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

Culture Stories & Inspiration

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

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,…

CAG Newby Hall 035
Boroughbridge - Heart

Newby Hall & Gardens

A perfect destination for quality time together. Explore the beautiful…

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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…

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Harrogate - Heart

Artists' Cottages

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

Scarborough Art Gallery 2 388160265
Scarborough - Coast

Scarborough Art Gallery

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

CAG Harrogate BC 016 Mercer sitting
Harrogate - Heart

Mercer Art Gallery

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

Culture Events

Start Date

End Date

Selby Lights
Selby - Heart

Selby Light at Selby Abbey

26 Feb - 28 Feb 26

A large-scale display featuring the stories of Selby, lighting up the…

Oh What A Night
Skipton - Dales

Oh What A Night - Skipton Town Hall

20 Nov 27

Oh What a Night! takes you back in time on a musical journey through the…

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…

The Counterfeit Seventies
Northallerton - Heart

The Counterfeit Seventies - The Forum

20 Mar 27

Counterfeit Group LtdHaving toured extensively with The Counterfeit…

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A woman looks out over the Yorkshire Dales