Follow this year’s colourful Yarn Trail

Fancy something a little different this weekend? Head out on this year’s Yarn Trail, which is now in its fifth year and continues to grow in popularity.

The initiative brings together 14 independent yarn shops across the county, giving knitters, crocheters and craft fans the perfect excuse to explore. 

Pick up a map and special yarn passport from one of the participating shops, get it stamped as you make your way around the trail and visit as many stores as possible during the two-week event.

Whether you’re a keen crafter or simply fancy discovering some of the county’s independent shops, it’s a colourful way to spend a weekend exploring the area.

Runs until September 27, shops across North Yorkshire; see the website for details.

Go to a family-friendly adrenaline-fuelled show

Planet Circus brings its big top to Harrogate this weekend, offering a circus with a modern twist. The show combines traditional circus favourites with acrobatics, aerial performances and daredevil stunt action, with performers taking on a series of impressive feats under the big top.

The production features international performers and plenty of high-energy acts, making it a family-friendly option for anyone looking for something a little different to do this weekend. Shows take place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Tickets from £9 for children/concessions and £10 for adults, both without a booking fee, various times; see the website for details. Runs until September 20, Big Top Harrogate, Pannal Car Boot Site, HG3 1JE.

Explore some of North Yorkshire’s hidden heritage

Heritage Open Days is currently taking place, giving you the chance to discover some of the Harrogate District’s historic buildings, places and stories.

Visitors can explore Harrogate Masonic Hall, discover the history of All Saints’ Church in Spofforth, take a closer look at Pateley Bridge Playhouse, or join a heritage walk around Harlow Hill Cemetery. There’s also the chance to explore the New Park Heritage Centre and surrounding area, uncovering some of Harrogate’s lesser-known local history.

Further afield, How Stean Gorge at Lofthouse offers another opportunity to discover a fascinating part of the district’s heritage and landscape.

With venues opening their doors to places that aren’t always accessible to the public, Heritage Open Days offer a great excuse for a leisurely weekend wander and a chance to see a different side of the Harrogate District.

To find out more and discover what’s happening near you, click here.

Celebrate the year’s floral splendour

The Harrogate Autumn Flower Show returns to Newby Hall & Gardens this weekend, celebrating its 50th anniversary with a colourful showcase of flowers, fruit, vegetables and garden design.

The three-day event, taking place from Friday to Sunday, will feature specialist growers, competitive horticultural classes, floral displays, family activities and gardening inspiration, alongside the historic surroundings of Newby Hall. 

There will also be a special 1970s-themed celebration, including seasonal cooking from chef Stephanie Moon in the hall’s kitchen garden.

Tickets cost £29 each and include access to the estate’s gardens, 9.30am-5pm each day, September 18-20, Newby Hall, Ripon, HG4 5AE. 

Go to the Nidderdale Show

The Nidderdale Show returns to Bewerley Park in Pateley Bridge this Sunday, bringing one of the area’s most popular celebrations of rural life to the Nidderdale countryside.

The traditional agricultural show features livestock and horse classes alongside horticulture, home produce, crafts, vintage machinery, trade stands, food and family entertainment, offering an insight into farming and community life in the dale.

Held at the showground beside Pateley Bridge, it offers a lively day out for visitors of all ages.

Free for children aged 11 and under, advance tickets from £5 for children aged 12 to 16 years old, adults from £20, 6.30am-6pm, September 20, Bewerley Park, Pateley Bridge, HG3 5BD.