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Annual Publication - I The Ultimate County Guide
Issue 18 - 2016
Historic Buildings | The Open Air Museums & the Arts | Tourist Attractions
www.countysignpost.co.uk
CONTENTS Historic Buildings Attractions Museums & the Arts
Check out o ur other cou nty editions online or do wnload our fr ee apps search coun tysignpost Welcome to the 2016 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.
Free download
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The Open Air To be featured in our next edition - please email the editor. Published by: County Signpost Ltd Editor: Adam Davison
Cover image: Š Royal Armouries Museum, Leeds 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 2014. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced without the written permission of the publisher.
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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NEWBY HALL
© Andrew Harrison
Newby Hall Gardens is one of the country’s most important and beautiful 20th century gardens; certainly one of the North’s finest. It was designed and created by Major Edward Compton, developed and nurtured by his son Robin, until 2009, when Lucinda Compton formally took up the reins.
Discover…The House
Newby Hall was built in the 1690s under the guidance of Christopher Wren, later adapted by John Carr and epitomises the ‘Georgian Age of Elegance’ with Robert Adam’s beautiful interiors. Newby Hall is one of the finest examples of the heritage of our country, with superb paintings, Chippendale furniture, ancient Roman Statues and Gobelins tapestries, all collected by William Weddell, an ancestor of the Compton family who still live in Newby Hall today.
© Andrew Harrison
Explore…The Gardens
Enjoy Newby’s 25 acres of award winning gardens, created in the early 1920s , which continue to evolve and have made a major contribution to 20th century gardening. Over the last three years the gardening team has completely redesigned and replanted the double herbaceous borders in a modern and harmonious style.
Be Inspired by formal borders and tranquil woodland, vast lawns, shady corners and imaginative planting combinations. Newby’s world class gardens inspire specialist and amateur gardeners alike the huge variety of styles and settings means everyone can find ideas to take home to their own garden.
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Play...Fun for all the family
Afternoon Tea
Newby has so much for families to do, one visit is never enough! Children love letting off steam in Newby’s Adventure Gardens, cooling down in the Tarantella (bring a towel!), riding the Miniature Railway, operating the Chain Ferry and whizzing down the zip wire.
Party Company, serves a wide variety of delicious locally sourced food, including three course meals with a glass of wine (or two!), afternoon tea, speciality sandwiches, children’s lunch boxes and coffee & cake. We also have a large picnic area with tables (if you prefer to bring your own food), or simply grab an ice cream at the kiosk next to the Adventure Gardens. Whatever you choose, Newby Hall is the perfect place to meet up with friends for a bite to eat!
Telephone 01423 322583 www.newbyhall.com
Events 2016
PLUS The Royal Scot Steam Locomotive returns. For days when the weather is not perfect, children can also take in the enchanting Dollshouse Exhibition, take a Children’s House Tour* and coming SUMMER 2016 we have Gyles Brandreth’s Teddy Bear Collection in a brand NEW Exhibition! *1pm every Sun & weekdays in Easter and Summer Holidays
Eat...The Garden Restaurant
Situated in the heart of the garden, our licensed restaurant, run by the award winning Yorkshire
25th March Opening Day 27th & 28th March Easter Family Fun Days 8th May Cars in the Park 8th May Spring Plant Fair 5th June Italian Car & Bike Rally 11th & 12th June Tractor Fest 17th July Historic Vehicle Rally 23rd July Fireworks Championships 25th September Apple Day 25th March to Dollshouse Exhibition 25th September (permanent exhibition) 25th March to Original British Summer 2016 NEW Gyles Brandreth’s Teddy Bear Exhibition Summer 2016 Matombo Zimbabwean Sculpture Exhibition
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BOLTON ABBEY 2016 Events
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Easter Egg Hunt - 25 Mar – 10 Apr
Priory Trail © Chris Nothall
For so many of us, Bolton Abbey holds fond memories of great days out. Whether that’s picnicking beside the river, building sandcastles overlooking the Priory Ruins, attempting to cross the stepping stones without falling in or exploring the woodland paths; there is so much to do and enjoy.
Nearly 1000 years since the land was gifted to the Augustian Canons and it still remains the perfect place to unwind but, equally, it is a must go, exciting, place for young families.
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Welly Walk - 28 May – 30 Oct Tree climbing, tunnels, slides, bridge and beams. Free event, (£2.50/person for tree climb). Free event. The Estate’s usual admission fee applies.
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New Wind in the Willows - 23 July – 7 Aug Join Toad and his friends (and the not so friendly weasels!) for a spectacular, immersive, outdoor theatre experience which is completely unique to Bolton Abbey. Tickets will be available from www.boltonabbey.com
Pumpkin Trail - 22 – 30 Oct A spectacular week of fun, seek out the pumpkins and witches in Strid Wood. Free event. The Estate’s usual admission fee applies.
Father Christmas in Strid Wood 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 Dec. Bookings open 1st September at www.boltonabbey.com. To avoid disappointment booking is essential. Telephone 01756 718 000 www.boltonabbey.com
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Lea Gardens Where Rainbows Grow !
The nursery specialises in rhododendrons, azaleas and kalmias
Tea Garden CafĂŠ Matlock DE4 5GH
Tel 01629 534380 www.leagarden.co.uk
White Scar Cave The longest show cave in Britain
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Leave behind the bustle of the High Street, stroll through the mighty four tower Gateway of Skipton Castle and enter another world. How many periods of history can you see by looking at the main castle building – who built it – how did they manage to lift the huge blocks of stone and how did the Steward of the household know who and how much to pay the builders? Look closely at the walls and you will see various marks – to what do these refer?
Entering the coolness of the beautiful Conduit Court one is immediately struck by the twisted trunk of the Yew Tree at its centre – planted by Lady Anne Clifford in 1629 this tree twists as it reaches for the daylight. In the old kitchen note the bread oven and massive baking hearth – how does it compare to today’s modern kitchen? Who would work in here, what did they wear – remember it was extremely hot as the fires would be kept in all the time.
Beyond the kitchen the Banqueting Hall where the Lord, his Lady and their guests would be served their meals following which the ladies
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SKIPTON CASTLE
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would retire to their needlework leaving the men to drink ale and chat heartily recalling their hunting adventures of the day.
With many rooms to discover, no tour would be complete without a visit to the dungeon in the depths of the castle where prisoners would be kept awaiting their trial at York Assizes.
Finally, to complete your visit, why not enjoy a cup of tea and a homemade cake in our bright, cheerful tearoom and browse in the shop for that unusual gift or enjoy our noted book section.
Tour sheets are available in 10 languages, all under 18’s receive a free Castle badge, a different one each year since 1974! Family tickets are available and guided tours can be arranged for parties of 15 or more during normal opening times. Open every day from 10am Open every day from 10am (Sunday from 11am) with last admission daily at 5pm (Oct-March 4pm) Telephone 01756 792442 www.skiptoncastle.co.uk
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18th - 19th June Re-Enactment: Feudals Feudal Archers are a living history group based on the period 1135 to 1216, spanning the reigns of four kings - Stephen, Henry II, Richard I and John. 10am - 5pm. Sunday 11am - 5pm)
Skipton Castle Events 2016 27th & 28th March Re-Enactment: Sir William Petty "Some claim that nigh upon forty years ago a letter, wrapped in leather and linen was found hidden between the castle’s ancient floorboards. It was signed by one Sir William Petty, a seventeenth century mathematician and polymath natural philosopher, and revealed that he had embarked on an exciting experiment - an attempt to travel forwards in time to March 2016. The mysterious letter (if it ever existed) was soon lost, but as the date approached strange, brief sightings have occurred in the Banqueting Hall of a ghostly gentleman, becoming more and more frequent. It seems he is indeed on his way, and should by our reckoning finally manifest fully on the 27th and 28th of March." 10am - 5pm (Sunday 11am - 5pm)
28th - 30th May Re-Enactment: RedWyverns Journey back to the 15th Century during the Wars of the Roses. A re-creation of a medieval campsite within the castle grounds. See the garrison demonstrate their arms and armour. 10am - 5pm. Sunday 11am - 5pm)
25th & 26th June Stone Carving Association: Demonstration An amateur association made up of a diverse range of members from all backgrounds, who share a keen interest in the craft of stone carving, which we promote through public demonstrations and exhibitions. Members of the public will be encouraged to have a go. 10am - 5pm (Sunday 11am - 5pm)
9th & 10th July Clogfest Clog Festival - Probably starting in the mills, when workers wearing clogs would tap their feet in rhythm of the machines, it has now developed into a precise form of dance, with intricate foot movements. Saturday from 10.30 until 2pm, Sunday from 11.30 until 3pm
16th & 17th July Re-Enactment: Buckingham Retinue Life in the 15th Century Buckingham Retinue are re-creating life as it may have been in Skipton during a period known as the Wars of the Roses. To add to the entertainment for the day we are introducing a fictional murder into the life of the castle and you have the opportunity to get involved. 10am - 6pm (Sunday 11am - 6pm)
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6th & 7th August Re-Enactment: The Queen’ Regiment “Sponsored by Historic Royal Palaces”
Skipton Castle and the 1715 Jacobite Rising Preston was the focus of the Jacobite army moving south hoping to motivate a rebellion against the House of Hanover. Skipton Castle would have been bustling with red coated soldiers preparing to make the 36 mile march to Preston to eventually relieve the town. Throughout the billeting, troops could be observed maintaining the security of the castle. Many of the troops were raw recruits practicing their drill throughout the day a priority to ensure they were well prepared for the fight some three days march away. 10am - 5pm (Sunday 11 am - 5pm) 13th & 14th Aug Re-Enactment: Nevison John Nevison was a famous late 17th century Yorkshire highwayman who robbed the length of the Great North Road but especially in the northern counties. One story about him was
how he was supposed to have ridden from London to York in less than a day to gain an alibi for a robbery he'd been witnessed committing. 10am - 5pm (Sunday 11am - 5pm)
20th & 21st August Re-Enactment: Normannis Bringing History to life in the 12th Century The walls of Skipton castle will echo to the sound of swords and shields once again- but don't worry, it's only the re-enactors of Historia Normannis! Come and see medieval craftsmen demonstrating their trades, knights displaying their prowess, and ladies describing life as it would have been in the reign of Henry II. The castle itself will be the site of historic setpieces, re-creating the daily workings of a local medieval court, the furnishings of a Lord's bedchamber, and outside the walls, a working medieval siege weapon! A great day out for history enthusiasts and curious families alike- it promises to be an event not to be missed! 10am - 6pm (Sunday 11am - 6pm)
27th & 28th August Re-Enactment: The Governor Come and meet Sir John Mallory Governor of Skipton Castle during the English Civil War Hear about the castle's siege and skirmishes its garrison have already fought and how the King's cause is faring in Yorkshire. Just how long can Sir John 'stout it out' for the King? 10am - 5pm (Sunday 11am - 5pm)
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BURTON AGNES HALL AND GARDENS
Four hundred years ago Sir Henry Griffith built Burton Agnes Hall. Twenty-three generations of the same family have since lived in, looked after, and loved the magnificent Elizabethan home that you enjoy today.
Robert Smithson architecture, and a diverse art collection including exquisite Elizabethan carvings and the finest contemporary works, inspired Simon Jenkins, author of ‘England’s Thousand Best Houses’, to describe Burton Agnes Hall as ‘the perfect English house’, one of England’s twenty finest alongside Windsor Castle, Buckingham Palace and Chatsworth House. Concealed within its brick boundary, the Elizabethan walled garden will leave visitors
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mesmerised by flamboyant seasonal displays of colour, shape, texture and scents. Visitors are invited to explore several thousand plant varieties; a potager filled with fruit, vegetables and herbs; herbaceous borders, a jungle garden and a stunning collection of campanulas. Children and adults alike will find entertainment in the giant board games, may lose their way in the maze, and are invited to explore the gardens with the guidance of Griffy the Goat’s fun garden trail.
Visitors will delight in this award winning wonderland, which in 2005 won Christie’s Garden of the Year award.
online • CountySignPost • apps To the north of the Hall lies tranquil woodland with wildlife figures to discover along the path. In February, thousands of snowdrops cover the ground to create an enchanting ‘white carpet’, and at Easter this historic woodland hosts thousands of enthusiastic chocolate egg hunters.
While wandering through the grounds, you may encounter an artist seeking inspiration. The artist in residence programme allows visiting artists to stay and work at Burton Agnes, year-round. Their artwork is displayed in the Summer House and inside the Hall.
The courtyard shops and café are open daily when the gardens are open. Access to the courtyard is free. Relax in the courtyard cafe, where our garden’s fruit and vegetables create delicious home-made meals and irresistible treats. The coffee is fairtrade and roasted locally, and our restored 1963-vintage ice cream van offers delectable local ice cream and perfect coffees.
Unusual and handcrafted gifts and souvenirs can be found in the ‘Home and Garden’ Shop and Gift Shop and a year-round programme of local artists display and sell their work in our courtyard gallery. The Courtyard at Burton Agnes Hall
The Gardens at Burton Agnes
Open from 25th March to 31st October and 14th November to 23rd December, Burton Agnes Hall truly is the perfect English house: with its gardens and buzzing courtyard in addition, you are certain to enjoy a perfect day out.
To discover 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 Email: office@burtonagnes.com
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BOLTON CASTLE
Enjoy the Ultimate Medieval Experience at Bolton Castle where you will find a raft of sights, sounds and smells which bring the castle to life and make for a truly memorable visit. There is something for everyone to enjoy as you discover what life was really like during the Castle’s heyday through our authentic room displays, fabulous falconry experience, fascinating archery demonstrations and entertaining children’s activities.
Now one of the country’s best preserved medieval castles, Bolton was originally built, by Sir Richard Le Scrope, to rival the finest and most luxurious homes in the land. Completed in 1399, its scars bear testament to over 600 years of fascinating history including involvement in the Pilgrimage of Grace, Mary Queen of Scot’s imprisonment and a Civil War siege.
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Bolton Castle was a luxurious family home as well as a defensive fortress and, despite being partially ‘slighted’ by Cromwell’s’ men during the Civil War, the Castle is preserved in outstanding condition with many interesting rooms and features to discover including the Old Kitchens, Dungeon, Solar, Nursery, Armoury, Great Chamber 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. Our fascinating room boards, comprehensive castle timeline and Family Tree information boards allow visitors to learn more about the family history and the Castle’s turbulent past.
The Castle remains in the private ownership of the direct descendants of Sir Richard Le Scrope who first built the Castle.
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2016 Events Highlights Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th April* Medieval Household (Battle of Towton) Meet the Castle household and be transported back to the year 1461, the time of the Battle of Towton!
Monday 30th May to Friday 3rd June* Magical Mayhem Take a trip to Bolton Castle School of Magic! With children’s crafts, activities and trails.
Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd July * Tudor Life Travel back to Tudor times with our exciting living history event.
Monday 25th to Friday 29th July and Monday 1st to Friday 5th August* - A Captive Queen Discover what Castle life was really like for captive Mary Queen of Scots. With children’s crafts and trails.
Monday 8th to Friday 12th and Monday 15th to Friday 19th August* - Teddy Bears Picnic Bring your favourite teddy and join us for a fun packed day of teddy trails, crafts and activities. Children with Teddy get in free.
Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st August* Spanish Armada Weekend Meet characters from the castle’s household and garrison as they prepare for invasion. Take part in a spear drill or learn how to fire the cannon!
Friday 2nd to Sunday 4th September Medieval Music in the Dales - a fabulous long weekend of medieval music-making including concerts, workshops, feasting, a medieval market and a gathering of instrument makers from across Europe. For more information visit www.medievalminstrels.com or www.facebook.com/medievalmusicinthedales
*Normal Admission Charges Apply. Children’s Costume hire included in Admission
Opening times
Open daily from 13th February until 30th October 2016, 10 am to 5pm (except Feb, Mar and Oct when castle closes at 4 pm). Closed some Saturdays due to weddings, so please check website for details.
Contact
e: info@boltoncastle.co.uk t: 01969 62398 w: www.boltoncastle.co.uk
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YORK MINSTER
York Minster is one of the world’s most magnificent cathedrals, with roots in the nation’s earliest history.
Explore a masterpiece in stained-glass and stone, vast spaces alive with the sanctity and tradition of worship and heavenly music or quiet corners revealing unexpected stories and human inspiration.
Visit 'Revealing York Minster in the Undercroft' - a new state of the art attraction housed in the interactive chambers beneath the Minster. Take a journey through two millennia of York's history, featuring artefacts never before on public display. Visitors can see, touch and hear 2000 years of history.
Climb the central tower, passing the medieval pinnacles and gothic gargoyles before stepping out into the open air to experience the best panoramic views of York's picturesque city centre.
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Chapter House
online • CountySignPost • apps Join a free guided tour to learn about the world famous stained glass, historic artefacts, aweinspiring architecture, art, history and music, and how these have changed with York over the centuries.
city’s most famous stories brought to life in its most iconic building.
Comment from the Dean of York: “After a gap of 16 years it is a great pleasure and enormously exciting to stage the Mystery Plays at York Minster again.
“The production at the Minster will be special for a number of reasons, not least because above all else York Minster is a church. The stories told through the Plays are stamped across the very fabric of the cathedral, from the carvings in the stonework to the stained-glass of the Great East Window, which depicts the cycles dramatised in the Plays. Family Fun in York Minster
Your admission ticket is valid for 12 months, allowing you to visit for free as many times as you like during the year.
The Mystery Plays
“The Plays will allow us to reach out to new audiences on a local, regional, national and international level and we hope experiencing the performances in such an extraordinary setting will be a truly moving experience and provide the opportunity for people to respond to their environment.”
The York Mystery Plays dramatise the greatest story ever told – from the creation of heaven and earth to the last judgement. It’s a story of good versus evil, of life and death and of love, betrayal, loss and hope. In May 2016 it will be presented on a monumental scale in an extraordinary setting.
It’s 16 years since the plays were last staged at York Minster and only the second time in their near 700 year history. The medieval Minster’s magnificent Nave will be transformed into a 1,000 seater auditorium for the production, which opens on Thursday 26 May and runs for five weeks until Thursday 30 June. In keeping with tradition, a vast community cast will work with one professional actor, supported by an army of backstage volunteers to create a unique spectacle, which will celebrate the city’s cultural heritage.
The production aims to provoke tears and laughter and be an intensely moving experience, but above all it’s a rare opportunity to see the
Great East Window panel after being restoration
www.yorkminster.org 01904 557200
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TROPICAL BUTTERFLY HOUSE
Meet the mini beasts and meerkats, butterflies, birds and amazing wildlife from around the world...
Guests can also meet Lemurs, owls, snakes and other amazing animals during unforgettable Animal Encounters throughout the day. You can explore the indoor rainforest; home to butterflies, birds, bats, crocodiles and creepycrawlies from around the world and meet and feed the friendly residents of the Farm Barn. Discover the charismatic primates of Lemur Heights, a state of the art walk-through enclosure; and meet the inquisitive residents of Otter Springs – there are photo opportunities at every turn so don’t forget your camera!
Facilities include a Picnic Room, outdoor picnic area, Jungle Gift Shop and a modern Butterfly Café, serving freshly prepared hot and cold food
and homemade cakes. The Tropical Butterfly House is open daily, year round and is located just 5 minutes from the M1, junction 31.
The Tropical Butterfly House recently celebrated it’s 20th anniversary and, after humble beginnings as a Butterfly House with a few farm animals, has developed into an established Zoo attracting around 100,000 visitors a year.
The park offers a unique opportunity to meet animals from around the world up close, with opportunities to feed and hold many of them too, along with themed shows and encounters, and popular School Holiday events.
Check out the link below for the Tropical Butterfly House video :
Visit www.butterflyhouse.co.uk to plan your visit! Telephone 01909 569416
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online • CountySignPost • apps Burton Agnes Hall & Gardens ‘...the perfect English house’
Elizabethan house with award winning gardens
Special Events 2016 Snowdrop Spectacular 6th Feb–6th March 11am–4pm
Jazz & Blues Festival 1st, 2nd and 3rd July Ticketed
Orchid Festival 5th and 6th March 11am–4pm
Michaelmas Fair 22nd and 23rd October 11am–5pm
Easter Egg Trail 27th March–10th April 11am–5pm Easter Egg Hunt 27th and 28th March 11am–5pm
Spooky Woodland Trail 22nd–30th October 11am–4pm
Vintage Rally 15th May 11am–5pm
Christmas Opening 14th November– 23rd December 11am–5pm
Gardeners’ Fair 4th and 5th June 11am–5pm
Main Opening 1st April–31st Oct Daily 11am–5pm
Where to find us A614 York to Bridlington road, midway between Driffield and Bridlington Further Information The Estate Office, Burton Agnes, Driffield East Yorkshire YO25 4NB T: 01262 490324 E: office@ burtonagnes.com
www.burtonagnes.com
Inspirational home of the Brontë family Set against the stunning Yorkshire moors, the Brontë Parsonage Museum houses the world’s largest collection of Brontë manuscripts, furniture and personal possessions. The museum runs an exciting programme of events, exhibitions and family activities throughout the year. OUR 2016 EXHIBITION:
Charlotte Great and Small During 2016 we will be marking the bicentenary of the birth of Charlotte Brontë with a special exhibition curated by best-selling author Tracy Chevalier. This will be supported by a full programme of other celebratory events. Keep in touch with the latest news at www.bronte.org.uk.
Haworth, Keighley West Yorkshire BD22 8DR 01535 642323 www.bronte.org.uk Open November-March 10am-5pm daily, April-October 10am-5.30pm. Last tickets sold 30 minutes before closing. Closed during January. Hon Patron: Sarah Lancashire Reg Charity: 529952 Reg Company: 73855
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YORKSHIRE SCULPTURE PARK
Yorkshire Sculpture Park (YSP) is the leading international centre for modern and contemporary sculpture. Situated in the 500acre, 18th-century Bretton Hall estate in West Yorkshire. Founded in 1977 by Executive Director Peter Murray, YSP was the first sculpture park in the UK, and is the largest of its kind in Europe, providing the only place in Europe to see Barbara Hepworth’s The Family of Man in its entirety alongside a significant collection of sculpture, including bronzes by Henry Moore, and site-specific works by Andy Goldsworthy, David Nash and James Turrell. YSP also mounts a world-class, year-round temporary exhibitions programme.
2016 Exhibitions
KAWS 6 February–12 June 2016 Longside Gallery and open air This is the first UK museum exhibition of work by the renowned American artist KAWS, whose wide ranging practice includes painting, sculpture, graphic design, toys and prints.
At Home Curated from the Arts Council Collection by Yorkshire Sculpture Park 19 March–5 June 2016 Bothy Gallery At Home in the Bothy Gallery highlights works of domestic scale from the Arts Council Collection within the historic Bothy Gallery, which was formerly home to the Bretton Estate head gardener.
Not Vital 21 May 2016–2 January 2017 Underground Gallery and open air Internationally renowned as a leading sculptor, this is Not Vital’s first major exhibition in the UK.
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Transparency Curated from the Arts Council Collection by Yorkshire Sculpture Park Chapel 25 June–4 September 2016 Taking the exceptional light qualities of the historic Chapel as inspiration, this exhibition explores the condition of transparency and in so doing responds to the particular aesthetic of the 18th-century building.
Editions and Objects: Yorkshire Sculpture Park presents St. Judes 25 June–30 October 2016 YSP Centre In summer 2016, in a joint exhibition with St Jude’s, YSP presents a unique group exhibition featuring the work of 16 UK-based artists, some showing at the Park for the first time. Working with the theme of editioning and multiples, the artists will exhibit a range of two-dimensional and three-dimensional limited edition works, with many pieces created specifically for the exhibition. www.ysp.co.uk Telephone 01924 832631
Image courtesy of YSP Tom Price Network 2013 © Jonty Wilde
Image courtesy of YSP Sophie Ryder Sitting 2007 © Jonty Wilde
Own your own holiday home at Blue Dolphin Holiday Park
Now is a great opportunity for you and your family to own a holiday home where you can experience a new lifestyle on the Yorkshire Coast and create a lifetime of family memories.
Start your new lifestyle today.
New and pre-owned holiday homes available
Owners’ lounge and bar with spectacular spec tacular views
NEW FOR FOR 2016: Refurbished Bar and restaurant
Owners’ gym
FOR 2016: Brand new development NEW FOR pitches ches with space of 20 holiday home pit for lodges.
Heated indoor pool with multi-lane multi-lane slide Heated outdoor pool for those warm sunny days Climbing wall for when you are feeling adventurous
Owner experience days 15% discount* around the park in our bars, restaurants and shops *Terms and conditions apply. Please enquire at park for full details.
We’d love to show you around. To arrange your visit
Call
0333 202 1422
or visit
Calls to 0333 numbers are charged at standard UK rates and will be included in any inclusive minute bundles
bluedolphinholidaypark.co.uk
Blue Dolphin Holiday P Park, ark, Bowes Lane, Gristhorpe Bay, Filey, Nor North th Yorkshire, YO14 9PU Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Bourne Leisure Limited is registered in England and Wales, Park Wales, no 04011660. Registered office 1 Park Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. 4YL.
HAV194_157 HAV194_157
DIGGERLAND
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A Day at Diggerland – The Ultimate Adventure Park Experience!
Diggerland is the UK’s most unique attraction where children and adults have the chance to ride, drive and operate REAL full size construction machinery, under the guidance of fully trained staff - no driving licence required!
With 4 sites across the UK located in Kent, Devon, Durham and Yorkshire you’re never too far away from digging to your heart's content. The Yorkshire site is located at Whitwood, Castleford, West Yorkshire. Diggerland is the perfect place to take your kids for an action packed family day out. Experience the variety of rides and drives on offer - whether it’s enjoying the view on Sky Shuttle, hanging tight on Spin Dizzy, or digging dirt with a 6 tonne digger, there is something for all ages!
Admission to Diggerland includes all day access to as many rides and drives as you dare.
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Admission charges start for anyone 90 cm's and taller, but visitors should be aware that height restrictions apply. Minimal charges apply for the coin-operated rides. Little visitors under 90cm's are limited on the amount of mechanical activities they can go on, even accompanied by an adult.
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There are play areas, sandpits, bouncy castles and much more where the younger guests can let off steam whilst parents can relax and just watch the fun. The food facilities provide for all your meal and drink requirements, or you can take along your own lunch and take a seat at one of the many picnic tables available on site.
The Park shop “The Goodie Store” is stocked full of toys and has a great selection of digger related products and clothing. You’ll find something there for all the family to buy as a memento of their day out at Diggerland. www.diggerland.com
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STUMP CROSS CAVERNS
Stump Cross Caverns is one of Britain’s premier show caves, located in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, on the border of Nidderdale.
Discovery
The caves at Stumps Cross were discovered in 1860 by miners who 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 Newbould had vision enough to see that they could be a profitable enterprise, and opened the caves to the public at a cost of 1 shilling per visit.
Remains of Wolverines, a giant member of the weasel family have been discovered at Stump Cross. It is thought that these animals entered the caves looking for food such as Reindeer and Bison, the remains of which have also been found. The Wolverine remains are on display in the visitor's centre.
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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 and the cave was made safe.
Neil Simone Painting
Stump Cross is delighted that renowned artist Neil Simone has created a beautiful piece of artwork especially for us. Neil is a Yorkshire based artist whose conceptual paintings have been delighting collectors for more than 40 years. Entirely self-taught he uses complex techniques to create paintings that are truly distinctive and unique. Fusing fact with visionary fantasy Neil’s
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The centre includes spacious tea rooms, serving a variety of meals, cakes and desserts, as well as a wide selection of hot and cold drinks.
The brand new Neil Simone painting is also avalible to be viewed here.
Visitors may work up an appetite touring the expansive caves underground, and many visitors find that a meal or drink in the cafe is the perfect way to round off the afternoon and recover their strength!
work continues to expand and evolve, intriguing and captivating audiences the world over.
Featured on television and in numerous journalistic reviews Neil has exhibited his work in many leading galleries throughout Britain, Europe and the USA.
Telephone 01756 752780 www.stumpcrosscaverns.co.uk
The piece entitled “Beneath the Surface” Is a mural that has been installed on the doorway which leads to our new outside feature “The fairy Glade” due to be completed spring 2016.
This new edition to the Stump Cross site, includes additional outdoor seating, with stunning views over the surrounding dales. A miniature Maze, and a fairy dell, where in summer children will be able to pan for gold and dig for gems.
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LIGHTWATER VALLEY
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SHOPPING VILLAGE & THEME PARK
Escape to Lightwater Valley and discover the excitement of five unique attractions set amidst 175 acres of glorious North Yorkshire countryside, along with thrilling seasonal events that are guaranteed to keep the whole family coming back for more. Join us in June for our crime fighting Superheroes Live! Event or come and meet CBeebies' Andy Day for dinosaur fun, facts and music at Andy's Dinosaur Adventure Weekend in August.
Take on a day out packed with thrills, chills and adventure in Lightwater Valley Theme Park, choose to run wild on the UK's largest Angry Birds Activity Park or head to the Lightwater Falconry Centre to see over 35 amazing birds and watch spectacular daily flying shows. With over 40 rides and attractions for thrill seekers of all ages, Lightwater Valley Theme Park is bursting with mini, mega and ultimate adventures for the whole family. For the mini adventurers, jump aboard one of the Eagle's Creek Farm tractors for a fun and Eagle’s Claw
entertaining journey around the farm, or enjoy sliding and hanging around in the brand-new Funkey Monkey's Soft Play & Café (Opening Spring 2016).
For the mega adventurers, shoot the raging water of the Wild River Rapids, brave the terrifying Falls of Terror or climb aboard The Flying Cutlass for some tummy tickling pirate fun.
For the ultimate adventurers, be thrown in the air in the grip of our Eagle's Claw and hurtle through some of the deepest, darkest forest aboard Europe's longest roller coaster - The Ultimate or take a spinning ride above the tree top in Apollo NEW for 2016!
Lightwater Valley is a full day adventure for the whole family; offering great value for money and you'll even find FREE parking!
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As well as the Theme Park here at Lightwater Valley Attractions you will also find:
The Ultimate
Tree Top Nets - High in the trees giant trampolines, walkways, slides and tunnels made out of netting, suspended 9 metres off the ground (Opening Summer 2016). www.treetopnets.co.uk Jurassic Adventure Golf - An 18 hole dinosaurthemed golf course. www.lightwatervalley.co.uk/golf Lightwater Country Shopping Village - enjoy leisurely shopping for ladies and gents' fashion, furnishings, kitchenware, toys and traditional sweets and drinks. www.lightwatervalley.co.uk/shopping The Granary Café - Treat yourself to a morning coffee and croissant, delicious lunch or fabulous afternoon tea. www.lightwatervalley.co.uk/granary
Book online at least 24 hours in advance to save up to 30% with entry for only £20 per person.
www.lightwatervalley.co.uk Telephone 01765 635321
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WHITE SCAR CAVE a Cambridge undergraduate undertook a hiking tour of the area. He noticed a slight fissure in the ground, and decided to investigate. 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.
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First Waterfall
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
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We are already thinking how to mark the centenary in 2023 of the cave’s discovery. A statue of Christopher Long, complete with candle hat, is planned for the cave entrance. He will look out across the valley, enjoying distant views to the sea. A stone tablet will commemorate the efforts of the 1924 and 1991 tunnelling teams, the former from nearby Ingleton and the latter from Cornwall.
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The installation in 2013 of fifty square metres of solar panels on the café roof has reduced the carbon footprint of the cave site, which is now a ‘micro-generator’ exporting surplus power to the national grid. In addition, the programme of converting the cave itself to low-energy lighting is reducing carbon emissions, and helping to preserve the natural cave environment by reducing heat output and inhibiting the growth of algae.
The Cave is a member of the International Show Caves Association, and an overseas member of the Australasian Cave & Karst Management Association. White Scar Cave, Ingleton, North Yorkshire LA6 3AW. Telephone 015242 41244 www.whitescarcave.co.uk
Long’s Gallery
Also, see the youtube video : www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMxvAHdvPzk
Battlefield Cavern
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RAF HOLMPTON RAF Holmpton was built in 1951 as an Early Warning Radar Station this operated at the site until 1974 when the radar functions moved to RAF Staxton Wold - In 1975 the site was converted into a new headquarters for RAF Support Command and had there ever been a nuclear attack on the UK the command bunker at Holmpton would have been the RAF's 3rd most important headquarters. With the ending of the cold war in 1991 the site then became an Experimental test site for the new UK Air CCIS Communications and Surveillance system. This remained at Holmpton until 2004 when the site (still under ownership of the MOD) became a public exhibition.
Between 2003 and 2014 the number of visitors constantly grew and the exhibition was expanded nearly every year until 2014 when it was no longer able to handle the volume of visitors. At the end of 2014 the site was sold into private ownership and it was decided to take a year out to completely refurbish the site.
Tunnel
just come along during our opening hours, spend as much time as you like exploring the bunker with our guides on hand to answer your questions and provide interactive displays and demonstrations.
The is a large car park - A gift shop Refreshments are available.
The visit is suitable for All the Family but not recommended for under 5's. There are 3 staircases and some quite long walks - The Bunker is centrally heated - Air conditioned and well lit throughout. www.rafholmpton.com Telephone 01964 630208
Hospital
2016 marks the opening of our ALL NEW VISITOR FORMAT - You will now be able to
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Blast Doors
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Stump Cross Caverns Amazing Natural Show Cave Gift shop, tea room and lecture theatre
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. Prices : Adults £7.50, Children (4-13) £4.95 Under 4’s free Greenhow Hill, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG3 5JL
Tel/Fax: (01756) 752780 www.stumpcrosscaverns.co.uk
P LAY I S HOP I E AT I E XPLORE I D ISCOVER PLAY SHOP EAT EXPLORE DISCOVER
N EWBY H ALL NEWBY HALL &G ARD ENS GARDENS Ripon, North North Yorkshire Yorkshire Ripon, A OUS GLORIIO LY FAMIIL UT! O DAY
Open: 25th 25th M arch - 25th Open: March 25th September Tuesdays September 2016 2016 T uesdays to to Sundays, Sundays, plus plus bank bank holidays. holidays. Open Open seven days August. seven d ays a week week iin n JJuly uly & A ugust. 11am 5.30pm. House open byy 1 1am - 5 .30pm. H ouse o pen b guided website g uided ttour our - ssee ee w ebsite ffor or ttimes imes
Visitor V isitor IInformation: nformation: Office opt O ffice 01423 01423 322583 322583 o pt 3 Newby Gardens, Ripon, N ewby Hall Hall & G ardens, R ipon, North Yorkshire, N orth Y orkshire, HG4 HG4 5AE 5AE
Graceful C ountry House House Graceful Country M iniature R ailway Miniature Railway The N orth’s P remier G ardens The North’s Premier Gardens Dollshouse Exhibition Dollshouse E xhibition NEW N EW for for SUMMER SUMMER 2016 2016 Bear Exhibition Exhibition Teddy T eddy Bear Children’s Adventure Playground C hildren’s A dventure P layground Restaurant, R estaurant, Gift Gift Shop Shop &P Plant lant Centre Centre Special Special Events Events throughout throughout the the yyear ear
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THE DEEP
Hulls award winning aquarium, The Deep is home to over 3,500 fish including Green sawfish, spectacular sharks, rays, turtles and a colony of Gentoo penguins! Travel through the story of the world’s oceans from warm tropical lagoons to the icy cold Antarctic seas. Enjoy the fun and educational interactive and audio-visual presentations which make it a fun filled family day out for all ages.
Visit the tropical Lagoon of Light where you can learn more about its colourful inhabitants during scatter feed sessions at 12pm, 2pm and 4pm. Make sure to stop by Dylan’s Discovery Corner and find out about some of the smaller native species to UK shores. Join in the fantastic touch pool sessions and meet starfish, crabs and sea urchins at 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm, 2.30pm, 3.30pm and 4.30pm. (Please note sessions are subject to change). Stop by the magnificent Endless Oceans exhibit where 2.5 million litres of water and 87 tonnes
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of salt make this home to an array of stunning species. Watch the divers feed the majestic sharks, rays and sawfish in Endless Oceans (Mon, Wed & Fri with cleaning dives Tues & Thurs), the Lagoon of Light on Saturday and Amazon Flooded Forest on Sundays at 2pm.
Visitors can see the superb Amazon Flooded Forest exhibit which is home to some striking species including Red Tailed catfish, Ripsaw catfish, Motoro stingray, Tiger Shovelnose catfish and Pacu. Many of the animals you will see in here have been rescued from unsuitable homes as part of the Big Fish Campaign. Don’t forget your Day Plus Pass which allows FREE return visits to The Deep for 12 months. This is included in the normal price of a ticket. See the website for T&C's :
w w w. t h e d e e p . c o . u k / g e n e r a l information/day-plus-pass
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NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM
Great Hall - © National Railway Museum
No trip to York is complete without a visit to the world’s greatest railway museum. Meet railway stars from Mallard, the world’s fastest steam locomotive, to our replica of Stephenson’s pioneering Rocket. Enter the world of high speed travel with the Japanese bullet train, and explore our Warehouse packed full of thousands of railway treasures.
Enjoy our daily programme of talks, tours, demonstrations, and vehicle and cab access. You can also soak up the atmosphere of Station Hall, where you can experience the sights and sounds of a station from the past, and discover the luxury of the majestic Royal carriages – from Queen Victoria’s lavish ‘palace on wheels’ to King George VI’s wartime saloon.
COMING SOON
Scotsman Season To mark the return of the world’s most famous locomotive, Flying Scotsman, we're planning a whole season of events and activities from February to July 2016 to celebrate. See the newly restored Flying Scotsman on public display for the first time in February at our grand ‘Welcome Home’. Immerse yourself in the glamour and luxury of the Scotsman service by stepping onto our ‘Service with Style’ carriage experience, and discover Flying Scotsman’s rollercoaster career in our free ‘Starring Scotsman’ exhibition.
Open daily 10.00-18.00 (summer), 10.00-17.00 (winter). Closed 24-26 December.
Leeman Road, York, YO26 4XJ www.nrm.org.ukS
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ALLIED AIR FORCES MEMORIAL & YORKSHIRE AIR MUSEUM
The atmospheric, historic site and wartime Control Tower. (Image courtesy of John Smith)
RAF Elvington, upon which the Allied Air Forces Memorial & Yorkshire Air Museum 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 heaviest losses of any Bomber Command unit, with over 500 airmen loosing their lives from 96 Halifax aircraft shot down. From May 1944, the base became unique in Bomber Command as the only one to be operated by another nationality, with the formation of two French Squadrons, 346 Guyenne and 347 Tunisie. The former commenced operations on the eve of the D-Day Landings, attacking targets on the Normandy coast.
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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, Archives Display and much more.
The historic WWII Dakota fires into life!!
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The excellent ‘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. 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.
New for 2016 is the “Gas Bags to Super Zeppelins – Terror From the Skies” exhibition, which opens on 15th March. This WWI focused display charts the birth of the mighty airships and their use as a weapon of war, and includes many fascinating illustrations, artefacts and human stories of the period.
The acclaimed collection of historic aircraft spans the birth of flight to the supersonic age and features the unique replica of the Cayley Glider, Wright Flyer and other early aircraft through the war years with the magnificent Handley Page Halifax Bomber “Friday the 13th”; De Havilland Mosquito; Douglas DC3 Dakota and the famous Hurricane and Spitfire
amongst others. The collection includes the major aircraft of the Cold War era – Gloster Meteor and Javelin; Electric Lightning; Hawker Hunter and the East Yorkshire built Blackburn Buccaneer, through to supersonic jets like the Mirage III and Tornado GR1 and, still on frontline service, Tornado GR4. Not least amongst the collection is the still futuristic looking 1950’s designed Handley Page Victor VBomber / K2 Tanker, which took part in both the Falklands War and the first Gulf War in its refuelling role. Our latest acquisition which is causing a great deal of interest is the rarely seen Nimrod MR2 intelligence gathering ‘spy’ plane, which saw 40 years service with the Royal Air Force. This is kept in superb ‘live’ condition and takes part in our regular “Thunder Day’s” along with the Blackburn Buccaneer and Victor.
The evocative WWI bi-planes at one of our events.
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Nimrod MR2 XV250 thrills the crowds at “Thunder Day”
Now, thanks to the supreme efforts of our Aircraft Engineering teams, we have fulfilled our ambition to have live propeller driven aircraft within the 'live' collection. These are the WWI SE5a and Eastchurch Kitten fighters; the legendary WWII Douglas C-47 ‘Dakota’ and post war De Havilland Devon twin prop VIP Transport aircraft. To see and hear these historic aircraft fire up along with the big jets as mentioned above is something not to be missed. (Subject to serviceability at the time.)
The Yorkshire Air Museum prides itself on being the 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, with 18 exhibitions housed mostly in original, carefully preserved wartime buildings, making us the largest former WWII Bomber Command station open to the public.
There really is something for everybody here, from the tranquil Memorial Gardens 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.
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Our exciting Events Programme features regular “Thunder Days” with the powering up of our ‘live’ aircraft; the ”Golden Era” Vintage Motorcycle Run featuring an impressive gathering of pre 1931 motorcycles, with many over 100 years old and our impressive Allied Air Forces Memorial Day in September, which is an international commemoration day at which many Nations and Service Associations are represented.
The colourful Allied Air Forces Memorial Day Parade.
Telephone: 01904 608595 Web: www.yorkshireairmuseum.org email: museum@yorkshireairmuseum.org Follow on Twitter: @air_museum and find on Facebook.
YORKSHIRE A IR M USEUM
OPERA • MUSIC • BOOKS 8–24 JULY 2016 buxtonfestival.co.uk
LEONORE BEETHOVEN 8, 12, 15, 19, 22 July
I CAPULETI E I MONTECCHI BELLINI 9, 13, 16, 20, 23 July
TAMERLANO HANDEL 10, 14, 17, 21 July
THE BRONTË PARSONAGE MUSEUM
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Memorial Fund. It is the table where Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights and The Tenant of Wildfell Hall were written and where the Brontë sisters shared their work with each other. A real writer’s table, it bears ink stains and candle burns and, as one of the most important literary artefacts of the 19th century, is a must see for anyone interested in the Brontës and their work.
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Personal items on display include Emily’s paint box, Charlotte’s sewing box, pebbles collected by Anne, a comb used by Emily and the bonnet worn by Charlotte on her wedding day.
© The Brontë Society
Set in the picturesque village of Haworth against the stunning landscape of the Yorkshire moors, Haworth Parsonage was the home of the Brontë family from 1820 to 1861 and the place where Charlotte, Emily and Anne wrote their great novels. Now the Brontë Parsonage Museum, it houses the world’s largest collection of Brontë furniture, clothes and personal possessions and offers an inspirational and evocative experience for people of all ages. Items on display include letters, notebooks and household artefacts. Visitors are always fascinated to see how tiny the sisters’ handwriting was, with the Little Books being a favourite exhibit for many. The Brontë family dining table, which was sold by auction following Patrick Brontë’s death in 1861, returned to the Parsonage recently thanks to a generous award from the National Heritage
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The Museum presents a regularly changing programme of exhibitions, contemporary arts events and family activities. In 2016 the Brontë Society will be celebrating the bicentenary of the birth of Charlotte Brontë with a wide range of special events. Novelist Tracy Chevalier has curated a special exhibition, Charlotte Great and Small, which, through objects and quotations, explores the contrast between Charlotte’s constricted life and her huge ambition.
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Contemporary art installations are also on display throughout the Parsonage, with UK and international artists responding to the idea of the miniature. These include a small bed
Charlotte Great and Small
embroidered with words by and about the Brontës, as well as a Knitted Jane Eyre!
The Museum is open daily from 10am except 24 -27 December and during January. Full details can be found at www.bronte.org.uk or you can follow the Brontë Parsonage Museum on facebook and twitter.
Dining Room © The Brontë Society
www.bronte.org.uk Telephone 01535 642323 © The Brontë Society
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SHEFFIELD INDUSTRIAL MUSUEMS 3 Inspiring Places, 1 Steel Story
Sheffield Industrial Museums are the showcase of Sheffield’s industrial story from early industrialisation to modern times where ‘Made In Sheffield’ remains a mark of craftsmanship and quality known worldwide. Enjoy a great family day out full of nostalgia and innovation! Kelham Island Museum Located in one of the city’s oldest industrial districts, Kelham Island Museum stands on a man-made island over 900 years old. Our interactive galleries tell the story of light trades and skilled workmanship to mass production. Learn what it was like to live and work in Sheffield during the Industrial Revolution and follow the sights and sounds of progress through the Victorian era and two world wars to discover how steel making forged the city of today and its impact on the modern world!
Don’t miss ‘The Millowners Arms’, the exhibition complete with traditional bar, which celebrates Sheffield’s brewing heritage. Be sure to catch the mighty River Don Engine in steam – the most powerful working steam engine remaining in Europe, as well as the reconstructed ‘Little Mesters’ street with resident workshops.
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Kelham Island Museum - Little Mester
In 2016 Kelham Island Museum becomes Power Island as part of our new Heritage Lottery project - Sheffield 1916: Steel, Steam & Power. Inspired by the River Don Engine, a mighty steam engine built to roll armour plate for the Dreadnought warships that fought at the largest naval battle of the First World War, the Battle of Jutland, the project’s new displays and exhibitions explain the major role Sheffield played in shipbuilding and tells the fascinating story of steam power.
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Major events during 2016 include the 1940s Wartime Weekend & Vintage Fayre – 23rd/24th July and the Victorian Christmas Market – 3rd/4th December.
Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet Catch a unique glimpse of life at home and at work at a scythe and steelworks dating back to the 18th century. Abbeydale Works was once a producer of agricultural tools and the largest water-powered industrial site on the River Sheaf. It is now a group of Grade I and II* listed buildings and a Scheduled Ancient Monument. See workers houses, waterwheels, workshops, tilt hammers, a grinding hull and the last complete surviving crucible steel furnace in the UK! The Heritage Lottery Fund project to revitalise the Hamlet is coming to an end, and visitors can enjoy the new ‘All About Abbeydale’ gallery, cafe, shop and learning centre. The restored waterwheels are now running and a new Abbeydale Explorer App is available, which can be either downloaded on your own mobile device or used on one of our tablets.
Major events at the Hamlet in 2016 include the Family Open Weekend – 14th / 15th May, and UK Homefront present Abbeydale 1944 – 10th /11th September.
Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet
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Shepherd Wheel Workshop Set in the picturesque valley of the Porter Brook, Shepherd Wheel is a unique working example of Sheffield’s knife grinding industry.
This water-powered workshop dates back to the 1500s and displays the tools of the trade for cutlery grinding. See the restored waterwheel and machinery in action and hear stories about
the grinders who worked there over the centuries at this Grade II listed building and Scheduled Ancient Monument.
Telephone 0114 272 2106 ask@simt.co.uk www.simt.co.uk
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Shepherd Wheel
Kelham Island Museum - River Don Engine
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THE INGROW MUSEUM OF RAIL TRAVEL
Over 80 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 filmed sequences for the big screen film of The Testament of Youth starring Alica Vikander
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 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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NATIONAL COAL MINING MUSEM
Get kitted out and prepare for a unique day out at the National Coal Mining Museum for England!
Explore a world below the surface and descend 140m underground to discover the dark depths of one of Britain’s oldest coalmines. Led by a real Miner, visitors can embark on a journey back through time to experience the sights, sounds and smells of working in a coalmine. The adventure continues above ground with a visit to the stables to meet pit ponies, Eric and Ernie and Clydesdale horse, Finn.
When the sun is shining bright, take a stroll around the picturesque nature trail or let the children explore the outdoor playground. Don’t forget to pack some snacks and take a seat in the picnic area for lunch.
When it’s time to head indoors, visit the original colliery buildings and galleries. This year will see a variety of exhibitions exploring the power of words and music from pit dialect and storytelling including free monthly events.
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The Museum is packed with activities throughout the year including Wacky Wednesdays for under 5s and craft fairs packed with treasures and gifts.
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The Miners’ Memorial Garden, which opened in November 2015, is free to enjoy for all visitors. The Garden celebrates and commemorates the lives of those who were part of the industry, including the close-knit families and communities who supported the miners.
The Memorial Garden has been built within an open grassed area at the Museum’s Hope Pit, located on site at Caphouse Colliery. The garden has been designed as a place for quiet contemplation and reflection, allowing visitors to share their memories of what coal mining has meant to individuals, families and the local area over many generations.
When the cold months are upon us, Santa arrives at the Museum treating families to a winter wonderland in his grotto. In addition to this magical experience, families can enjoy the pocket panto, festive craft workshops and delicious Christmas lunches. Plus, groups can enjoy a special corporate party night to celebrate the season with a difference!
Admission to the Museum is FREE. For details about special events throughout the year, please visit www.ncm.org.uk or call 01924 848806.
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Visit the house where the young James Cook came to serve his seaman’s apprenticeship.
The handsome 17th century house on the harbour belonged to Cook’s master, the Quaker shipowner, John Walker. It was here in the attic that the family lodged their apprentices when not at sea serving the London coal trade. The Museum’s rich collection celebrates Cook’s achievements and the work of those who sailed with him – sailors, scientists and artists.
See letters in Cook’s own hand, original paintings and drawings, ship models and maps, and strange objects from newly discovered lands. From the bleak Antarctic ocean to the fertile beauty of Pacific islands, all Europe was fascinated by the images and objects brought back. Discover how Cook became a household name in Britain and beyond, and his voyages a model for others to follow.
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Wives and Sweethearts: the Sailor’s Farewell Special Exhibition 2016
Behind every ship sent exploring to the Pacific were all the wives and sweethearts left ashore. How did Elizabeth Cook, Elizabeth Bligh ('my darling Betsy') and the wives of other officers and seamen cope with the long absence of their husbands or promised sweethearts?
Telephone 01947 601900 www.cookmuseumwhitby.co.uk
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Sailor’s Farewell - with the purser and the elderly father in the background grasping for the advance on the sailor’s wages!
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A national walking, cycling and horse riding route across the north of England with over 370 miles for you to enjoy. From coast to coast, Southport to Hornsea, with links to Kirkburton, Leeds, Chesterfield and York.
www.transpenninetrail.org.uk Tel: 01226 772574 Facebook: TransPennineTrail Twitter: TPT_National
View all of our County Signpost magazines online Search our website / phone apps for local tourist information
Free download
www.countysignpost.co.uk
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AN AWARD WINNING WALKING, CYCLING AND HORSE RIDING ROUTE COAST-TO-COAST ACROSS THE NORTH OF ENGLAND
Passing through unbroken sands, relaxing reservoirs, quiet country lanes, quaint villages and bustling towns and cities, you’ll find it all and more along the award winning Trans Pennine Trail (TPT).
From the majestic Seamark feature at Southport, the TPT will take you along the disused Cheshire Lines railway and onto the Liverpool Loop Line. Arriving in the city you will enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the Pier Head, an area recently redeveloped. Next take a stroll through the picturesque Sefton Park, before heading east along the River Mersey taking in the wonderful views as you go. The trail then leads through the quaint village of Hale, where you will see first-hand, the Mersey Gateway Bridge, a phenomenal engineering project quickly taking shape,.
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TRANS PENNINE TRAIL
© Paul Riley
Canals and railway paths then take you on further on your journey. You will travel through Warrington and Trafford, onto a winding riverside path along the Mersey to Manchester, passing Chorlton Sale Water Parks and Stockport as you go. Here you can pay a visit to the unique Hat Museum and Air Raid Caves.
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© Engage the Trail
The leafy Tame Valley accommodates the TPT until it reaches the western fringe of the Pennines and through Hadfield, home of TV’s League of Gentlemen. The dramatic scenery of the Longdendale Valley, with its five reservoirs and the former Woodhead Railway, take you to the outskirts of Barnsley and the wonderful market town of Penistone. Travelling east from Penistone the Trail uses the old packhorse route through Oxspring into the South Yorkshire town of Barnsley. Here visitors can enjoy an array of attractions including Worsbrough Mill and Country Park, Elsecar Heritage Centre and RSPB’s Old Moor reserve before continuing onto Doncaster.
From Barnsley, there is the option to venture north or south (as well as continuing eastwards) to explore more of the Trail. From Penistone, you can travel north to Kirkburton via the spectacular Royd Moor viewing point. Alternatively, why not explore the delights of Wakefield’s wonderful Anglers Country Park or Stanely Ferry Marina. Spend time meandering along the Aire Calder Navigation before heading up into Leeds where many cultural attractions await, including the spectacular Royal Armouries Museum.
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© Engage the Trail
Travelling south from Barnsley you will also find many wonderful things in store. The route through Rotherham takes in the Magna Centre and Rother Valley Country Park. At these family attractions you can enjoy a full day of activities before journeying along the Five Weirs Walk, into the heart of Sheffield and to the stunning Cobweb Bridge. From Rotherham the disused Beighton to Staveley railway gives you two route options into Chesterfield where you’ll be amazed by the town’s crooked spire church.
If you’re continuing your journey eastwards from Barnsley you’ll follow the Dearne Valley, passing Conisbrough Castle and the dramatic views of the old railway viaduct, spanning the Don Gorge and the River Don. Traffic free paths and quiet lanes then take the TPT northwards, running through sleepy villages, along the New Junction Canal to Braithwaite and Sykehouse, before joining the canal towpath for the last few miles into Selby.
While there Selby’s abbey is certainly worth a visit. From here there are two route options before you; either head north into the city of York using the York / Selby railway path, complete with a scale model of the solar system
or continue on to the coast. This direction leads along the banks of the River Ouse and River Humber while cyclists and horse riders travel on sleepy country lanes inland.
After passing underneath the mighty Humber Bridge, Kingston upon Hull awaits. The city is steeped in maritime history and leads you onto the final part of your journey, along the disused Hornsea railway path. After passing the large freshwater lake at Hornsea Mere you arrive at the seaside town of Hornsea where our eastern Seamark feature spectacularly marks the end of your journey. So, what are you waiting for….. give it a try, soon. Telephone: 01226 772574 www.transpenninetrail.org.uk
© Engage the Trail
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