Yorkshire Signpost Magazine 2011 by County Signpost Ltd

Lightwater Valley Theme Park

Action packedvalue for all the family!

Yorkshire Yorkshire

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New for 2011 Lightwater Valley is simply bursting with 175 acres of action-packed adventures, from the dark and mysterious subterranean world of Raptor Attack to the dizzying heights of Whirlwind, a typhoon of screams that'll twist even the bravest of souls. With over 40 rides and attractions for thrill seekers of all ages, the excitement never stops as you bravely take on the challenge of Europe’s longest roller coaster – The Ultimate; get swept high into the air by the powerful grip of the Eagle’s Claw and ‘feel the force’ as you shoot the raging water of the Wild River Rapids. When it’s time to slow the pace, we have lakes and parkland to leisurely explore with wide open spaces to relax and enjoy, so your adventure in the valley can be as thrilling or as chilling as you want it to be. I

www.lightwatervalley.co.uk The most fun you can have in a day. Lightwater Valley, North Stainley, Ripon, North Yorkshire HG4 3HT. Tel: 0871 720 0011* *Calls are charged at 10 pence per minute from a BT landline, calls from other networks and mobiles will be considerably more.

Issue 13 - 2011

Annual Publication - The Ultimate County Guide

Historic Houses | Town Guides Natural History | Gardens | Museums | Tourist Attractions

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RIPLEY CASTLE

.... a fascinating place to visit

Silver Award Enjoy England Awards for Excellence 2010 700 year-old castle steeped in history

Beautiful Gardens, Lakes & Deer Park

IR E AIR MU

Tremendous atmosphere, Fascinating exhibits & Historic aircraft A Great Family Day Out Ideal for Coach Parties!! Licensed Restaurant s Open daiLY s

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Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Play Trail, Tea Rooms, Wonderful Shops

FOR CES M

Elvington, York, YO41 4AU Tel: 01904 608595 museum@yorkshireairmuseum.org www.yorkshireairmuseum.org

Ample Free Parking

Enthralling for all ages. Ripley Castle, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG3 3AY tel: 01423 770152 e.mail: enquiries@ripleycastle.co.uk www.ripleycastle.co.uk

County Signpost

CONTENTS Historic Buildings Attractions Museums & the Arts The Open Air

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Welcome to the 2011 of the Yorkshire County Signpost Tourist Guide. We would like to extend a sincere thank you, to all our advertisers and contributors past and present for their support.

We hope that you find our guide, a pleasure to read, both interesting and informative, and that you will take it away with you, to use again and again.

We offer a taster of the visitor attractions and events within the County, for both locals and those who wish to visit from afar.

For a free download please visit our map-driven, online magazine website For a free downloaded please www.countysignpost.co.uk visit our new map-driven,

To be featured in our next edition please email the editor. Published by: County Signpost Ltd Editor: Adam Davison

All material in this magazine is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of printing. County Signpost Ltd does not accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies which slipped through. Copyright County Signpost Ltd 2011. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced without the written permission of the publisher.

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Please mention

Yorkshire Signpost

when visiting any of the attractions. County Signpost Ltd Telephone: 01743 874098 Email: info@countysignpost.co.uk

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MAP KEY BENINGBOROUGH BLACK SHEEP BREWERY BOLTON ABBEY BRODSWORTH BRONTE PARSONAGE MUSEUM BURTON AGNES BURTON CONSTABLE CAPTAIN COOK MUSEUM CASTLE HOWARD DALES COUNTRYSIDE MUSEUM EAST RIDING OF YORKSHIRE ELSECAR HERITAGE CENTRE FORBIDDEN CORNER FORT PAULL FOUNTAINS ABBEY HALIFAX HEBDEN BRIDGE ARTS FESTIVAL HELMSLEY CASTLE HOBBIT HOTEL - HALIFAX HOLMFIRTH FOLK FESTIVAL HOW STEAN GORGE KEIGHLEY & WORTH VALLEY RAILWAY LIGHTWATER VALLEY LOTHERTON HALL MAGNA MERCHANT ADVENTURERS HALL MIDDLETON RAILWAY NATIONAL COAL MINING MUSEUM NATIONAL FISHING HERITAGE CENTRE NEWBY HALL NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS RAILWAY PICKERING CASTLE RICHMOND CASTLE RIEVAULX ABBEY RIPLEY CASTLE ROTHERHAM RYEDALE SCIENCE IN THE CITY - YORK SETTLE-CARLISLE RAILWAY SELBY STUMP CROSS CAVERN SKIPTON CASTLE THACKRAY MUSEUM THEAKSTON BREWERY THORP PERROW TROPICAL BUTTERFLY HOUSE WENTWORTH CASTLE WHITE SCAR CAVE WORLD OF JAMES HERRIOT YORKBOAT YORK MINSTER YORK MUSEUMS TRUST YORKSHIRE AIR MUSEUM YORKSHIRE DALES NATIONAL PARK - HAWES YORKSHIRE RIVERS & CANALS YORKSHIRE WATER

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Map Ref.erence D3 C2 C3 D5 C4 G3 G4 F1 E3 B2 F4 D5 C2 G4 D3 C4 B4 E2 C4 C5 C3 C2 D3 C4 D4 D6 E3 E3 D5 G5 D3 F2 F2 C1 E2 D3 D6 E3 F3 E4 C4 B3 D4 C2 D6 C2 D5 A2 D2 E3 E3 E3 E3 B2

Enjoy spending the day exploring the tranquil 12th century abbey ruins. Spot the wild deer roaming in the parkland, and discover the stunning beauty of the formal 18th century water gardens. 01765 608888 www.fountainsabbey.org.uk

Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, North Yorkshire

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County Signpost

FOUNTAINS ABBEY & STUDLEY ROYAL

www.countysignpost.co.uk estate and craft activities on different themes each holiday. The estate is wonderfully safe for children and there is a fantastically well equipped playground for kids to roam around in.

 NTPL Andrew Butler

into the medieval ruins of the Abbey, providing an unforgettable experience which enthrals today’s visitor just as it did the pleasure seeking Georgians.

 NTPL Andrew Butler

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal, four miles west of Ripon in North Yorkshire, is of international historic and aesthetic importance. In 1983, it was declared a World Heritage site in 1987 for being an outstanding example of the triumphs of man made design throughout different periods of human history.

No other site in Europe contains such a rich variety of historic monuments. Each important in their own right, the Cistercian Abbey, Georgian Water Garden, mediaeval Deer Park, Elizabethan Hall and Victorian church offer the visitor an unparalleled opportunity to appreciate the range of England’s heritage.

The perfect complement to the Abbey is Studley Royal Water Garden, a Georgian masterpiece of

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an ornamental garden adorned with Classical statues and follies. Once wild and wooded, the valley of the river Skell was transformed into one of England’s most spectacular water gardens by the Aislabie family. Disgraced by a financial scandal in the 1700’s, John Aislabie channelled his energies into creating a landscape of often breathtaking and ground breaking vision.

This is a place where you can truly relax and leave modern day stresses behind as you are transported to another era. Let the cool secluded shady walks and grand green amphitheatres play with your senses. Let the artist’s eye guide you across elegant ponds and cascades, to the Georgian follies of the garden including rustic bridges, classical temples and statues and finally

On the estate is also an outstanding example of a monastic water mill that is over 800 years old; its earliest parts actually pre-date the abbey. The honey-coloured elegance of Fountains Hall and William Burges’ ornate religious masterpiece St Mary’s Church surrounded by ancient oak and lime trees create striking contrasts that leave lasting impressions on visitors of all ages.

At any time of the year, there is always something interesting, inspiring and different to see and do at Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal. There is a wealth of activities for the young and old to enjoy. Throughout the year there are a number of ‘taster tours’, to introduce first-time visitors to all the different parts of the estate, as well as ‘activity tours’, which enable visitors to discover different aspects of the estate, for example, what it was like to be a monk in medieval times, what varieties of flora and fauna can be found in the different seasons and even folk and fairy tales.

During school holidays there are drop in self-led activities in Swanley Grange, the education centre. These include trails for children around the

Whether you intend to spend a couple of hours or all day on the estate there is more than enough to entertain. No doubt a walk around the estate in the fresh air will work up an appetite so pay a visit to the Visitor Centre Restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious hot meal, variety of sandwiches, home-made soup and a selection of cakes. If you are exploring the Studley area of the estate then pop into Studley Tea Rooms where freshly made hot and cold sandwiches, soup and cakes are on offer in a wonderful lakeside setting. All of the food served on the estate adheres to the National Trust food policy which means that wherever possible local, seasonal and organic produce is used.

Escape from the hustle and bustle of city centre shopping and combine a peaceful walk in the tranquillity of the estate with a visit to the shop, one of the largest National Trust shops in the country. If you’re searching for unique presents, gifts that are made in Yorkshire and local produce then you’ll be sure to find everything you’re looking for and more. Open All Year: except 24/25 December, Fridays in Jan, Nov, Dec. April - September 10am - 5pm October - March 10am - 4pm School groups are welcome. If you’d like to book a visit please call 01765 643197.

Last admission 1 hour before closing.

Tel: 01765 608888 www.fountainsabbey.org.uk

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County Signpost

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YORK MINSTER

visitors to the Minster are encouraged to attend services and experience the wonderful choral tradition which continues in this glorious cathedral. Special events for 2011 include :

The awe-inspiring York Minster sits at the very heart of the historic city of York. It is the largest Gothic Cathedral north of the Alps and is a treasure house of artistic and architectural achievements. It is a beacon for all visitors to the city and is an integral part of the history of the city of York. The Minster is world-famous for its wonderful collection of stained glass with the glorious Great East Window standing as the jewel in its crown. The current Minster was started in 1220 and finished in 1472. This cathedral replaced a previous Norman Cathedral which itself was situated on the site of a Roman Fortress. Visitors can delve into the history of the Minster in the

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Undercroft, Treasury and Crypt. Now available: Every Wednesday and Friday, the Bedern Glaziers' studio open their doors for a behind the scenes glimpse of conservators at work on some of the Minster's finest windows. Tour price is separate from the Minster admission and pre-booking is advised.

Visitors can also climb the 275 steps to the top of the central tower to experience wonderful views of York and the beautiful Yorkshire countryside.

As well as attracting half a million visitors each year, the Minster is a working church and holds over 30 well-attended services each week. All

14th May, 7.30pm - A concert for York Against Cancer featuring the New Mill Male Voice Choir

21 May, 7.30pm - Celebration: Gustav Mahler Symphony No.8â&#x20AC;&#x153;Symphony of a Thousandâ&#x20AC;?featuring the Guildhall Orchestra 28 May, 7.30pm - Rachmaninov: Vespers by The Ebor Singers in the Chapter House 11 June, 7.30pm - Haydn: Creation by the York Musical Society Chorus and Orchestra

22 June, 7.30pm - Mozart: Mass in D minor K.427 and Beethoven: Symphony no. 9 in D minor op. 125 (Choral) by the University of York Choir and Symphony Orchestra www.yorkminster.org www.boxoffice.yorkminster.org

The Rose Window

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BOLTON CASTLE

Bolton Castle is a spectacular medieval fortress situated in the heart of Wensleydale, with stunning views over the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Completed by Sir Richard Le Scrope, in 1399, the Castle boasts a fascinating history including involvement in the Pilgrimage of Grace, Mary Queen of Scots imprisonment in 1568 and a six month siege during the Civil War. The Castle has never been sold and remains in the private ownership of Lord Bolton, Sir Richard le Scrope’s direct descendant.

Bolton Castle was a luxurious family home as well as a defensive fortress and despite being partially ‘slighted’ by Cromwells’ men during the Civil War the Castle remains remarkably well preserved with many interesting rooms and features to discover including the Old Kitchens, Dungeon, Solar, Nursery, Armoury and Mary Queen of Scots bedroom. About one third of the rooms are fully intact and the rest of the Castle is almost completely accessible giving visitors great insight into its turbulent past.

Activities

Step back in time! Dress in Mediaeval costume before setting off to explore the Castle. Costumes available from the Gift shop and are included in child’s admission price.

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Visit the medieval nursery and have a go at some authentic toys and games or try your hand at quill writing and calligraphy and learn more about life was like for children living 600 years ago

Experience the Old Kitchen recreated as it would have been in the Middle Ages when the Castle was newly built.

Events 2011

As well as bringing more of the Castle’s rooms to life with some fantastic improved displays, there is now the Bolton Castle Falconry Experience and Wild Boar Park giving you the unique chance to experience more of what life was like in a castle, between the fourteenth and seventeenth centuries. Try the Falconer for a Day experience to learn more about looking after these amazing birds or join the Falconer on a Hawk Walk! Don’t miss the medieval archery demonstrations, where you can have a go yourself ! Telephone: 01969 623981. Email: info@boltoncastle.co.uk Website: www.boltoncastle.co.uk

Three exciting new family trails will keep children of all ages entertained and encourage them to explore the castle and search for clues about its fascinating past.

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Castle Wedding

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County Signpost

KIPLIN HALL

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SCORTON - RICHMOND

House, Gardens and Tea Room Conspire to Please The entrance drive to Kiplin Hall reveals nothing of the hidden delights that await the visitor. Venture further and around the corner stands this fascinating Jacobean house, built as his country seat in the 1620s by George Calvert, Secretary of State to James I and founder of Maryland, USA.

The house is of architectural interest and reflects the fashionable design of the period, with its diapered brickwork, towers and ogee domes. In the early 19th century the 4th Earl of Tyrconnel and his wife, Sarah, added a drawing room wing to the south of the symmetrical building. An 18th century print describes this as

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the New Drawing Room, Designed in Wyatville’s Gothic. The house was altered again in 1887, when the next owner, Walter Carpenter, engaged William Eden Nesfield to add a suite of rooms above the drawing room, where a new library was created. Since the house was built, only four families, related by blood or marriage, have owned Kiplin Hall. Each brought furnishings, paintings and personal possessions. Much of these collections remain, and the Hall’s interior is now a fine example of a Victorian country house at the close of the 19th century, which also retains characteristics of its Jacobean beginnings.

Over the years successive owners took an interest in developing the gardens. In the 18th century the Pleasure Grounds were laid out including the woodland to the east of the Hall, which has recently been restored. A Walled Garden was also built in this period. Having been laid to grass for many years, this once productive kitchen garden is gradually being returned to its original purpose. Fruit trees are newly planted and the paths that divided the beds are being relaid, redefining the beds where fruit, flowers and vegetables were grown for use in the Hall. The Topiary and Rose Gardens are delightful, and this year a sensory garden will be planted with views across the lake.

A highly recommended day out !

For full details of opening times please see the advert on page 39.

Telephone 01748 818178 info@kiplinhall.co.uk www.kiplinhall.co.uk

The Tearoom

Visitors often round off, or start, their visit in the Tea Room, located in the Hall’s panelled entrance room. Morning coffee, delicious homemade cakes and scones, and light lunches are served by friendly staff beneath the gaze of Charles II and Kiplin family portraits.

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County Signpost

BURTON AGNES HALL AND GARDENS

With a huge variety of events including; a Snowdrop Spectacular, Orchid Festival, Easter Egg Hunt, Classic Car Rally, Gardeners’ Fair, Civil War Re-enactment, Jazz & Blues Festival, Fete, Michaelmas Fair and Christmas Opening there is a lot going on at Burton Agnes Hall this year. Open from 1st April to 31st October and from the 14th November to 22nd December, the Hall and gardens offer something for everyone, so visitors can enjoy a perfect day out.

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www.countysignpost.co.uk Simon Jenkins, author of ‘England’s Thousand Best Houses’, described Burton Agnes Hall as ‘the perfect English house’ and as one of the twenty best English houses alongside Windsor Castle, Buckingham Palace, Chatsworth House and Castle Howard.

Outside, lawns with more than a hundred yew topiary bushes surround the house. There is a classical pond with a fountain and a pebble mosaic garden on the eastern side. The old Elizabethan walled garden is an award-winning wonderland containing over four thousand different plants, a potager filled with herbs, fruit and vegetables, herbaceous borders, giant board games, a maze, a jungle garden and a national collection of campanulas. To the north of the house is a woodland walk with wildlife sculptures to seek out – ideal for anyone looking for an adventure!

After enjoying the Hall and its manicured gardens, visitors can wander over to the courtyard and revel in finding the perfect gift from new season’s stock in the Gift Shop and Home & Garden Shop, purchase some seasonal produce from the Farmers’ Food Store and stock up on home grown plants (all propagated from the garden). After all that shopping, visitors can relax in the Impressionists’ Cafe or enjoy an indulgent treat in the ice cream parlour!

To find out more about what’s going on Burton Agnes Hall, visit www.burtonagnes.com Burton Agnes Hall, Burton Agnes, Driffield, East Yorkshire, YO25 4NB Telephone: 01262 490 324

A piece of history

Built in 1598 by Sir Henry Griffith, Burton Agnes Hall is a magnificent example of Elizabethan architecture, and is still inhabited by descendents of the same family. Today, Simon Cunliffe-Lister and his wife Olivia, with their young children Islay and Joss, welcome visitors into their home, which is filled with treasures collected or commissioned by the family over the centuries. These include French Impressionist paintings, contemporary furniture, tapestries and striking modern artwork from recent decades.

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RIPLEY CASTLE

Discover the fascinating secrets of award winning Ripley Castle Ripley Castle is an historic attraction open to the public all year round and makes for a fascinating and entertaining day out, in a beautiful location, with memorable surroundings.

Because it has belonged to the same family for twenty six generations, Ripley’s colourful and sometimes gruesome history is well documented. If the Castle walls could talk they would tell the story of kings and queens, civil war and plagues and numerous clandestine affairs. The guided tours are very entertaining and informative as there are so many humorous anecdotes about the castle and the family. You get to see some 16th century books, Royal Greenwich Civil war armour and the secret priest’s hiding hole, only discovered by accident in 1964. The Ingilby’s were prominent Catholics. Francis was martyred in York in 1586 and several others were implicated in the Gunpowder Plot. ‘Trooper Jane’ a redoubtable loyalist, held Oliver Cromwell at pistol point in the Castle Library. There are also special children’s tours which are hugely popular.

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THE DEEP

There are delightful walled gardens; impressivge hot houses, herbaceous borders and kitchen gardens with herbs, rare vegetables and fruit trees. In Spring 150,000 create a riot of colour. There is a play trail for children and a lovely walk around the lake and deer park. Following your tour of the Castle and Gardens visit the gift shop which is full of inspiring presents to suit all ages and sample delicious fayre made with local produce in the Tearoom. The cobbled market village has several shops, an art gallery, a farmyard museum, an ancient church and a charming Inn, The Boar’s Head, with bar, brasserie and beer garden.

There are many exciting events held at the Castle throughout 2011 including a month of Shakespeare in the Gardens from mid June to mid July, a Jools Holland concert on 16th July, The Ripley Falconry Experience held on the May and August Bank Holiday Mondays and a Haunted Halloween Week in October to name but a few.

Telephone: 01423 770152 Email: enquiries@ripleycastle.co.uk Web: www.ripleycastle.co.uk

The Deep is a conservation and educational charity which runs one of the deepest and most spectacular aquariums in the world. It is a unique blend of stunning marine life, fun interactives and audio-visual presentations which together tell the dramatic story of the world’s oceans. Highlights include over 3,500 fish including spectacular sharks and rays, Europe’s deepest viewing tunnel, a glass lift ride through a 10m deep tank and a 3D film!

On Friday and Saturday evenings, there is also a restaurant with tank views within The Deep called Two Rivers, booking is advisable. The Deep Tower Street, Hull HU1 4DP Telephone 01482 381000 info@thedeep.co.uk www.thedeep.co.uk

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Fort Paull

morning had to tip-toe between them to avoid setting them off. It took a week to defuse all of the bombs that had been found and some were still turning up in the 1970s.

History

Set in over 10 acres on the banks of the Humber Estuary, with magnificient views along the length and breadth of the river.

Fort Paull was first built in 1542 under Henry VIII, it was rebuilt by the Royalists in the Civil War, and then again was rebuilt during the Napoleonic Wars.

Newly opened in 2010 was an underground labyrinth trail of different WWII tableaux brought to life by a number of very fine, full size waxwork models...but watch out for the butterfly bombs - can you avoid setting them off ? Remember the slightest movement will do it !

Inside the 20 feet high walls there stands a military barracks which were in use from 1861 to 1950, and comprising mounted gun emplacments on three sides, built around a flat central area contianing many exhibits on the old parade ground.

Fort Paull combines 500 years of hands on history with enough facilities to provide a full day out for all the family. Explore the multitude of underground rooms and tunnels and see the fantastic exhibits and waxworks. Roam through the grounds in safety and visit the many artillery pieces and military vehicles and the exhibit rooms found in the old accommodation blocks.

Butterfly Bombs - Grimsby 13th June 1943

During an air raid on the night of the 13th, about 3000 butterfly bombs were dropped - 14 people were killed in the raid itself and during the two hours after the all-clear, a further 43 people were killed stumbling over the butterfly bombs in the dark. The streets were littered with bombs and people going to work in the

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Amenities

Butterfly Bombs

Let the children loose in the large play areas ,while you relax in the Dukes of York fully licensed Bar and CafĂŠ set in the old engine house or visit the Berliner Tea Rooms where you can sit in a restaurant car which is the only remaining section of the Berliner Train which ferried troops from West Germany to West Berlin during the Cold War. At Fort Paull you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the Blackburn Beverley: one of the Forts most impressive exhibits and is the World's only surviving Blackburn Beverley Aircraft.

The plane was originally built at British Aerospace in Brough and made its final flight into Paull Aerodrome just outside the village, it remained there for ten years before being moved to the Beverley Army Museum where it was a focal point for visitors for several years. When the museum closed a bid was made by the Fort to purchase the aircraft. The bid was subsequently successful and in 2005 the Beverley returned home to Paull.

Fort Paull is a family freindly museum run by a small group of dedicated volunteers; if an area or exhibit is not fenced off then children are encouraged to touch, climb and investigate. Telephone 01482 896236 www.fortpaull.com

The staff at Fort Paull are extremely proud of this acquisition and are determined to preserve not just the fabric of the aircraft but also its history. Inside the aircraft you will find information regarding the history of the Blackburn Beverley and this specific aircraft in particular, you can also look around its massive frame and see just how much the plane could carry. Shop for gifts and souvenirs at the Gift Shop & Military Art Gallery.

Or visit the military surplus shop and shooting gallery (Sundays and bank holidays only during season ).

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County Signpost

STUMP CROSS CAVERNS

www.countysignpost.co.uk

RAF HOLMPTON BUNKER TOURS

Your chance to visit this Amazing Place Open February 19th to October 30th 2011 For Opening Times & Full Details

W: www.rafholmpton.com T: 01964 630342 E: info@ rafholmpton.com

Stump Cross Caverns is one of Britain’s premier show caves, located in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, on the border of Nidderdale. There are a range of facilities for a great family day out, including a gift shop with an excellent selection of fossils, crystals and sheepskin rugs and tea room with a variety of home-made cakes & pastries, as well as the caves themselves. There is also a twenty minute film presentation shown in the comfortable lecture theatre, informing visitors of the history and development of the caverns within the local area. The caves at Stumps Cross were discovered in 1860 by miners who were looking for lead seams in the Yorkshire Dales. Although they didn’t find any lead, they did find the natural caverns which you can see today. Miners often didn’t see any commercial value in the caves, however a man named William Newbold had vision enough to

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see that they could be a profitable enterprise, and opened the caves to the public at a cost of 1 shilling per visit.

The cave system at Stump Cross extends well beyond the show caves which are open to the public, to an overall length of approximately 6km. Many of the deeper caverns are only accessible to experienced cavers, but there is a possibility of further sections of the caverns being opened to the public in the future. Indeed, the impressive reindeer cavern was opened to the public in 2000 after debris was removed. Telephone 01756 752780 www.stumpcrosscaverns.co.uk

Burton Constable

Holiday Park and Arboretum Your Gateway to the Great Outdoors

The Old Lodges, Sproatley, East Yorkshire HU11 4LN

TEL: 01964 562508 FAX: 01964 563420 info@burtonconstable.co.uk www.burtonconstable.co.uk Leisure homes Your ideal home from home.

On a separate, exclusive site, in the peace and tranquility of the Yorkshire Countryside, own your own static caravan.

Touring caravans/camping facilities

The camping area overlooks the lake and children’s play area. Electric hook-ups are available throughout, with night-lighting around the park.

Relax in the peace and tranquility of Rural England. Log Cabins

Exciting new development, now fully open - the luxury of a bungalow in classic Yorkshire Countryside.

Fishing

Our fishing lake provides excellent sport with a multitude of fish to catch.

Set in 200 acres of peaceful parkland, the Holiday Park is only a short stroll from Burton Constable Hall through Capability Brown’s park.

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County Signpost

THE BLACK SHEEP BREWERY

www.countysignpost.co.uk The spacious split level Bistro has wonderful views over the River Ure and provides a variety of culinary delights throughout the day. The menu is bursting with locally made produce, and of course, beer ! The Black Sheep Shop is full of surprises and ‘ewe-nique’ gifts for all occasions and, with over 1,000 different items, there’s certainly something for everyone. The Sheepy Shop is also available online at www.blacksheepbrewery.co.uk along with a wide range of Black Sheep hampers.

Black Sheep Brewery is the ideal place for an interesting and alternative day out in the Yorkshire Dales. Telephone 01765 680100 www.blacksheepbrewery.co.uk

The Tour

Masham, North Yorkshire In the early 1990s Paul Theakston, 5th generation of Masham’s famous brewing family, saw an opportunity to develop his inherited skills, making real beer in the time-honoured fashion. Originally introduced to pubs in and around the Yorkshire Dales, Black Sheep beers are now available not only across the UK but around the world.

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The Black Sheep Brewery Visitor Centre is a major year-round attraction.

Regular ‘shepherded’ tours of the Brewery involve a fascinating trip round the traditional Brewhouse and Fermenting Room. Guests experience the traditional brewing process and sample the award-winning ales in the comfort of the Baa...r. The Bistro

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County Signpost

WHITE SCAR CAVE

www.countysignpost.co.uk To complement the show cave, a new visitor centre was built to mark the millennium. The centrepiece is a large pavilion covered in turf literally a living roof. There is also a shop, and a café which enjoys splendid views over the dales (and, on clear days, glimpses of the sea). Climate change is in evidence: gone are the days when the cave entrance was blocked by eight-foot snowdrifts. Instead, more intense rainfall is making the subterranean waterfalls thunder ever louder.

Work has begun on conversion of the cave’s lighting system from conventional low-energy lamps to new LED technology. This has two benefits. LED lamps use little energy, thus helping the environment. In addition, because of their wavelength they reveal the natural colours of the cave.

White Scar Cave, in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, is the longest show cave in Britain. There are underground waterfalls and streams, and thousands of stalactites. The curious cave formations include the Devil’s Tongue, the Arum Lily, and the remarkably lifelike Judge’s Head. Guides lead visitors along the well-lit paths and explain the features. The highlight of the tour is the 200,000 year old Battlefield Cavern. Over 330 feet long, with its roof soaring in places to 100 feet, this is one of the largest caverns in Britain. Also shown on the tour are fine examples of the geological feature known as flowstone, and a display of fluorescing stalactites. Until 1923 these underground wonders remained a secret of nature. In August that year a Cambridge undergraduate undertook a hiking tour of the area. He noticed a slight fissure in the ground, and decided to investigate.

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Perhaps coincidentally for an explorer, he bore the splendid name Christopher Francis Drake Long. Wearing only his summer clothes of shirt and shorts, and lighting his way with candles stuck in the brim of his hat, he crawled into the low passage. Spurred on by the distant roar of water, he struggled over jagged rocks and through pools, until eventually he found himself at the foot of a waterfall. White Scar Cave had been discovered, and its name was derived from the outcrops of pale rock above the entrance. The huge Battlefield Cavern was found in 1971, its boulder-strewn floor suggestive of fearsome conflict between prehistoric giants. An access tunnel 215 feet in length was driven by Cornish tin miners so that visitors may enjoy this awesome spectacle. Look out for the ancient mud pools!

It is worth remembering that the cave stays a constant 8°C (46°F) throughout the year, so it feels warm in winter and refreshingly cool in summer. White Scar is a member of the International Show Caves Association, a body which assists conservation of our natural underground environment. White Scar Cave, Ingleton, North Yorkshire LA6 3AW. Telephone 01524 241244 www.whitescarcave.co.uk

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SETTLE - CARLISLE RAILWAY

County Signpost The information on the groups travelling is also passed to the manager of the on-train refreshment service who makes sure (as far as possible) that there is a trolley on board serving tea/coffee, snacks, tasty tray-bakes and biscuits made locally at a farm overlooking the railway line. On some trains, locally made ice cream is also available. This successful partnership means the Settle-Carlisle can offer a really memorable, comfortable, informative journey. At any time of the year you can be guaranteed a warm welcome to the Settle-Carlisle railway.

The Settle-Carlisle Railway is one of the most scenic railways in the world and passengers enjoy the wonderful views of two of Englandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest rural treasures â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Yorkshire Dales and the Eden Valley. Views of the Three Peaks (Whernside, Peny-y-Ghent and Ingleborough) the highest point of the Pennines, Crossfell, and the unforgettable landscape of Dentdale make the journey a memorable experience.

During the heyday of Victorian railway building, the Settle-Carlisle line was the last mainline railway to be built in England using sheer physical might to create a railway featuring wonderfully engineered viaducts and tunnels. Renovated signal boxes, water towers and station furniture complement the beautifully maintained Victorian stations, many of which are adorned by colourful summer floral displays.

Dentdale

organisers of any group of ten or more people travelling together can contact a Freephone number to speak to a representative who will advise, assist and book the trip. The booking is made at the Development Company office at Appleby station.

Telephone: 0800 98 007 66 or 017683 53200 Fax: 017683 51434 www.settle-carlisle.co.uk Email: grouptravel@settle-carlisle.co.uk

Once a week the bookings are forwarded on to the Friends on-train adviser co-ordinator who then arranges for volunteer guides to accompany the group on the train, point out places of interest and offer leaflets and guide books. The on-train guides have a wealth of information about the line, its history and other interesting anecdotes including the story of Ruswarp, the dog who helped to save the line from closure.

The scenery is not the only unique aspect of this line. A collaboration between Northern Rail, The Friends of the Settle-Carlisle Line and the Settle-Carlisle Railway Development company has resulted in a system which offers groups a really excellent service. Tour operators and

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If you would like to take a group on the SettleCarlisle line, diesel sprinter trains operate all year (except Christmas Day and Boxing Day) and discounts are available for group bookings of ten or more passengers. Prices depend on the journey and date of travel. For more information, please contact the Group Travel team:

Passengers boarding at Appleby

Friendly trolley service

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THE KEIGHLEY AND WORTH VALLEY RAILWAY

Step back in time and enjoy a train ride through the heart of Bronte country. Most services are operated by steam trains, but the railway also serves the local community, with many people using the morning diesel railcar services to do their shopping in Keighley.

When British Railways closed the line in 1962, local people and railway enthusiasts joined forces to try and save it. A Preservation Society was formed and, after many years of volunteer struggle, the line finally re-opened to passenger traffic in 1968.

KWVR Society members decided to recreate the atmosphere of a country branch line of the 1950s. This has been hugely popular, not least with film-makers and TV producers, and the railway provides a working background for any period from Victorian times up to the present day. Over the years, the Railway has appeared in many TV and film productions including Yanks, Sherlock Holmes, Treasure Hunt, Poirot, Born and Bred, The Royal, Where The Heart Is, A Touch Of Frost, Songs Of Praise and many more.

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The KWVR and the station at Oakworth were used as the location for the classic 1970 film The Railway Children. Be sure to stop off or look out at this delightful Edwardian gas-lit station.

The Keighley & Worth Valley Railway is a single track line running 4 miles 75 chains from Keighley to Oxenhope. The 0 milepost is on the site of the former Keighley Station Junction signal box, approximately 2 chains to the east of the present connection with the national rail network. The "up" direction is to London and hence from Oxenhope to Keighley. Locomotive run-round facilities exist at both ends of the line: at Keighley the locos. use the track running through platform 3, at Oxenhope a dedicated run-round loop line is used. A passing loop, which may be used by all classes of trains, is located at Damems Junction (2.3 miles) . A goods loop also exists at Haworth (4 miles) but this is currently out of use until signalling work has been completed. __The steepest gradient on the line is 1 in 56, which occurs in two places: Keighley Curve (0m.10ch to 0m.27ch.) and between Ingrow Tunnel (1m.35ch.) and Damems station (2m.0ch). The average gradient of the line is 1 in 70.

www.countysignpost.co.uk There are two tunnels on the line: Ingrow Tunnel (150 yards long) and Mytholmes Tunnel (75 yards long). The Railway's bridges number from 1 to 31 plus "X" of which four have been abandoned; 18 are underbridges and 9 overbridges (Bridge X was on the station approach road at Oxenhope over a mill dam) but there have been many alterations since the line was constructed by the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway Co. in 1867.

Steam train services operate every weekend throughout the year and daily in summer. There are six superbly restored gas-lit stations, a fleet of steam locomotives and historic carriages, a Museum of Rail Travel at Ingrow, buffets at Keighley and Oxenhope - and even a CAMRA real ale bar on many trains. There are picnic areas at Keighley, Haworth and Oxenhope and many more quality facilities for visitors.

Whether you’re travelling on the KWVR as a convenient rail link between the National Rail network at Keighley and on to Haworth and Oxenhope, or as an enjoyable trip to the past on

the country’s last remaining complete branch line railway, you’re sure to enjoy your time at the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway.

The KWVR is operated entirely by volunteer members of the Society. New volunteers are always welcome for any part of the Railway’s activities. If you’d like to join, call the volunteer liason officer John Hesselwood on 01484 348986. Telephone 01535 645214 www.kwvr.co.uk

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County Signpost

KIRKLEES LIGHT RAILWAY

www.countysignpost.co.uk

TROPICAL BUTTERFLY HOUSE, WILDLIFE AND FALCONRY CENTRE

Discover a wild family day out, catch a glimpse into a faraway world and make friends with creatures great and small.

Encounter the exotic

Telephone 01909 569 416 www.butterflyhouse.co.uk.

Get close to lots of free-roaming animals, meet the residents of Meerkat Mansion and handle exotic snakes. See magnificent birds of prey displays and entertaining parrot shows. Feed marmoset monkeys, lorikeets and many more amazing creatures.

Steam along behind Hawk, Owl, Fox or Badger, the four friendly steam engines on an enchanting 50 minute return trip. Travel along 3 3/4 miles of 15" narrow-gauge rail through the superb scenery of the lovely South Pennine foothills.

Arrive at the seasonal family area at Shelley, with play area, tea room, bouncy castle. The facilities back at the main station will also keep you enter-

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tained with a large play area, cafĂŠ and miniature railway around the pond*. This is an all-weather attraction which is hugely popular with all the family. Telephone 01484 865727 www.kirkleeslightrailway.com

Relax in the cafĂŠ and let the kids explore the Play Park with sandpit, pedal cars and aerial glide. Family events run throughout the year. Keeper Experiences and guided tours are available by pre-booking. Open daily and just 5 minutes from the M1, junction 31. For further information please call 01909 569 416 or visit www.butterflyhouse.co.uk

Harris Hawk

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LIGHTWATER VALLEY

Lightwater Valley – Home to 3 great attractions on one site!

Set in 175 acres of gorgeous North Yorkshire Parkland – just North of Ripon - Lightwater Valley Theme Park and Shopping Village is renowned for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

Theme Park

Lightwater Valley is simply bursting with 175 acres of action-packed adventures, from the dark and mysterious subterranean world of Raptor Attack to the dizzying heights of Whirlwind, a typhoon of screams that'll twist even the bravest of souls.

New for 2011, join in a swashbuckling adventure in Skeleton Cove where only the bravest buccaneers dare come ashore. So, assemble a raiding party and set sail to discover the five new rides … jump aboard the Flying Cutlass, hop into the spinningly explosive Powder Kegs and embark on a thrilling 360 degree voyage aboard The Black Pearl. It’s ‘all hands on deck’ as you encounter rough seas aboard Skull Rock and, for those mini invaders amongst you, keep a beady eye out for the Pirate Swinger.

When it’s time to relax and refuel, drift towards Hungry Harbour for a range of mutinous meals and snacks before you take on the rest of the valley …

When it's time to slow the pace, there are lakes and parkland to leisurely explore with wide open spaces to relax and enjoy, so your adventure in the valley can be as thrilling or as chilling as you want it to be.

With over 40 rides and attractions for thrill seekers of all ages, the excitement never stops as you bravely take on the challenge of Europe's longest roller coaster - The Ultimate, get swept high into the air by the powerful grip of the Eagle's Claw and 'feel the force' as you shoot the raging water of the Wild River Rapids.

Shopping Village Fr e e E n t ry . Op en al l y e ar r o un d. Br a nd S pa nk in g Va l ue ! From the latest designer fashions in Clobber & Co and Klass clothing, as well as the Aladdin’s caves that have become our Village Emporium and Gift Time, why not take a fresh look at Lightwater Shopping Village? With the finest dining accessories in Kitchen to Table, as well as the most wonderful fabrics in Oswaldtwistle Mills, we offer a complete shopping experience. The Plant Centre stock only the best seasonal plants for your garden and, completing the lineup, Sweet Memories is an old fashioned confectioners that sells all your old favourites. Telephone 0871 720 0011 www.lightwatervalley.co.uk

The Ultimate

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County Signpost

THE RICHMOND BREWING COMPANY

Andy has a wealth of production experience in the brewing industry in a career spanning 28 years with Tennents, Ruddles, Websters, John Smiths, Theakstons and Newcastle Brown in a number of breweries across the United Kingdom. In addition he has managed a public house and understands the retail side of the industry.

Richmond Brewing Company Limited is a six barrel microbrewery established by brewers Andy Hamilton and Richard Bowerman, situated in The Station, a new tourist attraction in Richmond. The company provides first class ales in bottle and cask to businesses in The Station complex as well as Richmond and the Yorkshire area.

THE STATION, RICHMOND

With two cinema screens, a cafe-restaurant, art gallery, heritage centre and six artisan food-makers on the premises, The Station is a great place to start your visit to Richmond, Britain's Great Town of the Year 2009. The Angel’s Share: Heavenly breads, cakes, scones and patisserie baked fresh daily.

Archer’s Jersey Ice Cream: The range of flavours is increasing all the time. They try to keep flavours seasonal, introducing champagne rhubarb that was grown in the farm garden from seed, along with many fruits. Other fruit is sourced when available from a local pick your own farm F.W. Elgey at Piercebridge.

The Station Gallery: Since opening in November 2007, The Station has quickly established a reputation as a major North-East art exhibition venue. The wonderful surroundings of the restored Grade 2* listed Victorian railway station, with an abundance of natural light, original stone walls and vaulted iron roof provides a wonderful ambiance to display art to its best advantage.

Seasons Restaurant & Cafe Bar: Seasons Restaurant has menus designed around a modern British theme with Mediterranean influences. They use fresh locally sourced produce wherever possible and, of course, all the menus use seasonal ingredients.

Andy Hamilton

Richard has more than 16 years brewing experience with Websters, Courage, John Smiths, Theakstons and Newcastle Brown. Three years ago Richard purchased Stump Cross Caverns in Yorkshire, one of the region’s foremost tourist attractions and continues to develop his business career.

Telephone 01748 828266 www.richmondbrewing.co.uk

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www.countysignpost.co.uk

Lacey’s Cheese: Traditional, handmade cheeses available from The Station, Richmond. At Laceys Cheese theytake great pride in their craft to bring you a high quality, locally produced product. Why don't you come on down to The Station to see, first hand, how traditional cheeses are made.

Velvet Heaven: At Velvet Heaven they specialise in making top quality delicious fudge and confectionery such as Turkish Delight and Coconut Ice. They also sell a range of chocolates, truffles and traditional sweets.

www.richmondstation.com

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YORKSHIRE A IR M USEUM

RAF Elvington, upon which the Yorkshire Air Museum & Allied Air Forces Memorial is based, became operational with 4 Group Bomber Command in October 1942 when 77 Squadron moved from Chivenor to become Elvington’s first ‘home’ squadron. Flying Halifax bombers, they took the war to the German industrial heartland, but suffered the heaviest losses of any Bomber Command unit, with over 500 airmen loosing their lives from 96 Halifax aircraft shot down.

The superb Bomber Command exhibition, ‘Against the Odds’, the definitive national exhibition on the topic, gives visitors a deep insight into the formation and operation of this unparalleled fighting force. This leads on to all the other fascinating displays and exhibits, such as the unique Air Gunners Memorial Room, restored Control Tower, Uniform Display and much more. April 2011 will see the opening of the newly refurbished “Astra” Cinema with a state of the art plasma screen which will show our unique wartime footage taken by the French

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www.countysignpost.co.uk

Halifax showing the French markings with some veterans from Elvington’s French Squadrons.

aircrews, depicting a day in the life of RAF Elvington and following a raid to Leipzig and back, plus some fascinating new documentaries.

The acclaimed collection of historic aircraft, spans the birth of flight to the supersonic age and features the unique replica of the Cayley Glider, the Wright Flyer and other early aircraft through the war years with the magnificent Handley Page Halifax Bomber “Friday the 13th”, the De Havilland Mosquito, Douglas DC3 Dakota and the famous Hurricane and Spitfire amongst others. The collection continues to encompass the major aircraft of the Cold War era – Gloster Javelin, Electric Lightning, Hawker Hunter and the East Yorkshire built Blackburn Buccaneer and not least the still futuristic looking 1950’s designed Handley Page Victor V-Bomber / K2 Tanker, which took part in both the Falklands War and the first Gulf War in its refuelling role.

The exciting new, Heritage Lottery funded, ‘Pioneers of Aviation’ exhibition features the work of Scarborough born Sir George Cayley, the ‘Father of Aeronautics’ and inventor of the aeroplane, along with that of Leeds born Robert Blackburn, who established aircraft factories in Leeds and at Brough, East Yorkshire, which still exists today as part of BAE Systems. Blackburn established an early Flying School at Filey and went on to create a long line of successful, mostly military, aircraft. The exhibition also covers Hull born aviator Amy Johnson, whose record breaking solo flights to Australia and South Africa are indeed the stuff of legend. A striking interpretation of the ‘Dambusters’ raids with the Barnes Wallis designed bouncing bomb is a major feature, along with Wallis’s work with the R100 airship at Howden.

The Yorkshire Air Museum prides itself on being a unique Allied Air Forces Memorial, widely regarded as being the only such dedicated Memorial. We take care to maintain the authentic ambience of the wartime era, whilst at the same time providing an exciting and interesting day out for all the family. There really is something for everybody here, from the tranquil Memorial Gardens that have earned the coveted Silver Gilt commendation in the Yorkshire in Bloom competition, to all the aircraft and exhibits mentioned before. Many fascinating artefacts and stories can be found – you never know when you could find yourself talking to a real veteran of WWII or someone amongst our team of volunteers who has flown some of the more modern aircraft.

Blackburn Buccaneer, built at Brough, East Yorkshire, in action during one of the ‘Thunder Day’ events.

The exciting Events Programme features lecture presentations, interesting Nightshoot photographic opportunities, regular “Thunder Days” with the powering up of our ‘live’ jets and the huge Battlegroup North militaria show in May which combines a historic military vehicle rally with a superb wargaming show and living history displays.

On 20th October 2011 the Museum is hosting a unique event in York Minster celebrating the 66th anniversary of the French Air Force leaving York to return to liberated France. The event will include the inauguration of the very first French memorial in an English cathedral. Over 1600 people are expected with veterans and serving men and women from both countries. The event is being supported by City of York Council, The Dean & Chapter of York Minster, les Amicale des Groupes Lourds and RAFA. Telephone: 01904 608595 Web: www.yorkshireairmuseum.org email: museum@yorkshireairmuseum.org

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RAF HOLMPTON

www.countysignpost.co.uk

The Settle-Carlisle Railway

ENTER THE EARTH & EXPERIENCE NATURE FROM THE INSIDE

Support Command Operations

Bunker Tours 2011 Starting life as RAF Patrington now called RAF Holmpton, it still retains the original Station Badge.

Since the first public tours of RAF Holmpton back in August 2004 the exhibition has continually grown, with new additions and improvements carried out just about every year. So many places tend to stand still, but at RAF Holmpton there are updates and improvments every year. 2010 was no exception with a major restoration completed of the rooms used by RAF Support Command during the 1980’s. Following painstaking research this area has been fully restored with original furniture and equipment dating back to that period of the bunkers history. And to make viewing of the area much easier for visitors there is a new ‘walk through’ route with viewing windows overlooking the ‘Command Pit’ where Senior RAF Commanders would have been accommodated had there ever been a World War III.

During 2010 there were new extended viewing areas to many of the other rooms and exhibits which were certainly needed as 2010 was their busiest season to date !

Travel between Leeds, Skipton, Settle and Carlisle and enjoy some of the most spectacular countryside in England.

Plant Room

2011 will also see some major changes with two new cinemas all equipped with the latest screens and technology and a new public tour, featuring new films and a new multi screen ‘History Show’ in the main Operations Room Auditorium. For those possibly a little ‘apprehensive’ about going below ground, the Bunker is well lit throughout, centrally heated and air conditioned and with an average ceiling height of 11ft and rooms larger than most peoples homes, there is no need for concern. And the ‘Award Winning tours’ are fully interpreted by experienced guides, making us the only bunker in the UK offering fully guided tours.

For 2011 a new opening season has been introduced from 19th February until the 30th October, operating two tours daily at all peak times. For full information just go to: www.rafholmpton.com or call 01964 630208 Telephone : 01964 630208 email : info@rafholmpton.com website : www.rafholmpton.com

A scheduled diesel service operates on a daily basis throughout the year (except Xmas and Boxing Day). For details of times and fares call National Rail Enquiries on 08457 48 49 50 (24 hrs) Group discounts are available for 10 or more people travelling together. For more information call

Freephone 0800 98 007 66

Please quote the Yorkshire Signpost All information, including a full MP3 audio guide to the route, is available from the web site

www.settle-carlisle.co.uk

Kiplin Hall Jacobean House

Country Seat of Founder of Maryland, U.S.A.

now furnished as a charming Victorian home packed with family memorabilia plus new exhibition – One Woman’s Fight Sun-Wed, April-Sept, 2–5pm

WHITE SCAR CAVE

THE LONGEST SHOW CAVE IN BRITAIN • Waterfalls, flowstone & thousands of stalactites • Café, shop, picnic areas & on-site car park JEWEL of Nature • 11/2 miles from Ingleton, N. Yorks, on B6255 road to Hawes. Satnav LA6 3AW • Open from 10am daily Feb-Oct, weekends Nov-Jan. Last tour 4pm

www.whitescarcave.co.uk telephone 01524 241244

THINK

BIG

From record breakers to history makers, steam rides to science shows, there’s always something big to come back for.

FORE NEW 1-TH F 201URN O RET LYINGAN F SM T SCO

ADMISSION FREE

Gardens - Pleasure Grounds - Tea Room Sun-Wed, Feb-Oct, 10am–4pm (until 6pm April–Sept)

Tunnel Entrance

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Nr Scorton, Richmond, North Yorkshire, DL10 6AT

www.kiplinhall.co.uk

Telephone 01748 818178

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HEAD OF STEAM will include exhibitions from the museum’s own collection, touring exhibitions from other museums and exhibitions of art and objects from community and school groups.

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THE INGROW MUSEUM OF RAIL TRAVEL

Other new facilities include The Northern Rail Activity Room – used for a wide variety of activities from craft activities in school holidays, to school visits, to talks and meetings. There is also a children’s play room for our younger visitors. The museum has a conference facility which can be booked through the Council's Occasions team on 01325 388410.

Following a £1.7m refurbishment Darlington Railway Centre and Museum re-launched on 5th April 2008 with a new name and a new look and re-branded as “Head of Steam”.

The newly refurbished museum offers a unique experience to visitors through interactive displays and audio visual equipment, telling the story of the history of Darlington and the impact of railways. Many of the highly popular old exhibits still feature, such as the locomotives in the main area of the museum and these are complemented and enhanced with new exhibitions and interactive displays for people of all ages. This includes the use of audio, visual and sensory information, as well as other activities such as handling objects, puzzles for children and much, much more.

The Head of Steam - Darlington Railway Museum redevelopment has been funded by the European Regional Development Fund, Heritage Lottery Fund, English Heritage, Northern Rock Foundation, Railway Heritage Trust, Museums and Libraries Archives North East and Darlington Borough Council.

Telephone 01325 460532 www.head-of-steam.co.uk

Over 60 television programmes and films have featured carriages and steam locomotives from the Ingrow Museum of Rail Travel, so there’s a good chance you may have seen some treasured items from the museum’s Collection. The museum has just filmed sequences for BBC TV’s South Riding, starring Anna Maxwell Martin. The whole family can enjoy a visit – you don’t have to be a confirmed railway enthusiast! Children and adults of all ages will enjoy exploring the differences between 1st, 2nd and 3rd class, and listening to the sound presentations as they sit inside the carriages. Video presentations help to bring the past to life, whilst the walls are covered with old signs and posters. Young children will enjoy hunting for our little helpers, or

A new and improved cafe facility provides quality drinks, snacks and light bites, and in the summer months, this extends to include al fresco seating on the platform outside. There is also a temporary exhibition room with a scheduled programme providing a variety of exhibits catering for different audiences. This new space

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Locomotion No.1

finding items from our “look and find” worksheets. The confirmed enthusiast will enjoy our shop, which specialises in out-of-print railway magazines and books.

Located adjacent to the Ingrow Loco Museum, and the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway. When Worth Valley Railway trains are operating, ask for a Green Rover ticket, which includes admission to both museums and one day’s unlimited travel on the KWVR Location: South Street, Ingrow, Keighley BD21 5AX

Telephone 01535 680425 www.vintagecarriagestrust.org

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County Signpost

Background

NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM

The National Railway Museum in York is responsible for conserving and interpreting the British national collection of railway vehicles and other artefacts. The vast collections include over 100 locomotives (including record-breakers and world-firsts) and 180 tonnes of archive material – including posters, works of art, film and photographs. The Museum is a fantastic free day out with an action-packed events programme running throughout the year and regularly attracts over 850,000 visitors each year.

National Treasures

For a fantastic free day out in York visit the award winning National Railway Museum. Encounter iconic locomotives including the revolutionary Rocket or the streamlined Duchess. Take a seat on the innovative Japanese ‘Bullet Train’. Step aboard the footplate of the largest locomotive in the National Collection, the Chinese locomotive or travel back in time as you peek into sumptuous royal carriages.

Hidden Gems

Visit Search Engine, the Library and Archive Centre and gain access to thousands of fascinating hidden treasures. With library space and research facilities find out more about the history of the railways and the National Collection. Search Engine has changing exhibitions so make sure you check the website before you visit.

Warehouse Surprises

Home to the conservation workshops and over 1,000 surprises from the Museum’s collection, the Warehouse provides an alternative and fascinating insight from 18th century wooden rails to a 20th century burger box! Discover all kinds of unusual objects and experience The Flying Scotsman Story exhibition.

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Events for 2011

Japan Festival - 9-24 April Help mark the 10th anniversary of the National Railway Museum receiving the Japanese Bullet Train with live music and martial arts every day during the Easter holidays. Make your own origami Bullet Train, dress up in Kimono’s and enjoy a rare opportunity of cab access to the iconic Shinkansen, the only Bullet Train outside Japan.

Welcome home Flying Scotsman

Spring/Summer 2011

An exciting event to welcome home the nation’s favourite locomotive fresh from her recent overhaul. There will be the chance to see Flying Scotsman and participate in a range of fun family activities. Flying Scotsman will also be operating on the mainline in 2011. For further details visit www.flyingscotsman.org.uk Open Daily (excl 24-26 December) 10.00-18.00 Leeman Road, York, YO26 4XJ

Engineers at Work

Please note that charges apply for some NRM events. Information is correct at the time of going to print. www.nrm.org.uk

Watch engineers at work in a real railway workshop, where we maintain and conserve locomotives, carriages and wagons. The Workshop can be viewed from The Works balcony; you might even catch a glimpse of the engineers working on the Flying Scotsman.

Discover more at the NRM

With daily demonstrations, loads of interactive exhibits, locomotive cab access, a lively special events programme and FREE museum admission, enjoy action-packed fun for the whole family. Why not visit the website for full details or what’s on for your visit. www.nrm.org.uk

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DALES COUNTRYSIDE MUSEUM

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BRONTË PARSONAGE MUSEUM Also in 2011 …

Patrick Brontë: In his own right

17 March 2011 to 31 March 2012

The Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes tells the story of the Yorkshire Dales landscape and people over the last 10,000 years. Stroll through the Time Tunnel to see unique exhibits from the Stone Age to Victorian times. Climb aboard our static train and find out how family life has changed in the Dales. Take a walk down the 'lead mine' and discover how the industries of the Dales, together with farming, have helped to shape this treasured landscape.

Events, demonstrations of traditional crafts and changing exhibitions help bring the Museum alive. Hands on, interactive exhibits make it fun for children. There are education programmes for schools and a research room where you can explore local and family history.

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Take a look at the website for up to date information - www.yorkshiredales.org.uk

To contact the Dales Countryside Museum Tourist Information and National Park Centre

Open 10am to 5pm every day Telephone 01969 666210 or email : hawes@yorkshiredales.org.uk

The Brontës are, perhaps, the world’s most famous literary family and Haworth Parsonage, now the Brontë Parsonage Museum, was their home from 1820 to 1861. Their short, brilliant lives have fascinated people ever since. Charlotte, Emily and Anne Brontë were the authors of some of the best-loved books in the English language. Charlotte’s novel Jane Eyre, Emily’s Wuthering Heights, and Anne’s The Tenant of Wildfell Hall were all written in this house and their power still moves readers today. Many of the Brontës’ manuscripts and letters are exhibited in the Parsonage, but as well as its literary significance, the house still retains a powerful atmosphere of the Brontës’ time, giving a wonderful insight into their day to day lives. The rooms the Brontës once used are largely unchanged and filled with their furniture, clothes and personal possessions, as well as a range of domestic artefacts of the period. In addition to the atmospheric period rooms of the house there is also a major, permanent exhibition on the Brontës' lives and works, interactive displays for families and children and a busy programme of special events through the year.

2011 marks the 150th anniversary of the death of Patrick Brontë and this exhibition tells his remarkable story. From humble origins in Northern Ireland, Patrick won an assisted place at Cambridge University. He went on to become a well respected clergyman and a published author who inspired his children with a passion for literature. The exhibition considers his achievements and his work at Haworth during the forty-one years of his ministry. Telephone01535 642323 bronte@bronte.org.uk www.bronte.info

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YORKSHIRE WOLDS GALLERY

The farm has been in the Sutton family for three generations and has seen many changes over the years, from the days of horse-drawn ploughs to the first combine harvester. The traditional range of farm buildings is no longer needed for farming purposes and Ginny saw an opportunity both to diversify into this new development and restore the farm buildings as a long term investment.

Disused farm buildings transformed into stunning art gallery on Yorkshire Wolds For artists and art-lovers alike, a new delight awaits on the picturesque Yorkshire Wolds. The Yorkshire Wolds Gallery and Coffee Shop has recently opened its doors as an exhibition space for artists from across Yorkshire and the North East, as well as a much-needed studio space for working artists in the locality. The stylish contemporary gallery is housed in restored Victorian farm buildings which themselves lend charm and atmosphere to its rural location on top of the rolling chalkland of the Yorkshire Wolds, two miles south of Staxton, near Scarborough. The Gallery is the brainchild of artist Ginny Sutton, who saw the potential of the spacious but disused outbuildings at Willerby Wold Farm.

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“During the last year of my Fine Arts degree at Hull, I started thinking about studio space and realised how difficult it was for new artists to find adequate space to work or exhibit and to retain the companionship of a college setting which can be such a positive influence. I began to see the potential of our old farm buildings for a community of artists,” says Ginny.

“Very few galleries have coffee shops attached, and given that I have a background in catering, it made sense to introduce a complementary business, which will add to the appeal of the Gallery as a visitor destination."

With the support of her husband Oliver, and his two brothers who share ownership of Willerby Wold Farm, Ginny set about realising that potential and applied to DEFRA (Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) for a farm diversification scheme grant.

With very few tourist attractions on the Wolds and after Scarborough recently received an injection of EU funds to promote the artistic and cultural development of the east coast resort, planning permission for the Yorkshire Wolds Gallery got the green light and the dream started to become a reality.

www.countysignpost.co.uk ing five partitioned workspaces for artists complete with kitchen and bathroom, original high beamed ceilings and plentiful natural light.

A graduate of the Central School of Art in London, and more recently Hull University’s Fine Art degree course, Ginny’s life-long ambition has been to get back to working as an artist. “To be able to do this, and at the same time create a small community here, which has been lacking since the farm workers left the Wolds, is absolutely a dream come true for me,” she says.

Over the course of 12 months, the tin-roofed brick barns formerly used to store tractors and other farm machinery, were transformed into a stunning 90 sq m contemporary art gallery, retaining the character of the barn’s many original features, and providing a magnificent space in which to promote and showcase the work of the many professional artists and sculptors living and working in Yorkshire and the North East.

Yorkshire Wolds Gallery is supported by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development; Yorkshire Forward, the region’s development agency; and DEFRA, the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. Telephone 01944 710747 www.yorkshirewoldsgallery.co.uk

The size of the gallery enables large works of art to be exhibited, allowing for an interesting and varied programme of exhibitions, from landscapes to still life, from sculpture to nude and figurative. “The main gallery also makes a fantastic entertaining space for weddings, private lunches or as a lunch or tea-stop for tour groups visiting local gardens and attractions,” says Ginny. “To be surrounded by beautiful works of art or sculpture makes it a venue with a distinct difference.” The Yorkshire Wolds Gallery is open from Wednesdays to Sundays plus Bank Holidays, from 10am until 4pm.

In addition, the old two-storey Victorian granary, derelict since the 1940s, has re-opened its doors as a 40 sq m private exhibition space on the ground floor. The original stone steps lead upstairs to two connected studios, each compris-

Yorkshire Wolds Gallery Cafe

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SKIDBY MILL

Restored !

In May 2009, the restored and freshly-painted cap and fantail were replaced on top of the mill, and, after a period of unsettled weather, two of the four sails went back, allowing the mill to get back to business of producing flour. Meanwhile, back at Alford, the millwrights were completing the new sail, and by January 2010, both remaining sails were ready to be replaced. To everybody’s frustration, however, there was a long period of very unsettled weather. Cranes were ordered, then had to be cancelled again as there was a sudden shift in wind direction, bringing unwanted gusts of wind, icy conditions, or torrential rain. Eventually – after a long, nervous wait – the weather settled down in March sufficiently to allow the delicate work of lifting and fixing the two sails, and Skidby was finally restored to its traditional appearance after two long years! Following the discovery of serious structural wear on the cap and fantail in 2008, Skidby Windmill has undergone an extensive programme of restoration, involving the removal of all four sails, together with the cap and fantail. The removal of the sails allowed Thompson’s

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Millwrights of Alford, Lincolnshire, who are responsible for the maintenance of the structure, to have a close examination of the sails while they were on the ground, and it was discovered that one sail had to be replaced completely, owing to extensive rot.

While waiting for the sails to be replaced, things were happening elsewhere on the site. Volunteers from the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust were working on developing two habitat areas in the mill field – a spring meadow, which is carpeted with a profusion of lemon cowslips during April and early May, and a summer meadow,

The two-sailed mill

where the traditional chalk downland plants such as field scabious and lady’s slipper can be found growing from June onwards. Two living willow tunnels planted by the Trust have a two-fold purpose – they are home to a variety of insect and bird species, and they are enormous fun for children to play in!

The mill field, as well as being a rich natural habitat, is also a wonderful space for families to enjoy before or after visiting the mill. A natural play area, featuring traditional wooden play equipment (including a jolly log steam train!) has been installed at one corner of the field, which proved extremely popular with young visitors during the summer of 2010, and the field has been fenced off, to create an enclosed space for children to play and families to picnic. The path through the field from the car park has been upgraded to allow gentle access up to the mill for disabled visitors, and there are plans later this year to upgrade the car park itself, to create better (and more!) parking facilities. Telephone 01482 848405

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THE NATIONAL COAL MINING MUSEUM FOR ENGLAND

Caphouse Colliery from Hope

The National Coal Mining Museum for England offers you the unique opportunity to travel 140 metres underground, down one of Britain’s oldest mines. Take a step back in time with an exminer as your guide who will take you around the underground workings, where models and machinery depict methods and conditions of mining from the early 1800s to the present day.

Above ground, the story of coal is brought to life through the Museum’s interactive exhibitions and audio-visual plasma screens. In the Mining Lives gallery it gives a glimpse into the life of a miner at home, on the pit surface and at play. There is the chance to see into a mining family’s back yard from the 1940s and find out what the miners did during World War II.

Coal mining was dangerous and difficult work. The Coal Interface gallery shows a few of the

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hazards of working underground. There is the opportunity to see some of the problems miners had to deal with and to try and solve them.

Visit the pithead baths and the Victorian steam winder; follow the nature trail and find the adventure playground, and then meet the ponies along with Finn the Clydesdale heavy horse. The Hope Pit complex, a secondary colliery site at the Museum is where visitors can explore the interactive displays and multi-media science exhibits. The science of coal mining bursts into life and promises to send you away buzzing with ideas!

The Museum has a range of events and activities planned throughout 2011 including a number of special exhibitions –

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The Drift

7 February – 8 May 2011 Words and images from the Yorkshire Coalfield by Ian Beesley, photographer and Ian McMillan, poet The exhibition is based around one of the last working pits in the Yorkshire coalfield. Ian Beesley and Ian McMillan have been exploring in words and images the nature of coal-mining in the 21st century. Words and images are interwoven to produce a narrative that explores the process of mining, the physicality of the work and the relationship of the underground to the surface. This is a partnership with Bolton University.

There is free admission to all visitors and opening hours are 10.00 am - 5.00 pm daily except for 1 January and 24-26 December. Do arrive early to book onto an underground tour. Temperature underground is 12c; we strongly recommend warm practical clothing and sensible flat shoes. Unfortunately children under five years old are not permitted on the underground tour, however there is an indoor play area especially for them. For more information contact the Museum on 01924 848806 or visit www.ncm.org.uk

The Great Store Explore!

30 May - 25 September 2011 As part of the summer special exhibition, which is showcasing the hidden treasures in our stores and how we look after them, the Museum will be opening up some of the stores for visitor tours. Each tour visitor will go behind-the-scenes, get hands-on with our specimens, and really find out what our collections are all about. Whether it’s a whizz round on a ten-minute tour or a specialist search, it will be everyone’s opportunity to explore the store!

Other highlights throughout the year include; See How They Run! part of the National Science and Engineering week in March and Summer Fun activities for all the family during the summer holidays. Not forgetting the annual Miners’ Gala, Heritage Open Days in September as well as Santa’s Underground Grotto in the run up to Christmas.

Underground Haulage Engine

Visiting the Museum

Whatever you come to the National Coal Mining Museum for, you can be sure there’ll be plenty to keep you occupied and many reasons to return to the Museum again and again. For more information on events taking place at the Museum throughout 2011 visit www.ncm.org.uk/events

The Stable Yard

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LIGHTWATER SHOPPING VILLAGE

Christmas carvery with all the trimmings in their Granary restaurant.

Dickensian Festival

Thursday 1st - Sunday 4th December 2011 With over 75 stalls selling a huge range of high quality contemporary and traditional merchandise, as well as special Christmas displays from our permanent outlets, why not go along and soak up the enchanting atmosphere?

You’ll find gifts, stocking fillers and decorations galore, with Yorkshire crafts, hand-painted pottery, fine glassware, millinery, bespoke art and hand-made jewellery taking centre stage. Likewise, this festival just wouldn’t be complete without an extensive range of stalls selling highquality North Yorkshire produce, from wines and beers to pies, meats and cheeses. In fact, Lightwater Shopping Village is a showcase for everything that’s great about North Yorkshire at this festive time of year.

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The entertainment programme will be as comprehensive as ever, with something to keep the whole family entertained on all four days:

- Jazz Bands - Victorian Flea Circus - Handbell Ringers - Festive Carol Singers - Punch & Judy shows - Barrel Organs - Santa’s Grotto - Superb Local Choirs - Birds of Prey flying demonstrations

Oh, and don’t worry if all this Christmas Shopping and festive entertainment makes you a little weary - just remember to take time out to enjoy the taste and aroma of the finest Christmas fayre. Roasted Chestnuts, a sizzling hog roast and delicious mulled wine will be available throughout the festival, as well as a superb

With so many festivities in one place, it’s no wonder that their Dickensian Festival was shortlisted for a White Rose Award! 10:00AM – 5:00PM EVERY DAY FREE ENTRY & FREE PARKING

Frightwater Valley

Saturday 29th october & Sunday 30th October With the resurrection of Dracula’s Labyrinth, our live action horror maze, as well as Raptor Attack LIVE! and (new for 2011) the haunting of Skeleton Cove, it’s the return of Frightwater Valley!

there’s only one place to be seen this Halloween weekend. *Firework displays will take place at 6:30pm on Sat 29th & 5:30pm on Sunday 30th.

Usual all-day entry prices apply. Entry after 1:00pm for only £12.95pp*

*Must be pre-booked.

Telephone 0871 720 0011 leisure@lightwatervalley.co.uk www.lightwatervalley.co.uk Ripon, North Yorkshire HG4 3HT

With spooktacular fireworks* adding to the explosive atmosphere on both nights, along with eerie scare zones and the chance to experience a selection of your favourite rides in the dark,

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ROYAL ARMOURIES MUSEUM LEEDS

The beautiful Oriental gallery is full of eastern treasures from the world-record breaking elephant armour to the exquisite bejeweled weapons of Tipu Sultan.

History is brought to life at special events throughout the year and there are fun activities for all the family during school holidays plus a programme of academic seminars led by experts of international renown.

National Treasures From arms and armour to menageries and munitions – the Royal Armouries is Britain’s oldest public museum and has sites at the Tower of London, Leeds and at Fort Nelson in Hampshire.

For more information about events, the museum and the collection visit the website www.royalarmouries.org. The Leeds museum is open daily from 10am to 5pm (closed 24–26 December), admission is free.

Home to the national collection of arms and armour, the Royal Armouries Museum houses a world-renowned collection of over 75,000 objects.

FORT PAULL

ARMOURIES - MUSEUM - VISITOR CENTRE - EVENTS ARENA

Explore 500 years of history within the walls of this superb Napoleonic fortress set in ten acres, with magnificient views over the Humber estuary. estuar y. THE HOME OF THE WORLD’S ONLY BLACKBURN BEVERLEY AIRCRAFT. Visit the underground tunnels and chambers to view the fantastic exhibits and waxworks.

Picnic areas - Bar & cafe - Children’s play area - Assault course - Rifle ranges - Gift shop - Military shop - Fire service museum & advice centre - Military vehicles & artillery - Art gallery Telephone 01482 896236 www.fortpaull.com Just 5 minutes from the Hull Ferry Terminal

Stump Cross Caverns A ma zi ng Na tu ra l Show Cav e Gi ft shop , tea r oo m a nd lectu re thea tre

For those who expect it to be all about ‘guns and war games’ then a visit to the Royal Armouries could be a big surprise.

The caves are open daily from 10am - 6pm (last admission into the caves is 4.45 pm), from 1st March to 1st December. In the Winter months, viewing is at weekends only, and also during the school holidays at Christmas & February half-term.

At the Leeds museum there are over 8,000 amazing objects on display in five impressive galleries – War, Tournament, Oriental, Self Defence and Hunting.

Prices : Adults £6.00, Children (4-13) £3.95 Under 4’s free Greenhow Hill, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG3 5JL

Tel/Fax: (01756) 752780 www.stumpcrosscaverns.co.uk

The collection holds treasures from around the globe including the Ottoman Empire, the Wild West, Europe, Japan and India.

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Elephant Armour

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THE

HEPWORTH WAKEFIELD

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YORKSHIRE SCULPTURE PARK

outside London. The state of the art facilities will allow the gallery to programme ambitious temporary exhibitions and give the public access to its nationally important collection, which includes a gift from the Hepworth Estate of forty original plaster works by Barbara Hepworth.

The Hepworth Wakefield is Yorkshire’s landmark gallery for visual arts. Opening in May 2011 this stunning building, designed by award-winning Architects David Chipperfield is located in an outstanding setting on Wakefield’s historic waterfront. The gallery will be a centre of excellence for the visual arts and will contribute to the artistic, educational, economic and social life of the region.

The striking new building, will be a new social space on Wakefield’s newly-regenerated waterfront. Visitors will be able to take part in a varied programme of talks, tours, workshops, filmscreenings and concerts; relax in the stylish café and restaurant offering seasonal, locally sourced food; or browse a unique range of prints, publications and gifts in the gallery shop.

With over 1,600 square metres of light-filled gallery spaces, The Hepworth Wakefield will be the largest purpose built exhibition space

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Wakefield district is the birthplace of modern British sculpture as Barbara Hepworth and Henry Moore – two of the greatest artists of the 20th Century – were born in the district, just five years and a few miles apart. The Hepworth Wakefield will celebrate Hepworth and Moore’s association with Wakefield and the inspiration they drew from the Yorkshire landscape. The gallery will show a significant collection of work by both artists, including sculptures and drawings from some of the most important stages in their careers. Its centrepiece will be a collection of rarely seen original sculptures by Hepworth.

Along with works by Hepworth and Moore, The Hepworth Wakefield will show its permanent collection featuring works by artists including Ben Nicholson, Ivon Hitchens, Graham Sutherland, Paul Nash, Jacob Epstein, Walter Sickert, Anthony Caro, LS Lowry and David Hockney. A programme of changing exhibitions will bring major contemporary art shows to Yorkshire by some of the world's leading artists. For more information see www.hepworthwakefield.org Jaume Plensa at Yorkshire Sculpture Park 9 April – 25 September 2011

J a u m e P le n s a, I n t h e M i d st o f D re a ms , 20 09. Photo: Michael Bodycomb

From April 2011 Yorkshire Sculpture Park presents the first major UK exhibition of sculpture by Jaume Plensa, with new and recent work displayed in the Underground Gallery and surrounding landscape. The exhibition includes large illuminated heads, human shapes formed of letters, angels suspended from walls and inscribed gongs waiting to be struck. Sculptures such as Hear No Evil, See No Evil, Speak No Evil – three large fibreglass resin ‘angels’ – will be showcased in the Underground Gallery. Suspended from the gallery walls, the figures are fixed and constrained by their human bodies yet they radiate white light to suggest the possibility of human spirit, creating an ethereal installation. In The Midst Of Dreams is a group of illuminated heads with closed eyes, as though in deep contemplation, rising from a bed of white marble pebbles. Jerusalem is a circle of 11 gongs engraved with text from Song of Songs, from the Biblical text Songs of Solomon, a passionate exploration of love, eroticism, the human condition, our dreams and desires. Visitors can strike the gongs, making sound expand and fill the space again and again.

Plensa has an international reputation for major exhibitions and public art projects around the world, making sculpture, drawings, prints, acoustic installations and designs for opera and theatre. Pushing technical and artistic boundaries, his often transparent, large-scale sculptures incorporate light, sound and text, inviting the spectator’s active participation in a space where art and language, nature and culture, sound and communication collide and entwine.

Plensa says of the project: “for me, an artist from the Mediterranean area, it’s a terrific opportunity to have a dialogue with the Park, which represents the unique British landscape tradition. My background is so different and to be embraced by that amazing history gives a beautiful capacity for dialogue.”

A significant outdoor piece at YSP is House of Knowledge, part of a group of works in which the physical form of the body becomes architecture. With text forming a large human shape, visitors can walk inside and see the landscape through the spaces between steel letters. This 8metre tall piece will be a stunning addition to the YSP parkland. Building on the success of YSP’s recent exhibitions, this project encourages real interaction and a particularly tactile engagement with his work that will delight and enrich. Telephone 01924 832631 www.ysp.co.uk

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NORTH YORK MOORS NATIONAL PARK to a 110 mile hike along the Cleveland Way National Trail.

Located 25 miles to the north east of York, the North York Moors National Park is framed by the Cleveland Hills to the north, the Howardian Hills to the south and the glorious North Yorkshire and Cleveland Heritage Coast to the east. It is a fantastic place to visit at any time of year offering breathtaking scenery, great recreational activities and fascinating historical sites.

The North York Moors is a place where nature and history inspire each other. Its diverse landscape of moorland, lowland, woodland and coast, rises and falls around the signs of times past from ruined abbeys and ancient churches to traces of a once bustling industrial heritage. This is also Dinosaur country with footprints and

fossils from the Jurassic Age found in the rugged coastal cliffs and rocks at the water’s edge.

The wide open spaces of the North York Moors bring a sense of peace and tranquillity and its mix of habitats provide a haven for all sorts of wildlife. Dotted through the moorland and along the coast you’ll find picturesque villages with warm welcomes and intriguing local tales from smugglers to high seas adventurers. There are plenty of ways to explore the National Park. Pull on your boots and take your pick from 1408 miles of public rights of way which will take on anything from a short circular stroll up

If two wheels is more your style, the Moors to Sea Cycle Network covers over 100 miles of quiet lanes and off-road cycleways providing you with fabulous views of the moorland and beautiful coastline. Or why not hop on board the enchanting North Yorkshire Moors Railway? Its lovingly-restored steam trains wend their way through the heart of the North York Moors and out to the coast at Whitby. For the perfect start to any visit to the North York Moors, head to one of the two National Park Centres (at Sutton Bank in the south of the North York Moors and at Danby in the north) where you’ll find lots of helpful information on all there is to see and do in the local area. You’ll also be able to pick up guide books, maps and walk booklets and find out about forthcoming events. At The Moors National Park Centre in Danby, there are also outdoor and indoor children’s play areas, riverside and woodland trails, interactive exhibitions and a gallery that hosts a changing programme of work by local artists and craftsmen. For more information on the North York Moors National Park go to : www.northyorkmoors.org.uk

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YORKSHIRE WATER

Peace and quiet is a given at North Yorkshire's Swinsty Reservoir one of the country's best-known waters for fly fishing.

Land of Opportunity

Yorkshire is home to some breathtaking scenery and it really is the land of opportunity when it comes to the great outdoors.

But when you take to the rolling landscapes of Yorkshire for a walk around a reservoir, you probably wouldn’t realise the land is owned and maintained by Yorkshire Water. In fact, water companies are among the largest landowners in the UK and play a significant part in the way the countryside looks today.

Yorkshire Water owns just over 72,000 acres of land and more than a hundred reservoirs, with details of more than 30 circular walks available on its website since 2004.

Langsett Reservoir between Sheffield and Huddersfield, which now boasts its own three-mile easy access woodland walk for pushchair and wheelchairs.

At yorkshirewater.com/enjoyment you can now download our country walks. Just the joB

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At www.yorkshirewater.com/enjoyment you can now download our country walks. Just the joB

YorkshireWater

More recently, the company has been working on new ways of enhancing visitors’ experiences and is encouraging more people to make the most of the countryside on their doorsteps.

“Research told us the majority of people who come to our reservoirs have been before – and probably keep coming back,” said spokesman Steve Parsley. “However, although most people have their favourites, what they may not realise is that there is often another site within easy reach which offers something completely different. “As a result, we’ve been looking at how we can tell people about the options they have when they’re planning a day out in the countryside.”

More information on walks on Yorkshire Water land – including the long-distance Yorkshire Water Way – can be found on the company website at www.yorkshirewater.com. Leaflets which include maps and directions can also be obtained by telephoning 01274 692856.

At yorkshirewater.com/enjoyment you can now download our country walks. Just the joB

At www.yorkshirewater.com/enjoyment you can now download our country walks. Just the joB

YorkshireWater

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County Signpost

THE TRANS PENNINETRAIL

www.countysignpost.co.uk Throughout the year there have also been horse events across the Trail to support the 21st Anniversary but also to raise awareness of the British Horse Society’s Fighting for Access Fund.

…and it doesn’t have to stop there. Remember that the Trans Pennine Trail is a free facility for anyone to use and it’s open 24 hours a day 7 days a week. It’s a great way to explore the countryside whether you want to go for an afternoon stroll or cycle right across the north of England. As much of the Trail follows old railway lines, canal towpaths and riverside paths it is relatively flat and well signed. The easy gradients and surfaced paths make many sections suitable for families with young children and provide a great facility for gentle exercise for people recovering from health issues and those using wheelchairs or pushchairs.

The Trans Pennine Trail comes of age. 2010 was the 21st Anniversary of the Trans Pennine Trail and things have been very hectic to say the least!

In June there was a baton relay from all five terminals of the Trail (Southport, Hornsea, Leeds, Chesterfield and York) through to Barnsley, the mid-point of the Trail. Each of the batons were carried by an extremely wide range of users through their own local area – from your everyday walkers, cyclists and horse riders to large penguins, blade runners, a fantastic array of schools, Volunteer Rangers and Friends of the Trans Pennine Trail. Indeed many of the Mayors across the Trail also came out to support this momentous occasion. People turned out in force to support the Trail and the weather was perfect.

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During June there was also the ‘Celebration Festival’ at Barnsley. This event was the culmination of the baton relays arriving at their final destination. The President of the European Ramblers Association, Lis Neilsen, was present to accept the batons arriving. The festival was a great way for everyone to enjoy lots of activities to help promote healthy living including a cycle smoothie maker, Play Bus, Rangers making bird boxes / bat boxes with children and adults, health sessions (including seated aerobics, health checks, blood pressure checks etc), penalty shoot out with Barnsley Football Club mascot, stunt bike team, bike sculpture, free runners, inflatables, climbing wall, roller hockey, Nordic walking group, cheerleaders, and lots of stalls from user groups, visitor attractions and health organisations.

The Trans Pennine Trail is a great place to get out and take some exercise – whether you want to walk, cycle or horse ride. Experts agree that regular moderate exercise can help protect the body from many illnesses an conditions, including heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, osteoarthritis, obesity, diabetes and cancer. It’s also a great way to relieve stress and stay happy by providing a great way for everyone to re-connect with nature right on their doorstep.

Get in touch with your Local Authority and ask about nature walks, health walks and cycle rides. There will also be a good number of local walking and cycling groups that are always keen to welcome new members on board – so don’t worry about having to get active on your own, there’s always someone there to lend a helping hand.

As the route is well served by public transport it’s easy to plan a walk or cycle ride along the Trail. There are also a number of car parks accommodating horse boxes providing great access for our equestrian users. So what are you waiting for…

Please contact the Trans Pennine Trail Office for a free information pack and details of the three saleable route maps available. Telephone 01226 772574 email: info@transpenninetrail.org.uk.

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County Signpost

Steam through the unique beauty of Brontë Country

Every weekend throughout the year and daily in the summer

Ke Keighley K eigh ig ley - IIngrow ngr grow w ((West) West st Damems mem me ms s - Haworth Hawortth h - Oxenhope Ox Ox xe en en KEIGHLEY EIIGHLE E EY Y&W WORTH ORT TH H VA V VALLEY ALLE EY YR RAILWAY, AILW LW Haworth worth S wo Station, tation n,, K Keighley, eiighley e y,, W West est st Y Yorkshire orrk k Tel: ell: 0 e 01 01535 153 35 5 645214 6452 21 14 • Fax Fa ax x 01535 01 0 153 35 5 647317 64731 31 • 24hr hrr info h iin nffo lline in ne 0 01 01535 153 35 56 647777 4777 77 7 • www.kwvr.co.uk www.kwvrr..co co

Richmond Brewing Company

BE INSPIRED

YSP

Yorkshire Sculpture Park Amazing art, nature and activities for all the family.

FREE ADMISSION M1 Jct 38 01924 832631 www.ysp.co.uk

A six barrel microbrewery situated in The Station, a new tourist attraction in Richmond. Richmond, North Yorks DL10 4LD

tel: (01748) 828266 andy@richmondbrewing.co.uk

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