As late summer slips into autumn, there’s still lots happening in our local area. Here’s a selection of our favourite events.
Afternoon Tea on Ripon Canal
Relax with an afternoon tea as you cruise along Ripon’s scenic canal. Selected dates available, contact Ripon Scenic Cruises for booking information https://www.ripon-scenic-cruises.co.uk/afternoon-tea-cruises/
Wensleydale Agricultural Show, Saturday 26 August
A traditional Dales event showing the best of local livestock, horticulture and handicrafts, local interest displays including dry stone walling, Wensleydale sheep, stalls selling local products and produce and the Leyburn Brass Band. https://www.wensleydaleshow.org.uk/
Harrogate Food & Drink Festival, Ripley Castle, 26-28 August
Set in the grounds of Ripley Castle, the event includes an artisan produce market, independent drink suppliers, international street food, plus live music and entertainment for all the family. https://harrogatefoodfestival.com/
Newby Hall – Fireworks Championships, 26 August, from 6pm
A sensational night of fireworks with three teams creating stunning displays set to music with the audience voting for the winner using SMS. Bring a picnic, chairs and rugs. https://www.newbyhall.com/event/fireworks-championships-2023/
Harrogate Autumn Flower Show 15-17 September
The perfect day out for expert gardeners and amateur enthusiasts alike, this year’s show will be held in the grounds of Newby Hall, Showcasing the best in seasonal horticulture, the event includes leading plant nurseries, a fruit and vegetable show, live talks and demonstrations, a sea of 5,000 autumn blooms and great garden shopping, plus access to Newby’s award-winning gardens. For tickets: https://www.flowershow.org.uk/
Heritage Open Days Fountains Abbey, 14 & 16 September
Discover behind the scenes at Fountains Hall on 14 September, a 17th century mansion that’s witnessed over 400 years of change on the estate. A tour of the hall includes the Great Chamber and recently restored Oak Room that are usually closed to visitors. On 16 September you will be able to view a hidden part of the abbey ruins, the Lay Brothers Dormitory. Learn more about the life of the Lay Brothers and their work on the estate. Booking is essential for both these events: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/yorkshire/fountains-abbey-and-studley-royal-water-garden/events
Masham Sheep Fair, 30 September & 1 October
The popular sheep fair is held in Masham’s market square, famous for its sheep sales where over 70’000 sheep were sold each year. Sheep sales no longer take place, but this annual event celebrates the tradition, with sheep showing and racing, sheepdog demonstrations, fleece stalls and wool competitions whilst raising money for Yorkshire’ charities. https://www.mashamsheepfair.com/
Thorp Perrow Arboretum – Fungi Foray, 30 September, 15 October, 2 November, 10am-2pm
Popular fungi workshops with mycological maestro, Dr Keith Thomas. The perfect time to visit as the trees take on their autumn colours, the workshop includes a tour around the arboretum introducing the world of fungi and an identification and microscopy session. https://www.thorpperrow.com/
Newby Hall Apple Day, 1 October
Apple Day celebrations include the hotly contested ‘Apple Throwing Championships’ over the River Ure! There will also be apple pressing, cider tasting, orchard displays, an apple cooking competition and a performance from Knot Amber Choir. https://www.newbyhall.com/event/apple-day-apple-throwing-championships/
