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

Harrogate Theatre Auditorium
Harrogate - Heart

Harrogate Theatre

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

Ripon cathedral
Ripon - Heart

Ripon Cathedral

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

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…

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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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Harrogate - Heart

Artists' Cottages

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

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Skipton - Dales

Skipton Town Hall

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

Scarborough Art Gallery 2 388160265
Scarborough - Coast

Scarborough Art Gallery

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

County of Culture Events

Start Date

End Date

Jack and the Beanstalk - Magical Family Pantomime
Harrogate - Heart

Jack and the Beanstalk - Magical Family Pantomime…

23 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…

Andy Fairweather Low
Skipton - Dales

Andy Fairweather Low - Skipton Town Hall

19 Feb 27

Sweet soulful music from a remarkable band with a remarkable front…

Roy ‘Chubby’ Brown
Northallerton - Heart

Roy ‘Chubby’ Brown - The Forum

18 Dec 26

After 50+ years in entertainment/comedy, Roy Chubby Brown is still going…

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A woman looks out over the Yorkshire Dales