Local Events May 2013

4th May - 6th May

Dales Festival of Food and Drink - Leyburn

The North's premier food and drink event takes place at Leyburn in the heart of Wensleydale. It has free cookery demonstrations, over 70 food stalls and celebrity talks. Tickets cost £8 per adult with accompanied children under 16 free.

4th May - 6th May

Dales Festival of Art - In and around Leyburn

This new event supported by the National Lottery through Arts Council England, has many top-name artists participating. Browse in the Artists' Market in Leyburn's Market Place, visit the Sculpture Park in Thornborough Hall's garden and attend drop-in workshops in the town centre.

4th May - 6th May

Tulip Festival - Constable Burton Hall

Explore swathes of tulips amongst the romantic gardens of Constable Burton Hall. 6,500 tulips are planted annually to give a dazzling display of colours and varieties. Admission is £4 for adults, £3 for senior citizens and children are free.

5th May

Cars in the Park - Newby Hall, nr Ripon

Cars in the Park is a casual gathering of sports and super cars, with cars ranging from TVR, Ferrari, Lamborghini and Lotus. It brings together car clubs and individuals.

7th May

Catterick Races - Catterick Racecourse

Go flat racing at nearby Catterick Racecourse. The first race starts at 18.10 and the last race is at 20.40.

7th May

Spring Walk - Thorp Perrow Arboretum, nr Bedale

Join the curator for a stroll through the bulbs and blossom. Starts 1pm - free of charge although normal entrance price applies.

11th May

Tea Gowns and Tea Time - Kiplin Hall, near Scorton

The History Wardrobe presents a vivacious talk and costume demonstration on the well-dressed woman of the 1930s. Tickets cost £17 per person and include afternoon tea. 2pm and 4.30pm. Booking essential (01748 818178).

11th May - 12th May

Tudor Life weekend - Bolton Castle

Find out what life was really like in Tudor times and have a go at a range of activities, including weapon drills, calligraphy and dancing.

12th May

Spring Plant Fair - Newby Hall, near Ripon

Specialist nurseries from all over the North of England gather at Newby for this popular annual event. A great chance to meet the growers and pick up tips. Newby Hall also has fantastic gardens, sculpture walk and miniature railway for a full family day out.

15th May - 17th May

Dante Festival - York Racecourse

One of York Racecourse's key events. The top horses from the action on Friday (Yorkshire Cup) often re-appear at the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot. The first race each day is at 13.45 with the last race at 17.00.

17th May

Kiplin by Candlelight - Kiplin Hall, near Scorton

Tour this nearby country house by candlelight and hear extracts read from books published between 1615 and 1913, which belonged to Kiplin's former owners.The tearoom will be open for light suppers.Tickets cost £5 per person.

21st May

Spring Walk - Thorp Perrow Arboretum, nr Bedale

Join the curator for a stroll through the bulbs and blossom. Starts 1pm - free of charge although normal entrance price applies.

24th May

Catterick Races - Catterick Racecourse

Go flat racing at nearby Catterick Racecourse. The first race starts at 18.35 and the last race is at 21.05.

25th May - 2nd Jun

Royal Trail - Richmond Castle

Seek out monarchs from the past with this family friendly trail and see how many you can find hiding around the site.

25th May - 8th Jun

Swaledale Festival - Various locations

Heralded as one of the best music festivals in the country, this varied programme includes nearly 60 top-quality events, including performances by John Williams, John Rutter, Roger McGough, Colin Sell, Lucinda Lambton, Barry Cryer, soloists from the Halle, Northern Sinfonia and the Royal String Quartet. And it's not just music, there are also walks, tours and talks. Check out the Festival website for full details.

27th May

Classic Car Rally - Ripley Castle

Enjoy a fun-packed day with lots of vintage vehicles. Entry costs £6.50 for adults and £3 for children.

27th May - 29th May

Children's activity days - Thorp Perrow Arboretum, nr Bedale

There will be lots of fun and games in the woods throughout the day. Come and join in at any time from 11am - 4pm. Normal admission charges apply.

27th May - 31st May

Magical Mayhem - Bolton Castle

Take a trip to Bolton Castle School of Magic and design and make your own witch or wizard hat and wand. Mix up some potions and watch the owls practice their flying display and have a go at the magical trail.

31st May

Catterick Races - Catterick Racecourse

Go flat racing at nearby Catterick Racecourse. The first race starts at 13.50 and the last race is at 17.15.

31st May - 2nd Jun

BAMfest - Bedale

the Bedale Acoustic Music Festival is a 3-day, family-friendly event comprising concerts and sing-a-round sessions in pubs, cafes and other venues. Acts include Dave Kelly, Henry Priestman, Bob Fox and Simon McBride.