Every 1st August many people come together to annually celebrate Yorkshire Day. Lots of residents treat the day as a national holiday to celebrate the beloved Northern County or otherwise known ‘Gods Own Country’. From local traditions, to events and traditional food and drinks, the day is not to be missed whether you are a true Yorkshire resident or someone admirable of the county. So, come together this Yorkshire Day to enjoy the odd Yorkshire pudding and a pint or two as we provide a rundown of what’s on across Yorkshire this year.
Official Civic celebrations
Historically, the day commemorates the Slavery Abolition Act being passed in 1834, which was figure headed by Hull MP William Wilberforce and the day remembers the Yorkshire Light Infantry who recall the Battle of Minden in 1759, where white roses were picked as tributes.
This year, West Yorkshire town Keighley is the host town of the official 2022 Yorkshire Day celebrations. The day is set to be fun filled with a steam train breakfast reception, parade, church service and a lunch made from Yorkshire produce, including a Yorkshire pudding wrap and ‘Yorkshire Mess’ dessert. Tickets should be bought in advance and can be sourced from The Yorkshire Society.
The York Roast Co
If you are on the search for an eatery on the go during the hustle and bustle of Yorkshire Day, why not try the York Roast Co. No Yorkshire day would be complete without tucking into a Yorkshire Pudding and their YorkyPud Wrap is not to be missed. The popular dish went viral and is loved by many, with the choice of pork, turkey, ham, or beef served alongside roasted vegetables, stuffing, sauce and not forgetting the gravy. Located within York on Low Petergate and Stonegate, the business is open from 10am-10pm on Yorkshire Day.
Beningbrough Hall
Near the village of Beningbrough lies Georgian Mansion and Gardens of Beningbrough Hall which overlooks the river Ouse. The attraction is a great way to enjoy a calm walk during the sunny summer months. Also, the Stables shopping area is filled with local suppliers’ stock, showcasing the craftsmanship and produce from the people of Yorkshire. Open for children, the location is free for National Trust Members and £12 per adult or £6 per child.
Yorkshire Coast Celebrations
On 30th and 31st July 2022, Scarborough town centre is hosting an array of events to celebrate ‘God’s Own Country’ from 10am till 4pm each day. The centre is housing entertainment and activities for families for the weekend including brass bands, Morris dancers, face painting and a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. There will also be an artisan Yorkshire Market all weekend serving up tasty local food, as well as an exhibition of local Yorkshire artists from The Art Room.
Yorkshire Weekend Spectacular
Driffield are hosting a Yorkshire weekend hosting at the town centre and at Riverhead from 30th till 31st of July. The free event entails dialect readings, music, theatre, and a bespoke Yorkshire Market running from 10am till 3pm from King Street Junction to Albion Street.
Hetty and Betty
In Whitby, café Hetty and Betty are hosting a week of Yorkshire celebrations with their Yorkshire Afternoon Tea. Priced at £14.95 per person, the Yorkshire selection includes pork pies, cheese scones, pickle, wensleydale cheese, blue cheese, and ham. To book in for the afternoon tea running from 1st till 7th August, message or call Hetty and Betty to secure your place for Yorkshire delicacy.
North Yorkshire Moors Walk
Dig out your flat cap and indulge on a crisp walk around the National Park this Yorkshire Day. Whether you travel via foot, bike or steam, there are plentiful picturesque walks to choose from so that you may celebrate Yorkshire for the day. With routes such as Rievaulx Abbey, Gisborough Moor and Farndale, there are many options for a relaxing stroll this year. Also, there are numerous different walking tours taking place around Robin Hood’s Bay, Staithes and Rosedale Abbey, some of which have stops for you to try local some delicious Yorkshire beers.
Yorkshire Dales Food and Drink Festival
Ahead of Yorkshire Day, on the 23rd and 24th July the biggest Food and Drink Festival in Yorkshire is set to take place with celebrity cooking demonstrations from James Martin and the Hairy Bikers. The weekend will also see workshops and masterclasses which you can take part in and many activities to keep children entertained throughout. There is the option to camp or caravan at Funkirk Farm to extend the Yorkshire festivities as each night sees tribute acts taking to the stage.
Leeds Poetry Festival
Running from 1st till 7th August, Leeds Poetry festival is back with more impressive spoken word this summer. The weeklong event includes much local talent, including Leeds based poets Poppy Jennings and Jack Collins who are launching the new Poetry Festival Podcast. Also, don’t miss the Pizza, Poetry, and a Pint night on 3rd August from 7:30pm where you can either take part or enjoy the performances.
Photos: Beningborough, North York Moors, The York Roast Co
