Issuu

Hello North Acomb!

Welcome back to Keep It Handy: North Acomb. Following the launch of our first expanded edition, we’re delighted to bring you another snapshot of what’s happening across the area.

Our events section returns with updated listings, highlighting a range of upcoming things to do in and around the community. You’ll also find a fascinating local history feature exploring the stories of Holgate Windmill and The Knavesmire, along with a puzzles page packed with sudoku and word searches to enjoy.

For book lovers, we’ve included a selection of reviews and recommendations from Ben Robinson to inspire your next read. Whether you’re looking for something light and uplifting, a fascinating true story or a gripping page-turner, our mix of contemporary

favourites and classic titles offers something to suit every taste.

There’s also a walking route exploring the countryside on York’s southern fringes, beginning at Micklegate Bar and easily divided into three shorter walks if you prefer a more leisurely outing.

We’ve included a Food & Drink Guide too, so whether you’re looking to be wined and dined in style or enjoy a family-friendly meal out, we’ve picked out something for everyone.

As always, Keep It Handy is designed to be a useful guide you can return to time and again, whether you’re searching for things to do or something new to discover. We hope you enjoy this latest edition and find it useful in the weeks ahead.

Inside this issue...

Got a great photo of your local area?

We’re looking for photos of Acomb to showcase in the magazine. Landmarks, nature, local life - we’d love to feature your photos in a future issue.

Send your images to: sophie@yourlocallink.co.uk

And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves growing on the trees, just as things grow in fast movies, I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer.

F . Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby

What’s On

North Acomb & Surrounding Area

1 JULY - 31 AUGUST

SUTTON PARK OPEN GARDENS, Sutton Park, YO61 1DP. Marvel at the stunning gardens of Sutton Park and get inspiration for your own outdoor spaces. Guided house tours will also be running from 1 August. Call 01347 810249 or email suttonpark@statelyhome.co.uk to book or find out more.

4 JULY

POPPLETON COMMUNITY RAILWAY

NURSERY OPEN DAY, Poppleton Community Railway Nursery, YO26 6QA. 10.00am-4.00pm. Enjoy a wide range of plants (with Buy-One-Get-One-Free on bedding plants), plus homemade refreshments, books, bric-a-brac and craft stalls. The nursery’s narrowgauge railway will also be on display to see. Visit poppletonrailwaynursery.co.uk.

3-5 JULY

ACOMBFEST 2026, Various times and locations. See Acomb transformed with a jam-packed weekend programme of live music, mural painting, art markets, workshops and activities, food & drink offers, events and more! Visit www.acombfest.co.uk to see the full programme and find out more.

11 JULY

IBIZA WHITE PARTY, The Waterfront Cafe, YO19 4RW. Enjoy an evening of music, entertainment and an Ibiza-inspired atmosphere featuring DJ Pete Oh! Expect live saxophone performances, delicious tapas and plenty of summer vibes. Find out more by visiting waterfront-cafe.co.uk/events/ibiza-white-party.

17 JULY

CHARLOTTE TILBURY MAKE-UP MASTERCLASS AFTERNOON TEA, Middletons Hotel, YO1 6DS. 12.30pm-3.30pm.

Pick up pro tips, techniques, and tricks of the trade at this makeup masterclass, alongside an indulgent afternoon tea. Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/charlotte-tilbury-make-up-masterclassafternoon-tea-tickets-1983521527283 for tickets and information.

17 JULY

SUMMERTIME SPECIAL, Bluebird Bakery, YO24 4HD. A free, relaxed DJ night with an open-deck format and a “Summertime Special” theme. Bring your own tracks or sign up for a 30-minute slot to play, with support available for those new to DJing. A fun, inclusive evening of music and community vibes. Find out more at bluebirdbakery.co.uk/rise.

17-18 JULY

YORK STAMP & COIN FAIR, York Racecourse, YO23 1EX. Attracting leading stamp, postal history, coin, banknote and medal dealers from around the world, this event invites visitors to browse, buy, sell or simply learn more about these fascinating collectibles. Find out more at stampshows.net/york-stamp-coin-fair.

18 JULY

YORK ACORN SUMMER FAIR, Acorn Rugby Club, YO24 2NW. Run in partnership with Menfulness, this year’s Acorn Summer Fair will feature food stands, funfair stalls, live music, an open bar, plus York’s only 160ft charity bungee jump! Follow Acorn Rugby Club on Facebook to find out more.

23 JULY

LACHLAN BRYAN & THE WILDES, Bluebird Bakery, YO24 4HD. Lachlan Bryan returns to the UK with his band The Wildes, for a night of unforgettable songs, storytelling and the kind of live performance that’ll turn first-time listeners into lifelong fans. Find out more at bluebirdbakery.co.uk/rise.

24-25 JULY

MUSIC SHOWCASE WEEKEND, York Racecourse, YO23 1EX. A two-day celebration of racing and live music, featuring Craig David on Friday evening after racing and Tom Grennan on Saturday. A great day out for all, combining topclass sport and live entertainment. Visit www. yorkracecourse.co.uk.

26 JULY

STORY OF: SUNDAY LIME, Homestead Park, YO30 6WP. A relaxed social space for people and families to come together, share food and snacks, enjoy games, plant swaps, or simply spend time together with no agenda. A welcoming, accessible space designed for connection and community. Find out more at www.homesteadpark.org.uk/events.

1 AUGUST

MUSIC NIGHT WITH KARL MULLEN, The Waterfront Café, YO19 4RW. Enjoy an evening of live piano from Karl Mullen in The Waterfront at York Marina. Table reservations available between 5.30pm and 7.45pm, ideal for pairing great food with relaxing live music. Visit waterfront-cafe.co.uk.

2 AUGUST

ST LEONARD’S HOSPICE 10K, The Knavesmire. Lace up and run for a great cause supporting the vital work of St Leonard’s Hospice. With a fast, flat route starting and finishing on Knavesmire Road, this popular race is ideal for seasoned runners chasing a PB and first-timers taking on their first 10K. Find out more at stleonardshospice.org.uk/how-can-youhelp-us/events.

York Racecourse

What’s On

North Acomb & Surrounding Area

8 AUGUST

LITERARY ESCAPE FESTIVAL, Priory Street Centre, YO1 6ET. This fantastic event brings together authors, readers, writers and makers for a day of literary celebration. Meet the authors, get books signed, browse a variety of unique independent stalls and handcrafted goods, and chat with fellow book enthusiasts. www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/literary-escape-festivalyork-tickets-1978216933099.

15 AUGUST

POPPLETON VILLAGE SHOW, YO26 6DD. A traditional village show featuring displays of fruit, flowers, vegetables, crafts, floral art and baking. Enjoy stalls, a vintage vehicle display, brass band music and a fun dog show. A great day out for all ages to enjoy. Visit www.poppleton villageshow.uk to find out more.

30 AUGUST

YORK UNLEASHED COMIC-CON, York Racecourse, YO23 1EX. A fun-filled day for fans of comics, cosplay, gaming and pop culture. Expect artists, creators, traders, collectibles, gaming zones and family-friendly activities in a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. For more details, check www.unleashedtickets.co.uk/yorkunleashed-comic-con.

3 SEPTEMBER

ROBERT HARRIS, Tempest Anderson Hall, YO1 7FR. Meet bestselling author Robert Harris as he discusses his latest novel, Agrippa. Hear about the inspiration behind this gripping tale of power, friendship and ambition in Ancient Rome, and gain fascinating insights into his writing process, research and storytelling. Visit www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/robert-harris-at-tempestanderson-hall-waterstones- tickets-19877 73634450 for tickets.

11-12 SEPTEMBER

YORK NATIONAL BOOK FAIR, York Racecourse, YO23 1EX. A must-visit event for book lovers and collectors, bringing together a huge range of dealers from across the UK and beyond. With thousands of books, it’s a welcoming fair for all ages and a great starting point for new collectors, as well as seasoned enthusiasts. Find out more at yorkbookfair.com.

12 SEPTEMBER

POPPLETON COMMUNITY RAILWAY NURSERY HERITAGE OPEN DAY, YO26 6QA. Explore this unique railway nursery and celebrate its fascinating history. Browse plants, books, bric-a-brac and handmade crafts, enjoy homemade cakes and refreshments. Visit poppletonrailwaynursery.co.uk to find out more.

24 SEPTEMBER

AN EVENING WITH NICK BAILEY, Askham Bryan College, YO23 3FR. ABC Gardening Club welcomes BBC Gardeners’ World presenter Nick Bailey. In this entertaining autobiographical talk, Nick will share stories from his gardening life and career across four continents. Followed by a book sale and signing. Find out more at abcgardeningclub.org.uk.

EVERY THURSDAY

MUSIC THURSDAYS AT AL VOLO, Rufforth Airfield, YO23 3QA. Every week you can enjoy authentic Italian food alongside Al Volo’s incredible live music events featuring jazz, motown and more. Find out more at alvolorufforth.co.uk/events.

WEDNESDAYS TO THURSDAYS

COUNTESS OF YORK, National Railway Museum, YO26 4XJ. Various times. Enjoy a delicious, traditional afternoon tea aboard the Countess of York, an iconic dining carriage set within the museum’s Station Hall. Visit www. opentable.co.uk/countess-of-york-nationalrailway-museum to make a booking.

OPEN EVERY SUNDAY

WIGGINTON CAR BOOT, Home Farm, Wigginton, York, YO32 2RD. 6.30am-1.00pm. This giant car boot is held every week, with general admission at just £1 per car. Get yourself down early to scoop up some bargains! Call 01904 768463 or 07964 027362 for further details.

EVERY FOURTH SUNDAY

CONNECT SERVICE, Holy Redeemer Acomb, YO26 6AB. 3.00pm-4.15pm. This inclusive group is aimed at supporting children with additional needs. All families are welcome to mingle in this relaxed and friendly environment, learn about God, and enjoy a range of activities. Find out more at dioceseofyork.org.uk/connectservice.

Looking for more local events in your area?

Discover what’s on near you at: yourlocallink.co.uk

Countess of York Afternoon Tea

Holgate Windmill

Holgate Windmill is now the only fully working windmill left in Yorkshire and has been run by the dedicated volunteers of the Holgate Windmill Preservation Society since 2001.

In 1768, a man called George Waud from Barlow, near Selby, bought the land where the mill now stands and began construction. By 1770, the mill was operational, and George lived there with his family in Mill House.

The location was ideal, providing a direct route for grain from local farms and easy transportation into York. You can still see the original horse-and-cart track today, now a narrow snicket leading from Acomb Road.

There had previously been a couple of windmills in Acomb, one in the area now known as Millfield and another near Wilton Rise. However, both had disappeared by the time Holgate Windmill was built.

George Waud, followed by his son and grandson, ran the mill until 1851, when it was sold to John Musham.

Although Musham was local to the area, he was not a miller, so the mill

Your LOCAL Directory

Exploring the past, one place at a time

was operated on his behalf by John Thackway.

In 1855, the mill was sold again to Joseph Peart, a wealthy York businessman who owned several mills in and around the city.

Peart refurbished the mill, most likely installing the steam engine that remains there, and raised the building to the height seen today.

Following Peart’s death, the Gutch family acquired the mill in 1877. A former employee of Peart’s, Joseph Chapman, continued to operate the mill.

Joseph’s children were born and raised at the mill, and when he retired to Scarborough, his son Charles took over.

Sadly, in 1901, Charles died at a young age as a result of lung damage caused by years of breathing in flour dust.

In later years, the mill also ground corn, initially using wind power and then electric motors from the 1930s, until production finally ceased in 1933.

Holgate Windmill has had several owners throughout its history and is now cared for by the Holgate Windmill Preservation Society. To find out more, visit www. holgatewindmill.org.

The Knavesmire

As the name suggests, the Knavesmire was a mire which was prone to flooding and becoming water-logged in heavy rain. Because of this, it was a place where freemen could graze their cattle, and the area was named Mickelgate Stray.

The Knavesmire was also the site of the gallows, where many of York’s condemned criminals were hanged, often in front of huge crowds who gathered to soak up the spectacle.

The most famous person to be executed was the highwayman Dick Turpin in 1739.

However, following the construction of the new gallows at York Castle, named ‘The New Drop’, the final execution at the Knavesmire took place in 1801.

In terms of racing, it wasn’t until 1731 that horse racing took off at the Knavesmire. Although York had enjoyed a long and fruitful relationship with the sport since Roman times, it was Clifton Ings that had played host to the races, and even occasionally the frozen River Ouse. But as the site in Clifton was prone to flooding too, work was carried out on the Knavesmire to make it flatter.

In 1755 the famous architect John Carr was commissioned to build a grandstand for the wealthier residents of York.

That original building has been enlarged and built upon many times over the years to result in the huge complex that makes up the modern York Racecourse.

Holgate Windmill, Nilfanion, commons.wikimedia.org

Picture of Holgate Windmill by Scott Turner Photography Copyright John M and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence,

•

PUZZLES & Brainteasers

PUZZLES

Challenge yourself with this month’s puzzles and brainteasers.

Fancy a quick brain break? Dive into these wordsearches and sudokus and see how you get on.

WORD SEARCH

SUDOKU SUDOKU

BEN’S BOOKS

The Summer I Turned Pretty

- Jenny Han

We all remember the first time we fell in love, right? This book takes you back there, into the midst of a teenage love affair and all its complications. This young adult novel is perfect for all ages to get you into that summer mood we are all yearning for.

Beatrix Potter: A Life in Nature

- Linda Lear

So many of us grew up reading the stories Beatrix Potter wrote, however what was the life of one of Britain’s most beloved children’s writers like? This book will take you through the story of her life, retelling her love for nature and the Lake District. This is one of my favourite recent reads, inspiring me to get outdoors into the wild British countryside which so many of us adore.

The Tent, The Bucket and Me

- Emma Kennedy

Picture the scene… it is a warm summer in the mid 1970s, your family decides to go camping, something you have always wanted to do. Only when you finally arrive, it is a disaster. Kennedy’s hilarious and heart-warming novel about adventures with her grandma makes for an excellent read to get you in the mood for travelling this summer!

This Is Going to Hurt

- Adam Kay

If you want something to tug on those heartstrings, then this is the book for you. This is a collection of Kay’s diary entries from his medical training between 2004 to 2010. Full of tales that will have you feeling all kinds of emotions, this book is one to keep you on the edge of your seat for the entire read.

Looking for inspiration for your next great read? Ben shares honest reviews and recommendations.

Journey to the Center of the Earth

- Jules Verne

‘Journey to the Center of the Earth’ is easily one of the most famous adventure novels written. When a professor and his nephew decide to descend into an Icelandic volcano, what will they find? Can they really find their way to the centre of the earth, and what mysteries and magic await them when they get there? I really recommend the 2008 movie of this novel too, once you have read the book, if you’re wanting to dive deeper into the world of Jules Verne.

I Haven’t Been Entirely Honest With You

- Miranda Hart

Miranda is a household name in the UK, and her new memoir about the last few years of her life out of the public eye is the perfect read if you want to laugh out loud. Hart’s signature comedy runs through the entire book. Even whilst sharing her recent struggles with chronic illness she manages to bring her most personal piece of work to date.

Women of Steel

- Michelle Rawlins

I picked up Women of Steel in a local book shop as I was interested in reading about the real lives it followed from WW2 in Sheffield. It follows the women of the steel factories who drove the war effort forward - their lives in the factories, at home, and around the city of Sheffield are all detailed in this incredible account of their lives. From the Sheffield Blitz to the long days of the factories, each woman who has their story told in this book contributed to a legacy which has been forgotten over the years. Sheffield’s Women of Steel are truly a remarkable group of people who you now have the chance to get to know.

WRITTEN BY

BEN ROBINSON

LOCAL Walking Routes

WALKING WITH THE WANDERER

WALKS FROM THE BAR WALLS – A MICKLEGATE BAR CIRCULAR

This walk explores the underappreciated countryside of York’s southern fringes. The walk can be divided into three shorter walks linking Direction Points 6 and 10, and 5 and 11. The full walk is long but almost entirely flat with lots of tarmac surfaces. There are some stiles and kissing gates south of Bishopthorpe, and some riverside sections may be impassable during flooding. The walk starts from Micklegate Bar, with the closest car park being Nunnery Lane. Buses stop nearby at the station or Blossom Street.

1. Inside the walls facing Micklegate Bar ascend the steps left. Walk along the wall until it ends at Baile Hill descending steps to the road.

2. Cross pedestrian traffic lights and turn right. In 20 metres go left down an alley. Continue ahead (Cherry St.). At the T junction turn left (Vine St.). After 100 metres (opposite Board St.) go right (Lovell St.). In 30 metres, go left through gates into Rowntree Park. Walk ahead then go left alongside lake. At its end, take the curving path ahead turning left in 50 metres to exit the park through a gateway.

3. Walk over grass alongside backs of gardens right to reach the tarmac riverside path. Soon go sharp right with this away from the river (Trans Pennine Trail sign) to reach a road.

4. Turn left, then cross at traffic island following Trans Pennine Trail on a fenced path. Stay with tarmac trail, going left then heading down a slope with the racecourse right. Arriving at a T junction, go left to a road (right for a shorter walk resuming at Direction Point 11).

5. Turn right on the roadside pavement crossing the A64 on the bridge. Continue, passing Bishopthorpe Palace.

6. Where the palace grounds end, turn left (Chantry Lane). For refreshment opportunities/ shorter walk go right resuming at Direction Point 10. Where lane ends take path left of ruins to the river. Continue to reach riverside track at Bosun’s restaurant.

7. The walk now continues beside the river to Acaster Malbis. Stay on the riverside track with boat moorings left. Where this ends at a gate continue on a narrow path. At a divide go left passing under the bridge. After a stile, keep on to a further stile. Over this, follow track to a road at which turn left.

8. At The Ship Inn, take signed footpath left (gravel drive). This soon becomes a narrow path with the river left before swinging hard right between gardens. At road turn right keeping ahead at the next junction (Mill Lane). At next road junction turn right. Ignore two

Disclaimer:

signed footpaths to follow the road through a sharp left bend. 15 metres beyond another left bend, take the signed footpath right.

9. Follow this, initially between fences then crossing a footbridge. After this, keep to field edges with a fence, then hedge, right. Continue to a metal kissing gate. Through this stay right of a hedge to another kissing gate. Here, head slightly left to the hedge corner ahead, then keep right to emerge on the cycle track.

10. Turn left. Continue under a bridge then follow Trans Pennine signposts through a residential street. Keep going until the model of the sun and A64 bridge. Immediately after this turn right still on the main Trans Pennine Trail. Stay with the trail passing under a bridge beside the road, then go right on the tarmac between fields.

11. Nearing racecourse fencing ahead, take an earth path left into trees quickly emerging alongside course to the right (if this path is missed simply continue on tarmac until adjacent to racecourse fence then turn left alongside it). Continue on a stoned path beside the racecourse. Where this ends keep by the course over grass with houses left. Stay ahead through a parking area following a rough track. Where the track stops take the grassy path slightly left towards trees. Keep right at a divide along slope bottom. Ignore crossing paths eventually approaching a road to the left. At diagonal cross path go right heading towards a building across the tree-lined road.

12. Go over the road and take the signed cycle track. Nearing its end go up steps right, crossing the road and taking the footpath into Scarcroft Allotments. Continue ahead ignoring all side paths to a road/pedestrian crossing. Go over and take the tarmac path between trees. At school wall corner, go slightly left on a curving path. Cross the road ahead and walk through a gravelled area opposite to find a wall gap. Head up the street. At its end turn right to return to Micklegate Bar.

Walks are undertaken at your own risk. Due care must be taken in following the walk, particularly after poor weather. Whilst every care is taken in compiling the description, changes may have occurred since compilation. Neither the walk author nor Your Local Link can accept any responsibility for errors or omissions.

Where to eat

The Learning Larder

Discover unique experiences with Michelinstarred chef Heléne Schoeman. Inspired by French cuisine and her South African heritage, Heléne offers Chef's Table dining experiences, cookery demonstrations and classes, and private chef services. Using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, guests can watch, learn, share great food and enjoy exceptional hospitality.

W: thelearninglarder.co.uk

E: hello@thelearninglarder.co.uk

Middle East? … Or Middle Feast! This restaurant and takeaway transports the senses with authentic Lebanese cuisine.

Enjoy expertly crafted dishes made using only the finest ingredients, alongside warm service and bold flavours. Whether dining in or taking away, expect a delicious feast that will leave you wanting to return again and again.

T: 01904 339072

L: 13 Lendal, York, YO1 8AQ

Thai Season brings authentic Thai flavours to the heart of York. Enjoy freshly cooked, made-to-order Thai street food at the Shambles Market Food Court, or relax and dine in at the popular Bishy Road restaurant. Experience the best of both worlds with delicious food on the go, or a relaxed dining experience, all packed with incredible spices and genuine Thai taste.

T: 01904 463248

L: Hullroad, Wilberfoss, YO41 5PF

Savour the true, authentic flavours of Marrakesh right here in the heart of York. Whether you’re sharing a feast with friends, enjoying a relaxed meal with family, celebrating a special occasion, or treating someone special to a romantic evening for two, experience the vibrant atmosphere, warm hospitality and unforgettable tastes that bring a touch of Morocco to the city.

T: 01904 463318

L: 8 Low Ousegate, YO1 9QU

Stuck for somewhere to eat? Discover our handpicked York favourites.

A welcoming café and bar in the heart of Acomb, serving breakfast, lunch, great coffee, sharing boards, pizza, quality wines and handcrafted cocktails throughout the day. With a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to meet friends, enjoy a leisurely meal, unwind with a drink, and savour good food in good company.

T: 01904 341074

L: 50A York Road, Acomb

Roccos is a family-run Italian takeaway serving freshly prepared Italian cuisine. From stone-baked pizzas and delicious pasta dishes to chicken breasts served with a range of sauces, plus sides and fresh salads, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Open Wednesday to Sunday, 5pm–10pm, perfect for relaxed evenings, family meals and takeaway nights at home.

T: 01904 864235

L: 109 Poppleton Road, YO26 4UN

Pastelle is one of York’s hidden gem restaurants, best known for its unique blind supper clubs, where seasonal menus are revealed on the night. Expect vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired dishes full of flavour, alongside bespoke catering for weddings, private events and exclusive restaurant hire. A truly special dining experience in the heart of the city.

W: www.pastellekitchen.co.uk

I: @pastelle.events

Family-run Sardinian restaurant serving authentic Italian cuisine made with highquality ingredients, bold flavours and a passion for traditional cooking. Enjoy a warm welcome whether you’re dining in, ordering a takeaway, or pre-ordering one of their special dishes. A true taste of Sardinia in the heart of York.

T: 07917 240024

L: Acomb Wood Drive, Woodthorpe, YO24 3XN

Sojo Cafe & Bar

Thai Season by Pritsana

The Marrakesh

Roccos

Middle Feast

Pastelle

Buongiorno Bistro