Hello Wetherby!
Welcome back to Keep It Handy: Wetherby. We’re delighted to bring you another snapshot of what’s happening across the area.
Our events section returns with updated listings, highlighting a wide range of upcoming things to do in and around the community. Along with a page of theatre shows around York and in Leeds.
For book lovers, we’ve included a selection of reviews and recommendations from Ben Robinson to inspire your next read.
We’ve also put the spotlight on Martin House Children’s Hospice, celebrating the incredible impact of its work and the difference it makes to families across the region.
Alongside this, we’ve highlighted a selection of hidden gem villages that are well worth exploring.
If you fancy getting outdoors, we’ve included a walking route exploring the western side of Wetherby, taking in the picturesque villages of Linton and Sicklinghall. You’ll also find a puzzles page packed with sudoku and word searches to enjoy.
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 somewhere new to discover. We hope you enjoy this latest edition and find it useful in the weeks ahead.
Inside this issue...
Page 10
12
14
What’s On
Wetherby & Surrounding
Area
8–14 JULY
BOSTON SPA SCARECROW TRAIL, across Boston Spa, Thorp Arch and Clifford. This year’s “Builder’s Choice” theme invites creative scarecrows of all kinds, with prizes awarded by public vote. Follow the trail, spot the characters and enjoy a fun, community event for all ages throughout the week. www. bostonspavillagehall.co.uk/scarecrowsfor-2026.
12 JULY
YORK COMEDY FESTIVAL 2026, Museum Gardens, YO1 7FR. From 2.30pm. This year’s annual comedy festival features a top-tier lineup of the UK’s finest comedians, including Russell Howard, Ross Noble, Russell Kane, Suzi Ruffell, Joanna McNally, and more! www.futuresound.seetickets.com/event.
14-17 JULY
THE GREAT YORKSHIRE SHOW, Harrogate, HG2 8NZ. Returning for its 167th year, bringing together the very best of British farming, food and countryside life. Visitors can enjoy world-class livestock competitions, agricultural displays, shopping, food and drink, and family entertainment across four actionpacked days. greatyorkshireshow.co.uk.
15 JULY & 5 AUGUST
WEDDING SHOWCASE AT WOOD HALL, Wood Hall Hotel & Spa, LS22 4JA. Discover everything Wood Hall has to offer at one of its inspiring showcase events. Explore the elegant country house and beautifully dressed event spaces, take in the stunning views across the Wharfe Valley, and meet the venue's experienced team along with a selection of trusted local suppliers. www. handpickedhotels.co.uk/wood-hall/weddings/ showcase-events.
18 JULY
BACK TO THE 80S, The Engine Shed, LS22 7SU. Dance the night away to all the biggest hits of the decade, enjoy classic tunes from a live DJ and relive one of music's most iconic eras. Fancy dress is encouraged, so dig out
your leg warmers, school tie or neon outfit and get ready for an evening of retro entertainment. www.engineshedwetherby.co.uk/events.php.
18 JULY – 6 SEPTEMBER
STOCKELD SUMMER, Stockeld Park, LS22 4AN. Enjoy a summer packed with festival fun as this family-friendly attraction comes alive with daily live entertainment and outdoor adventures. Ticket are on sale soon! stockeldpark.co.uk/activities/season/thesummer-adventure.
30 JULY
BOWCLIFFE & BEAULIEU: MASTERS OF MOTORING, Bowcliffe Hall, LS23 6LP. A celebration of classic and vintage vehicles hosted in partnership with the National Motor Museum. Set within the stunning grounds of Bowcliffe Hall, the event features exceptional cars, expert talks, live music and quality food throughout the day. www.bowcliffehall.co.uk/ event/thursday-30th-july-2026-bowcliffebeaulieu-masters-of-motoring-2026.
1 AUGUST
BRUNSWICK ORGANIC FOOD
FESTIVAL, Brunswick Organic Nursery, YO23 2RF. Find organic vegetables, herbs and fruit from expert growers, plus gorgeous gifts, bakes, drinks and food tastings from a wide range of local businesses and stallholders.Enjoy workshops, demonstrations, children’s games and activities, as well as relaxing live music. Visit www.brunswickyork.org.uk or call 01904 701869 to find out more.
1-16 AUGUST
YORK RIVER ART MARKET, Dame Judi Dench Walk, YO26. 10.00am-5.30pm. Browse and buy an extensive range of art across the first three weekends of August, with more than 30 different local artists displaying their work on each day. Follow York River Art Market on Instagram or Facebook to find out more.
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. stleonardshospice.org.uk/how-can-you-helpus/events.
3-5 AUGUST
STILLINGFLEET LODGE GARDEN WALK, Stillingfleet Lodge Garden & Nurseries, YO19 6HP. 2.00pm-3.00pm. Get top tips on the best plants to grow for beautiful borders throughout the year, and learn how you can make your garden more wildlife-friendly! www. stillingfleetlodgenurseries.co.uk/event/ garden-walk-in-august.
4 AUGUST
MARTIN LATHAM - THE BOOKSELLER’S TALE, Topping & Company, YO1 7DT. 7.30pm. Catch Martin Latham discussing his love affair with books, uncovering the curious history of book obsession, and exploring comfort reads. www. toppingbooks.co.uk/events/york/martin-lathambooksellers-tale.
The Great Yorkshire Show
What’s On
Wetherby & Surrounding
5 AUGUST
MAKING WAVES: THE MAGIC OF MATERIALS, York Art Gallery, YO1 7EW. 12.00pm-12.30pm. An insightful talk exploring the materials of Japanese printmaking, from traditional inks and woods for carving to the ‘water magic’ of washi. www.yorkmuseumstrust. org.uk/whats-on/events/making-waves-themagic-of-materials-with-professor-helen-smith/.
6 AUGUST
LET’S DANCE WITH LEE LAMBERTBROOKS, The Engine Shed, LS22 7SU. Get your dancing shoes ready for an afternoon of music, memories and fun, featuring a packed soundtrack of hits from the 1950s through to the 1990s. With a lively atmosphere and refreshments available from the bar. w-ise. org.uk/events/lets-dance-with-lee-lambertbrooks-2.
6-10 AUGUST
YORK GEORGIAN FESTIVAL, Various times and citywide locations. York Mansion House’s fourth annual York Georgian Festival offers a jam-packed programme of events, including talks, tours, performances and workshops, plus the York Georgian Ball at the Grand Assembly Rooms! www.mansionhouse york.com/york-georgian-festival.
8 AUGUST
RSPCA SUMMER FAIR, Homestead Park, YO30 6WP. 10.30am-3.00pm. The summer dog show provides a fun day out for the whole family, with food, prizes, games and a raffle. Visit www.rspca-yorkhome.org.uk/get-involved/ events/summer-fair-2026/ for details.
Area
8 AUGUST
DIVAS, DISCO & ICONS, Wetherby Town Hall, LS22 6NE. Starring acclaimed West End and international vocalist Sandy Smith, this high-energy theatre show celebrates the legendary voices of popular music, featuring iconic hits made famous by artists including Whitney Houston, Tina Turner, Cher and Shirley Bassey. wetherbytowncouncil.gov.uk.
9 AUGUST
YORK CITY FC LEGENDS VS LEEDS
UTD FC LEGENDS, Tadcaster Albion AFC, LS24 9AY. 12.30pm-6.00pm. See legends of York City FC and Leeds United FC battle it out on the pitch, and raise money for a good cause. www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/york-city-fc-legends-vsleeds-utd-fc-legends-tickets-1989894939330.
9 AUGUST
GUIDED BATTLEFIELD WALK OF TOWTON, Old London Road, LS24. 10.30am2.00pm. Explore the Towton battlefield and view the key locations of the battle in this illuminating guided tour. www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/guidedbattlefield-walk-of-towton-tickets-190455036 4409.
21 AUGUST
DIRTY DANCING OUTDOOR CINEMA, Harewood House, LS17 9LG. Enjoy a magical outdoor cinema experience at Harewood House with a screening of the beloved classic Dirty Dancing. Pack a picnic, bring a blanket or camping chair, and settle in under the stars for an unforgettable evening of romance, music and iconic dance scenes. www.eventbrite.co. uk/e/dirty-dancing-outdoor-cinema-experienceat-harewood-house-leeds-tickets-19837750 68632.
21 AUGUST
THE PUDDING CLUB, The Bridge Hotel & Spa, LS22 5HS. Dessert lovers won't want to miss this special visit from the famous Pudding Club. Enjoy a fun-filled evening beginning with a glass of Buck’s Fizz, followed by a light main course before the much-anticipated Parade of Seven Traditional Puddings. Hosted by the Pudding Master, guests can sample each pudding before voting for their favourite of the night over coffee. thebridgewetherby.co.uk/ the-pudding-club-19-09.
29 AUGUST
SHERBURN IN ELMET BEER FEST, Eversley Park Centre, LS25 6BA. 4.00pm11.00pm. A beer-filled evening of brews, laughs, and 80s bangers, with music including punk, ska, and soul. Visit www.eventbrite.com/e/ sherburn-in-elmet-beer-fest-tickets-198581599 4095 for details.
UNTIL 4 SEPTEMBER
SUMMER OF PLAY AT BENINGBROUGH, Beningbrough Hall, Gallery & Gardens, YO30 1DD. Various times. Enjoy a packed programme of family-friendly outdoor events and activities, including activity trails around the gardens, tansy beetle days, and much more! www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ yorkshire/beningbrough/events.
York Georgian Festival
The Battle of Towton, Andy Farrington, commons.wikimedia.org
What’s On
Wetherby & Surrounding
Area
10 SEPTEMBER
WEDDING OPEN EVENING, The Engine Shed, LS22 7SU. Explore the beautifully presented event spaces, meet the team, discuss your ideas and gather inspiration for your special day. Whether you're newly engaged or finalising your plans, it's a great opportunity to see the venue in person. www.engineshed wetherby.co.uk/events.php.
10 SEPTEMBER – 8 OCTOBER
TEACUPS TO TREASURES, Harewood House, LS17 9LG. Go behind the scenes at Harewood House and discover what it takes to care for one of Yorkshire's finest historic homes and its treasured collections. Led by the expert collections care team, this exclusive tour offers a rare opportunity to step beyond the ropes and explore areas not normally open to the public. harewood.org/events/teacups-to-treasurescollections-care-tour.
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. yorkbookfair.com.
12 SEPTEMBER
FRANK SINATRA TRIBUTE NIGHT,
The Bridge Hotel & Spa, LS22 5HS. Step back into the golden age of swing at this Frank Sinatra Tribute Night. Enjoy an unforgettable performance from acclaimed vocalist Phil Fryer as he brings the timeless songs to life,
with all the style and charisma of the legendary entertainer. The evening includes a welcome drink and a sumptuous four-course meal. thebridgewetherby.co.uk/frank-sinatratribute-night.
14 OCTOBER
THE OPENING MEETING SUPPORTING SPINAL RESEARCH, Wetherby Racecourse, LS22 5EJ. Support a vital cause while enjoying an exciting day at the races. This long-running fundraising event combines live racing with excellent hospitality, including a champagne reception, three-course meal, auctions, raffles and inspirational guest speakers. www.wetherbyracing.co.uk/events.
UNTIL 30 SEPTEMBER
RACE ACROSS THE WORLD: THE EXPERIENCE IN YORK, Various times, citywide locations. Inspired by the awardwinning BBC TV show, this immersive live experience offers Yorkies the chance to embark on an adventurous race across the city, solving riddles, challenges, and physical puzzles along the way! www.raceacrosstheworldexperience. com/york.
UNTIL END OF SEPTEMBER
THE SECRET FOREST, Hazlewood Castle, LS24 9NJ. Explore a magical woodland trail where adventure awaits around every corner. Discover hidden treasures, wander through the Fairy and Bogglin Villages and let young imaginations run wild. A great day out in nature for all the family. www.thesecretforest.co.uk.
EVERY MONDAY
QUIZ NIGHT AT THE WINDMILL INN, Linton, LS22 4HT. Put your knowledge to the test at this weekly quiz night, running every Monday from 7:30pm. The evening offers plenty of fun and a great atmosphere with the chance to win cash prizes! A great night out for all quiz lovers. www.facebook.com/ WindmillLinton.
EVERYDAY
HETCHELL WOOD NATURE RESERVE, Milner Lane, LS23 6NA. Discover a peaceful ancient woodland filled with winding paths, rocky crags, hidden pools and beautiful valley views. Home to lots of wildlife and seasonal wildflowers, Hetchell Wood offers a wonderful year-round escape for walkers, families and nature lovers alike. www.ywt.org.uk/naturereserves/hetchell-wood-nature-reserve.
MONDAYS TO SATURDAYS
NEW TREASURES GALLERY, The Bar Convent, YO24 1AQ. 10am-4pm. Following the discovery of a rare scroll in the Bar Convent’s archive, the museum is sharing more of its hidden history. See their treasures with your own eyes, including an illuminated medieval scroll known as the Arma Christi, of which there are only ten other copies to be found anywhere in the world! www.barconvent.co.uk.
MONDAYS TO SATURDAYS
DISTILLERY TOUR & GIN TASTING, Hooting Owl Distillery & Lounge Bar, YO1 6HZ. Various times. Familiarise yourself with the Hooting Distillery, see the Master Distiller at work, and taste a tipple or two along the way. www.hootingowl.co.uk/pages/york-distillerylounge-bar.
Looking for more local events in your area?
Discover what’s on near you at: yourlocallink.co.uk
New Treasures Gallery
Theatre
Wetherby & Surrounding Area
GRAND OPERA HOUSE
To book, call 0333 009 6690 or visit atgtickets.com.
16 JULY
GARY DELANEY: GARY ON LAUGHING
Catch the acclaimed stand-up comedian (as seen on Mock the Week and One Night Stand) in the flesh this month, performing his latest setdon’t bring the kids!
20 - 25 JULY
THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW
As seen by more than 35 million theatregoers so far, Richard O’Brien’s legendary rock’n’roll musical will be running in York for five nights, directed by Christopher Luscombe.
30 AUGUST
THE ROCKET MAN - A TRIBUTE TO SIR ELTON JOHN
A tribute to the much-loved star offering an amazing night of dazzling costumes, stunning vocals and a journey through Elton's life and music.
14 SEPTEMBER
JAY RAYNER: NIGHTS OUT IN THE KITCHEN
To mark his brand-new cookbook, Jay Rayner comes to York to answer serious cooking questions. Is a restaurant critic, renowned for his negative reviews, just a bit of a scumbag? What’s the best thing you can have on toast? What’s the secret to a great dinner party?
YORK THEATRE ROYAL
To book, call 01904 623568 or visit yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.
16 - 18 JULY
A BRIEF CASE OF CRAZY
Inspired by slapstick favourites including Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin, this award-winning romantic comedy from Skedaddle Theatre blends mime, puppetry, clowning and slick choreography.
17 JULY
TOMMY BANKS SPINNING PLATES: LIVE!
This illuminating stage show follows the inspirational success story of renowned North Yorkshire chef Tommy Banks, who famously opened the first Michelin Star restaurant in York.
18 JULY
DINOSAUR ADVENTURE LIVE: DANGER ON T-REX MOUNTAIN
An awe-inspiring interactive live stage show, which offers dinosaur buffs both young and old the chance to get up close and personal with some of the most incredible species to ever live on our planet.
24 AUGUST - 5 SEPTEMBER
MAIN STAGE SUMMER 2026: BACKSTAGE COURSE
A chance for young people aged 12-19 to explore their acting interests through the production of Wendy & Peter Pan on the main stage of the Theatre Royal.
18 – 19 SEPTEMBER
LONDON CITY BALLET: FIREBIRD
The award-winning London City Ballet returns with guest ballerina Alina Cojocaru to perform this gothic retelling of the FIREBIRD. The story of a young woman breaking free from the constraints of a controlling family.
YORK BARBICAN
Head to yorkbarbican.co.uk or call 01904 676332 to book.
26 JULY
ENGLAND’S STRONGEST MAN 2026
Presented by Official Strongman, this year’s England’s Strongest Man competition will see the nation’s toughest vie for the title - will last year’s champion, Paddy Haynes, defend his crown?
7 AUGUST
NEW YORK BRASS BAND & HYDE FAMILY JAM
Catch the homegrown New Orleans-inspired brass band bringing party energy and bass-filled vibes, with support from local heroes, Hyde Family Jam.
26 AUGUST
CBEEBIES HOUSE PARTY
A night out for the family, packed with and the Join CBeebies superstars for a day of sensational music, celebrating inclusivity and togetherness.
29 AUGUST
AARDMAN IN CONCERT
Celebrate 50 years of Aardman Studios with special screenings and orchestral accompaniment, featuring all of your favourite
characters from Wallace & Gromit and Morph to Shaun the Sheep.
JOSEPH ROWNTREE THEATRE
To book, email boxoffice@jrtheatre.co.uk or call 01904 501935.
17 - 18 JULY
CINDERELLA
Encompassing a range of diverse dance styles, this show offers a unique take on the classic ragsto-riches fairy tale. You shall go to the ball!
31 JULY
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM
The Four Forty Theatre team take their hand to A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Expect breakneck character changes, inventive staging, and an imaginative take on one of The Bard’s best!
1 AUGUST
WRONG JOVI
Widely considered one of the world’s leading Bon Jovi tribute acts, Wrong Jovi. Don’t be living on a prayer - get your tickets now!
22 AUGUST
21ST CENTURY ABBA
An amazing tribute to honour the legacy of ABBA and reflect on their impact on music. A memorable night for all the dancing queens!
LEEDS GRAND THEATRE
To book, visit leedsheritagetheatres.com/ leeds-grand-theatre/whats-on/.
9 JULY – 1 AUGUST
THE SOUND OF MUSIC
This classic musical will be brought to life by a 40-piece orchestra and an excellent cast, featuring all of the famous, heart-warming songs you know and love.
30 AUGUST
AN EVENING WITH SIR DAVID JASON
Expect a night full of laughter as Sir David Jason tells anecdotes and stories from his life, taking you on a journey from his early days to becoming one of Britain’s most beloved actors.
7 – 12 SEPTEMBER
OPERATION MINCEMEAT
This best-reviewed show in the West End is coming to Leeds this September. A hilarious and chaotic true story of a secret mission which won the war!
When responding to advertisers, please mention that you found them in this Keep it Handy Guide
BEN’S BOOKS
People We Meet on Vacation
– Emily Henry
Emily Henry is undoubtedly one of the great modern day romance novelists, and People We Meet on Vacation might just be her most charming work yet. Following the decade-long friendship between Poppy and Alex, things go awry one holiday and it's never quite the same. What becomes a book of missed chances and slow burning love will entertain you with every page. The novel effortlessly balances humour with an emotional depth that the author always captures. It has an emotional pull and warmth that defines a summer romance novel.
One Day – David Nicholls
Spanning two decades, One Day revisits Emma and Dexter on the same date each year, tracing the evolution of their relationship, from quiet everyday romance to burning desire. This book goes all in. The author has a gift for capturing the small, intimate moments that shape a life, making this far more than a simple love story. It was also adapted for screen, but the novel’s detail and emotional nuance are what sets it apart. It’s reflective and bittersweet in a way that every gut-wrenching romance novel should be. Perhaps not the lightest summer read, but certainly one of the most emotive.
The Love Hypothesis – Ali
Hazelwood
For something a little lighter but no less addictive, The Love Hypothesis delivers a feel-good romance with a modern twist. Set in the world of academia, it follows Olive, a PhD student who enters a fake relationship with the notoriously intimidating Adam... only for the lines between pretend and real to blur. Not only is this novel filled with wit, it also has an interesting focus on women in STEM, adding a more elevated feel to the book. This is exactly the kind of novel you can read in one sitting, simply because it is such a page turner.
Looking for inspiration for your next great read? Ben shares honest reviews and recommendations.
Mortal Monarchs: 1000 Years of Royal Deaths – Suzie Edge
‘Mortal Monarchs’ was one of the easiest and most interesting reads of the last year for me. From the earliest Kings and Queens to the most recent monarchs, this book details the gruesome, intriguing, and even mysterious deaths of those who have ruled the country. Each chapter is concise and the perfect length to keep the book moving, and you’re sure to learn something new in this comprehensive tale of our country.
In Defence of Witches – Mona Chollet
‘In Defence of Witches’ delves into the past, looking at the trials of witches in the 1500s, before bringing it right back to the present day. Have things really changed all that much, or are women still being put on trial? Chollet will take you on a winding road with this book, but it’s one that certainly feels important. If you want something to sink your teeth into and really get stuck into the depths of a topic, then this is the book for you!
A Rebel and a Traitor – Rory Carroll
This book uses diaries, letters, historical artefacts, archives, and even government files to paint the story of the groundbreaking manhunt for Sir Roger Casement. Casement was a British official who went rogue, becoming an Irish Nationalist at the turn of the 20th century, at a time when uprisings were becoming increasingly prevalent on Irish soil. Offering a genre-bending mix of thriller, crime, and reality all rolled into one, this book is one you will want to get your hands on!
BEN ROBINSON WRITTEN BY
Spotlight on local charity
Your LOCAL business directory
Hidden Villages
Martin House Children’s Hospice
We’re proud to feature Martin House Children’s Hospice as our chosen charity, which provides specialist palliative care and support for children and young people with life-shortening conditions and their families across West, North and East Yorkshire.
Martin House Children’s Hospice care is available free of charge, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and includes planned short breaks, symptom management, emergency care, end of life care, and bereavement support. The charity supports local families in need in their own homes, as well as at its hospice and in hospitals.
Every year, Martin House’s specialist clinical team cares for more than 550 children and young people with serious and complex health needs. The hospice includes dedicated children’s and teenage wings, alongside facilities such as a hydrotherapy pool, wellbeing wing and Education Centre, which help to provide holistic care and specialist training for healthcare professionals. It costs around £13 million a year to provide these services, with the majority funded through voluntary donations and local fundraising. Thanks to the generosity of local communities, supporters and businesses, Martin House is now preparing to enter an exciting new era…
In June, Martin House officially opened the doors to its transformed hospice following the completion of THE BUILD, a major £21.9m rebuild and refurbishment project. Within the new walls, children and young people with life-shortening conditions will experience the comfort and dignity they deserve, while families will build memories to last a lifetime. The redevelopment will allow the charity to enhance its services, deepen its impact, and safeguard the future of children’s palliative care across Yorkshire.
To everyone who has supported this transformation - whether through fundraising, donations, volunteering or simply showing patience and understanding during the building work – Martin House says thank you!
But this is only the beginning…
What truly brings Martin House to life is the care, expertise and compassion of its staff, alongside the incredible community of supporters who make this important work possible.
The charity needs Yorkshire with them more than ever, so it can continue to be there for children, young people and families when they’re most in need.
To find out more and how you can support the charity, visit www.martinhouse.org.uk.
to visit in North Yorkshire this Summer
If you’re thinking of getting away from it all this summer without straying too far from home, North Yorkshire is packed with charming villages to suit every taste.
Whether you’re after a casual day out with the family, a scenic drive in the countryside, a splashabout at the seaside, or an extended stay in the sticks, we’ve narrowed down some of the best villages worth a visit within easy reach of York. How many are you familiar with?
cobbled streets, picturesque seaside accommodation, and stark natural beauty ensures that it’s well worth your time if you’re traversing the coast this summer. And, as the busiest active fishing village in the county, it’s the perfect place for seafood lovers!
Hutton-le-Hole
Situated within the North York Moors National Park, around 7 miles from Pickering, this stunning village is steeped in history. Best recognised by the Hutton Beck moorland stream, Hutton-le-Hole offers local attractions including the Ryedale Folk Museum, which holds regular art exhibitions and is a great place to soak up the heritage of this particular pocket of God’s Own County.
Ravenscar
Favoured by fossil hunters due to its rocky coves and dramatic clifftops, Ravenscar is a lesser-known coastal village that’s well worth stopping off at this summer. While it’s often discovered on foot (or by bike) via the Cleveland Way and Cinder Track routes, Ravenscar remains somewhat of a hidden gem, nestled on the coast around 10 miles north of Scarborough.
Staithes
While this charming village may be one of the most famous in our list, its endearing mix of
Gunnerside
Situated in Swaledale, between Muker and Grinton, Gunnerside is best known for its Grade II listed bridge (which is thought to date from 1892 in its current form) and extensive foot tracks, which are beloved by hikers and ramblers. With strong historic ties to lead mining, Gunnerside remains a certified gem in the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Harome
Located just 24 miles north-east of York, Harome is a quaint and beautiful village that remains one of the best untouched examples of its kind in all of North Yorkshire. With just 109 households and a population of 261 circa 2011, Harome is home to a startling number of listed buildings for its small size, including The Hollies, St Saviour’s Church and The Vicarage.
Grassington
Best known as the filming location for All Creatures Great and Small, Grassington is a gem of the Yorkshire Dales. Situated in Wharfdale, close to Linton and Hebden, this charming village is a magnet for hikers, cultural explorers and tourists alike, and is famed for its Christmas Markets, shows, and annual 1940s weekend.
WALKING WITH THE WANDERER
WEST OF WETHERBY
Time: 33/4 hours
Distance: 8 miles
This walk explores the undulating countryside west of Wetherby. Apart from one steep climb, gradients are modest and most of the route is well surfaced, but the tracks at direction points 5 and 6 can be muddy. The recommended starting point is Wetherby bus station. If driving, the easiest parking place is the Crossley street car park (free) by which the walk passes. In terms of refreshments, there are numerous pubs and cafes in Wetherby, and there is a pub on route, the Scotts Arms in Sicklinghall. The attractive and mostly quiet countryside is a contrast to bustling Wetherby with its stone buildings clustered around the marketplace. There’s also the river Wharfe, a manicured golf course and the mansions of affluent Linton. Sicklinghall is an unspoilt stone village while Stockeld Park is a mix of stately grandeur and amusement park. The Harland Way cycle track provides a calm and easy route back to Wetherby.
1/ Starting from the bus station entrance, turn right towards the mini roundabout (if starting from Crossley St. Car Park, take the alley alongside Hartlaw LLP) leading to the Market Place and bus station). Turn right at the roundabout and cross the river. Immediately over the bridge, turn right (Lodge Lane). At the leisure centre car park go right to the riverside footpath. Follow this as it bends left with the river to reach a footbridge.
2/ Cross the bridge. On the other side, go half left across grass with a playground right to a tarmac footpath in the tree avenue. Turn left on the path. Continue to a stone stile and head straight over the field to the fence gap. Go onto the golf course following markers across a track and fairway. Take a clear path through tall grass to a footpath sign pointing right. Go under the bridge then half left, crossing another fairway towards white signs. At these go up steps to a road.
3/ Cross the road and turn left, following the path/verge for 600 metres until the Memorial Hall on the left. Take the track on its right, following it through gates into a concreted area. Go through white gates and continue ahead on track which soon becomes tarmac leading back to the road left earlier.
4/ Cross the road into Linton Common opposite (ignore private road sign, it’s a public footpath). After the last house, take the signed
footpath right, up steps. Climb the slope through trees to reach a tarmac lane. Turn left and continue for almost a kilometre to a hotel gateway.
5/ Go right on the signed path through trees to a field. Cross the field heading towards two large trees. Here go left then right to walk along the wood edge. Continue on the path which goes into trees, then has a narrow enclosed stretch with a field left. Keep ahead when the path widens bending left to reach a tarmac drive. Turn right but at a wooden gate take the bridleway (blue arrow) left heading along the edge of a field.
6/ Continue passing a wood to the left but at a wooden fence/metal hand gate turn right through the hedge gap into the corner of a field. Go ahead down the field with a hedge left. Continue ahead on what becomes a partly hedged track to a tarmac drive.
Ignore Back Lane on the right to arrive at Sicklinghall’s main street.
7/ Turn right and continue through the village passing the pub, village hall and pond. Just after the pond leave the street left down Stockeld Lane (ignore no
Disclaimer:
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.
entry sign, it’s a public bridleway). Continue passing a lodge house and security gate. Stay on the now rougher surfaced lane walking through trees and then parkland. Do not go right towards Stockeld Park House but stay on the track which is joined by a tarmac drive from the house. At a meeting of tracks in a further 20 metres keep left, soon crossing a cattle grid, to continue down a tree avenue with the amusements area right. Exit the park by the lodge house.
8/ Cross the busy road with care and head down the track opposite. Where the track splits keep right of the opensided barn then go through a metal gate following the path half left across a field. In the corner go through a gate and down hedged track to the Harland Way cycle route.
9/ Turn right and continue for nearly
two kilometres ignoring crossing paths on the edge of Wetherby.
10/ Where the Harland Way forks in two at a grassy area go left but about 20 metres further on go right up a slope. At the bike barrier do not go ahead but turn right into a grassy area following a track along its edge beside trees. Soon merge with a surfaced track from the left but in 20 metres turn left through the bike barrier into a park taking the path between young trees. Exit the park through barriers and go left to a T junction. Turn right and head down the residential street (Barleyfields Road). Keep ahead where this narrows going through an alley leading to a road guarded by metal barriers. Cross the road (Crossley Street Car Park right) to continue down The Ginnel opposite. Soon arrive at Westgate. Turn left to the Market Square and bus station.
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
Seacroft Grange care home, Leeds
Nutrition and hydration
Friday 24th July, 2pm - 4pm
Market day
Wednesday 12th August, 2pm - 4pm
Join us for craft fair stalls and a tombola.
Planning future care event
In our interactive taste session our Kitchen Lead will share advice on how to improve nutrition and hydration, from preparing appealing snacks to tips on improving appetite.
Thursday 24th September, 5pm - 7pm
Meet Carl Crossfield FPFS SOLLA from Crossfield Financial Planning, who will explain the options for funding long-term care, including the benefits you may be entitled to and how you can help your savings go further.
H ow to spo t when an older loved one may need additional support
I t i sn’ t alw ay s eas y to jud ge w h en a love d
day-to-day living, particularly if they are living with dementia or have other health needs.
Ch o ose wha t ma kes yo u ha p py
H ow e ve r, t h e re a re s o m e s u b t le i n d ic a to r s and clues that can signal that the person may not be coping and may bene fi t from support, either from members of their family or from professional caregivers.
Physical indicators
This might include the person becoming disorientated and getting lost in familiar places for those living with dementia. Other signs might be weight loss or looking unkempt which may suggest the person is having dif fi culty attending to their nutritional or personal hygiene needs. Bruising or similar injuries may indicate an increase in falls or accidents caused by physical and cognitive decline.
Emotional changes, including increased distress
Family members often notice subtle but growing changes in a loved one’s behaviour, like increased anger, frustration, anxiety, or withdrawal. If your loved one has dementia, they may also become rude, swear more, or lash out, which is linked to brain damage affecting their ability to process the world around them. These shifts can be signs that they need more support.
What to do
Raising concerns about a loved one’s declining abilities can be tough, but starting with open-ended questions like “How are you feeling?” can help. Offering practical
support, like helping with shopping or housework, is a gentle way to assist without overwhelming them. It’s also helpful to consult their GP, who can provide guidance and point you to local resources and support. Patience and understanding are key in these conversations. At Care UK’s Yorkshire homes, we host regular free informative talks to support you and your older loved one in a warm, welcoming environment.
You are also welcome to visit Seacroft Grange Care and ask any questions that you may have regarding care for your loved one.
To fi nd out more about Seacroft Grange Care Home, visit our website careuk.com/yorkshire
Seacroft Grange Care Home
The Green, Seacroft - Leeds Yorkshire LS14 6JL
To keep
York Manor Care Home
York Manor redefines senior living, offering a spacious and thoughtfully designed environment that ensures comfort and elegance. Residents enjoy an exceptional lifestyle experience, supported by our commitment to care and quality. We invite you to discover our home because it’s always the right time to embrace the luxury care you deserve.
Treasures Toys,
