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

OCTOBER 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 March 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

1st April -
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
24th May
2008 onwards
'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
23rd June -
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
23rd August
- 19th October
2008
Exhibitions in the Gallery - Cheryl Taylor Artist in Residence.
Cheryl Taylor's textile and knitwear designs have been used by fashion companies such as Paul Smith and French Connection. She will be showing a collection of new works exclusive to Ryedale Folk Museum
Ryedale
Folk Museum
13th September
- 18th October
2008
Fountains by Floodlight - Saturday Nights Only Dusk - 10.00 pm. Experience the wonder of the north bathed in floodlight. Enjoy an evening of majesty and mystery with guided tours at 7.00 pm and 7.30 pm, recorded Gregorian chants, hot seasonal food and a different choir performing each week in the Abbey from 8.00 pm - 9.00 pm. It's an atmospheric night to remember. Last admission 9.00 pm. No need to book Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
Future Events and Attractions

2nd October
2008
The Black Swan Folk Club present - Dan McKinnon 8.00 pm
Black Swan,
Peasholme Green
B.S.F.C.
2-12th
October
2008
Beverley Literature Festival - details to follow Beverley Literature Festival
4th October
2008
York Barbican Players perform Franck - Sonata in A and Ravel - Violin Sonata 7.30 pm
St Helen's Church
St Helen's Square
York Barbican Players
4th October
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
5th October
2008
To Be Confirmed - Bus Rally - Gathering of historic Routemaster 'London' buses and other models Yorkshire
Air Museum
5th October
2008
Walking with the Georgians - A new walking tour exploring the Mansion House and other Georgian buildings in York.

York is blessed with some of the best Georgian buildings in England. This walking tour starts with a visit to the Mansion House where we will have coffee and cakes and concludes with a tour of Fairfax House. In between, we look at the Judges Lodgings on Lendal, Lord Burlington's spectacular Assembly Rooms, John Carr's famous Assizes and other important buildings along the way. 10.30 am to 1.30 pm

Fairfax House
5th October
2008
White Rose Historic Vehicles Rally - Sunday 5th October - event aimed at cars & commercial vehicles; Sunday 12th October - event aimed at buses
A 2-train or 3-train service using a steam hauled set of coaches and a DMU will be in operation on both days of the Historic Vehicle Rally. A Park & Ride facility will be in operation between Bolton Abbey Estate car park and the Railway, with the price of car parking refunded against the purchase of tickets at the Railway

Embsay &
Bolton Abbey
Railway
5th October
2008
Fungus Foray - Join our expert Dr. Keith Thomas for a rummage through the woodland for all types of fungi. Discover what is poisonous and what is not!! Suitable for all ages. 1.00 pm
Thorp Perrow Arboretum
Bedale
5th October
2008
The History of Duncombe Park’s Veteran Trees - A Guided Walk. 2.00 pm Duncombe Park
5th October
2008
Threshing Day - displays of traditional harvest threshing skills and machinery Ryedale
Folk Museum
5th October
2008
Classic Car Show (to be confirmed) South Yorkshire
Aircraft Museum
Doncaster
6th October
2008
Monumental Landscape 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 Monumental Landscape Tour will be taking place at 10.30 am. This circuit walk visits the famous 18th-century monuments in the Castle Howard landscape - the Gatehouse, the Pyramid, the Mausoleum, the Temple of the Four Winds and the lost Temple of Venus. The dramatic interiors of some of these buildings, which are not normally open to the public, include the gigantic bust of Lord William Howard inside the Pyramid, and the chapel and vaults in the Mausoleum. This unforgettable tour lasts approximately 3½ 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
6-11th
October
2008
Buddy - The Buddy Holly Story
Nearly 50 years ago, the man who changed the face of popular music tragically died in a plane crash aged just 22. Buddy tells the story of the three years in which he became the world’s top recording artist with a show that features over 20 of Buddy Holly’s greatest hits including “Peggy Sue”, “That’ll be the Day”, “Oh Boy”, “Rave On”, “Heartbeat” and “Raining in my Heart”.
The show follows the tragically short life of the star from his first recording contract through his move to New York, concluding with his fatal tour of Midwest America with Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper. Buddy sings his way from the recording studio in Nashville, Tennessee to Harlem’s Apollo Theatre, culminating in a live rock ‘n’ roll extravaganza at the ‘Winter Dance Party’ finale

The Grand Opera House
York
8th October
2008
Farmers' Market - Castle Howard will be hosting a Farmers' Market on Wednesday 12th March at 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
8th October
2008
Getting Plastered - Explore the art of English Decorative plasterwork from 1570 -1800.

An illustrated talk and tour which explores the art of English Decorative plasterwork from 1570-1800. The complex messages which Lord Fairfax and his Italian stuccoist, Giuseppe Cortese, designed for the ceilings at Fairfax House, are also unravelled and explained. Binoculars will be useful. 7.00 pm

Fairfax House
9th October
2008
The Black Swan Folk Club present - Katy Moffatt 8.00 pm
Black Swan,
Peasholme Green
B.S.F.C.
10-12th October
2008
Wartime Weekend North Yorkshire
Moors Railway
10-12th October
2008
James Herriot Convention - A weekend dedicated to the life of a remarkable man. Talks, tours and guest speakers
The World of
James Herriot
Thirsk
10-12th October
2008
Keighley & Worth Valley Railway - Autumn Steam Gala Weekend
KWVR
11th October
2008
'Choccy & Sweetie Walking Tour' - York has played a big part in pleasing the sweet tooth. Hear the history of Terrys, Rowntrees & Cravens. See sweets being made and taste some delicious samples! 10.30 am
YorkWalk
11th October
2008
'Choccy & Sweetie Walking Tour' - York has played a big part in pleasing the sweet tooth. Hear the history of Terrys, Rowntrees & Cravens. See sweets being made and taste some delicious samples! 2.00 pm
YorkWalk
11th October
2008
The Western Front Association lecture by Dr Bryn Hammond. "Cambrai 1917 - The Myth of the Great Tank Battle: The lecture will look at the significance of the Cambrai battle and explain why it was not just about tanks." 2.30 pm
Phoenix Block
York St John University College
WFA - Yorks. Branch
11/12th October
2008
Harvest Home Supper - See the preparations for the Harvest Home Supper at Home Farm and Pockerley Manor. The mouth-watering spread at Home Farm includes raised game pies, trussed chicken and ox tongue, whilst dishes of the day at Pockerley Manor are pickled pigs feet, baked rabbits in custard and salamagundy Beamish
Museum
12th October
2008
White Rose Historic Vehicles Rally - Sunday 5th October - event aimed at cars & commercial vehicles; Sunday 12th October - event aimed at buses
A 2-train or 3-train service using a steam hauled set of coaches and a DMU will be in operation on both days of the Historic Vehicle Rally. A Park & Ride facility will be in operation between Bolton Abbey Estate car park and the Railway, with the price of car parking refunded against the purchase of tickets at the Railway

Embsay &
Bolton Abbey
Railway
12th October
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
12th October
2008
Tanfield Railway - the worlds oldest existing railway
Coal Train Day - A day for photographers, recalling the coal trains of the NCB era
Tanfield Railway
12th October
2008
Fungus Foray - Join our expert Dr. Keith Thomas for a rummage through the woodland for all types of fungi. Discover what is poisonous and what is not!! Suitable for all ages. 1.00 pm
Thorp Perrow Arboretum
Bedale
15th October
2008
York RSPB Talks - Gordon Yates on "Bird Habitats of the Pennines and Scotland" 7.30 pm
Temple Hall
YSJU
Lord Mayors Walk
York RSPB
15th October
2008
Wetherby Races Wetherby
Racecourse
15th October
2008
Autumn Colours Tour - Join us at 1.00 pm for a leisurely stroll with our expert, taking in the best of the Autumn Colours through Arboretum, then over to the Bird of Prey Centre to watch the entertaining 3.30 pm flying display
Thorp Perrow Arboretum
Bedale
16th October
2008
The Black Swan Folk Club present - Singers & Musicians Night. All acoustic performers are made welcome, and listeners besides, at our popular Open House session. The more the merrier, so do come along 8.00 pm
Black Swan,
Peasholme Green
B.S.F.C.
17th October
2008
York Astronomical Society lecture - "Universe, part II'" - By Paul Money - (as read in "The Sky at Night" magazine).
Our second visit of 2008 from our good friend Paul Money. Paul will be talking about the Universe, and all it entails. For those of you who have not been to one of Paul's talks before, they are not to be missed. His blend of exuberance, enthusiasm, and occasional loud humorous eruptions is unforgettable. For those who have been to one of Paul's talks before, I expect you have no intentions of missing this one. All are welcome
8.00 pm
Denham Room
Priory Street Centre
Y.A.S.
17th October
2008
The Fabulous Fifties – An evening of period entertainment presented by the History Wardrobe. A fund raising event by the Friends of Kiplin Hall. 7.30 pm
Kiplin Hall
Scorton
18th October
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
18th October
2008
Palestine Veterans Reunion - 10.00 am until 5.00 pm - (Parade at 1.00 pm). Reunion of British Military personnel and members of the Palestine Police who served in Palestine between 1945 and 1948
Eden Camp
Malton
18th October
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
18th October
2008
Fountains in Autumn - 10.30 am. A gentle walk introducing the delights of Autumnal nature. Meet at Swanley Grange Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
18th October
2008
The Sowerby Music 21st Birthday Autumn Season - Alison Stephens - solo mandolin. 7.30 pm St. Oswald's Church
Sowerby, Thirsk
Sowerby Music
19th October
2008
'The Historic Toilet Walking Tour' - A unique saga of convenience through the ages from Roman sanitation to the 18th Century 'Sugar' House and 19th Century attempts to prevent 'nuisance' and promote public decency. And, of course, the opportunity to sample the dubious comforts of medieval garderobes! 10.30 am
YorkWalk
19th October
2008
Air Power & Thunder 100 Day - The Centenary of British Powered Flight with the power and thunder of the museum's jets. With flypasts and other exciting displays and activities Yorkshire
Air Museum
19th October
2008
'The Bloody Execution Walking Tour' - See Turrets where heads were impaled on spikes; hear of Dick Turpin's last hours, public hangings, floggings, brandings and duckings 2.15 pm
YorkWalk
19th October
2008
St. Leger Rally The Trolleybus
Museum at Sandtoft
19th October
2008
Autumn Colours Tour - Join us at 1.00 pm for a leisurely stroll with our expert, taking in the best of the Autumn Colours through Arboretum, then over to the Bird of Prey Centre to watch the entertaining 3.30 pm flying display
Thorp Perrow Arboretum
Bedale
22nd October
2008
R.H.S. 'Autumn Gems' Tour - An introductory talk by Sir John Ropner in his private house will be followed by a Tour with the Curator, looking at the leaves, berries and bark of Autumn. 1.00 pm Pre-booking Essential
Thorp Perrow Arboretum
Bedale
23rd October
2008
The Black Swan Folk Club present - Steve Suffet & Anne Price 8.00 pm
Black Swan,
Peasholme Green
B.S.F.C.
24th October
2008
'How the Minster was Built Walking Tour' - A fascinating tour around this great church to see how it was built by the medieval master masons, with a glimpse of the modern stoneyard 10.30 am
YorkWalk
24th October
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 'Mediaeval Stained Glass' 2.15 pm
YorkWalk
24th October
2008
Autumn Colours Tour - Join us at 1.00 pm for a leisurely stroll with our expert, taking in the best of the Autumn Colours through Arboretum, then over to the Bird of Prey Centre to watch the entertaining 3.30 pm flying display
Thorp Perrow Arboretum
Bedale
24-26th October
2008
Keighley & Worth Valley Railway - Beer and Music Festival
KWVR
24th October -
2nd November
2008
Tudor Trail for Children – Can you find Henry VIII and his six wives and uncover the grisly truth behind the untimely deaths of Anne Boylen and Kathryn Howard. You’ll need to keep your head to complete this trail and receive your fun sticker. From 10.00 am Helmsley Castle
24th October -
2nd November
2008
The Enchanted Garden - A sublime night-time experience. The magnificently restored Victorian gardens are illuminated to become a place of wonder and enchantment. This garden walk will delight young and old alike as the garden features are bathed with colourful light, with a surprise around every corner. The shop will be open and refreshments available on these special evening openings. Please note there is no access to the Hall itself. Discounts for pre-booked tickets. Pre-booking advisable (01302 724969). 6.30 - 9.00 pm Brodsworth Hall
25th October
2008
Art course with Ronald Falck - Autumn trees.
This is the ninth in the 2008 series of art days at Castle Howard, and focusses on Autumn trees.
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
25th October
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
25th October
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
25/26th October
2008
York Roman Festival - York Roman Festival is a public celebration of York’s rich Roman history and entertains and educates thousands of residents and visitors to the city.
Founded in AD71, it was from York that the famous IX Legion disappeared, where Emperors Septimius Severus and Constantius Chlorus died and where , on the 25th July 306, Constantine The Great was proclaimed ‘Imperator’

York Roman Festival
25/26th October
2008
Michaelmas Fair - Seasonal craft and food stalls, entertainers and fairground fun
Burton Agnes Hall
25th October
- 2nd November
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 Five: The Burial

Yorkshire Museum
25th October
- 30th November
2008
Exhibitions in the Gallery - Anne Thalheim – Sculptor.
Anne Thalheim works in a wide range of media often combining accepted sculptural processes such as casting, carving and moulding with non-traditional materials such as plastic and textiles
Ryedale
Folk Museum
26th October
2008
Military, Avionics and Radio Autojumble South Yorkshire
Aircraft Museum
Doncaster
26th October
2008
Fungus Foray - Join our expert Dr. Keith Thomas for a rummage through the woodland for all types of fungi. Discover what is poisonous and what is not!! Suitable for all ages. 1.00 pm
Thorp Perrow Arboretum
Bedale
26th October
2008
Autumn Drive In - 6.00 - 8.00 pm. A free floodlit drive through the estate for less able visitors. Enter at Studley Lake entrance and exit at West Gate by Fountains Hall. Seasonal refreshments available Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
26th October
- 2nd November
2008
Autumn Glory - A week long event with walks, talks, educational activities, craft demonstrations and more! Autumn Glory takes place at Harewood and as ever will be crammed full of activities honouring the season - see web-site for details Harewood House
27-31st October
2008
Potato Week Ryedale
Folk Museum
28th October
2008
Halloween Happenings at the Haunted Hall – a Halloween Family Activities Day in the Hall. Dress up and drop in any time – no booking required! 11.00 am - 4.00 pm
Kiplin Hall
Scorton
29th October
2008
R.H.S. 'Autumn Gems' Tour - An introductory talk by Sir John Ropner in his private house will be followed by a Tour with the Curator, looking at the leaves, berries and bark of Autumn. 1.00 pm Pre-booking Essential
Thorp Perrow Arboretum
Bedale
30th October
2008
The Black Swan Folk Club present - David Francey 8.00 pm
Black Swan,
Peasholme Green
B.S.F.C.
30/31st October
2008
Torchlight Ghost Tours – learn about Kiplin Hall’s ghostly inhabitants! Children aged 6+ and not TOO sensitive! Including refreshments. Maximum 25 per tour, booking essential. Bring a torch!
Tours at 6.00 and 8.00 pm

Kiplin Hall
Scorton
30th October -
2nd November
2008
Illuminating York - Experience a new side to York after dark during Illuminating York with cutting-edge outdoor artwork, exhibitions, site-specific performances and tours in some of the ancient city’s many special places Various Venues
Illuminating York
31st October
2008
'The Guy Fawkes Walking Tour' - A walk exploring the (several!) birthplaces and haunts of one of York's most famous sons - Guy Fawkes of Gunpowder Plot fame 7.30 pm
YorkWalk
31st October
2008
Wetherby Races Wetherby
Racecourse
31st October -
2nd November
2008
Haunted Hallowe'en – Victorian Ghost Stories
Join our costumed storyteller for an evening of spooky tales and stories. Please wear warm clothes (perhaps a waterproof!) and sensible footwear. The event is not suitable for very young children. Pre-booking essential (01723 372451) Sessions at 5.30 pm, 7.00 pm, 8.30 pm & 10.00 pm
Scarborough Castle

 

November

 

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