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WELCOME TO SPRING. With spectacular coastlines, rolling GREEN countryside, magnificent stately homes and lots of exciting attractions, Yorkshire HAS it all. And as the days get warmer and the nights get shorter, there is no better time than spring to get out there and explore this wonderful county. In this guide you’ll find everything you need to know to make the most of your time here – whether you’re planning a relaxing weekend away or an action packed day of fun with the kids. Gary Verity Chief Executive, Welcome to Yorkshire
Cover images clockwise from top left: Rievaulx Abbey. Malham Cove. Cycling in East Yorkshire. Henry Moore sculptures at Yorkshire Sculpture Park © Jonty Wilde. Go Ape! in Dalby Forest. Clifford’s Tower. Images this page: © James Hardisty and Gerard Binks / Johnston Press.
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As spring bursts into life across the region, our romantic castles, grand country houses and atmospheric abbeys open their doors to welcome visitors and present an action-packed programme of events. This spring sees a number of major redevelopments at some of our most cherished Yorkshire properties, including the re-launch of the museum and visitor facilities at Rievaulx Abbey, bringing to life its fascinating history. There will also be the chance to experience conservation in action at Brodsworth Hall and Gardens as we undertake muchneeded work on the Victorian mansion house and invite visitors to take a look behind the scenes and enjoy hands-on activities. With so much happening across the region, it’s the perfect time to plan a visit. Liz Page Historic Properties Director, English Heritage
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DELICIOUS TREATS Spring is the perfect time to pick up some fresh, seasonal produce and there is nowhere better to do this than at one of the many farm shops located across Yorkshire. For the perfect spring lamb, head to the award winning Blacker Hall Farm Shop near Wakefield, they also have a selection of recipe cards and cooking guides to help you get the very best results. Try something a little different and take a trip to Skipton where you will find Town End Farm Shop and a delicious selection of Yorkshire charcuterie including chorizo, pancetta and salami. They even have butchery and charcuterie courses available to help you learn some new skills. Visit the family owned MileFarm Shop and Feed Shed near Pocklington, which showcases an excellent range of local artisan products from suppliers hailing from within a ten mile radius across the Yorkshire Wolds. They also have the lovely Smile Café on site, perfect for families, dog walkers, ramblers and cyclists. The award winning Cedar Barn Farm Shop & Café in Pickering is a food heaven. Much of their produce is grown on the farm with nearly everything else they sell sourced from North Yorkshire, including fresh meat, delicious deli products and fish from Scarborough. Just outside Pontefract you’ll find the delightful Farmer Copleys Farm Shop, where you can take your pick from
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a selection of quality fresh meat and baked goods. If you need to entertain the kids, why not set them loose in Copley’s Corn Maze, one of the largest corn maize mazes in Great Britain. If you love pork, visit the experts at Trotters Farm Shop between Malton and Scarborough. All their pork is home reared and 100% free range, giving them the freedom to root and roam as they would in the wild, ensuring the meat is extra succulent and tasty. Try their multiple award winning handmade sausages. In South Cave, you will find Drewton’s Farm Shop, selling all kinds of top-notch produce that’s locally sourced or freshly made in house; they are well worth a visit. The Farm Shop at Willow House Caravan Park in York offer a delicious selection of homemade pies and cakes, including some tasty gluten free options, all baked on site using only the best ingredients. They also have a variety of Yorkshire cheese and a deli section selling all kinds of wonderful treats. Towards Stamford Bridge in Gate Helmsley, visit the Balloon Tree Farm Shop and Café, whose motto ‘Fewer Food Miles – More Farm Miles’ ensures their homegrown produce is super fresh and comes straight from the field to the shelves within hours. They also use ingredients from the farm to produce the meals for the cafe including homemade ready meals, soups and lots more in the deli.
Clockwise from top left: Roots Farm Shop. Flowers at Roots. Farmer Copley’s. Vanessa’s in Beverley. Keelham Farm Shop.
For the freshest seasonal produce, TRY SOME OF YORKSHIRE’S MANY FARM SHOPS. Take a trip to None-Go-Bye Farm Shop just outside Horsforth and discover a fantastic range of fresh meat, fruit and vegetables and jams. You can even visit the pigs, rabbits, goats and donkeys in the outside animal area. For the freshest seasonal produce, stop by Berts Barrow in Hillam and pick up some fantastic ingredients from their farm shop. Or if you can’t make it to them, they’ll deliver a seasonal box full of fresh fruit and vegetables straight to your door. If you’re lucky enough to live within three miles of the farm, you’ll even get free delivery!
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TOUR DE YORKSHIRE 2016 Hot on the heels of the incredible 2014 Yorkshire Grand Départ, hailed as the Tour de France’s ‘grandest Grand Départ ever’, came the inaugural Tour de Yorkshire in 2015. The race, organised by Welcome to Yorkshire and A.S.O. is one of the most exciting new events in the cycling calendar and is rapidly becoming a favourite among the peloton. In 2015, riders including Sir Bradley Wiggins, Marcel Kittel and Ben Swift, wound their way through a challenging three day event which was ultimately won by Team Sky’s Lars Petter Nordhaug. Just as in 2014, the people of Yorkshire came out in force to cheer on the riders, with over one and a half million people lining the route and millions more watching live broadcasts across the world. For 2016 we have significantly expanded the women’s race to create a showcase event in the UK. The female riders will depart from Otley on Saturday 30th April and race the same route as the men, who will take on the stage later that day, finishing in Doncaster. This race is an important step in growing the profile of women’s racing.
THE TERRAIN IS UNDULATING, THE ROADS ARE TESTING AND THAT MAKES FOR UNPREDICTABLE RACING. 06
Stage One: Friday 29th April, 185km Start in Beverley and finish in Settle Stage One begins in Beverley, home to one of England’s finest Minsters, before the peloton races to Tadcaster and on to Knaresborough which was the scene of some of the biggest crowds for the Tour de France in 2014. Taking in some of the Grand Départ 2014 route, a series of climbs takes the riders past Brimham Rocks before a finish in Settle. Stage Two: Saturday 30th April, 135.5km Start in Otley and finish in Doncaster On Stage two, men and women will ride the same stage which starts in Otley, home of the current women’s road World Champion Lizzie Armistead. From Otley, riders travel south, on miles of roads not raced on in the Tour de France or Tour de Yorkshire, towards Conisbrough Castle and on to Doncaster. Stage Three: Sunday 1st May, 198km Start in Middlesbrough and finish in Scarborough Stage three will be familiar to those who raced in 2015. It starts in Captain James Cook’s home town of Middlesbrough, then travels into Herriot Country before tackling the infamous Sutton Bank, the first of six King of the Mountain points in just one stage. The title of overall winner will come down to the wire as the peloton races over the North York Moors and down towards Scarborough for what promises to be a thrilling finale. Keep up to date with all the latest information here: www.letouryorkshire.com Twitter: @LeTourYorkshire #TDY
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STEP INTO SPRING Take a trip up to the magnificent Yorkshire Dales and enjoy a walk along the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail. The trail leads you through ancient oak woodland and breath-taking Yorkshire scenery via a series of stunning waterfalls and geological features. Head to Gunnerside in Upper Swaledale and marvel at the classic Dales landscape of drystone walls, barns and wildflower meadows that bloom magnificently in late spring. Take in the impressive surroundings of a remarkable castle, abbeys, rivers, thoroughbred horses and fantastic views with a relaxing stroll around Middleham Gallops. For something a little more challenging, try the classic walk to Gordale Scar from Malham. Park at the National Park Authority car park and walk up through Janet’s Foss towards Gordale Scar, before a steep climb leads up to Malham Moor and then on to Malham Tarn. Located on the outskirts of the village of Danby, The Moors National Park Centre is the perfect place to start any visit to the National Park. From this idyllic spot on the banks of the River Esk, you will be greeted by sweeping views of moorland, woodland, farmland, miles of hedges and drystone walls and historic buildings, all basking in glorious peace and quiet. There are pushchair and wheelchair friendly woodland and riverside trails around the grounds as well as plenty of picnic areas and seating if you just want to sit back and soak up the fantastic views. With around 2,300 km of paths and tracks, the spectacular North York Moors National Park is both a walker’s and cyclist’s paradise. Right in the centre of the park, you’ll find
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the picturesque village of Rosedale, and just above, you can walk along Spaunton Moor on paths that lead though heathery tufts to medieval crosses marking epic viewpoints. Travel to West Yorkshire and take in The Meltham Way, a nine mile circular route taking walkers through sites of scientific and scenic interest including Royd Edge, Blackmoorfoot Reservoir and Honley Wood. Or why not explore the National Trust’s Marsden Moor Estate on the northern edge of the Peak District National Park. Spread across 6,000 acres of open moorland, peaks, crags, and reservoirs, it’s easily accessed by public footpaths and the Pennine Way. A bracing walk along the coast is guaranteed to refresh you. For spectacular cliff top walks, try Flamborough Head where foaming waves crash against towering cliffs and seabirds wheel noisily around ancient smugglers’ caves and tiny hidden coves. Or head north to Robin Hood’s Bay and venture along the beach or cliff path, returning along a disused railway. Visit the picturesque village of Shibden and enjoy a circular walk starting from the Shibden Mill Inn. For an easy, mostly level stroll, walk the three miles to local landmark, Shibden Hall. Or for something a little more taxing, take the three mile walk to Shibden Dale, perfect for exploring the beautiful valley. If you really fancy a challenge, have a go at the Calderdale Way Taster – a seven and a half mile energetic and varied walk sampling both the Calderdale Way and the Brontë Way. Whichever walk you choose, reward yourself with a delicious lunch at Shibden Mill Inn.
The BrontĂŤ waterfall near Haworth.
As Yorkshire bursts into bloom, spring is the perfect time to take a walk around some stunning landscapes. YORKSHIRE.COM
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CAPABILITY BROWN IS 300 This year marks 300 years since the birth of renowned English landscape architect, Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, so what better time to visit one of his many gardens that surround some of the finest country estates and houses across Yorkshire. Enjoy the expansive grounds of Scampston Hall near Malton and explore the Cascade Circuit, a peaceful area perfect for a quiet stroll. In typical Capability Brown style, the park incorporates a series of lakes and naturalistic planting providing magnificent views. After inheriting a vast wealth in 1753, Edwin Lascelles employed Brown in 1775 to transform the gardens of Harewood House near Leeds. The naturalistic landscape that was created included key Brownian features such as the 32 acre serpentine lake, cascade and encircling carriage drives which you can still see today. The immense scale of his vision took six years to complete and the stunning vistas have even been captured by the likes of renowned artist JMW Turner.
The 300 acres of historic Grade II listed parkland that surround the Hall at Burton Constable are a truly stunning place to visit. Commissioned to landscape the park in 1772, Brown transformed it by creating two lakes from a series of fishponds, separated by a magnificent bridge. He also created a ha-ha wall and planted thousands of trees and sunk fences, which along with the bridge have recently been lovingly restored. After 200 years as ruins, during the 18th century ‘Capability Brown’ was contracted to bring ‘order’ to the valley in which Roche Abbey was situated. He achieved this by engineering a lake where the southern buildings once stood as well as creating a waterfall and incorporating irregular tree group planting in the surrounding fields. He even levelled part of the ruin walls to make way for a grassed foreground, to provide a view from a banqueting lodge. Much of this work has since been undone in order to restore the medieval ruins of the abbey.
Clockwise from bottom left: Roche Abbey. Scampston Hall. Temple Newsam. Scampston Hall Park. Harewood House.
The park at Sledmere House near Driffield was designed by Brown in 1777 and the plans still survive in the house to this day. Today, the tranquil grounds are surrounded by trees and the gardens include a paved sculpture court, an 18th century walled rose garden as well as a recently laid out knot garden. Explore the park and gardens of Temple Newsam in Leeds and discover a stunning 18th century landscape with intimate formal gardens full of scent and colour. Brown was commissioned to create a serene and picturesque landscape for Charles Ingram, the 9th Viscount Irwin in the 1760’s. Although his plan was not fully followed, his vision can still be seen in the open grassland, woodlands, views and vistas that can still be seen today. Visit the Mercer Art Gallery for ‘NOBLE PROSPECTS: Capability Brown and the Yorkshire Landscape’ from 25th June to 11th September for an exhibition of paintings, drawings and manuscripts celebrating the work of ‘Capability’ Brown.
THE IMMENSE SCALE OF HIS VISION AT HAREWOOD HOUSE TOOK SIX YEARS TO COMPLETE.
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SPECIAL SPRINGTIME STAYS Romantic Retreats For pure indulgence, look no further than Yorebridge House, a 5* boutique hotel and restaurant on the edge of the picturesque village of Bainbridge in the Yorkshire Dales. Set amidst the stunning backdrop of open countryside, you are guaranteed luxury, relaxation and impeccable service from the moment you arrive. Why not visit Helmsley, the recently crowned winners of the ‘Best Market Town’ award in Britain and stay at The Feversham Arms Hotel & Verbena Spa, a secluded luxury retreat. The hotel boasts a unique Mediterranean terrace and outdoor pool, whilst indoors offers welcoming lounges, open fires and a snug to make guests feel welcome all year round. With open fires, an eclectic mix of furnishings and fabrics, outstanding service and fantastic food, The Cleveland Tontine has to be one of the best places to eat, drink and stay in the beautiful countryside of North Yorkshire. Surrounded by 150 acres of historical landscape, you’ll find it hard to escape the sense of tranquillity that encompasses the four-star hotel of Wynyard Hall. Less than 30 minutes from both York and Leeds, Hazelwood Castle Hotel offers elegant private rooms, luxury accommodation and award winning dining in an idyllic rural location, perfect for a romantic weekend away Quirky Camping As the weather gets warmer, why not try a spot of glamping? Whether you’re looking for a getaway with family or friends, Yorkshire has an option to suit your needs. Located at Deighton Lodge just outside York, Glampit offer luxury bell tent accommodation for hire with everything you could need for an ultimate glamping experience. You can even add a frontier stove to your tent if you’re worried you might be a bit chilly.
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Set within a beautiful 250 acre country manor estate in North Yorkshire, Camp Katur is a secluded glamping village offering a mix of quirky accommodation including Hobbit Pods, Safari Tents, Bell Tents, Tipis and Yurts. With a fantastic selection of onsite activities from cycling and aerial extreme high ropes to zorbing, clay pigeon shooting and archery, there is something to entertain all the family. Stay in a handcrafted yurt with steam bent ash beams and a unique round top solid oak door at Yurtshire in Newburgh Priory, amongst the spectacular landscape of the Howardian Hills. Furnished with a double bed as well as both a double and single futon, the yurts are ideal for couples looking for a romantic getaway or families looking for somewhere with plenty of space. Winner of the White Rose Award for Best Caravan Holiday Park and Holiday Village 2015, Humble Bee Farm in Flixton near Scarborough have a fantastic variety of glamping options available. With Wigwams, Yurts, Bell Tents and more, they are sure to meet your needs. Something Different Yorkshire is also home to a number of more unusual places to stay. The beautiful Victorian building of La Rosa Hotel offers amazing views out to sea and is also the place where Lewis Carroll resided during his many visits to Whitby. Tucked away in a quiet corner of the North York Moors National Park, just outside Helmsley, the luxurious designer tree houses at Studford Luxury Lodges bring wilderness and indulgence hand in hand. For something really unique, spend the night in a converted railway carriage at The Old Station near Pickering. Each carriage sleeps six and is perfectly equipped for a self-catering break. With two acres of grounds surrounding the site and more stunning countryside beyond, it’s ideal for families and children to explore.
Clockwise from top left: Camp Katur. Feversham Arms and Verbena Spa. Yurtshire. Yorebridge House.
From luxury hotels, to quirky camping ideas, Yorkshire has accommodation to suit everyone.
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HISTORIC PLACES In Yorkshire alone, English Heritage cares for over 18 historic properties in truly stunning locations, bringing history to life for scores of visitors each year. Choose from coastal castles, moorland abbeys or grand countryside estates for a magnificent day out. Brodsworth Hall & Gardens Discover a time-capsule of period living inside this beautiful Victorian country house, where almost everything has been left as it was when it was still a family home. The extensive grounds are a collection of grand gardens in miniature, restored to their full Victorian splendour. Celebrate the 2016 English Year of the Garden with a host of garden-themed events starting with Brodsworth in Bloom in May. Whitby Abbey Standing high on the headland with its Gothic ruins overlooking Whitby, it’s easy to see how the haunting remains of the abbey inspired Bram Stoker’s legendary tale, Dracula. A true ‘must see’ when
visiting the Yorkshire coast, atmospheric events and Dracula performances throughout the year bring echoes of the past to life. Visit from 30th April – 2nd May for the Viking Raiders and Invaders event. Scarborough Castle Leave the sandcastles on the beach and climb the battlements to discover 3,000 years of history at a real castle. From the Bronze Age to WWII, Scarborough Castle has seen it all. Overlooking this popular seaside town, the castle plays host to heart-thumping live action events, giving you a dramatic taste of castle life. Rievaulx Abbey Journey into the tranquil valley of the North York Moors and enjoy an inspiring day out at the remains of one of England’s most important Cistercian monasteries. From the end of May 2016, new facilities will bring to life the monastery’s intriguing history and ensure you discover something new about its rich past.
BRINGING HISTORY TO LIFE IN STUNNING LOCATIONS. Clifford’s Tower Storm the tower to enjoy the best views of York and discover one of the city’s most iconic attractions. Scale the steep steps of the ancient mound to enter the fore building of the castle where centuries of visitors waited to be called in to the main tower. Richmond Castle Overlooking the River Swale, offering breath-taking views of the Yorkshire Dales, Richmond Castle is one of the oldest Norman stone fortresses in Britain. May 2016 marks the 100th anniversary of the ‘Richmond Sixteen’ a group of conscientious objectors imprisoned at the castle for refusing to fight in the First World War. Visitors can find out more about the castle’s fascinating history through its exhibition and action-packed events programme. Conisbrough Castle Step inside the magnificent 12th-century tower at Conisbrough, the setting for Sir Walter Scott’s Ivanhoe, and explore one of England’s most unusually designed buildings. Head to the rooftop to take in views stretching for 20 miles across South Yorkshire. The castle will provide an excellent base to watch Day 2 of the Tour De Yorkshire on Saturday 30th April with Medieval Sword School events taking place in between what is sure to be an exciting day of racing. ENGLISH-HERITAGE.org.UK
Left to right: Whitby Abbey. Brodsworth Hall. Richmond Castle.
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EXPLORE IN STYLE Get out and discover Yorkshire in style. With boats, vintage cars, motorbikes and even planes available to hire, when it comes to transport, there are some fantastic and exciting options to explore the county. Based in Horsforth near Leeds, Yorkshire Trike Tours have a series of fantastic packages available that will take you on a ride to some of the most stunning areas of the Yorkshire Dales. Choose anything from a one hour ride past Bolton Abbey and up Blubberhouse Moor or enjoy a full day expedition and travel part of the route of the 2014 Grand Départ. For something really different and thrilling, try the Tiger Moth Experience in Sherburn-in-Elmet near Leeds. Book a flight in The de Havilland Tiger Moth biplane, the primary RAF training aircraft during the Second World War and experience the thrill of open cockpit flying. Starting with an initial flight briefing, you will experience aircraft checks, ground control procedures, taxiing, take off and of course the flight and all important landing. Cruise along the canals and rivers of Yorkshire on board your own well-appointed narrow boat from Shire Cruisers, based in Sowerby Bridge. After some friendly and helpful training, take to the water and relax as you float by some stunning scenery.
Experience husky hiking all year round in the North York Moors with Pesky Husky. Take a walk with one of their 30 sled dogs through the open countryside, using specialist belts and equipment specifically designed for the Huskies. A fun and unique activity, this is perfect for families with children, walking groups, or anyone who wants to meet and spend quality time with these amazing animals. Been inspired by the Tour de Yorkshire to get out on a bike? There’s a whole host of bike hire centres situated across the county, perfect for a day out on two wheels. Pick up a mountain bike from Sutton Bank Bikes and ride out on the stunning green cliff trail which offers spectacular views of the North York Moors National Park and beyond. Choose some wheels from the modern fleet of bikes available at Let’s Bike in Scarborough and enjoy the stunning scenery as you cycle along the coast. Escape the city rush and enjoy York from a different perspective with a cruise along the beautiful River Ouse on board YorkBoat. Admire the scenery and learn fascinating facts from the live commentary delivered by the skipper. With open sundecks as well as a cosy bar and lounge, you can enjoy a trip on the river, whatever the weather.
take a ride to some of the most stunning areas of the Yorkshire Dales.
Bolton Abbey in Wharfedale.
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BRONTË BICENTENARY 2016 marks the bicentenary of Charlotte Brontë’s birth, making this year the perfect time to visit the stunning landscape of Brontë Country in Yorkshire. Situated in West Yorkshire, you’ll find the picturesque village of Haworth and the real heart of Brontë Country. Haworth was home to the Brontë family from 1820 to 1861 and the house in which they lived has been transformed into the world famous Brontë Parsonage Museum. The museum has an extensive exhibition detailing the Brontë’s lives, full of fascinating treasures accompanied by an interactive display. Inspiring Locations Set in 100 acres of stunning parkland, the Elizabethan manor house of Oakwell Hall has been used in a number of adaptions of Wuthering Heights and also inspired Charlotte Brontë’s description of Fieldhead, the home of heroine Shirley Keeldar. Visitors today can still see many of the original features Charlotte describes within the novel.
Red House in Gomersal was the home of Charlotte’s lifelong friend Mary Taylor whom she often visited, leading her to affectionately feature the house in her novel ‘Shirley’. Today this award winning museum looks much as it would have done in Charlotte’s day, with delightful period rooms and original furniture. The distinctive exterior of East Riddlesden Hall may look familiar. The 17th Century manor house has been used in a number of adaptions of Wuthering Heights. The gardens and grounds are well worth exploring, as is a wander around the house to unravel the secrets hidden within the walls. Scenic Walks Get your walking shoes on and discover the Bronte landscape first hand. Walk up Haworth Moor to Top Withens, a ruined farmhouse thought to be Emily Brontë’s inspiration for the location of the house in Wuthering Heights. Follow the Brontë Way, a 40 mile waymarked trail which leads you to key locations associated
DISCOVER THE cobbled main street of Haworth, home to FANTASTIC independent shops AND a fine selection of tea rooms, pubs and restaurants. Left to right: Haworth. Top Withens. Brontë Parsonage Museum.
with the Brontë family. Starting from Oakwell Hall in Birstall, visit the Spen Valley, where Shirley was set and discover the wild moorland scenes associated with Wuthering Heights as well as passing through Haworth itself. Whether attempting the full distance or just a short stroll, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in the beautiful countryside the Brontë sisters knew so well. Places to Stay Spend some time exploring Brontë country and choose from one of the many excellent hotels in the area. Stay at The Brontë Hotel, situated on the edge of Haworth village, within easy
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walking distance of the Keighley & Worth Valley Steam Railway and enjoy a warm and friendly welcome. Set on Haworth’s historic main street, the friendly Fleece Inn offers good old Yorkshire hospitality in the form of cosy guest rooms, hearty local fare and some of the best ales from the around the region. Steeped in history, Haworth Old Hall is one of the oldest buildings in the village dating back to 1580 and provides an idyllic location to relax and enjoy excellent food and drink. For some real luxury, stay at Gomersal Park Hotel set in stunning parkland and indulge at their Dream Spa.
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IN TOUCH WITH NATURE As daffodils begin to bloom and fields are brimming with new born lambs, spring is the perfect time to get outdoors and discover a wonderful array of nature across the Yorkshire countryside. The best place to view seabirds has to be at RSPB Bempton Cliffs. More than 250,000 birds bring the 350 foot high cliffs alive as adults bring food to their nests and young chicks attempt their first flights. You can watch all the action from specially created cliff top viewpoints, which are also wheelchair accessible. On a calm day, you may spot the distinctive triangular fin of a harbour porpoise or even a grey seal. While at the magnificent Duncombe Park Estate in Helmsley, why not visit the National Centre for Birds of Prey and watch these stunning birds take to the sky in spectacular flying demonstrations. From the tiny terrestrial Burrowing Owl to the mighty and majestic Steller’s Sea Eagle, the NCBP houses the largest collection of birds of prey in the north of England. North Cave Wetlands is a true example of a 21st Century nature reserve, developed in the footprint of a large sand and gravel quarry. A day spent here any time of the year will reward visitors with close up views of a range of wetland wildlife. Take a guided tour around some of Yorkshire’s most stunning landscapes with Wildlife Discovery Tours and discover diverse and amazing wildlife and landscapes. Their specialist guides give small groups the opportunity to discover a suite of species from the surrounding habitats and landscapes in a number of locations across Yorkshire.
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Get up close and personal with a herd of llamas and alpacas at Nidderdale Llamas. Once paired up with your own llama, spend the day trekking amidst the beautiful Nidderdale countryside or meet one of the farm’s other animal residents such as rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, ferrets, snakes, ponies, goats and donkeys. Cannon Hall Farm in Barnsley is a large, family run, farm attraction. Sitting in the rolling Pennine foothills, the farm is home to hundreds of animals, waiting to welcome you to a world of animal magic. It also features one of the biggest and best equipped playgrounds in the north of England and the largest tube maze in Europe. Walk into a world of adventure at the Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Doncaster and meet some of the most beautiful and endangered animals in the world, including polar bears, amur tigers and the amur leopard. Walk with the lemurs in Lemur Woods, hop along to the Wallaby Walkabout, see the animals of South America or meet the meerkats. If horse riding is your thing, Farsyde Riding Centre in Whitby is the perfect place for riders of all abilities to enjoy the spectacular coastal countryside. Enjoy riding along the beach, moors, forestry and the scenic former rail path to Scarborough, with views looking out to Scarborough Castle and Flamborough Head on a clear day. Come and meet a whole host of animals at Boston Park Farm near Doncaster. From adorable calves to baby bunnies, learn fun facts about all the animals as you make your way around the animal trail and buy some special food to feed the animals - perfect for getting the kids involved.
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RSPB Bempton Cliffs
You may spot the distinctive triangular fin of a harbour porpoise or even a grey seal.
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SOMETHING SWEET Yorkshire is awash with confectioners selling all kinds of delicious sweet treats, guaranteed to help you find the perfect Easter gifts for families and friends. Discover the history of chocolate at York’s Chocolate Story. Located in the centre of York, come and find out how a simple cocoa bean is transformed into the finest chocolate, and take a look at the history of York’s most iconic chocolate brands. Then master the secrets of the chocolatier, as you create hand-made chocolates for yourself, before seeing how the experts do it. Visit The Little Chocolate Shop in Leyburn and experience the whole fascinating process of seeing chocolate being tempered and moulded, filled and decorated in the factory, then pick up some delicious treats in the shop. Open Monday to Saturday, its great fun for all the family.
Clockwise from bottom left: Cocoa Wonderland. Lolly making workshop at York’s Chocolate Story. Amelia’s Chocolate in Scarborough.
Take a trip to the picturesque village of Haworth and make sure you stop at …and Chocolate. With a delicious selection of sweet treats available you will be spoilt for choice - try their salted toffee and coconut truffles, they’re delicious! A traditional sweet shop in the heart of East Yorkshire, Weighton’s Sweet Treats in Market Weighton have all sorts of sweet treats available. With over 500 different varieties of sweets to choose from, they also create fantastic bespoke gift packages. Situated in the seven hills of sunny Sheffield in South Yorkshire, Cocoa Wonderland is a fantastic chocolate shop and café selling an abundance of sweet treats, many of which are locally sourced or hand made on site. They also run many daytime and evening events at the café including ‘chocolate lock ins’, as well as book and knitting clubs.
DISCOVER SOME CHOCOLATE HISTORY, TRADITIONAL SWEET SHOPS AND SATISFY YOUR CRAVINGS.
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Satisfy your chocolate cravings with a trip to Amelia’s Chocolate in Scarborough. From marvellous marshmallow lollies to crunchy cinder toffee dipped in real Belgian chocolate, Amelia’s Chocolate has something for everyone. You can even go along to a chocolate workshop and learn how to make some tasty chocolate treats of your own.
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MAGNIFICENT MUSEUMS Yorkshire is brimming with history, waiting to be discovered at one of the many museums situated within the county. There is plenty to discover at The National Media Museum, Bradford. Visit IMAX, the world’s most powerful giant screen experience, then discover the past, present and future of television in ‘Experience TV’ and watch your favourite TV moments in ‘TV Heaven’. Offering three giant halls packed full of incredible trains and interactive fun, the award winning National Railway Museum in York has an exciting programme of events planned to celebrate the return of the Flying Scotsman to the museum. The National Coal Mining Museum for England in Wakefield is well worth a visit. Don a hardhat and head underground to experience life as a miner. Housed in an original prisoner of war camp, a visit to the unique, award winning Eden Camp museum will transport you back in time to wartime Britain. Experience the sights, sounds and even the smells of both the Home Front and front line in a series of expertly recreated scenes and tableaux. Eureka! The National Children’s Museum, in Halifax is a fantastic attraction for kids. It opens up a world of hands on exploration and discovery with more than 400 exhibits providing plenty of opportunity to learn and play.
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The award winning Royal Armouries museum in Leeds has some fantastic exhibits. Displaying thousands of artefacts of arms and armour, they also showcase live tournaments and horse shows. The National Emergency Services Museum in Sheffield uses lights, sound and smoke to bring history back to life. Discover what it’s like to witness a road traffic incident and see how the emergency services work together to rescue people. The award winning Yorkshire Air Museum is the largest independent air museum in Britain. Situated in 20 acres of parkland on the former World War II RAF Bomber Command Station at Elvington near York, it is the largest and most original WWII station open to the public, with a stunning collection of aircraft, related vehicles and a series of exhibitions and events to suit all its visitors. The Scarborough Maritime Heritage Centre is a little gem waiting to be discovered. Situated a short distance from the historic harbour, the centre is crammed with interesting exhibits and information about Scarborough’s fascinating past. Walk down the cobbled Victorian streets of York Castle Museum, see the styles of the Sixties, explore the cells where infamous highwayman Dick Turpin spent his last night and see what life was like on the front line during the First World War at one of York’s best museums.
Yorkshire is brimming with history, waiting to be discovered.
Left to right: Morph at the National Media Museum. Royal Armouries in Leeds. National Railway Museum in York.
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EASTER ADVENTURES As the weather begins to warm up again, it’s the perfect time to get out and about with the family and enjoy some of Yorkshire’s best family attractions, which provide the perfect day out for families of all ages. From 25th March until 10th April, join Alice and her band of mischievous friends for a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. There will be treasure to find and whimsical characters to behold as Mother Shipton’s Cave is transformed into an Easter wonderland. Enjoy all the fun of the fair at Castle Howard from 26th to 28th March. Find the giant eggs nestled among the flowers to claim a prize and enjoy the traditional fairground rides including a carousel, helter skelter and swing boats. From 25th March until 10th April, there’s a whole host of egg-citing Easter events planned at Fountains Abbey. Team up with friends and family in the ‘Golden Egg Hunt’ and locate the tiny golden egg for your chance to win a prize or enjoy an afternoon of ‘Easter Eggsploits’ on 28th March and compete in the best decorated egg and egg rolling contests. Experience the annual Great Studfold Easter Egg Hunt from 26th March until 10th April. Pick up an Easter egg adventure clue sheet to help you find the brightly coloured eggs and gold rabbits and have a go at some crafty Easter activities. Hop on board the Kirklees Light Railway Easter Eggspress from 25th – 28th March to Shelley and meet the Easter Bunny. There are some special golden eggs to find and chocolate eggs for everyone who takes part in the egg hunt.
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Come along to the Burton Agnes Easter Egg Trail from 25th March to 10th April for a cracking good time! Children are invited to take part in an Easter trail around the magnificent grounds of the hall, solving clues while exploring the extensive gardens. Once the conundrum has been solved, every child will receive an Easter treat.
As the weather begins to warm up again, it’s the perfect time to get out and about with the family.
Eggstremely Big Attractions Enjoy a family day out at Flamingo Land, the combined theme park, zoo and holiday resort near Malton. There is a sensational collection of eight extreme rides, including the latest roller coaster Hero. They have a fantastic range of attractions, including DinoStone Park with dino themed rides as well as 140 species to discover in their award winning zoo. Set in the gigantic and awe-inspiring former Templeborough Steelworks, Magna Science Adventure Centre is guaranteed to amaze! There’s fun for all the family to explore in the incredible interactive pavilions of Fire, Water, Earth and Air crammed with over 100 fascinating hands-on activities. Dive in to The Deep with a visit to Hull’s award winning aquarium. Explore the depths of the oceans from the beginning of time or dicover tropical lagoons, endless oceans and the life giving living rivers of the world. Home to a whopping 3,500 fish including a green sawfish, spectacular sharks, rays and even a colony of Gentoo penguins. The Forbidden Corner is a unique labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, follies and surprises created within a four acre garden in the heart of Tupgil Park and the Yorkshire Dales. A visitor attraction unlike anywhere that you have been before, ideal for adventurers and those young at heart.
Clockwise from bottom left: Flamingo Land. Castle Howard © Mike Kipling. Magna Science Adventure Centre. Burton Agnes.
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sit back and enjoy the beauty of your garden all summer.
YORKSHIRE NGS GARDENS Take time to visit the gardens of the Yorkshire National Garden Scheme where owners love to offer advice and share their knowledge. These mostly private gardens are full of ideas and wonderful plant combinations and your visit even supports various charities. Find out more at ngs.org.uk
YORKSHIRE IN BLOOM Spring is the perfect time to get back out in the garden. We have put together some helpful hints and tips from top gardeners across Yorkshire to help make your garden bloom. Kiplin Hall Chris Baker, Head Gardener Replanting your pots with spring bedding As well as putting the crock at the base of the pot to help with drainage, use a layer of dried beech leaves on the surface and then add compost on top, to prevent the soil from blocking the drainage holes. Sledmere Estate Andrew Karavics, Head Gardener Apple tree pruning Never be scared to prune apple trees quite hard to provide good air flow through the tree as this helps to produce healthy fruit. An old saying is “you should be able to kick a rugby ball through a well-trained apple tree”. Burton Constable Hall Chris Richards, Gardener Caring for your citrus trees We feed our citrus trees once a month with sulphate of iron during autumn and winter, which is upped to a weekly dose in the spring and summer. The trick with citrus trees is knowing when to water them, as you need to make the roots work hard in order to produce the best fruits. Newby Hall Mark Jackson, Head Gardener Weeding After such a mild winter there will be plenty of weeds lurking in your beds and pots. If time is pressing, concentrate on weeds that are flowering. Just make sure they don’t seed, then sit back and enjoy the beauty of your garden all summer. YORKSHIRE.COM
Scampston Hall & Walled Garden Paul Smith, Head Gardener Fertilizer dos and don’ts Give lawns a spring boost with a nitrogen based fertilizer. This will strengthen grass and help to keep out weeds and moss. However, if applying a slow release fertilizer such as blood, fish and bone, avoid it blowing onto young shoots as this can scorch them.
Left to right: Yorkshire National Garden Scheme. Wentworth Castle, Barnsley.
Wentworth Castle Claire Herring, Director Don’t be afraid to move your plants If a plant is not thriving in its present location or is aggressively outcompeting its neighbours, don’t be afraid to make a change – and with a little lateral thinking you will find the perfect spot for your plant thugs as well as your shrinking violets. Thorp Perrow Faith Douglas, Curator Caring for newly planted trees Check all newly planted trees to ensure a good layer of mulch - this helps to retain nutrients and water over the coming year - not to mention the pesky slug damage that some tastier trees may endure! Renishaw Hall David Kesteven, Head Gardener Look after your soil Wet warm winters drain nutrients from the soil. Adding organic matter (manure, compost or leaf mould) will help rectify this and help improve the structure, water holding and nutrient holding ability of your soil. Totties Garden Centre Lisa Halifax, Garden Centre Manager Feed your plants Feeding fruit trees with potash will help boost flowering and ripening of fruits. Acid loving plants including Rhododendrons, Magnolias, Acers and Pieris will all benefit from an acid feed.
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BE PART OF IT... The Yorkshire Festival is the UK’s newest international festival. Building on the resounding success of the first edition in 2014, it promises world premieres and UK exclusives with spectacular outdoor performances as well as music, theatre, visual arts and dance. The first three events have already been announced and are sure to set things off with a bang! Big Disco To set things off, festival organisers are teaming up with Duke Studios and NEWSUBSTANCE to try and set a world record breaking dance event. Big Disco will see the world’s largest disco ball, 10.33m in diameter, on loan from Bestival, suspended from a crane above Duke Studios in Leeds while more than 20,000 people dance to the same track, at the same time, at parties across Yorkshire. The public will vote for the winning disco track, from a top ten chosen by selected DJ’s and clubs. Follow the link on the festival website to download ‘Little Disco’, a kit with everything you need to get involved and join the world’s biggest party! Get on your dancing shoes and join in the fun at 7pm on 1st July. The Nile Project On the opening weekend of the festival, a UK exclusive performance arrives in Bradford you won’t want to miss. Featuring an incredible collaboration between musicians from 11 countries along the Nile, aptly named The Nile Project, will raise the roof of the Alhambra on 18th June.
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Danbor Talka - Clash of Drums In Sheffield on 25th June, French and Basque performers Les Commandos Percu & Deabru Beltzak will come together in an explosion of fireworks, percussion and dance. The piece, called Danbor Talka - Clash of Drums, will see musicians parade through the crowds before performing in an enormous pyrotechnic display sending fireworks blazing across the sky.
COMPETITION TIME Fancy the chance the win a VIP festival experience for two? Simply tweet a picture of yourself in an inspiring Yorkshire location with our festival beer mat which can be found in venues around the county. Use #BEPARTOFIT for a chance to win. Pop in and pick up a beer mat from any of the following places or download one from the website: Out of the Woods, Bundobust, The Tetley, The Pour House, The Midnight Bell, The Engine House, North Bar, Revolution Leeds, The Grand Theatre Leeds, City Varieties, The Black Swan Helmsley, The Feversham, Helmsley Arts Centre, Helmsley Tourist Information Centre, Mima and many more…
yorkshirefestival.co.uk @YorkshireFest
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18 days of world class music, dance, theatre, film, art, sculpture and one or two art forms there probably isn’t a name for yet. Top to bottom: Phoenix Dance Theatre. The Nile Project. French and Catalan performers Les Commandos Percu & Deabru Beltzak perform Danbor Talka - Clash of Drums.
BREATHTAKING LANDSCAPE Top to bottom: Blackpool Bridge, Digley. walking on the moors above Huddersfield. Shopping in Holmfirth.
Visit Holmfirth and Marsden on the edge of the Peak District National Park and be prepared to fall in love with some of the most breathtaking landscapes and interesting heritage this country has to offer; including one of the most iconic cycle climbs in the country, Holme Moss. Plan a family day to Standedge Tunnel and Visitor Centre and take a boat trip into Britain’s highest, longest, deepest canal tunnel; enjoy a scenic steam train trip on the Kirklees Light Railway; learn traditional crafts at the Colne Valley Museum; or discover BrontÍ history at Oakwell Hall Country Park and Red House Museum. Explore the Huddersfield Narrow Canal along the towpath through the bustling villages of Milnsbridge, Marsden and Slaithwaite. Discover music, art, comedy, theatre, literature and inspiring things to do at the Holmfirth Arts Festival, Holmfirth Film Festival, Shepley Spring Folk Festival and popular Meltham Memories 1940s Weekend. Holmfirth Art Market is a great opportunity to view and buy the work of local artists. Put a spring in your step with a luxurious treatment and revitalising heat experience at Titanic Spa, and then head off to National Trust Marsden Moor Estate, where 5,600 acres of open land wait to be explored. Download a brochure and find out more at www.visithuddersfield.com
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YORKSHIRE.COM
WHAT’S ON MARCH TO MAY You’ll find plenty to keep all ages busy with a fantastic choice of events and things to do In Yorkshire this spring. From Easter Egg-stravaganzas to festivals, not to mention the Tour de Yorkshire, there’s something for everyone.
KAWS Yorkshire Sculpture Park 6th February - 12th June
KAWS, SMALL LIE (2012), courtesy the artist, Yorkshire Sculpture Park and Galerie Perrotin. Photo © Jonty Wilde.
The landscaped parklands of YSP become home to a series of monumental and imposing sculptures in KAWS’s trademark style – nostalgic characters in the process of growing up.
HUDDERSFIELD LITERATURE FESTIVAL 3rd - 13th March An annual literature festival held in Huddersfield, featuring a series of innovative and high-profile events.
EASTER FAMILY FUN DAY Newby Hall, 27th - 28th March There will be a whole host of Family Fun to be had at Newby Hall across the Easter weekend.
K92000 Canine Display Team Thornton Hall Country Park, nr. Skipton 27th March Come and watch the team made up of 10-15 dogs as they present a dynamic display of canine control to music alongside a fantastic and fun commentary.
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THE RAILWAY CHILDREN Cinemas nationwide, 28th March Head to the cinema on Easter Monday to catch a film of York Theatre Royal’s Olivier awardwinning stage production performed in summer 2015 at the National Railway Museum in York.
Easter Family Fun Race day Doncaster Racecourse, 3rd April Enjoy a spring day out with the family at the first Family Fun Day of 2016. With entertainment for all the family including fairground rides and much more, there will be plenty of racing action for you to enjoy on this Sunday afternoon.
Settle Stories Festival 1st – 3rd April Come and celebrate the many ways in which story can touch and transform our lives with a weekend of events to remember in the idyllic Yorkshire Dales.
Harrogate Spring Flower Show 21st – 24th April Featuring beautiful show gardens, over 100 plant nurseries, great shopping, live entertainment and the biggest exhibition by florists and flower arrangers in the country, it’s the first major event in the gardening calendar. YORKSHIRE.COM
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St George’s Pageant Richmond Castle, 23rd – 24th April Join the medieval townsfolk, musicians and nobles to celebrate St George’s Day and keep an eye out for the dragon.
The 10am Platform 4 Theatre, National Railway Museum, York, 25th April Join Platform 4 Theatre Company for a delightfully entertaining performance all about the famous locomotive Flying Scotsman.
Tulip Festival Burnby Hall Gardens, 23rd April - 7th May The Gardens will be a cascade of colour at the fourth annual Tulip Festival. Over 14,000 tulip bulbs of over 30 varieties will be on display throughout the Gardens during this very popular event.
Tour de Yorkshire 2016 29th April – 1st May After the huge success of last year, the Tour de Yorkshire returns again this year for what is sure to be an epic race across the county.
Medieval Sword School Conisbrough Castle, 30th April – 2nd May Calling all junior Knights! Join our medieval sword master and learn the lethal art of medieval swordsmanship. Get to grips with a range of swords and hear the crash of steel on steel.
Black Sheep Firkin Challenge Camphill Estate, Bedale, 14th May Register your team to have a go at the Black Sheep Firkin Challenge, a multiple obstacle course at the brilliant activity centre, Camp Hill Estate. Or why not come along and cheer the competitors on!
Malton Food Lovers Festival May 28th – May 29th Come and celebrate Yorkshire’s finest produce and cooking, set across the streets of Yorkshire’s food capital, Malton. It is THE food festival of the North. YORKSHIRE.COM
REDCAR
A67
RICHMOND REETH SEDBERGH DENT
HAWES
STAITHES
GUISBOROUGH
YARM
A66
BOWES
YORKSHIRE DALES
SALTBURN
MIDDLESBROUGH
BARNARD CASTLE
A1
WHITBY
A171
DANBY
A172
NORTH YORK MOORS
LEYBURN
A684
A170
PICKERING
HELMSLEY
THIRSK
KIRKBY LONSDALE
A169 SCARBOROUGH
SUTTON BANK MASHAM
SEAMER
FILEY
HORTON-IN-RIBBLESDALE INGLETON
GRASSINGTON
SETTLE
MALHAM
RIPON
A59
SKIPTON
A64
A65
DRIFFIELD
YORK
WETHERBY
A658
SALTAIRE
A64
LEEDS
BRADFORD
SELBY
A164
A63
A63
HULL
HUMBER BRIDGE PONTEFRACT
MIRFIELD HUDDERSFIELD HOLMFIRTH
For more information please contact: Welcome to Yorkshire Dry Sand Foundry, Foundry Square, Holbeck, Leeds LS11 5DL 0113 322 3500 info@yorkshire.com www.yorkshire.com
How to get here For more travel information go to www.yorkshire.com/travel Yorkshire By Rail You can get to Yorkshire by train from the North West with First TransPennine Express, who offer direct services into the county from Liverpool and Manchester. Northern Rail also offer direct services to Yorkshire from the North West. Yorkshire’s cities and market towns are also easy to get to from other parts of the country. Travel to Yorkshire with high-speed trains from either London or Edinburgh in less than two hours with Virgin Trains services.
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HORNSEA
BEVERLEY
HALIFAX
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A614
A19
HEBDEN BRIDGE TODMORDEN
A15
WAKEFIELD
SCUNTHORPE
A1
BARNSLEY
FLAMBOROUGH HEAD
BRIDLINGTON
A166
A1079
OTLEY
KEIGHLEY HAWORTH
MALTON
KNARESBOROUGH
HARROGATE
ILKLEY
A629
A165
A19
PATELEY BRIDGE
N
ROBIN HOOD’S BAY
OSMOTHERLEY
NORTHALLERTON
DONCASTER
WITHERNSEA
A180 GRIMSBY CLEETHORPES
BRIGG
A18
PEAK ROTHERHAM DISTRICT A57
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YORKSHIRE BY SEA Ferry services to Hull and Newcastle link Yorkshire with Holland, Belgium and Germany. P&O Ferries operate overnight services to Hull from Rotterdam and Zeebrugge. YORKSHIRE BY ROAD Britain’s biggest and fastest highways cross Yorkshire from north to south and east to west, making getting here by car or by coach very simple. For details of the quickest (or the most scenic) driving routes see the AA or RAC websites www.theaa.com and www.rac.co.uk YORKSHIRE BY AIR Fly to Doncaster Sheffield Airport with Flybe, Welcome to Yorkshire’s official airport partner and airline, or to Humberside Airport or Durham Tees Valley Airport. Leeds-Bradford International Airport is our busiest air gateway, with flights from Aberdeen, Belfast, Bristol, Exeter, Edinburgh, Glasgow, the Isle of Man, London Gatwick, Newquay, Plymouth and Southampton. YORKSHIRE.COM/TRAVEL