What's on - in and around the City of York 2008

AUGUST 2008

We make no claim that the Events listing below is a comprehensive listing of all that is "going-on" in York, but rather a selection of Events.

Each date starts with "one day" York Events first, then those outside York, and finally those events going on for more than just the one day.

UPDATED 3rd August 2008

Please note -
the events listed may be subject to CANCELLATION OR ALTERATION AT ANY TIME, FOR WHICH WE CANNOT BE RESPONSIBLE.
Please CHECK using the contact details supplied BEFORE setting off for any event.

 Longer Term events/exhibitions etc Currently Running
SCROLL DOWN FOR FUTURE EVENTS

To 17th August
2008
Exhibitions in the Gallery - 'Picturing the Past' The art of William Leng.
Self taught painter and agricultural worker WE Leng painted scenes of rural life in Ryedale remembered from his life and childhood during the late 19th and early 20th century
Ryedale
Folk Museum
To 22nd August
2008
Children's Event - Kids Have-a-go Sword Combat - A chance for kids to get a taste of sword fighting, just like in the movies! Suitable for ages 7 – 11. Pre-booked time-slots every 20 minutes from 11.00 am – 1.00pm and 2.00 – 4.00 pm. Places are limited. Pre-booking: 01904 615505 Coppergate
Jorvik Viking Centre
To 23rd August 2008 The Railway Children - York Theatre Royal and the National Railway Museum (NRM) are joining forces this summer to stage a magical new production of E. Nesbit's much loved children's tale The Railway Children. This must-see theatrical event will take place at the National Railway Museum from 18 July - 23 August.
The Railway Children tells the story of three children, Roberta, Peter and Phyllis, who live a wonderful life in London, but suddenly everything changes when two strange men appear and their father is mysteriously called away.
Life in the Yorkshire countryside, by the railway, is a whole new world for the youngsters and their mother. New friendships, adventures and terrifying dangers await. But the mystery remains – where is father, and is he ever coming back?

Originally published in 1906 E Nesbit's The Railway Children is one of the best-loved children's books of all time and was made into a successful film in 1970 featuring Jenny Agutter as Roberta. This new stage adaptation has been penned by the highly acclaimed children's playwright Mike Kenny (The Little Mermaid, York Theatre Royal & Polka Theatre, Flat Stanley, West Yorkshire Playhouse).
The Railway Children directed by York Theatre Royal's artistic director Damian Cruden, will also feature one of the biggest guest stars ever to take to the stage - Stirling Single, a 39 tonne steam locomotive built in 1878
National Railway Museum
To 25th August
2008
'Surviving Henry - Tudor Howards on the Block' - Castle Howard is opening for its 2008 season with a new exhibition, Surviving Henry: Tudor Howards on the Block. This new exhibition marks the relationship between the Howard family and one of England’s most notorious monarchs.
Under the glowering image of Henry VIII (one of Castle Howard’s most celebrated portraits), and in the shadow of the executioner’s axe, Surviving Henry recounts the topsy-turvy fortunes of the Howards in the 16th century and beyond.
Castle Howard’s Curator, Dr Christopher Ridgway said, “By rights the Howards of Castle Howard should not exist. During the Tudor period the Howard family seemed bent on self-destruction; time and time again they displeased their monarchs, and successive members of the family were imprisoned or beheaded. This exhibition will combine famous portraits and famous beheadings to tell a tale of danger, intrigue and narrow survival."


Castle Howard
Each
Friday only
to 29th August
2008
'The Scarborough Flyer' - This is a special steam train service for the summer, running every Friday from 1st August until 29th August. The Scarborough Flyer will run between Crewe, Warrington, Manchester Victoria, Huddersfield, Wakefield, York and Scarborough and it will be steam hauled in both directions. We have a pool of three magnificent steam locomotives, all Pacifics and restored to top operating condition for hauling these trains. They are 6201 Princess Elizabeth, 60009 Union of South Africa and 71000 Duke of Gloucester

'The Scarborough Flyer'
To 30th August
2008
The Mystery Files - a year of intrigue at the Yorkshire Museum - Crack the mystery of the Middleham Jewel.....
Murder, bodies, burials and treasure - our museum is full of mysteries waiting to be investigated.
During 2008 we're inviting visitors to become detectives in our search for the answers to some intriguing (and sometimes gory) mysteries….
Each school holiday there will be a new mystery to solve, using clues and information to be discovered around the museum. Examine treasures close-up, consult historical witnesses, speak to experts and use your wit and observational skills to get to the truth.

Chapter Four: The Fossil - When the lights go off at night at the Yorkshire Museum and all the visitors have gone home, the museum comes to life. Lately we have noticed some objects and fossils are not returning to their correct cases and some strange prints have been left outside the museum. Who or what has been breaking the rules and escaping at night? Solve the mystery of 'the night at the museum' in our summer Mystery File. Pick up the clues, interview the suspects and piece together the evidence.

Yorkshire Museum
To 31st August
2008
Children's Event - Meet the Moneyer - Meet Jorvik's resident moneyer, learn how many chickens or barrels of ale you can buy for a St Peter's Penny, and have your own coin struck. 11.00 am – 3.00 pm Coppergate
Jorvik Viking Centre
To 31st August
2008
An exhibition of paintings by Matthew Herring - An exhibition of paintings by Matthew Herring, unified by the theme of the incarnation and develops a symbolic language inspired by the church building St Michael-le-Belfrey Church
High Petergate
To 31st August
2008
TA100 Exhibition - The National Railway Museum (NRM) is celebrating a century since the Territorial Army (TA) was formed with the opening of a new exhibition. Colourful storyboards tell the tale of the 1908 formation of the organisation and profile some of today’s part-time soldiers, many of which are employees of rail engineering companies.
The new exhibition, situated in the museum’s Station Hall until August, focuses on the origins of the TA’s railway units which it has maintained since its birth 100 years ago. Today, the TA still maintains the 275 Railway Troop which operates railways, and 507 Specialist Team Royal Engineers which designs and builds railway infrastructure. When the TA was formed in 1908 it included three railway units. The new units ran the supply trains the army needed and kept the rail network repaired. The experiences of the First World War led to a further nine units being formed. They became specialised in railway construction, operation, signalling and locomotive repair

National Railway Museum
To 31st August
2008
Special Exhibition - Stubbs and Whistlejacket in York - One of the National Gallery's most iconic images is heading to York in 2008. Whistlejacket was painted by George Stubbs who spent his early career in York - even marrying in the city.
This exhibition will showcase this magnificent work and will bring together work from local galleries and private collections, including a portrait of the famous racehorse Gimcrack, his midwifery illustrations and a selection of his drawings for The Anatomy of the Horse. There will also be a selection of contemporary watercolour paintings and prints depicting York Racecourse, plus other related exhibits.

George Stubbs - Stubbs was born in Liverpool in 1724. He was the son of a leather worker and spent his early career painting portraits and developing his interest in anatomy. He arrived in York as a young man in 1746 from Leeds and settled in the parish of Stonegate. He married in York and two of his children were born here and baptised at St Helen's Church.
Through his friend Charles Atkinson, a surgeon at York's new County Hospital, he became a superb anatomical draughtsman and supplied the illustrations for a treatise on midwifery published in 1751. From 1756, he rented a farmhouse in Horkstow, Lincolnshire, where he dissected horses in order to make detailed studies of their anatomy. The result of his work, The Anatomy of the Horse, was published in 1766. The Horkstow drawings are now owned by the Royal Academy.
In around 1758 he moved to London, where his career took off. He died in 1806.

Whistlejacket - Whistlejacket, foaled in 1749, was a race horse owned by the Marquess of Rockingham. His most famous victory was in a race over four miles for 2,000 guineas at York in August 1759.
Stubbs painted his life-size portrait of Whistlejacket for the Marquess in 1762. According to some writers of the period the original intention was to commission an equestrian portrait of George III, but is it more likely that Stubbs always intended to show the horse alone rearing up against a neutral background.

York Racecourse - York Racecourse, situated on Knavesmire to the south west of the city, is one of the country's top flat racing tracks and hosts 16 days of horseracing every year, most famously the Ebor Festival in August.
The first race was held at Knavesmire in August 1731 and the first grandstand was built in 1754, designed by architect John Carr. Yorks' Knavesmire was also home to the Tyburn, where public hangings took place, until 1801. Highwayman Dick Turpin was hanged there in 1739



York Art Gallery
To 7th September
2008
Quentin Blake's Choice Exhibition - a unique exhibition to the Hall of original paintings and drawings chosen by Quentin, highlighting some of his work but also that of other major children's book illustrators. This is a selling exhibition and a chance to buy an original piece of art by some of the greatest names in book illustration. Don't miss the chance while the exhibition is here Nunnington Hall
To 21st September
2008
Exhibition - Alfred Sisley: Impressionist Landscapes
An exhibition of works by the acclaimed member of the Impressionist group, Alfred Sisley, described by his contemporary Eugène Murer as having 'the soul and brush of a poet.' This exhibition explores Sisley's captivation with the landscape of the Parisian suburbs of Louveciennes and Port-Marly and the towns along the River Loing. Sisley's work demonstrates the artist's engagement with an ever changing environment, carefully depicting the transient qualities of the seasons and the subtlest changes of weather and sunlight
The Bowes Museum
Barnard Castle
To September
2008
Special Exhibition - Crying with Laughter - This exhibition brings together a range of pots and prints from the 18th century to the present day exploring humour and the human condition through a variety of means.
For centuries, artists have used comedy and satire as tools to expose human quirks and shortcomings. Potters often manipulate form and imagery for the same effect. Poking fun at human foibles can raise a laugh or reduce one to tears. Tales of morality educate and depictions of popular characters entertain.
Highlights include a new acquisition, Six Jugs, made in 2007 by Philip Eglin. On first sight the jugs look medieval in appearance, but a closer inspection reveals official and commercial symbols much more familiar to the modern eye. Nearby Paul Scott recalls the foot and mouth crisis of 2001 with his subtly altered printed mug.
Prints by the Victorian artist Phil May and illustrations from the magazine, Punch, illustrate the use of satire. James Gillray ridicules Napoleon and King George III by depicting them as characters from Gulliver's Travels in one print. In The Bottle, a Victorian melodrama warns of the consequences of drinking.
A fascinating mix of imagery and ideas through the last 300 years



York Art Gallery
To September
2008
'The Memory of Place' - York Museums Trust is delighted to announce that The Memory of Place by Keiko Mukaide will re-open for another season on 24 May, 2008.
The installation, which opened in 2007, is the latest commission to create challenging contemporary work within this unique historic space and has proved extremely popular with visitors.
In The Memory of Place, Keiko responds to her sense of the space, and to the visual remains of the building's former life, the stained glass, grave covers and carvings.
Using fire, water, glass, stone and light, she transforms the interior of the church, creating a spiritual space in which to reflect on the memory of loved ones.
A pool of water fills the nave of the church. The water in the pool flows towards the transept of the church, where a suspended column of glass rods is dramatically top-lit, suggesting a spiritual path to a higher place.
Visitors are invited to become involved with the installation by lighting a votive candle and floating it on the pool - connecting our modern life with that of our ancestors.
In the Japanese religious ceremony, Shoro nagashi, people release lanterns onto a river in mid summer, symbolising their ancestors' spirits ascending to heaven

York
St Mary's
To 31st October
2008
A Grand Tour of Studley Royal - 1.30 pm Daily. A free tour taking in the grand design of the Georgian landscape including deer park and water garden. Meet at the visitor centre Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
To 31st December 2008 A Taste for China - Celebrating links with China, this exhibition show examples of Chinese lacquerwork, porcelain, teawares, fans and textiles.

To celebrate the long established link between China and England, Fairfax House is displaying some superb examples of early travel journals lacquerwork, porcelain, teawares, fans, mother of pearl and textiles, which were being brought into England by the East Indian Trading companies. Outstanding examples of contemporary work will also be included in the display.

Fairfax House
Future Events and Attractions

25th July -
3rd August
2008
The Imperial Ice Stars - 'Sleeping Beauty on Ice' - Separate ticket applies
Prepare to be dazzled as the world’s leading theatrical ice skating company, The Imperial Ice stars, return to the UK, by popular demand with their acclaimed production of The Sleeping Beauty on Ice.
Featuring a 24-strong cast of World, European and National Championship skaters, who between them have won over 200 competition medals, this breathtaking theatrical treat showcases stunning Olympic-level skating in the intimacy of the theatre.
"If blood-stirring, bravura skating is what you're after, look no further.” The Times; "Skilful, exciting and utterly beautiful.....a cut above the rest in every way" The Scotsman
Set to the sumptuous music of Tchaikovsky, The Sleeping Beauty on Ice tells the classic story of Princess Aurora and her handsome Prince. This exhilarating production features an incredible mix of virtuoso ice dance, startling stating moves, daring acrobatics, wonderful sets and sumptuous costumes.
This is a unique opportunity for all the family to experience the magic and magnificence of the Imperial Ice Stars in the most incredible spectacle you will see this year

Castle Howard
1st August
2008
Yorkshire Day - Celebrate Yorkshire Day with the NRM on Friday 1st August. Come and ride the Yorkshire Wheel, which will be decorated by Yorkshire Tea and Betty’s, sample cakes and tea, see if you can spot a giant tea pot on York’s skyline, enter a raffle to win a hamper of goodies and much more!
National Railway Museum
1st August
2008
Harrogate International Festival 2008 - Barbirolli String Quartet in the Young Musicians Series
Haydn Quartet No.50 in B flat major, Op.64, No.3 Evangalia Regaki New Work Schubert Quartettsatz in C minor, D.703 Debussy Quartet in G Minor, Op.10
Formed in 2003 at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, the Barbirolli Quartet brings together a wealth of experience, its members each having performed widely in their native countries of Canada, Wales, Australia and New Zealand before coming to England to continue their studies.
The Barbirolli Quartet were selected for the prestigious 2008 Countess of Munster Musical Trust Recital Scheme and are 2008 Tunnell Trust winners. Upcoming engagements include their Wigmore Hall debut, The Chelsea Festival, Cheltenham Music Festival, St David’s Hall Cardiff, Manchester Mid-Day in Bridgewater Hall, St James’s Piccadilly and St John’s, Smith Square

11.00 am
St Wilfrid's Church
Harrogate
Harrogate Festival
1st August
2008
Harrogate International Festival 2008 - Sa Dingding
Recently signed to Universal Records and winner of a coveted 2008 BBC Award for World Music, China’s next big export Sa Dingding comes to Harrogate for one of only three UK shows this summer.
Already hailed as the oriental equivalent of stars including the ethereal Enya and the fiery Icelandic chanteuse Björk, Sa Dingding fuses Chinese folk melodies played on zheng, bamboo flute and ma tou qin (fiddle) with electric guitars and digital beats. Taking her inspiration from the traditional east and modern west, expect to hear influences of seminal trip hoppers Massive Attack one moment and chanting monks the next.
In this spectacular show promising traditional dancers and kung fu monks, don’t miss this impressive addition to the ranks of world divas

8.00 pm
Royal Hall
Harrogate
Harrogate Festival
1/2nd August
2008
Thirsk Races Thirsk
Racecourse
1-3rd August
2008
York International Market - York city centre welcomes back the popular Continental Market. Traders from France, Spain, Germany, Italy, Holland, Belgium, Poland and Greece will provide a taste of Europe courtesy of Market Place (Europe) Limited. This year's market promises to bring some new faces as well as old favourites like the Dutch plant seller, Dirk van de Wardt, and cheese specialist Dick Koetze.
Other features will include Karl Heinz from Germany with his traditional Round Stall (Schwencklegrille) selling Bratwurst Sausages, a Swedish based Koppaberg stall where visitors can enjoy a whole range of continental beers and ciders, and great liqueur coffees from the Coffee Express.
The fantastic Ginger Bread House will also be present, with a huge array of sweets, fudge and of course Belgian chocolates to die for along with some fantastic designer cakes smothered in Belgian Chocolate.
Some of the other feature food stalls include Georges Koumarides with his delightful Greek Deli, Gaspar De Luca with the Italian Soft Nougat and a range of Italian fine biscuits and other foods, Jean Claude Petit one of the best French Cheese traders with a vast array of soft cheeses made on his own farm and a range of hard mountain cheeses.
Visitors will also get the opportunity to buy rare meats from around the world, with alligator, ostrich, springbok and other exotic meats available. Rounding off the eating experience will be Julian Jimenez from Cordoba in Spain with his paella cooked to an old traditional family recipe. Watch out on Friday for his speciality seafood paella and a great taste of India from our Chef Jaz Bansil with a great range of Indian foods – some of the best samosas you will ever have.
9.00 am - 7.00 pm
Parliament Street
1-3rd August
2008
Yorkshire Day Festival Harewood House
1-31st August
2008
Art Exhibitions at Newby.
Newby Hall is a treasure trove for art lovers; the outstanding permanent art collections are complemented by changing exhibitions and displays. Our exhibition programmes are renowned for their quality, variety and originality.
August Exhibition in the Grantham Room - Ray Mutimer
Ray Mutimer is an acclaimed illustrator who has drawn many popular characters. This year Ray will be exhibiting sketches of the well known character, Rupert the Bear!

Newby Hall
2nd August
2008
Organ Recital by Philip Moore - Master of Music. 7.00 pm York Minster
2nd August
2008
Tockwith and District Show - Tockwith and District Show is a Traditional Country Show with a County-wide reputation for its displays of Working Rural Crafts, Farmers' Market and Conservation Marquee. It also boasts one of the largest Farriers' competitions outside the County Show circuit.
The show offers great value for money, with a full and varied day of entertainment for ALL the family. In addition to the Farriers Shoeing Competition, there will also be threshing demonstrations, the Claro Beagles and a wide range of children's amusements. A number of regular attractions remain, including - the charity produce auction, over 80 trade stands, catering tents, the farmers market and the much anticipated Tockwith Dog Dash
Cattal Moor Lane,
Tockwith
Tockwith Show
2nd August
2008
The Osmotherley & District Horticultural Society Show 2008 - an Agricultural show with in-hand and ridden ponies, cattle, sheep, sheep dog trials. Horticultural and agricultural produce, handicrafts, children's classes, trade and craft stands. Vintage Display Home Farm,
Thimbleby,
near Northallerton
Osmotherley Show
2nd August
2008
Victorian Garden Games - Bring a picnic and enjoy a selection of Victorian games on the lawns of Brodsworth Hall with croquet, quoits, skittles, giant chess and many more. From 11.00 am Brodsworth Hall
2nd August
2008
Avro -One & The V-Force - Avro Chief Test Pilot and Vickers Valiant pilot, Wg Cdr J.A. 'Robby' Robinson will be giving a talk at the South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum, entitled Avro - One & the V-Force The latest in the South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum's continuing series of aviation and modelling lectures is sure to appeal to all aviation enthusiasts, particularly those with an interest in the big jets of the Royal Air Force.
Wg Cdr 'Robby' Robinson started his flying career on Meteors before joining 10 Sqn, flying Canberras, at RAF Scampton, ,in 1953. He subsequently joined the - then new - 'V-Force' when he transferred to 90 Sqn, equipped with the Vickers Valiant.
Robby joined the Empire Test Pilots School at Boscombe Down in 1962 and was involved in the service testing of a large number of aircraft for the RAF between then and when he left the RAF in 1978, at which time he was the Chief Instructor and Head of ETPS.
He was recruited by Hawker Siddeley, at Woodford, as a test pilot and, within three years, became Chief Test Pilot, succeeding Sir Charles Masefield and gaining the famous radio call-sign 'Avro-One'. Amongst various civil aircraft test programmes, Robby was also responsible for overseeing the testing of the Nimrod MR2, and Vulcan K.2 at the time of the Falklands Conflict and, later, Nimrod AEW...
After leaving Woodford and doing a spell flying the Vickers Merchantman for a commercial airline, Robby finally retired in 2001 to write and lecture after nearly fifty years of flying. He has flown over 80 powered aircraft types from supersonic fighters to helicopters as well as several types of gliders but has no plans to fly any more as he has sworn never to pay to fly!
Robby is the author of the following books: Avro One: Autobiography of a Chief Test Pilot publ 2005; Jet Bomber Pilot: Autobiography of a V-Bomber Pilot publ 2006 and Tester Zero One: The Making of a Test Pilot publ 2007
His latest book is due out very soon and may be available on the night...!
Join Robby for the evening and learn about the life of a military aircraft Test Pilot and also what it was like to be involved with the V-Force in its early days.
Pre-booking essential

7.00 pm
South Yorkshire
Aircraft Museum
Doncaster
2nd August
2008
'Pro Corda' in concert - Although not part of the Sowerby Music season, the Pro Corda course return under the direction of Penny Stirling to perform a wide range of chamber ensembles. Their big choir, trained by Graham Merriam, will also perform. 7.30 pm St. Oswald's Church
Sowerby, Thirsk
Sowerby Music
2/3rd August
2008
Open Days at Holgate Windmill - View the restoration work being undertaken at the last windmill in York.
York was historically a City surrounded by windmills but Holgate Mill is the last surviving one, built in 1770 and it was grinding corn until about 1933. It is a Grade II listed building and is a very rare type of windmill as it has five sails, a fantail and is also double shuttered. Once the five sails have been restored, this could make it unique in Britain.
A knowledgeable preservation society committee member will be present on each floor to give further information and answer any questions you may have. There will be displays and storyboards depicting the life story of the mill. The number of people allowed inside the mill at any one time will be limited, so please be prepared to wait a short while. Hard hats must be worn on the upper floors and will be provided. 11.00 am - 4.00 pm
Holgate Windmill
2/3rd August
2008
School of Chivalry - Let our medieval noble lady help you with your chivalry and medieval manners. Learn how to bow with elegance, greet your parents, eat your meals and behave in court in the best medieval tradition. Listen to real medieval stories of brave knights and ladies from the past. 10.00 am - 12.00 noon & 2.00 - 4.00 pm Clifford's Tower
2/3rd August
2008
AERONAUTICAL PAGEANT, CLUB TREASURE HUNT & BBQ - Members of the general public will no longer be allowed to attend the popular fly-in events and airshows at Breighton Airfield
"As a small organisation operating an airfield with very limited space and infrastructure, not to mention ever increasing visitor numbers, it is becoming increasingly difficult to implement the necessary public safety regulations which, coupled with rising insurance costs, has led to this regrettable conclusion. In short, we have become victims of increased legislation..." The suggestion being made, is that they take up Museum Club membership which allows access to the airfield throughout the year for just £25 per year
Breighton Airfield
The Real
Aeroplane Company
2/3rd August
2008
End of Steam Weekend North Yorkshire
Moors Railway
2/3rd August
2008
King Henry’s Joust - Witness majesty, pomp and pageantry as Henry VIII arrives at Scarborough Castle. Actors, players, knights, soldiers and ladies accompany the enigmatic king and his queen as they are entertained with a royal tournament, archery displays and demonstrations of Tudor falconry. Courtly music fills the air to set the scene for the magnificent highlight of each day: a duo of fully armoured knights in a full contact joust. From 11.00 am Scarborough Castle
2-4th August
2008
Get Medieval - 11.00 am - 5.00 pm. Join the costumed re-enactors around their Abbey encampment. Watch and take part in demonstrations based on 15th century life Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
3rd August
2008
Thunder Day - Come and hear the museum's big jets, the Blackburn Buccaneer and Handley Page Victor as they are powered up. With flypasts and other displays, this will make an exciting day out for the family Yorkshire
Air Museum
3rd August
2008
Guided Walking Tours of the Cemetery - Butterfly Walk.The second of our highly popular Butterfly Walks, led by Dr David Chesmore.
The Cemetery has been the final resting place of York citizens since 1837 and has two Grade II listed buildings to enjoy
2.00 pm
York Cemetery
3rd August
2008
Keighley & Worth Valley Railway - Vintage Trains Day
On these dates a vintage train service will operate using locomotives and coaches which date back to Victorian and Edwardian times. These fabulous vehicles rarely leave our museum so this is a rare chance to travel in historic wooden bodied four and six wheeled coaches hauled by a gleaming steam locomotive from a bygone age. Ordinary fares apply on these services and there is no need to book in advance.
PLUS - An ordinary steam hauled train service will also operate on these dates. This service will include our CAMRA award winning real ale bar and Cream Teas will be available from the on-train kitchen. Ordinary fares apply and there is no need to book in advance for these services.

KWVR
3rd August
2008
Afternoon Band Concert in the Gardens with York R.I. Golden Rail Band Burnby Hall Gardens
3rd August
2008
Sunday Afternoon Band Concert - A perfect way to spend a summer day. Enjoy the gardens in the company one of the best of South Yorkshire's brass bands. Extra admission to the Hall. From 3.00 pm Brodsworth Hall
4th August
2008
Lunchtime Concert - The Brahms Story with BBC pianist Vincent Billington. 1.00 pm. Phone 01723 350545 for details St Helen's Church
St Helen's Square
4th August
2008
Beekeeping Taster Days - An introduction to the craft of Beekeeping. 10.00am - 5.00pm
Since 2006, Harewood has been the home to a number of apiaries whose residents are thriving in the peaceful atmosphere. Join us and spend the day experiencing the role of a beekeeper.
Tickets must be booked in advance

Harewood House
4th August
2008
Ripon Races Ripon
Racecourse
4-7th August
2008
Hands on History Crew – Knight & Princess School
A week of hands-on activities and crafts for all the family, with a medieval theme. There's plenty to discover about life in medieval England! From 11.00 am
Scarborough Castle
5th August
2008
Little Women - Theatreworks will perform their highly acclaimed production of Little Women in the Priory Ruins. Bring a picnic or treat yourself to a Cavendish Hamper and sit back and enjoy the show. Performance starts at 7:30 pm. Pre-booking Essential Bolton Abbey
5/6th August
2008
Observe the Sun - Come and take a closer look at the sun in the York Observatory. Noon - 2.00 pm York Observatory
Yorkshire Museum
6th August
2008
Artalk - lunch-time art series presents Mud & Water with Ifan Williams
With the same unpromising materials used, we are told, to make the first man, the potter has fashioned so much that is beautiful and utilitarian in the world, from the exquisite vases of ancient Greece to the cheerful round-bellied Yorkshire tea-pot. 12.30 pm
York City Art Gallery
6th August
2008
Café Scientifique - an informal evening of lively discussion revolving around the contemporary scientific issues of the day. Each meeting begins with a short talk from an invited science-related speaker. This is followed by an hour of open discussion. Everyone is welcome to come and express their views, or to just enjoy a drink and listen. No scientific knowledge is assumed and everyone can participate.
This evening - Fact or Fiction: A new theory forbids material time travel but allows colonization of the universe - Satellites and GPS systems confirm the existence of an ether. Re-establishing the propagating medium (ether) restores causality, allowing visual time travel only. However, space travel across the universe appears possible at effective speeds greater than the speed of light. Special guest, Selwyn Wright discusses significant problems with Einstein's 'Special Theory of Relativity'.
The speaker is a former Professor of Power Engineering and Acoustics at the University of Huddersfield. At Stanford University in California he established an Institute in Acoustic and Aeronautics at NASA Ames Research Centre and a NASA Langley Research Center. He was a Scientific Adviser to the French Government (ONERA) and Aerospatiale in Paris and Marseilles.
You also have the opportunity to purchase a copy of Professor Wright's book 'Problems with Einstein's Relativity' published by Trafford Publishing.
7.30 pm
City Screen
Café Scientifique
6th August
2008
The 84th Thornton-le-Dale Show - SHEEPDOG, FALCONRY, GUN DOG & MOUNTAIN BIKE STUNT DISPLAYS, plus Livestock, Sheepdog Trials, Dog Show, Handicrafts, Dairy, Farm & Garden Produce, Trade Stands & Exhibitions, Children's Fun Fair & Entertainment, Junior Showjumping, Licensed Bar Thornton-le-Dale Show
6th August
2008
'Hands on History' activity day - Find out about Victorian life, dress up as Victorian children and step back in time Beck Isle Museum
Pickering
6th August
2008
Scarborough Jazz @ The Cask present - Jamie Taylor
Bop-influenced guitarist Jamie Taylor maintains a busy performing career and has worked with leading UK musicians such as Alan Barnes, Jim Mullen, Steve Brown, and F-IRE Collective's Carlos Lopez-Real. In the field of popular music he has contributed to projects involving Mercury Music Prize nominee Richard Hawley, and Leeds-based Indie band 'The Pigeon Detectives'. Jamie is Course Leader for Jazz at Leeds College of Music.  His group 'Java' (with acclaimed pianist Jamil Sheriff) has recently completed a new album. A very classy guitarist!
The Cask Inn
Scarborough
Scarborough
Jazz
7th August
2008
Astronomy Talks - Our talks are quite informal, they are given by curator of astronomy Martin Lunn and take place inside the museum in the Tempest Anderson Hall, usually twice a day.
The Summer Sky - Discover the secrets of the summer sky. 11.30 am and 2.00 pm

Yorkshire Museum
7th August
2008
Woodland Follies Tour - Spaces must be reserved in advance
Castle Howard is running a series of special tours for 2008, led by the Curator, Dr Christopher Ridgway. These guided tours are an opportunity to visit hidden features in Castle Howard and its grounds and learn about their intriguing history in more detail.
The Woodland Follies Tour takes in some of the hidden follies in adjacent woodland areas. The tour will start at 10.30 am in the Stable Courtyard and include a privileged look inside the Pyramid at the gigantic bust of Lord William Howard, and beyond to the hidden and mysterious follies in Pretty Wood. From here the tour extends back towards Castle Howard over New River Bridge, to the Temple of the Four Winds, the lost Temple of Venus and through Ray Wood to the Reservoir to observe the mystical carvings on the central plinth. This memorable journey of discovery lasts approximately 2 ½ hours and involves walking across some rough terrain.
Dr Ridgway has been Curator at Castle Howard for more than 20 years. He has appeared on television, and lectured widely in the UK and overseas on the history of Castle Howard, its architecture and landscape, on which he has also published extensively

Castle Howard
7th August
2008
The Black Swan Folk Club present - Roger Davies.
There’s a real buzz about this young “Huddersfield and proud of it” songwriter. “The best I’ve seen in twenty years. If I had a torch I’d throw it to him” says no less a stern critic than Harvey Andrews. We’ve already enjoyed Roger’s finely-crafted and often witty songs at Singers Nights and in a Young Performer showcase; now we can enjoy a whole evening of them!
8.00 pm
Black Swan
Peasholme Green
B.S.F.C.
7th August
2008
Taster Tour - 10.30 am. As the name suggests enjoy a taste of everything this World Heritage Site has to offer. Meet at the Visitor Centre Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
7th August
2008
Pirates Ahoy! – Treasure trail, swash-buckling stories, make a pirate hat and other activities. Dress up and join the crew for the day! Activities in the gardens and Hall (all indoors if wet). 11.00 am - 4.00 pm
Kiplin Hall
Scorton
7th August
2008
Much Ado About Nothing - The Lord Chamberlain's Men are proud to present this Shakespeare classic. Returning to Harewood following the success of Romeo & Juliet. The Lord Chamberlain's Men present Much Ado About Nothing - A glorious summer comedy for all the family.
The Lord Chamberlain's Men theatre company aims to revive the traditions of Shakespearean theatre and to bring to life the greatest works of drama without compromising their meaning or integrity.

Much Ado About Nothing - Promise of a masked ball hastens the men from battle to the festive house of Leonato, where beautiful, wealthy young Hero catches the eye of Claudio, the dashing soldier. Instantly attracted to each other, they rush into marriage. There is no such hurry for seasoned singles Beatrice and Benedick, whose scorn for love and penchant for verbal sparring provoke their scheming friends to plot a happy ending.
Performance will take place on the North Front. Open air picnic style - please bring your own lightweight seating. Audience should come prepared for wet weather
Harewood House
7-9th August
2008
Workshops - Write Through The Summer - Writing for Radio
Susan Sterns plays for BBC Radio 4 include For the Love of Strangers and Smooth as Chocolate. Join her to discover some of the tips, tricks and skills of conjuring magical drama for the airwaves

York
Theatre Royal
8th August
2008
Rock With Laughter - An unforgettable night of entertainment!
Jasper Carrott, Lenny Henry, Jo Brand, The Blockheads, Phil Jupitus, Elkie Brooks & her band, The Manfreds, Bootleg Beatles & Orchestra. Firework Finale, compered by Lenny Henry.
How best to describe this exciting show? Jasper Carrott calls it “a humdinger of a party” – and thousands have agreed each December at the NEC where it plays to full houses. Now the highly successful format arrives outdoors at Harewood - one of England’s finest country houses and you can party with your picnic in the picturesque settings.
The MC is one of Britain’s most familiar comic faces, the ubiquitous Lenny Henry, star of so many TV shows for more than 25 years and acknowledged as the driving force behind ‘Red Nose Day’. Helping him to keep the smiles on your faces will be Jasper Carrott, who was launched on the public 30 years ago and is still making the rib cages of Britain ache. And for those in the audience who like something alternative there’s the anarchic Jo Brand.
The musical delights will come from The Manfreds featuring the original pin-up singers Paul Jones and Mike d’Abo (5-4-3-2-1, Mighty Quinn, Pretty Flamingo), the sultry Elkie Brooks, whose career spans almost 5 decades, produced 19 albums and earned numerous awards and accolades, with her band, plus The Blockheads (Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick, Sex & Drugs & Rock ‘n’ Roll, Reasons To Be Cheerful) with comic-singer and Buzzcocks team leader Phill Jupitus. To end the night the most famous of all tribute bands The Bootleg Beatles, complete with their orchestra, re-creating the sounds of the Fab Four. No-one does it better.
This is a show with something for everyone including a Firework Finale! We look forward to having a good laugh with you!
Harewood House
8-10th August
2008
Shakespeare's Globe Theatre presents 'A Winters Tale' at Newby Hall
Following last years amazing Romeo & Juliet we are delighted to announce that the Shakespeare's Globe will be returning with 'A Winters Tale'.
Performed by a small troupe and showcasing some of the Globe Company's brightest stars, the production will bring the excitement and vibrancy of Elizabethan theatre to Newby's Gardens, recreating the relaxed atmosphere enjoyed by audiences in Shakespeare's time. A truly unforgettable experience, not to be missed!
This is an outdoor event, please feel free to bring a blanket or small fold up camping chair for comfort. Pre-booking Essential

Newby Hall
8-10th August
2008
BURTON AGNES JAZZ FESTIVAL 2008 - 6.00 pm -11.00 pm Friday, 11.00 am -11.00 pm Saturday, 11.00 ama- 5.00 pm Sunday
Like the idea of relaxing to summer music in our award winning grounds, with delicious food and a glass of wine in your hand? Then come to the Burton Agnes Jazz festival.
Jazz and blues bands from the East Riding and beyond will play from a main stage on the lawn. There will be Wold Top beer on tap and locally farmed Burdass Lamb sizzling on the barbecue. Art and crafts will be on sale in the Crafts tent and children’s entertainment will be provided in the grounds. Guests are invited to bring picnics and relax to the sounds of summer.
Bands playing: from Dixieland to modern jazz and blues; and big band classics to solo performances there will be something for everyone. The bands have been selected to appeal to all and we are proud to be presenting a fantastic line up of local favourites and the UK’s hottest new talent. There will be a different act every hour playing from the main stage and acoustic sets around the grand piano in the Great Hall.
Bands are being confirmed for 2008 and the line up will be posted by April. Expect names like: RevRay, The Joel Purnell Quartet, Tees Valley Jazz Men, Mad Dog Jones & The Sophisticats, Nick Glaves, John Blackburn, Charlie Umney, Jessica Blake, Java (Jamie Taylor), Carlos Olmos, East Coast Big Band (Mike Smith), Comoves (Chris Hargreaves), John Barwood, Safari (Saffron Byass), Chimera

Burton Agnes Hall
9th August
2008
Art course with Ronald Falck - Watercolour challenge.
This is the seventh in the 2008 series of art days at Castle Howard, and takes the form of a Watercolour challenge.
These courses are for leisure and enjoyment with a tutor available for advice when needed. Beginners will have a structured input at 11.00am to influence a direction of approach. Artistic outcomes are not pre-determined, but you are asked to use the superb environment for stimulus and allow something creative to emerge - surprise yourself! An excellent experience in creativity is designed for you or others! The studio is always available on the day if you would like to work indoors.
The course is suitable for beginners, improvers or advanced level. Cost: £20.00 per day. Materials for the day will be provided only if requested at an additional charge of £5.00. Gift vouchers for these courses may be purchased from the Visitor Services Dept. (01653 648621)
For further information or enquiries, please telephone the tutor: Ronald Falck 01262 401334 (studio)

Castle Howard
9th August
2008
Victorian Garden Games - Bring a picnic and enjoy a selection of Victorian games on the lawns of Brodsworth Hall with croquet, quoits, skittles, giant chess and many more. From 11.00 am Brodsworth Hall
9th August
2008
Ripley Agricultural Show - We have classes for:- Heavy and Light Horses (showing & jumping); Dogs; Sheep and Cattle; Vintage Machinery; Yorkshire's largest and finest display of Vintage Tractors, Horticultural Produce and Handicrafts
Many attractions and displays....... For 2008 - JEZ AVERY One Man Stunt Show; Summerbridge & DacreSilver Prize Band; Parade of Hounds by York & Ainsty North Foxhounds & Claro Beagles. Plus we are glad to welcome back "K9 Capers" from West Yorkshire canine entertainment by these canine superstars and their handlers
Ripley Castle Park,
Harrogate
Ripley Show
9th August
2008
GEORGIAN FAIR - A recreation of the hustle and bustle of an 1825 Fair at Pockerley Manor. Adding to the atmosphere and excitement will be fire-eating, corn dolly and basket making, military drills, musket firing and traditional Northumbrian pipe music Beamish
Museum
9th August
2008
Sleeping Beauty - Outdoor Children's Theatre Evening magically performed by Chapterhouse Theatre Company. Gates Open 5.30 pm for picnics, Performance starts 6.00 pm. Pre-booking Essential
Thorp Perrow Arboretum
Bedale
9th August
2008
The Levellers - supported by Seth Lakeman and Three Daft Monkeys
Levellers, who this year celebrate their 20th anniversary, will be on stage for an open-air picnic-style concert here at Harewood House. Alongside this outstanding band will be one of the finest fast rising stars of the music industry with his unique lyrical voice, the hugely talented Seth Lakeman whose first album “Kitty Jay” was nominated for a Mercury Music Prize.
Together their rousing folk melodies and passionate lyrics will guarantee a night of outstanding musical entertainment. They will be supported by one of Cornwall’s finest trios, 3 Daft Monkeys
Harewood House
9/10th August
2008
School of Chivalry - Let our medieval noble lady help you with your chivalry and medieval manners. Learn how to bow with elegance, greet your parents, eat your meals and behave in court in the best medieval tradition. Listen to real medieval stories of brave knights and ladies from the past. 10.00 am - 12.00 noon & 2.00 - 4.00 pm Clifford's Tower
9/10th August
2008
Medieval Murder Mystery
A murder at the castle calls for some super sleuths. Interview the medieval townsfolk and find a suspect with a motive. From 11.00 am
Richmond Castle
9/10th August
2008
Blue's & Two's Weekend The Trolleybus
Museum at Sandtoft
9/10th August
2008
Pirates of Land & Sea - Join us for a spectacular weekend in the company of desperate bucanners and dashing highwaymen. Cannon will fire, horses will gallop, ladies will swoon and duels will be fought. Experience the roar of cannon fire from our recreated pirate gun deck, performance of the ripping mounted melodrama "The Highwayman’s Petticoat", story tellers with stories of bold and daring adventures and children’s activities for apprentice robbers! From 11.00 am Whitby Abbey
9/10th August
2008
Feudal Archers - Life in a 12th Century Castle. 10.00 am - 6.00 pm (Sunday 12 noon - 6.00 pm)
Skipton Castle
9/10th August
2008
NAPOLEONIC MUSTER – An exciting and authentic recreation of a Napoleonic recruiting muster in the splendid setting of our 1825 exhibit, Pockerley Manor. Re-enacted by the 68th Regiment of the Light Infantry in full battle dress Beamish
Museum
10th August
2008
Rolls Royce Rally - 10.00 am - 5.00 pm. Magnificent Rolls Royce cars beautifully displayed on the North Front. The biggest and best of the car rallies on Harewood's North Front attracting Rolls and Daimlers from throughout the country. A super day out for anyone who loves this truly British Classic Harewood House
10th August
2008
Keighley & Worth Valley Railway - Guided Tours of the Railway - NEW FOR 2008
See behind the scenes - all those nooks and crannies, those locked sheds and tantalising sidings that you can't quite see the end of. Now you can find out what's going on, what is where, why it's in bits and what's happening? Or simply have a decent afternoon out with someone who knows a fair bit about the Railway and is happy to talk and answer questions?
You will travel in reserved accommodation on the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway with a look behind the scenes at all locations on the line, sheds, stations and offices. A buffet lunch will be included.
The itinerary will be: Assemble at Haworth station for a glimpse behind the scenes in the Motive Power Depot before joining the 11.35 a.m. departure to Oxenhope by diesel train. Here we leave the train for a look around the Railway's superb carriage repair and storage facilities, before joining the 12.45 p.m. steam train for a run to Ingrow via Keighley during which a buffet lunch will be available.
We leave the train at Ingrow at 1.36 p.m. for a visit to the Carriage and Locomotive museums at that site and a look around the sidings (did you know that there's a crane tank in the undergrowth?). At 2.21 p.m. we catch a train for the short trip to Oakworth, where we arrive at 2.30 and take a look behind the scenes at this world famous film location, before joining the train again for Haworth at 3.12, concluding at Haworth at 3.20 pm

KWVR
10th August
2008
Behind Closed Doors - A chance to see, and learn about some of the more unusual items not normally on display Sledmere House
10th August
2008
Deer Walk - 2.00 pm. Enjoy the view of 500 wild deer in the medieval deer park. Meet at Swanley Grange Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
10th August
2008
Sunday Afternoon Band Concert - A perfect way to spend a summer day. Enjoy the gardens in the company one of the best of South Yorkshire's brass bands. Extra admission to the Hall. From 3.00 pm Brodsworth Hall
10th August
2008
Sleeping Beauty - Chapterhouse Theatre Company present an adaptation of the classic fairy tale 'Sleeping Beauty'. Bring a picnic and enjoy a play for children of all ages in the beautiful walled garden.
Following last years hugely enjoyable and successful childrens' production of Jack & The Beanstalk, Chapterhouse return with the tale of 'Sleeping Beauty'.

Sleeping Beauty - A princess is cursed at birth by a wicked fairy, and sleeps for a hundred years until a handsome prince awakes her with a single kiss. We follow the adventures of Louisa and her friends who, evacuated to the countryside during the Second World War, find fun and song in enacting this wonderful story. The result is a splendid piece of story-telling in a style that comes close to the Famous Five whilst still celebrating the original fairytale romance. This show is just right in duration for young audiences and includes a fairy tale fancy dress parade during the interval with members of the cast. So join in and come along in your fancy dress!!
Seating is not provided, please bring your own lightweight low-backed chairs or a rug. Audience should come prepared for wet weather. Cancellation in the event of severe weather only. Tickets are non-refundable. Performance will take in the Walled Garden - 20 minute walk to location from main car park
Harewood House
11th August
2008
Observe the Sun - Come and take a closer look at the sun in the York Observatory. Noon - 2.00 pm York Observatory
Yorkshire Museum
11th August
2008
Thirsk Races Thirsk
Racecourse
11-14th August
2008
Hands on History Crew – Knight & Princess School
A week of hands-on activities and crafts for all the family, with a medieval theme. There's plenty to discover about life in medieval England! From 11.00 am
Scarborough Castle
12th August
2008
Astronomy Talks - Our talks are quite informal, they are given by curator of astronomy Martin Lunn and take place inside the museum in the Tempest Anderson Hall, usually twice a day.
The Perseids meteor shower - Learn about the best know meteor shower of the year. 11.30 am and 2.00 pm

Yorkshire Museum
12th August
2008
St Mary's Church Tour - 11.00 am. Free tour of the richly decorated Victorian High Gothic church designed by William Burges. Meet at the visitor centre Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
13th August
2008
Farmers' Market - Castle Howard will be hosting a Farmers' Market in the Stable Courtyard from 10am to 4pm. Fifteen stallholders will be selling the best of regional produce including meats, preserves, cheeses and much more.
The Stable Courtyard is also home to Castle Howard's farm shop, chocolate shop, gift shop, book shop and plant centre. The butcher's counter at the Farm Shop will be selling estate-reared Aberdeen Angus beef and locally sourced meat, most of which comes from a 15 mile radius of the Farm Shop. The deli counter stocks fine regional cheeses, pâtés and cooked meats.
Access to the Farmers' Market and shops in the Stable Courtyard is free of charge, and there is also free car parking

Castle Howard
13th August
2008
Observe the Sun - Come and take a closer look at the sun in the York Observatory. Noon - 2.00 pm York Observatory
Yorkshire Museum
13th August
2008
Artalk - lunch-time art series presents Portraits from Italy with Moira Fulton
The genius of Annibale Carracci and astonishing facility of Pompeo Girolamo Batoni illustrate, in their very different ways, the great tradition of Italian portrait painting. 12.30 pm
York City Art Gallery
13th August
2008
"Cemetery Gardens: 10 plants and a tree". Clive Dawson (Trustee, Friend, and volunteer at York Cemetery) will regale you with tales of the known and the unexpected in the Cemetery's gardens. 7.30 pm The Chapel
York Cemetery
13th August
2008
'Hands on History' activity day - Find out about Victorian life, dress up as Victorian children and step back in time Beck Isle Museum
Pickering
13th August
2008
Archaeology & the Brodsworth Estate - Join Colin Merrony from the Department of Archaeology at the University of Sheffield to hear about the annual excavations of the Brodsworth Community Archaeology Project. The talk illustrates what archaeology has revealed about Brodsworth's past, followed by a tour of the current excavation. Limited Places. Pre-booking required on 01302 722598. 2.00 pm Brodsworth Hall
13th August
2008
Scarborough Jazz @ The Cask present - Matt Smith
You'll hear strains of Sonny Rollins, Tim Whitehead, Miles Davis, Keith Jarret, Ben Webster and John Coltrane at this gig but you will also hear the very individual saxophone sound of the talented Matt Smith - a creative and versatile saxophonist who is building up a tremendous reputation on the jazz scene. Apart from jazz Matt has played many musical styles - Soul, Blues, Pop and Big Band – and has recorded sessions for BBC Television and Radio, Channel 4 and Sky Television and several recording studios. Swinging Hull drummer Keith Stutt is with MG3
The Cask Inn
Scarborough
Scarborough
Jazz
13/14th August
2008
Storytelling - Tales from Harewood - Part of 'National Year of Reading' 2008.
Storytellers will be working their magic throughout the house and grounds – telling tales from the history of Harewood and the local area. There will be the opportunity for visitors to bring their own tales and memories about Harewood to contribute to the day
Harewood House
13/14th August
2008
Beverley Races Beverley
Racecourse
14th August
2008
Artalk - lunch-time art series presents a special talk by our Curator as part of the celebrations of the 60th Anniverary of The Friends of York Art Gallery - How and Why We Collect with Laura Turner
Under the curatorship of the brilliant Hans Hess, York Art Gallery established an acquisiton policy which transformed the Gallery collection into one of the most interesting and comprehensive in the United Kindom. Laura discusses her own vision for the future enhancement of the collection. 12.30 pm
York City Art Gallery
14th August
2008
Slain, Beheaded, Imprisoned: How the Howards Survived the Tudors - Lecture
Castle Howard runs its 2008 season with a new exhibition, Surviving Henry: Tudor Howards on the Block. This new exhibition marks the relationship between the Howard family and one of England’s most notorious monarchs.
Under the glowering image of Henry VIII (one of Castle Howard’s most celebrated portraits), and in the shadow of the executioner’s axe, Surviving Henry recounts the topsy-turvy fortunes of the Howards in the 16th century and beyond.
Castle Howard’s Curator, Dr Christopher Ridgway said, “By rights the Howards of Castle Howard should not exist. During the Tudor period the Howard family seemed bent on self-destruction; time and time again they displeased their monarchs, and successive members of the family were imprisoned or beheaded. This exhibition will combine famous portraits and famous beheadings to tell a tale of danger, intrigue and narrow survival.”
To accompany this new exhibition, Curator Dr Christopher Ridgway will be giving an lecture on the evening of 14th August, Slain, Beheaded, Imprisoned: How the Howards Survived the Tudors. This illustrated lecture will explain in more detail the perilous fortunes of the Howard family in the 16th and 17th centuries when nearly 50 Howards or close relatives were imprisoned, beheaded or slain in battle

Castle Howard
14th August
2008
The Black Swan Folk Club present - Bram Taylor
Alternate summers in York would not be complete without a visit by Bram, one of our firmest favourites. He is a thoroughly entertaining performer with a strong, clear and tuneful voice and a wide repertoire of both modern and traditional songs, laced together with a grand line in Lancashire patter. How better to spend a relaxed summer evening?
8.00 pm
Black Swan,
Peasholme Green
B.S.F.C.
14th August
2008
RHS Harlow Carr Gardens - MASTERCLASS DEMONSTRATIONS AND WALKS - Kitchen garden Walk - These walks and demonstrations are led by experienced members of the gardens staff at Harlow Carr and offer the opportunity to learn more about gardening and gain inspiration for your own garden. They start at 2.00 pm, and last 1 - 1 1/2 hours, and will go ahead regardless of the weather, so please come prepared appropriately
RHS Harlow Carr
pdf leaflet
14-16th August
2008
Workshops - Write Through The Summer - Writing for the Theatre
EMMY Award-winning playwright and screenwriter Nigel Forde began his career at York Theatre Royal, later co-founding Riding Lights Theatre Company. He has written scores of plays for adults and children, which have been performed all over the world

York
Theatre Royal
15th August
2008
'A Night of Crime' with Best-selling author Peter Robinson - Peter Robinson, creator of DCI Alan Banks, will be talking about his new novel, All the Colours of Darkness.
As stubborn and principled as ever, Banks finds himself in new personal and professional territory that tests his integrity and strength to the limit. This is a great opportunity to be among the first to hear about these latest challenges faced by one of the country’s favourite detectives. If you like police procedural novels but haven’t read Robinson’s work then a thrilling and gritty world of crime awaits you!
Peter Robinson was born in Leeds and now splits his time between homes in Yorkshire and Canada. He has won numerous awards in Britain and the US, Canada and Europe. His books are published in translation across the world. Tickets 01262 678258
7.30 pm
Bridlington Spa Theatre
15th August
2008
Heidi Talbot (ex-Cherish the Ladies) accompanied by singer-songwriter Boo Hewerdine (ex-The Bible)
Reeth Memorial Hall
Reeth
15-17th August
2008
"Inspired" art exhibition and sale. Established female artists exhibit a variety of affordable art, including ceramics, paintings, jewellery, and textiles. Admission free. Fri 15th August 6.00 - 9.00 pm (preview evening - all welcome). Sat 16th and Sun 17th August, 10.00 am until 4.00 pm The Chapel
York Cemetery
15-19th August
2008
Marcher Freemen Journey back to the 15th Century - A demonstration of domestic life in the early 15th Century. 10.00 am - 6.00 pm (Sunday 12 noon - 6.00 pm)
Skipton Castle
16th August
2008
Farmers Market - The York Farmers Market was one of the first to be established in the north of England in the Autumn of 1999. The success as the forerunner to this movement in the north has led to a large number of other markets opening and, more importantly, created an alternative source of income to many farmers and producers.
The main benefit of the farmers market here at Murton is that it is all under cover come rain, snow or high wind with a large private car park adjacent.
There is always seasonal activity and special events at the markets, adding extra value and interest.
The main principle of the farmers market is that it is local producers selling fresh quality produce direct to local consumers in an atmosphere which promotes dialogue and understanding of food production including environmental and welfare standards. This cuts down food miles and puts money back into the local economy rather than imported goods.
The market always offers an extensive range of produce including:-
Meat – Yorkshire beef, lamb and pork; chicken, duck, geese, pheasant, partridge, wild game (in season); wild boar; pies, sausages, burgers etc.
Vegetables – Fresh vegetables and salads (including organic growers); exotic mushrooms; fresh fruit in season.
Bakery – Cakes, scones, quiches, puddings, fruit pies.
Other products – Yorkshire cheeses, home made soups, fruit wine, apple juice, organic milk and butter.

A fantastic choice of fresh quality local produce at very competitive prices and the benefit of knowing where it's come from and how it's been produced
York Farmers Markets
16th August
2008
Organ Recital by Francis Jackson - Organist Emeritus. 7.00 pm York Minster
16th August
2008
Castle Howard Proms Spectacular - On Saturday 16th August, the UK's biggest 'Last Night of the Proms' style concert outside of Hyde Park returns again to the amazing setting of Castle Howard, for an unforgettable evening of popular classics, flag-waving fun and a truly amazing firework finale.
The ever exuberant Jae Alexander returns to conduct the English National Orchestra through an evening of popular classics, movie themes and all the Proms favourites, including 1812 Overture, Rule Britannia and Land of Hope & Glory. Jae will be joined by soprano Janet Mooney and tenor Wynne Evans, who has become a firm favourite at Castle Howard with his breathtaking rendition of Nessun Dorma. Also back by popular demand is pilot Flt Lieutenant Charles Brown, who will again be performing a stunning aerial display (to music) in an original WW2 Spitfire.
There is no finer way to enjoy a summer's evening than by combining a superb night of music & fireworks with friends and a picnic, so make sure you don't miss out on a truly wonderful experience you will never forget!
Castle Howard
16th August
2008
Green Day 2008 - Set in the 5 acres of beautifully landscaped Helmsley Walled Garden.
We are planning loads of things to see and do; come and share in the magical atmosphere of fun and freedom, rest and activity. There will be entertainment and workshops, childrens tea parties in the tepee and for others yoga and cookery demonstrations. A huge variety of things to eat and drink (including cream teas in the Orchid House) will be available.
Ethical Fashion Show - At 1.00 pm there will be an ethical fashion show with models walking the green catwalk to display the latest fashions. All will be available to buy.
10.30 am to 5.00 pm
Helmsley
Walled Garden
16th August
2008
Victorian Garden Games - Bring a picnic and enjoy a selection of Victorian games on the lawns of Brodsworth Hall with croquet, quoits, skittles, giant chess and many more. From 11.00 am Brodsworth Hall
16th August
2008
Ripon Races Ripon
Racecourse
16th August
2008
Archaeology & the Brodsworth Estate - Join Colin Merrony from the Department of Archaeology at the University of Sheffield to hear about the annual excavations of the Brodsworth Community Archaeology Project. The talk illustrates what archaeology has revealed about Brodsworth's past, followed by a tour of the current excavation. Limited Places. Pre-booking required on 01302 722598. 2.00 pm Brodsworth Hall
16th August
2008
Kirkby Fleetham Folk Club - Jim Clark & Steven King + Anna Shannon
8.30 pm
Black Horse Inn
Kirkby Fleetham
nr Northallerton
KFFC
16/17th August
2008
School of Chivalry - Let our medieval noble lady help you with your chivalry and medieval manners. Learn how to bow with elegance, greet your parents, eat your meals and behave in court in the best medieval tradition. Listen to real medieval stories of brave knights and ladies from the past. 10.00 am - 12.00 noon & 2.00 - 4.00 pm Clifford's Tower
16/17th August
2008
The Medieval Pageant - Ladies, knights and nobles will reveal what life was like in the royal court, from the gentle pursuits of singing and dancing to the dangers of medieval combat. From 11.00 am Scarborough Castle
16/17th August
2008
VW Festival - VW Festival is a VW and Audi show which is not only aimed at the enthusiasts who want to show off their cars, it's also for the families who want to spend a sunny Sunday wondering around the Grounds of Harewood House, and taking a look at our show at the same time.
There's entertainment for the kids including a Fun Fair, Face Painters and not forgetting the Bird Garden and Adventure Playground
By pre-booking you tickets via the website www.vwfestival.co.uk you will have the following great benefits - Save money on your tickets; Express Entry to the Show (Dedicated Lane); Entry to the Prize Draw; Official VWF Sticker; Vehicle entry to the Show Ground; Wicked Wolfsburg holiday prize up for grabs!
Graffiti Display - This year sees the return of the ever popular Graffiti Display; Register your vehicle via the VWFestival website if you are interested in having you car featured in the display.
Camping - Designed to suit those that want a relaxing family experience and those that may want to enjoy more of the party atmosphere. There are limited spaces available on both sites so book now via the VWFestival website to avoid disappointment
Harewood House
16/17th August
2008
Bowes Railway - 'The world's only operational preserved standard gauge rope hauled railway' - Model Railway Collectors Fair.
With one of our steam engines running brake van rides

Bowes Railway
nr Gateshead
16-23rd August
2008
Country Cooking Week Ryedale
Folk Museum
17th August
2008
'A Way of Life' Farming Traditions in Yorkshire: Down on the Farm with the Heavy Horse
See Heavy Horse displays on harrowing the land and seed drilling. Learn for yourself how to churn butter, and make dairy cheese. See the blacksmith working at his forge. Meet the animals, with grooming, thatching and even mucking out activities! Help the Farmer’s wife with rag-rugging, baking and washing. Machinery displays, tractor-trailer and steam train rides included. 10.00 am - 5.00 pm
Yorkshire Museum
of Farming
17th August
2008
Classic Car Rally Ripley Castle
nr Harrogate
17th August
2008
Afternoon Band Concert in the Gardens with New Yorks Dance Band Burnby Hall Gardens
17th August
2008
Sunday Afternoon Band Concert - A perfect way to spend a summer day. Enjoy the gardens in the company one of the best of South Yorkshire's brass bands. Extra admission to the Hall. From 3.00 pm Brodsworth Hall
17th August
2008
Peter Pan - The little boy who never grew up… join Heartbreak Productions on an adventure fantasy for all the family. Bring your chairs, picnics, wine and friends and enjoy an enchanting evening of outdoor theatre. Please note the earlier show time. Pre-booking advisable (01609 883494). Gates open at 6.15 pm, performance starts at 7.00 pm Mount Grace Priory
18th August
2008
'Inaccessible York Walking Tour' - A unique opportunity to enter parts of York normally not open to the public, to descend into cellars and Roman remains, explore secret passages, crypts, mediaeval churches and hidden Georgian interiors. The theme for this walk 'A Graveyard, Coffin and Crypt Tour' - visit the hidden city of the dead; descend to a secret crypt, sample Roman and mediaeval coffins and visit the plague sites 10.30 am
YorkWalk
18th August
2008
Lunchtime Concert - Chopin's greatest works with BBC pianist Vincent Billington. 1.00 pm. Phone 01723 350545 for details St Helen's Church
St Helen's Square
18th August
2008
'Inaccessible York Walking Tour' - A unique opportunity to enter parts of York normally not open to the public, to descend into cellars and Roman remains, explore secret passages, crypts, mediaeval churches and hidden Georgian interiors. The theme for this walk 'Guildhalls and Secret Passages' 2.15 pm
YorkWalk
18th August
2008
RHS Harlow Carr Gardens - Grow Your Own Veg: Harvest Time. 10.00 am - 4.00 pm
RHS Harlow Carr
pdf leaflet
18-21st August
2008
Hands on History Crew – Knight & Princess School
A week of hands-on activities and crafts for all the family, with a medieval theme. There's plenty to discover about life in medieval England! From 11.00 am
Scarborough Castle
19th August
2008
'Inaccessible York Walking Tour' - A unique opportunity to enter parts of York normally not open to the public, to descend into cellars and Roman remains, explore secret passages, crypts, mediaeval churches and hidden Georgian interiors. The theme for this walk 'The Henry VIII Trail' - this obese, diseased and constipated monarch made a state visit to York in 1541. Follow his footsteps and see the havoc he wrought on the monasteries and hospitals 10.30 am
YorkWalk
19th August
2008
Observe the Sun - Come and take a closer look at the sun in the York Observatory. Noon - 2.00 pm York Observatory
Yorkshire Museum
19th August
2008
'Inaccessible York Walking Tour' - A unique opportunity to enter parts of York normally not open to the public, to descend into cellars and Roman remains, explore secret passages, crypts, mediaeval churches and hidden Georgian interiors. The theme for this walk 'Kings Manor' 2.15 pm
YorkWalk
19/20th August
2008
Botanical Illustration Classes with Bridget Gillespie, two day courses from 9.30 am to 3.00 pm Helmsley
Walled Garden
19-21st August
2008
RHS Harlow Carr Gardens workshop - PAINTING & DRAWING - BOTANICAL PAINTING - EXPLORING PLANT PATTERN - This workshop will focus on those aspects of symmetry found in plants. From the elegant geometry of flowers, the wonderful patterns on bark, to exciting colour combinations, these elements will be our source of inspiration. Although the painting approach will be the precise realism of botanical imagery, our aim will be toward a more abstract result. This workshop is only suitable for those with some experience of Botanical Painting. 10.00 am - 4.00 pm
RHS Harlow Carr
pdf leaflet
19-22nd August
2008
York Races - The Ebor Festival of Racing York Racecourse
20th August
2008
'Inaccessible York Walking Tour' - A unique opportunity to enter parts of York normally not open to the public, to descend into cellars and Roman remains, explore secret passages, crypts, mediaeval churches and hidden Georgian interiors. The theme for this walk 'Hidden Chapels' 10.30 am
YorkWalk
20th August
2008
'A Way of Life' Farming Traditions in Yorkshire: Scarecrow Making
Help Farmer Atkinson to discourage birds from eating his crops by making your own Scarecrow to be judged and then displayed in our Scarecrow Sculpture garden. Children's activities include straw dolly making and scarecrow puppets! 11.00 am - 3.00 pm
Yorkshire Museum
of Farming
20th August
2008
Observe the Sun - Today there will be the chance to look through a Personal Solar Telescope (PST). PSTs allow the viewer to look directly at the sun, which is not usually possible - don't miss your chance to have a go! Noon - 2.00 pm York Observatory
Yorkshire Museum
20th August
2008
Artalk - lunch-time art series presents On the Edge with John Paynter
Whatever medium an artist employs: oil, watercolour, tempera, acrylic etc, he is first presented with the daunting challenge of an blank wall, board or canvas. 12.30 pm
York City Art Gallery
20th August
2008
'The Richard III Walking Tour' - Follow in the footsteps of this much maligned monarch, still revered in York. At the end visit the Richard III museum and vote on whether or not he really did murder the Princes in the Tower 2.15 pm
YorkWalk
20th August
2008
'Hands on History' activity day - Find out about Victorian life, dress up as Victorian children and step back in time Beck Isle Museum
Pickering
20th August
2008
Mass for St Bernard - 12 noon. Ecumenical service in the abbey. Everyone welcome Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
20th August
2008
Deer Walk - 2.00 pm. Enjoy the view of 500 wild deer in the medieval deer park. Meet at Swanley Grange Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
20th August
2008
Scarborough Jazz @ The Cask present - The Sally Doherty Quartet
' … an excellent band and faultless intonation and taste from Sally herself, sounding equally at home in Portuguese, Spanish and English … The singing is not only technically accomplished, but very beautiful, and Sally manages to make these songs her own.' So writes Alan Barnes about the latest ninth album from Sally Doherty who makes a debut in Scarborough. Sally's songs slip effortlessly from gentle ballads to Brazilian bossa nova and samba, then from swing to Mexican and Cuban boleros. Stunning backing from Piero Tucci (piano and accordion), Colin Elliot (double bass) and Phil Johnson (drums)
The Cask Inn
Scarborough
Scarborough
Jazz
20/21st August
2008
Treasure Island - Open Air Theatre Production
Set in the days of sail ships and pirates, Treasure Island tells the adventures of Jim Hawkins and his search for the buried treasure of the notorious pirate Captain Flint. In this new adaption by Michael Whitmore the aim is to be faithful to the book whilst creating a lively action-packed show for all the family with live music. Pre-booking Essential

Newby Hall
21st August
2008
Mausoleum Tour - Spaces must be booked in advance
Castle Howard is running a series of special tours for 2008, led by the Curator, Dr Christopher Ridgway. These guided tours are an opportunity to visit hidden features in Castle Howard and its grounds and learn about their intriguing history in more detail.
The Mausoleum Tour at 10.30 am, is an opportunity to visit the most mysterious building in the landscape, where generations of the Howard family have