The sun is shining, the school summer holidays are in full swing, and York is as iconic as ever!
If you find yourself stuck for stuff to do in the historic city of Jorvik this month, What’s On in York is here to save your summer…
Our team have scoured the city to bring you the best summertime events, happenings and attractions, so you can enjoy your visit without having to worry about sorting out the schedule Whether you’re in town for a swift visit or extended stay, you’re sure to find an abundance of August activities to suit every occasion
Interested in delving into the city’s history? We’ve selected some top attractions to satisfy even the most hardcore of history buffs, ranging from re-enactment shows and country house tours to museums, living history days, and even a Georgian ball!
Looking for a tasty treat or bite to eat? We’ve selected some of the finest places to be fed and watered in the whole of town
Keen on indulging in some family-friendly, scare-free fun with your nearest and dearest? What’s On in York has gathered an array of events and attractions that have been specially curated for summertime with the sprogs!
And, seeing as York is affectionately known as The City of Chocolate, it seems only right that we’ve included some choco-centric offerings, perfect for sweettoothed visitors of all ages!
So, settle in for some sunny season fun… enjoy your visit!
The
On Team
SPELLBINDING MAGIC, COMEDY
Public Tours
The most MAGICAL ticket in town, and York’s only tour created for families with children!
WINNER of many awards including Best Tour, Best of York, Experience of the Year and more
A family-friendly alternative to a ghost walk with NO spooky ghosts and NO scary stories. Expect FUN instead of frights!
Wizard Wand Kits also available. A wooden wand and instructions for seven tricks, plus FREE printable certificate.
Tours start from York’s iconic Shambles, pre-booking essential.
Book at www.wizardwalkofyork.com. Early booking recommended!
“My daughters said this was the highlight of our week in York!” –A. Tolen
Private Tours
Private bookings available for all kinds of groups including…
• Schools
• Birthdays
• Beavers and Cubs
• Rainbows and Brownies
“The best party ever apparently, and it’s been the talk of the class this week!” – R. Brown
Follow @wizardwalkofyork on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok for the latest magical news, giveaways and special offers!
“The best school trip I’ve ever been on. All the children (and adults) were captivated throughout!” – C. Duffy, North Duffield Primary School @WizardwalkofYork
Hotlist August 2025
15-17 AUGUST
TRIBFEST, Sledmere House, Driffield, YO25 3XG . Gates open at 8am on Friday Tribfest is the world’s BIGGEST tribute band music festival, held at the stunning Sledmere House Get your tickets today at www . tribfest co uk
24 JULY-28 AUGUST
SUMMER OF MAGIC, The Hole in Wand, Coppergate, York Celebrate this summer with a series of spellbinding events and family-friendly experiences at The Hole in Wand Wizard Golf, right in the heart of town Visit www theholeinwand com/ to make a booking or find out more
UNTIL 30 AUGUST
THE WIZARD WALK OF YORK, Meeting place by St . Crux Church, The Shambles Various times
This award-winning walking tour is one of the best-loved in York, offering a spellbinding mix of magic, comedy and familyfriendly fun This scare-free walking tour is led by none other than the famous Wizard of York! Visit www .wizardwalkofyork .com for bookings and full details
UNTIL 31 AUGUST
SUMMER FUN AT SLEDMERE, Sledmere House, Sledmere, Driffield Open 10am-4pm from Wednesday to Sunday Head
down to Sledmere House this month for an action-packed summer programme for the whole family - enjoy play paddock activities, a walled garden, the farm park, an adventure play area and much more! Visit www sledmerehouse com to book your tickets today .
UNTIL 31 AUGUST
SUMMER EVENTS @ YORK’S CHOCOLATE STORY, King’s Square, York This summer, one of York’s tastiest attractions will be opening its doors for a wide programme of familyfriendly events With guided tours, truffle-rolling, and chocolate masterclasses on offer throughout the month, this could be a sure-fire win for the chocaholics out there! Visit yorkschocolatestory com for bookings and the full events programme
UNTIL 31 AUGUST
most of Living History Days, re-enactments, Museum Days, train rides, monthly kids’ clubs and plenty more . Visit www . murtonpark co uk today to find out more!
THROUGHOUT AUGUST
SUMMER 2025 @ YORKSHIRE AIR MUSEUM, Halifax Way, Elvington, York This month, the Yorkshire Air Museum is hosting a fantastic array of family-friendly (and dog-friendly) events and activities Enjoy an aviation-themed play area, a picturesque picnic area, amazing aircraft and vehicle displays, and much more! Head over to www yorkshireairmuseum org for further details of the summer programme .
26 SEPTEMBER
SUMMER AT MURTON PARK, Murton Lane, York, YO19 5UF Various times Whether you’re a hardcore history buff or are simply after a fun day out with the family, head on town to Murton Park to make the
Delta Hotels by Marriott York, Tadcaster Road, York 6 009 00pm Whether you’re freshly engaged or adding the finishing touches to your plans, this wedding showcase evening could help you to perfect your big day Explore event spaces, meet the dedicated wedding team, and enjoy complimentary canapés plus a glass of fizz! Visit memoriesmademarriott co uk/ york for bookings and further details
“No
What's On August 2025
29 JULY
FREE VALUATION: JEWELLERY, CLOCKS, WATCHES, CERAMICS, ANTIQUES & COLLECTABLES, Bar Convent, Blossom Street, York 11am-3pm Visitors are welcome to head down and get in touch with the Tennants team for free valuations of a wide range of items and antiques Bring along your jewellery, clocks, watches and collectables to see what they’re worth - you never know, you could be sitting on a goldmine! Head over to www.tennants.co.uk for further information.
1-28 AUGUST
FORTYFIVE VINYL CAFE, Micklegate, York Various times
The FortyFive Vinyl Cafe is hosting an array of awesome events this August, including artists such as Alex Francis, July Moon, Alyssa Flaherty and Jordan Harvey Visit www.fortyfiveuk.com/whatson to see full listings for the month.
2 AUGUST
TWO RIVERS CIRCULAR WALK,
Meeting point at The Blue Bridge, William Court, York, 10 30am This picturesque, 4 5-mile circular walk covers both the Ouse and the Foss, with an optional riverside drink scheduled for afters!
Contact Derek at derek@chivers. plus.com for further information.
2-3 AUGUST
THE GREAT ANTIQUES & VINTAGE FAIR, Wetherby Racecourse, Wetherby 9 00am5 00pm on Saturday & 9 00am4 00pm on Sunday Organised by Jaguar Fairs LTD, this unique specialty show regularly pulls in up to 55,000 visitors This year, expect to catch a wide range of 120 exhibitors showcasing all manner of sought-after antiques and vintage pieces Visit www. jaguarfairs.com for further details.
2-17 AUGUST
YORK RIVER ART MARKET, Dame Judi Dench Walk, York 10am-5pm This unique art and design market hosts a variety of established and emerging Yorkshire-based artists . Browse and buy some of the best local art and crafts while enjoying the picturesque riverside view and
supporting local charities! For more information, head over to visityork.org/events/york-riverart-market-2025.
7-11 AUGUST
YORK GEORGIAN FESTIVAL, York Mansion House, York After an amazing first and second year, we’re pleased to announce that the York Georgian Festival will be returning for the third time, and it’s set to be the best yet! Delve deeper into Georgian history with an impeccable 5-day programme Visit www.mansionhouseyork. com for the full list of events.
9 AUGUST
SUMMER CONCERT: SONGS THROUGH THE YEARS, De Grey Rooms, St Leonard’s Place, York Doors open at 7 .00pm . Catch the York Philharmonic Male Voice Choir in action this month, for a celebratory summer concert to mark their all-singing 100year anniversary! Tickets for this special centenary concert are just £15, or £8 for those under the age of 16 or in full-time education Head over to www.yorkphilchoir. org.uk/event-details/summerconcert to book tickets for this historic event.
9 AUGUST
MILITARY MEMORABILIA DAY, York Army Museum, Tower Street, York 10am-3pm Brush up on your family’s military history with the expert research team at York Army Museum Feel free to bring along any documents, heirlooms or other items that you’d like to investigate further Visit yorkarmymuseum.co.uk/ exhibitions-events/ for further details.
9 AUGUST
YORK GEORGIAN BALL, The Grand Assembly Rooms, Blake St, York 7 00pm-11 00pm This York Georgian Festival event will provide an immersive window into classic Georgian style, with music provided by Eboracum Baroque Don your finest Georgian attire and dance your way back to the 18th century You will be served a complementary drink upon arrival, plus a three-course meal! Visit www. yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/show/ york-georgian-ball/ for further details.
9 AUGUST
BEER FESTIVAL, The Dawnay Arms, Main Street, Shiptonby-Beningbrough, YO30 1AB Stop by at the Dawnay Arms this month to sample an array of the finest real ales, ciders, and lagers at their second Beer Festival Expect some top-quality live music along the way! Visit shiptondawnayarms.co.uk to find out more.
9-10 AUGUST
ELVINGTON MODEL FLYING SPECTACULAR 2025, Elvington Airfield, York Gates open at 8 30am This large model aircraft show provides a two-day extravaganza of family-friendly activities including live music, an array of food and trade stalls, and camping Visit www. largemodelassociation.com/ events/elvington-9-10august-2025/ for further details.
10 AUGUST
RIPLEY SHOW, Ripley, Harrogate, HG3 3EA . Visit Ripley Show for a great day out for all the family . Plenty of trade stands to visit and
animals to view Expect to see vintage tractors, classic cars, sheepdog trials, terrier racing, displays by the BMX Team and more! There is something for everyone Be sure to visit www. ripleyshow.co.uk to see the full programme for the day and buy discounted tickets in advance.
11 AUGUST
RIVER FOSS SOCIETY SOCIAL,
The Blacksmiths Arms, The Old Village, Huntington First founded in 1973, the River Foss Society has been dedicated to maintaining, preserving and improving the Foss for over 50 years Head on down to the social evening to find out more about this historic local institution, and meet some of the society in the flesh! Contact Christine via membership@ riverfosssociety.co.uk to find out more.
15-17 AUGUST
TRIBFEST, Sledmere House, Driffield, YO25 3XG Gates open at 8am on Friday Tribfest is the world’s BIGGEST tribute band music festival, held at the stunning Sledmere House With over 50 tribute acts performing across multiple stages, there is always something for everyone! Get your tickets today at www. tribfest.co.uk.
17
GUIDE DOG FUNDRAISING
AFTERNOON, Stillingfleet Lodge Garden, York, YO19 6HP Representatives from charities like The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association and Assistance Dogs UK will be joining forces at Stillingfleet Lodge Gardens to raise awareness and funds for this great cause! Get involved and visit stillingfleetlodgenurseries. co.uk for more information about this amazing day.
17 JULY-21 AUGUST
SUMMER ORGAN RECITALS, York Minster, York York Minster’s popular organ recitals are here for the summer, with six acclaimed musicians taking centre stage at this iconic venue! Visit https:// yorkminster.org to book your tickets now.
23-25 AUGUST
ART IN THE BARN, Tithe Barn, Church Lane, Nether Poppleton . 10am-5pm on Saturday & Sunday/10am-4pm on Monday This annual summer exhibition features up to 40 local artists displaying their original artwork in a 16th-century barn - an amazing
day out for everyone involved! Visit Art in the Barn Poppleton (Poppleton Artists) on Facebook for further info.
24 JULY-28 AUGUST
SUMMER OF MAGIC, The Hole in Wand, Coppergate, York Be prepared for a summer of magic with a series of spellbinding events and family-friendly experiences at The Hole in Wand Wizard Golf, right in the heart of town Visit www.theholeinwand. com/ to book your spot for this magical experience.
30-31 AUGUST
YORKSHIRE TRACTION ENGINE
RALLY, Scampston Hall, Malton, Y017 8NG The picturesque Scampston Hall is the perfect location for this year's Yorkshire Traction Engine Rally - with huge displays of exhibits from all over the UK, this year is looking like the best yet! For more information, visit www.outdoorshows.co.uk for further information.
30 AUGUST
YORK’S TOY, TRAIN & SCI-FI
FAIR, University of York Sport’s Centre, James Way, Heslington, YO10 5NA This year’s MEGA FAIR for Yorkshire runs from 10 30am3 .00pm, and features an
all-encompassing range of toys, trains and sci-fi memorabilia that’s perfectly suited to everyone from the hardcore collector to the casual browser . Head over to northerntoyfairs.com/calendar/ york-toy-train-sci-fi-fair-2 to find all the information needed for the day.
31 AUGUST
AUTO ITALIA CAR DAY, Carlton Towers, Goole, DN14 9LZ Auto Italia returns for another year of showcasing a stunning selection of all eras of Italian cars Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just looking for a family day out this summer, buckle up for an exciting celebration of Italian vehicles! Visit www.carltontowers.co.uk to book now.
UNTIL 31 AUGUST
SUMMER FUN AT SLEDMERE, Sledmere House, Sledmere, Driffield Open 10am-4pm from Wednesday to Sunday Head down to Sledmere House this month for an action-packed summer programme for the whole family - enjoy play paddock activities, a walled garden, the farm park, an adventure play area and much more! Visit www. sledmerehouse.com to book your tickets today.
SUMMER AT YORK CASTLE MUSEUM, York Castle Museum, York . York Castle Museum is set to transform its famous recreated Victorian street, Kirkgate, into a vibrant summer scene from nineteenth-century York Wander these historical cobbles, breathe in the fresh summer scents, and enjoy a range of musical performances Visit www. yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk for more information.
UNTIL 31 AUGUST
A SUMMER OF PIRATES AND PIXIES, Pickering Train Station, Pickering, YO18 7AJ Join North Yorkshire Moors Railway for a magical summer full of fairytales and pirate adventures - explore the Pickering Pixie Trail and experience the Whitby Pirate Festival! Visit www.nymr.co.uk to book your child’s place today!
UNTIL 31 AUGUST
SUMMER EVENTS @ YORK’S CHOCOLATE STORY, King’s Square, York Swing by and taste your way through history, learn more about chocolate’s humble beginnings, and get hands-on by
making your own sweet treats! With guided tours, truffle-rolling, and chocolate masterclasses on offer throughout the month, this could be a surefire win for chocaholics! Visit yorkschocolatestory.com for bookings and the full events programme.
EVERY SUNDAY
GIANT CAR BOOT SALE
, Home Farm, Wigginton, York . Gates open at 6 30am Established 33 years ago, Wiggington’s Giant Car Boot Sale is the best and biggest weekly car boot sale in the area . Public admission is set at just £1 per car, with pitches available for cars (£9), vans (from £10) and trailers (£2 extra) - toilets and refreshments are provided . Call 01904 768463 or 07964 027362 to find out more!
EVERY DAY
FREE TOUR @ WHITE ROSE
TOURS, Meeting point at the West Entrance of York Minster 11am/ 3pm daily Widely regarded as a ‘must-do’ activity in York, this free walking tour could be perfect for visitors and residents who want to step into the city’s rich history Simply rock up at the meeting point and keep your eyes peeled for guides wearing the WHITE ROSE YORK t-shirts! Visit www.whiteroseyork.com or call 07792207679 to find out more.
11 OCTOBER
HAXBY & WIGGINTON ART EXHIBITION, Wiggington Recreation Hall, Wigginton, York 10am-4pm Haxby & Wigginton Art Exhibition is here again! Head on down to Wigginton Recreation Hall this October to browse a fine selection of paintings and cards from a range of local artists at this much-loved annual exhibition Entrance fee is £1, including refreshments! Visit the ‘Haxby’ Facebook group for further details.
The rest of Your life Should begin Somewhere Special
WEDDING SHOWCASE EVENING AT DELTA HOTELS BY MARRIOTT YORK
FRIDAY 26 SEPTEMBER 2025 TH 18:00 - 21:00 Glass of fizz on arrival
Join us for an enchanting evening at Delta Hotels by Marriott York where timeless elegance meets modern sophistication Explore our beautifully refurbished event spaces meet our dedicated wedding team and start picturing your perfect day set against the backdrop of York Racecourse and our charming gardens
Whether you're newly engaged or putting the finishing touches on your plans, this evening is the perfect opportunity to gather inspiration and expert advice Enjoy a complimentary glass of fizz and canapés as you take in the atmosphere of our unique venue with live entertainment to really set the scene
We’re also delighted to welcome Vicky from Vicky Rennison Photography and Create a look, who will be showcasing their stunning venue styling and photography package options
Let us show you how we can make your wedding truly unforgettable Scan the QR code to register for free and we’ll have a glass of fizz waiting for you!
1ST AUGUST
Rowan and Friends
Fulford Arms
1ST AUGUST
The Supermodels
Huntington WMC
1ST AUGUST
Beats & Bands
Kennedy’s
1ST AUGUST
Nouvelle Fleur Las Iguanas
1ST AUGUST
Alex Francis FortyFive Vinyl Cafe
1ST AUGUST
Northern Soul Sista Derwent Arms
2ND AUGUST
The Scopyons
Fulford Arms
2ND AUGUST
Wiggyfest feat. The Goosehorns
Wiggington Playing Fields
2ND AUGUST
That Guy Called Si The Three Tuns
2ND AUGUST
The Xception UK
The Edinburgh Arms
2ND AUGUST
Take 3 Band
The Derwent Arms
3RD AUGUST
Up The Junction
The Edinburgh Arms
3RD AUGUST
Live Jazz
Angel On The Green
5TH AUGUST
Raygun Cowboys Fulford Arms
5TH AUGUST
Shindig Fulford Arms
6TH AUGUST
The High Points / Ceejay Fulford Arms
6TH AUGUST
Gypsy Jazz In York
Micklegate Social
6TH AUGUST
Jazz Night with The Jazzville Duo Museum Street
Tavern
7TH AUGUST
Kate Peters and The Derek Harris Quintet
Dringhouses Sports Club
7TH AUGUST
Bad Saloon Golden Ball
7TH AUGUST
DC Blue The Three Tuns
8TH AUGUST
Sanctum Santorium The Crescent
8TH AUGUST
Jade Helliwell
Presents - The Company You Keep
FortyFive Vinyl Cafe
8TH AUGUST
Cher Tribute Burnholme Club
August
9TH AUGUST
Jimbo Doomface
The Three Tuns
9TH AUGUST
Statis Quo
The Edinburgh Arms
9TH AUGUST
9 Bar
The Derwent Arms
10TH AUGUST
Lifesigns
Fulford Arms
10TH AUGUST
Joe Carol & Dan Revue
The Artful Dodger
10TH AUGUST
Martin Boyd
The Edinburgh Arms
13TH AUGUST
July Moon
FortyFive Vinyl Cafe
13TH AUGUST
Jazzville Duo + Guests
Museum Street
Tavern
14TH AUGUST
Andy Henderson’s
Aire Valley Jazz
Band
Dringhouses Sports Club
14TH AUGUST
Alyssa Flaherty
FortyFive Vinyl Cafe
14TH AUGUST
Black Swan Folk Club
The Black Swan Inn
15TH AUGUST
Winter In Eden Fulford Arms
22ND AUGUST: Bombay Bicycle Club @ York Barbican
15TH AUGUST
Beats & Bands
Kennedy’s
16TH AUGUST
Quo Connection
The Crescent
16TH AUGUST
Plug In Maybe Fulford Arms
16TH AUGUST
Tony Skingle Is Elvis!
Haxby Sports Bar
16TH AUGUST
Quo Connection
The Crescent
16TH AUGUST
The Motives
The Terrace
16TH AUGUST
Clinton Play Jagged
Little Pill + The Bends
Micklegate Social
17TH AUGUST
JACK ROBERTSON
Fulford Arms
21ST AUGUST
Redd Kross
The Crescent
21ST AUGUST
The Big Easy Dringhouses
Sports Club
21ST AUGUST
Lachlan Bryan And The Wildes
Rise @ Bluebird
Bakery
21ST AUGUST
Black Swan Folk Club
The Black Swan Inn
22ND AUGUST
Leeds Festival 25Friday
Bramham Park
22ND AUGUST
Bombay Bicycle Club
York Barbican
22ND AUGUST
Luke Haines & Peter Buck
Pocklington Arts Centre
23RD AUGUST
Rock T’Night
The Edinburgh Arms
23RD AUGUST
EPILEPTIC
HILLBILLYS
Fulford Arms
23RD AUGUST
Cave Girl And The Neandergals + Kings Of Hong Kong
+ Galloping Dick + DJ Rockin’ Bones
Fulford Arms
THEATRE August 2025
GRAND OPERA HOUSE
To book, call 0333 009 6690 or visit atgtickets.com.
29 JULY - 2 AUGUST
A MAN FOR ALL SEASONS
Catch Martin Shaw’s portrayal of Sir Thomas More, the doomed Lord Chancellor whose defiance against Henry VIII would cost him dearly This historical study is worth the time of any selfrespecting theatre-goer!
YORK THEATRE ROYAL
To book, call 01904 623568 or visit www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.
19 JULY - 3 AUGUST
HIS LAST REPORT
This enjoyable offering focuses on the eventful life and times of famed social reformer Seebohm Rowntree Featuring a talented, large-scale cast and live vocal choir, ensure you get your tickets in before we reach the end of the line!
4
- 8 AUGUST
PLAY IN A WEEK: THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS
This August, catch a fresh adaptation of the tale of Ratty, Mole, Badger and Toad Participants aged 11-14 are welcome, with family sharing scheduled for 3pm on the 8th .
10 AUGUST
FIGURES IN A LANDSCAPE
Specially curated for the York Georgian Festival, this immersive experience celebrates 300 years of Mansion House, one of the city’s most cherished buildings Expect a unique performance encompassing music, drama, spoken word, and photographydoors open at 7pm .
11 - 15 AUGUST
PLAY IN A WEEK: THE MERRY BAND
Robin Hood is widely known as an English folk hero, but this irreverent DIY show aims to give the inside scoop on Robin from the perspective of his band of (not-so) merry men There will be a family sharing performance at 4 .30pm on the 15th .
11 AUGUST
PLAY IN A WEEK: BADDIES… AND MORE BADDIES
Suitable for young performersin-the-making from 5 to 8 years old, this exciting DIY show focuses on baddies! From evil stepmothers to wicked witches, all manner of theatrical bad guys will be given the Play in a Week treatment Family performances are scheduled on the 15th
YORK BARBICAN
Head to www.yorkbarbican.co.uk or call 01904 676332 to book.
4 AUGUST
CIRQUE: THE GREATEST SHOW - REIMAGINED
This month, lay your eyes on a spectacular mish-mash of circus acts and classic musical theatre
featuring none other than Max Fox, Britain’s Got Talent’s Golden Buzzer winner This family-friendly fare is likely to sell out fast, so book now!
JOSEPH ROWNTREE THEATRE
To book email boxoffice@jrtheatre.co.uk or call 01904 501 935
1 - 2 AUGUST
DISNEY DARE TO DREAM JR
Get your dose of all-things-Disney at Joseph Rowntree Theatre this August, with a heartwarming musical revue that’s packed with renditions of all of your favourite songs from iconic films including Frozen, Encanto, COCO, The Princess and the Frog and more! Perfect for younger theatre fans and dreamers of all ages
7 AUGUST
MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING & MACBETH
Experience two of The Bard’s most popular offerings at breakneck speed Performed at rapid-fire pace by the talented Four Forty Theatre group, both Much Ado About Nothing and Macbeth will be condensed and brought ‘full circle’ in just 40 minutes each!
01 Aug
Alex Francis 07 Aug
An Evening with Liam Cromby 08 Aug
Jade Helliwell
Alyssa Flaherty 15 Aug
Jordan Harvey 16 Aug
Brooks Herring 17 Aug
Maggie Baugh 18 Aug
Sinead Burgess 19 Aug
Blake O’Connor
20 Aug Fanny Lumsden 21 Aug Britney Kellogg 22 Aug
Britney Kellogg
25 Aug
Jeremy McComb
28 Aug
Dan Smalley
Open everyday 11am - 10:30pm
19-21 Blake Street
We are opposite McDonald’s
20% off when you use this voucher during JULY & AUGUST
