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,…

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Skipton - Dales

Skipton Town Hall

A modern multi-arts cultural hub - home to Craven Museum, Gallery, Concert…

Stephen Joseph Theatre credit James Drawneek 197450219
Scarborough - Coast

Stephen Joseph Theatre & Cinema

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

Scarborough Art Gallery 2 388160265
Scarborough - Coast

Scarborough Art Gallery

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

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Scarborough - Coast

Woodend Gallery and Studios

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

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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…

County of Culture Events

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End Date

Glow at RHS Garden Harlow Carr
Harrogate - Heart

Glow at RHS Garden Harlow Carr - RHS Garden,…

13 Dec - 20 Dec 25

Discover one of North Yorkshire’s best Christmas events as Glow…

Scarborough Histories & Mysteries
Scarborough - Coast

Scarborough Histories & Mysteries - St Mary's…

13 Dec - 14 Dec 25

By Animated ObjectsTriptych presents three unique projections designed for…

Jack and the Beanstalk - Magical Family Pantomime
Harrogate - Heart

Jack and the Beanstalk - Magical Family Pantomime…

13 Dec - 18 Jan 26

Times are hard for Dame Trott. She has no money, and her only child Jack…

Gaelforce - Celtic Folk Rock Band
Leyburn - Dales

Gaelforce - Celtic Folk Rock Band - Leyburn Arts…

20 Feb 27

Gaelforce are a Celtic Folk Rock music from Yorkshire playing a mixture of…

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A woman looks out over the Yorkshire Dales