Ferret Unlocked: don't miss out on all the latest in Lifestyle

With the weather finally in keeping with the time of year, residents of Harrogate and the district have certainly been making the most of the sun.

The last weekend of July is shaping up to be packed full of activities across the district – from Ripon’s annual St Wilfred’s Parade to a duck race at How Stean Gorge, you can find out what else is happening in our regular events round-up.

If you’re looking for family-friendly – and free – activities to keep the kids entertained all summer long, we’ve complied a handy guide that should see you through until September.

Last week saw the return of our established history series, this time focusing on the storied past of The Unicorn Hotel in Ripon – there’s been plenty of well-known local figures that have crossed the threshold, and a few that are a rumoured to linger there still.

Harrogate’s second ever monthly Repair Café took place recently, and the lifestyle team went along to see how the volunteers can give objects such as jewellery, bags, coffee machines and even lawnmowers a new lease of life.

Our food writer Yemi concluded her three part series on all the food highlights from the Great Yorkshire Show in spectacular style – she shared the recipe for Bettys French vanilla custard pastry which you can recreate at home.

That’s not the only iconic product we’re shining the spotlight on either. Coming up this weekend, we’re finding out more about a staple of Harrogate nightlife – Montey’s lemon drop, which has a very interesting origin story.

We also took a trip to Ripon to visit Mallard Grange Farm, home to the beautiful pick-your-own wildflower meadow that went viral on social media, to chat to the farming family behind the idea. 

So far, the weather is promising to stay sunny - subscribers to the Stray Ferret can take advantage of some of the exclusive food and drink discounts on offer, such as 10% off at Three's A Crowd and enjoy some al fresco dining.

Don’t miss out on quality news in the district - by subscribing for just £4.99 a month or £49.99 annually, you will be able to access all daily news, in-depth features and lifestyle content as well as a whole range of fantastic exclusive discounts and offers.