgettable evening of brass band brilliance! Under the expert direction of Daniel Brooks, this celebrated ensemble will perform a dynamic programme of entertaining and inspiring music that is sure to dazzle and delight. Adult £14, child £7. 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm. prestonplayhouse.co.uk

8 June
The Morris Vehicle Show Day
The British Commercial Vehicle Museum, King Street, Leyland
Morris!! . . Morris!!. . Morris!! cars, vans, lorries, buses and military vehicles from one of Britain’s best remembered makers. Celebrate Morris Marina Owners Club’s 40th Year! Free Vehicle Entry. 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. britishcommercialvehiclemuseum.com

8 June
STEAMING DAYS
Bancroft Mill Engine Museum, Gillians Lane, Barnoldswick
Home to the largest working Mill Steam Engine in Lancashire, Bancroft Mill Engine Museum offers Steaming Days on certain Sundays so you can see the engines in action. Established in 1982, the aim is to maintain a link to the town’s cotton heritage, by preserving and demonstrating the engine which powered over 1,000 looms in the mill from 1920 until its closure in 1978. On Steaming Days, you can see the Roberts engine in operation, running at its original speed. In the weaving shed, the museum has three looms, one of which is believed to have been used at the mill before it closed. The Pilling loom has a Jacquarette and is used to weave souvenir tea towels, which you can buy in the shop, the Cooper loom produces a plain cloth, very much like the bulk of the production at the mill when it was in operation. Also on display is a large collection of artefacts from the weaving industry, which brought so much employment to the region. Upcoming steaming days: June 8th 2025 June 29th 2025 July 20th 2025 August 10th 2025 August 31st 2025 September 21st 2025 October 12th 2025 £8. 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. https://bancroftmill.org.uk/steaming-days/

12 June
Dick Whittington – Adults Only!
Albert Halls, Victoria Square, Bolton
Starring The Adult Pantomime favourites, the cracking Liam Mellor as Idle Jack, the filthy and fabulous Jimmy Burton-Iles as Fanny Fitztightly and the devilishly wicked Robert Squire as the evil Queen Rat. £28.50. 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm. alberthalls-bolton.co.uk

12 June
I LIKE IT –
Burnley Mechanics, Manchester Road, Burnley
The Ultimate Tribute to Gerry Marsden & the Swingin’ 60s. Performed by Gary Murphy and his multi-talented band. This swingin’ 60s show features hit songs by Gerry & The Pacemakers, The Beatles, The Searchers, Cliff & The Shadows, Elvis Presley, Ike & Tina Turner, Dusty Springfield, The Merseybeats, The Swingin’ Blue Jeans and The Hollies. and many more. £29. 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm. blcgroup.co.uk

13 June
RSPB Moorland Safari
Forest of Bowland, Various places, Forest of Bowland
Welcome to Festival Bowland - a year-round calendar of events celebrating the nature, landscape, culture and heritage of the Forest of Bowland National Landscape. 13th June - Moorland Safari. Check web site for further details. All day. forestofbowland.com/festival-bowland

14 June to 15 June
Ilkley Food & Drink Festival
East Holmes Fields, Ilkley, Riverside, Ilkley
A great day out for all the family. Great line up of chefs, biggest food & drink line up to date, cooking demonstrations, tribute acts, comedy acts, free kids activities, funfair. Various prices. 14 June to 15 June. ilkleyfoodfestival.com

15 June
THE LEGEND OF BARRY WHITE- Let the Music Play!
Lowther Pavilion, Lowther Terrace, Lytham St, Annes
Direct from the USA, a critically- acclaimed revue featuring the incredible vocalist William Hicks also known as “the big man with the big voice” £28. 7:30 pm. lowtherpavilion.co.uk

18 June to 21 June
Twisted! The Musical
Albert Halls, Victoria Square, Bolton
Set in the heart of Victorian London, “Twisted! The Musical” follows Oliver Brownlow, now a young man, as he becomes intertwined with Jane, a working-class flower girl battling the harsh realities of life with an alcoholic uncle. This two-hour production combines live music, dynamic performances, and captivating choreography to explore profound themes of resilience, love, and social justice. 7.30pm. Sat mat 2.30pm. Tickets from £22.25. 18 June to 21 June. alberthalls-bolton.co.uk