Newsletter: Friday 31st January 2025

As we step into February, Yorkshire is brimming with exciting events and experiences for everyone! With half-term holidays just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to plan some unforgettable family adventures—whether it’s exploring the caves of Stump Cross Caverns, visiting wildlife parks, or discovering hands-on activities across the region.

For those feeling the love, Valentine’s Day brings plenty of romantic escapes, from cosy country retreats to indulgent dining experiences and unique date-night ideas. Enter Welcome to Yorkshire’s giveaway for a chance to win handcrafted White Rose jewellery, including a pendant, earrings, or cufflinks made from sterling silver and Whitby Jet, just in time for Valentine’s Day!

And for the stargazers, the Dark Skies Festival returns, offering breathtaking celestial views across the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors. With expert-led events, night walks, and astrophotography workshops, it’s the perfect chance to experience the magic of Yorkshire after dark.

The image above is of "The Star in the Tower" on Bradford Cathedral which will be switched off this weekend.

Yorkshire News

Sheffield’s free Lunar New Year Festival 2025, running from 30th January to 10th February, features a spectacular two-day celebration in the Peace Gardens with dragon and lion dances, global music and dance performances, cultural displays, and delicious street food to welcome the Year of the Snake.

A vibrant new mural at Hemsworth Library, created by artist Douglas Black with input from the community, celebrates the town's creativity, connection, and the library’s role as a hub of knowledge and activity as part of the Crossings and Gateways public art initiative.

Søstrene Grene, the Danish brand known for stylish and affordable Scandinavian homeware, has opened its fourth Yorkshire store in Trinity Leeds, bringing a cozy and vibrant shopping experience with its unique designs and eco-friendly values.

The Keystones pub in York has reopened after a major renovation, offering HD sports screens, Detroit-style pizzas, a secret beer garden, live events, and new drink deals, making it a top destination for food, drinks, and entertainment.

Barnsley Academy students visited the House of Lords for a ‘Learn with the Lords Day,’ where they toured Parliament, learned about law-making, and engaged in a Q&A with Lords, gaining valuable insight into British politics.

Hull has officially submitted its bid to become a UNESCO Creative City of Music, aiming to boost music education, support local talent, and connect globally, with a five-year plan to strengthen its cultural and creative future.

Gregory Property Group has secured a 10-acre site at Junction 36 of the M1 in Barnsley, with plans to develop three industrial units by early 2026, bringing new jobs, investment, and business growth to the area.

Saltmoore’s new Beach House, opening February 1, 2025, offers a luxurious coastal retreat with chic ocean-inspired interiors, a state-of-the-art spa, fine dining, and stunning accommodations, making it the ultimate getaway on the North Yorkshire coastline.

Finnish bluegrass rockers Steve ‘n’ Seagulls bring their high-energy banjo-fueled covers of rock and metal classics to Brudenell Social Club in Leeds on 7th February, promising an electrifying night of music, fun, and foot-stomping performances.

Acclaimed young violinist Leia Zhu will bring her exceptional talent to Harrogate on February 9, 2025, as part of the Harrogate International Sunday Series, performing a dynamic programme that showcases the violin’s emotional depth in an intimate and historic setting.

Halifax Chamber Choir’s 2025 season features a stunning lineup of concerts, from a Baroque spring performance (29th March) to a summer showcase of madrigals (28th June) and a grand Duruflé’s Requiem finale (15th November)—plus a free open rehearsal (11th February) for those curious to join the choir.

Wakefield Exchange is a new creative hub in the heart of Wakefield, featuring street food, live events, and business support for digital and creative industries, set to open on February 21, 2025, as part of a city-centre revitalization effort.

Bradford is buzzing this February 2025 with an exciting lineup of events, including the Yorkshire Games Festival, Bradford Beer & Cider Festival, a new David Hockney exhibition at Salts Mill, and immersive experiences like Grue—making it the perfect month for culture, family fun, and adventure.

The Hex Wildlife Hotel at Yorkshire Wildlife Park has expanded with 25 new rooms, offering more family-friendly stays, romantic getaways, and unique wildlife views, along with special deals for half-term, Valentine’s, and Mother’s Day.

Volcano Falls Adventure Golf at Xscape Yorkshire has been revamped for 2025 with upgraded 18-hole courses, immersive prehistoric décor, interactive digital darts, and new seating areas, making it the ultimate fun destination for families, friends, and groups.

York’s new ‘On The Same Team’ initiative uses rugby league to tackle bullying and discrimination, promoting inclusion and teamwork among over 6,000 young people across schools and community groups.

York Open Studios 2025 returns on 5–6 and 12–13 April, offering a free, behind-the-scenes look at over 160 local artists’ studios, featuring painting, sculpture, jewellery, ceramics, and more, making it a must-visit celebration of York’s creative community.

McArthurGlen Designer Outlet York ended 2024 on a high with record-breaking visitor numbers, exciting new store openings, and major brand expansions, setting the stage for an even bigger 2025 with more shopping, dining, and community initiatives on the horizon.

The 2025 Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival returns to Harrogate from 17-20 July, featuring crime fiction legends like Attica Locke, Irvine Welsh, Kate Atkinson, and Lee & Andrew Child, plus thrilling panels, exclusive book previews, and a weekend packed with mystery, intrigue, and literary excitement.

South Yorkshire business leaders have cautiously welcomed the Chancellor’s pledge to support reopening Doncaster Sheffield Airport by Spring 2026.

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What's on in Yorkshire this week?

February in Yorkshire is packed with unmissable events, from blockbuster theatre and live music to comedy, film screenings, and unique experiences—whether you're catching Hamilton in Bradford, enjoying Craig David in Leeds, or diving into a Harry Potter tour in York, there’s something for everyone!

• Hamilton at Alhambra Theatre, Bradford on February 1st, 2025 7:30pm
• Craig David at First Direct Arena, Leeds on February 2nd, 2025 6:00pm
• Chris McCausland: Yonks! at Grand Opera House, York on February 3rd, 2025 8:00pm
• Wet Wet Wet at St Georges Hall, Bradford on February 4th, 2025 7:30pm
• Matt Forde at Foundry, Sheffield on February 5th, 2025 7:00pm
• Steve’n’Seagulls at Brudenell Social Club, Leeds on February 6th, 2025 7:30pm
• Northern Monk’s International Women’s Day Collab Brew Day at Northern Monk Refectory, Leeds on February 7th, 2025
• York and Harry Potter Tour – 08/02/2025 at , Leeds on February 8th, 2025
• Nosferatu (15) at Whitby Pavilion Theatre Cinema, Whitby on February 9th, 2025 7:00pm

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A look at the history of Hornby Castle with Dr Emma Wells

Explore the rich history of Hornby Castle, from its medieval origins to its 18th-century transformation by Capability Brown and John Carr, in this captivating feature with Dr. Emma Wells.

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