So, what’s on in August? There is just so much to do this month in the North York Moors. The school holidays are in full flow, and the range of activities is fabulous. The heather is in purple flower, the skies are blue and it’s the peak of summer.
Our top 3 recommendations are:
1. The North York Moors Chamber Music Festival
This year’s theme is “Sonnet” with the festival mirroring the fourteen-line structure of a sonnet, presenting fourteen concerts that take us through a pagan year with its unfolding seasons, solstices, and equinoxes.
The four elements—Fire, Air, Water, and Earth—are explored through the lens of T.S. Eliot’s Four Quartets, staged in four historic moorland churches. The remaining ten concerts will be held at the acoustically designed venue on the grounds of Welburn Manor.
Welburn Manor has the most beautiful grounds; take a picnic or a bottle of wine to enjoy the ambience. On a warm summers evening it is quite magical. We’ve sat in the marquee listening to a performance with the hoot of a neighbouring owl adding to the experience.
Jamie Walton who lives in Appleton is the creative inspiration behind this annual event, supported by an amazing team of people. We’re so looking forward to some of the concerts along with hosting one of the musicians, as many of the village do to support this wonderful festival.
2. Agricultural and country shows
If there’s one event that truly captures the spirit of this area, it’s the local agricultural show. If you’re visiting, we highly recommend you make time to experience one.
Our personal favourites are the Danby, Farndale, and Rosedale shows, and don’t forget our own Village Show happening this Saturday in Appleton.
Each show has its own unique character and offers something for everyone. You’ll see the expected livestock like sheep, cattle, and horses, but also giant rabbits, ferrets, hens, and some truly magnificent vegetables. Keep an eye out for unusual categories like the longest thistle!
These shows are a major social event where locals catch up with friends and family. It’s also great for people-watching—you’ll notice that almost everyone seems to have a dog in tow.
If you arrive early, you can watch farmers making the final tweaks to their animals. You might see them meticulously cleaning a sheep’s face or shampooing and powdering their cattle.
Our show tips
We suggest you first grab a showground map and work out the best place for food (it’s usually the stall with the longest queue!). Then, check the schedule and find a good spot to watch the judging. The judges take their duties very seriously, and a win at one of these shows is a huge deal for farmers, as it can increase market prices and secure breeding lines.
Be sure to listen out for a brass band playing. The children’s classes are also worth a look, from crafts in the produce tent to hobby horse racing.
Once the judging is finished in the produce tents, have a wander around. You’ll often find judges’ comments on a post-it note, and as you’d expect in Yorkshire, they don’t mince their words! It’s a great way to see the spectacular produce and also get a sense of which farming families are the ones to beat—it’s amazing how the same names keep popping up on the winning tickets.
All in all, it’s a grand day out and an authentic slice of local life.
3. Pixies and Pirates
The popular North Yorkshire Moors heritage railway has a special event running all summer with a magical fairy-tale and pirate adventure theme. It’s an excellent activity for families with children, combining the scenic train journey with fun and themed entertainment at the stations.
Look out for crafting activities (make a pixie potion or pirate sword) treasure hunts or an immersive theatre performance The Sleep Pirates with Hoglets Theatre taking place at Pickering Station on 26th August.
These are just our top 3 highlights. For a full review of everything that’s taking place in August, check on the North York Moors website.
(Photos courtesy of North Yorkshire Moors Railway and North Yorkshire Chamber Music Festival)
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