County of Culture

Time spent in a cultural venue – an art gallery or a theatre is known to improve metal health and to make people feel happy and North Yorkshire has a rich arts and culture heritage.

The many art galleries in the county have an eclectic calendar of exhibitions and events taking place throughout the the year showcasing the best local talent as well as touring exhibitions from national galleries. The artworks on display can provoke, start conversations, or simply leave you with a sense of awe. Take time to indulge in ‘slow looking’ and let the art speak to you on a deeper level.

North Yorkshire has a vibrant live music and theatre scene that attracts many big names to perform at one of the many venues in the county. You can enjoy outdoor concerts ranging from rock and pop to classical, intimate theatre productions in a small space or a night of comedy.

The many arts and music festivals that take place in the area are full of life and colour with live performances. There is even a Crime Writers Festival that attracts some of the biggest names in the genre to the county.

With such a diverse arts and culture offer available in North Yorkshire, you are sure to enjoy the best time soaking up some culture on your visit.

Taking time for culture in North Yorkshire

County of Culture Stories & Inspiration

In honour of World Theatre Day we thought it only right to shine a…

County of Culture Businesses

Ripon cathedral
Ripon - Heart

Ripon Cathedral

Ripon Cathedral is a medieval marvel boasting a fascinating history all…

Harrogate Theatre Auditorium
Harrogate - Heart

Harrogate Theatre

A beautiful Victorian theatre in the heart of Harrogate, hosting local,…

Candelabara Primulas 24 jpg 7
Masham - Dales

The Himalayan Garden & Sculpture Park

Inspired by the Himalayas, and home to one of the North’s largest…

CAG Harrogate BC 016 Mercer sitting
Harrogate - Heart

Mercer Art Gallery

Promenade in the footsteps of early spa visitors as you view exciting…

Scarborough Art Gallery 2 388160265
Scarborough - Coast

Scarborough Art Gallery

Set in the stunning Crescent Gardens, Scarborough Art Gallery is an…

0852 D7929 EF60 B0335966 A9 B5 CF2 B2 AED2 D55 A1 E
Scarborough - Coast

Woodend Gallery and Studios

A short walk from the town centre, you'll find a warm welcome and a…

Stephen Joseph Theatre credit James Drawneek 197450219
Scarborough - Coast

Stephen Joseph Theatre & Cinema

The Stephen Joseph Theatre is Scarborough’s independent theatre and…

1 432525094
Harrogate - Heart

Artists' Cottages

A unique selection of self-catering cottages within easy walking distance…

County of Culture Events

Start Date

End Date

Carlton Towers Glow Nocturnal reduced
Selby - Heart

Glow Nocturnal at Carlton Towers

14 Feb - 21 Feb 26

Glow Nocturnal is a captivating series of inflatable installations that…

Luminescence - A Winter Light Trail
Masham - Dales

Luminescence - A Winter Light Trail - Swinton…

22 Jan - 22 Feb 26

Immerse yourself in a magical woodland landscape this winter with…

Skinner & T'witch
Skipton - Dales

Skinner & T'witch - Skipton Town Hall

17 Apr 27

Drawing on music-hall and vaudeville traditions, Skinner & T’witch's show…

Money for Nothing
Scarborough - Coast

Money for Nothing - Scarborough Spa

27 Feb 27

Money for nothing was formed in 2000 as a tribute to one of the world’s…

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A woman looks out over the Yorkshire Dales