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2026 Away Days Register     

When NULL
Venue 
Information 

2026 Ermysted's Register 2026     

When NULL
Venue 
Information Register of all applicants for Summer Programme

2026 SP - AA     

When 23 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:30
Information The Protagonists of Bosworth In August 1485 Richard III and Henry Tudor fought the battle that would prove pivotal in the history of England. How did these protagonists, one who had schemed and murdered to take the throne, one the son of a Welsh peasant find themselves in opposition to claim the throne of England?

2026 SP - AB     

When 23 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:30
Information The Extraordinary lives of Mary Wollstonecraft and Mary Shelley Wollstonecraft is now regarded as the mother of feminism, Shelley renowned as the author of Frankenstein. These women, mother and daughter, both defied convention leading lives that scandalised society.

2026 SP - AC     

  We regret that this group is full.
   
When 23 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:30
Information A parish clerk and a pauper John Summerskill (1805 – 1882) was parish clerk for Rylstone and a relieving officer for the Skipton Board of Guardians. An “excellent penman” he left behind a hand written book of the “west gallery” tunes that would have been played by the church band. Richard Ryley (1822 – 1864) was a cotton weaver in Barnoldswick. An educated man and brass band member, he left his diary from 1862 – 1864 when he was in receipt of parish relief during the “cotton famine”. We will look at their contrasting lives and the music of their times.

2026 SP - AD     

When 23 July 2025
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:30
Information Jane Austen: a revisionist view Do you think of Jane Austen’s works as ‘demure dramas in drawing-rooms’, involving Regency gowns in elegant mansions – a sort of higher-class Bridgerton? Do you imagine the author as a super-refined, comfortably-off, probably smug posh lady? Do you assume no real man should be caught dead reading Pride and Prejudice? If so, you have some rethinking to do …

2026 SP - AE     

When 23 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:30
Information The Rise, the Fall and the Survival of the English Country House, 1837-2000. More country houses were built in the Victorian period than in the previous centuries put together. Yet in the twentieth century more than 1,200 country houses were demolished. This talk looks at the fortunes of the English country house in these changing times.

2026 SP - AF     

When 23 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:30
Information Philip Larkin - "Sexual intercourse began in ninety sixty three...". An introduction to this mid -20th century poet, whose tantalizing verses can be read as a running commentary on his own life. Working 9-5 in a library, he passionately insisted "I don't want to transcend the commonplace... everyday things are lovely to me." But not all was lovely.

2026 SP - AG     

When 23 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:30
Information Mitigating climate change: sorting the fact from fiction: Informed by Hannah Richie's recent book "Clearing the Air: A hopeful guide..." and other professional analysis. Divided into topics, each with a short quiz, we will discuss how individuals, businesses and governments all have essential roles to play in mitigating climate change.

2026 SP - BA     

  We regret that this group is full.
   
When 23 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 13:30 to 16:00
Information The life and death of the Cathars The Cathars were a heretical group of peaceable Christians who flourished in southern France in the 12th and 13th centuries. The rattled Pope Innocent III declared a crusade against them. The rapacious rulers of northern France did his bidding for promised heavenly, earthly and especially territorial rewards. The story still shocks.

2026 SP - BB     

When 23 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 13:30 to 16:00
Information Jonathan Hauxwell a one-hour talk Architecture - photo-diary of an obsessive.” Ever since I bought the wrong guide book at a historic monument, architecture has held me. This portfolio of pictures details my fascination from the Neolithic to the present, with both classic and odd structures along the way.

2026 SP - BC     

  We regret that this group is full.
   
When 23 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 13:30 to 16:00
Information The Diaries of Annie Parker Greenwood of the Mason’s Arms, Eastby 1875 to 1882. Annie began her diaries aged 19 and over the next 8 years wrote nearly half a million words. They cover all aspects of life at the Mason’s Arms, their many visitors, navvies building Barden Reservoir, her romances, as well as family tragedy. She concluded with a detailed account of her emigration in 1882 and settling in Nebraska with her husband and baby son.

2026 SP - BD     

When 23 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 13:30 to 16:00
Information Wendy Brown: Making fabric cards Learn how to design and make greetings cards using a variety of fabrics. Sewing skills would be useful but are not essential. Please bring a small, sharp pair of scissors for cutting fabric. All other equipment and fabrics will be supplied.

2026 SP - BE     

When 23 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 13:30 to 16:00
Information Roland Styles: Studio Ceramics in the 20th century. The studio pottery movement was one of the key artistic forces of the 20th century. It placed great emphasis on small- scale pieces and individual craftsmanship. The focus will be on pottery as an expressive art form and looking at the work of renowned potters who inspired designers, makers and collectors.

2026 SP - BF     

When 23 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 13:30 to 16:00
Information Dick Newsom The mystery of Spontaneous Generation featuring Francisco Verdi Spontaneous Generation (living creatures from dead matter): its acceptance for 2000 years and its eventual demise, (or not?) Featuring mice, maggots, Aristotle and Francisco Redi, among others.

2026 SP - BG     

When 23 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 13:30 to 16:00
Information Linda Hoole Barbara Hepworth: her relationship with landscape: We will explore the importance of landscape to Hepworth, and its impact on her sculpture. Hepworth is regarded as one of the greatest artists of the 20th Century. And she was born in Yorkshire!

2026 SP - CA     

When 24 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:30
Information Kenneth Jackson: The View of Skipton from the Springs Canal We examine Skipton’s urban landscape for evidence of industrialisation, improvement, and enlightenment in the Georgian town mainly, but not exclusively, between 1720 and 1830. If you can, please walk along the towpath before you come!

2026 SP - CB     

When 24 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:30
Information David Hawkins: Art in the Public Realm Public art speaks of what was and is of value to a local community. The controversy over statues connected with slavery highlights how sensitive the subject’s become. We’ll do some art theory - what makes it art? And consider examples of public art and the messages they convey, including a sculpture co-created by David and Pippa Hale with homeless people for the centre of Leeds.

2026 SP - CC     

When 24 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:30
Information Susan Lesser ANGELS, SAINTS, MILITANTS, AND MARTYRS: THE ART OF THE VOTE, 19O3-1914 Women had called for the right to vote since 1832 but their campaign was stalling. In 1903, a new group, the Women’s Social and Political Union, said ‘enough of words, it’s time for action’. Art was to become a crucial weapon in this new phase in the suffrage fight.

2026 SP - CD     

When 24 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 13:30 to 16:00
Information John Hoole: The Execution of Charles I A seismic event in British history: ‘A world turned upside down’ as described at the time and by later historians. We will explore what the King & Parliament were fighting for, whether the King’s trial was a fair one and the repercussions of his execution.

2026 SP - CE     

When 24 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:30
Information Robin Bundy: Benjamin Franklin Benjamin Franklin was a polymath: a writer, scientist, inventor, statesman, diplomat, printer, publisher and political philosopher. Franklin was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and among the most influential intellectuals of his time. This talk will concentrate less on the science and more on the other aspects of his life than the talk given to the Stories of Scientists course.

2026 SP - CF     

When 24 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 13:30 to 16:00
Information Floe Shakespeare Photography Exploration of Skipton Woods The photography group is offering a photography walk round Skipton Woods. I think we'd be expecting to meet up at the woods probably 1pm, potter for an hour and then return to Ermysted’s for tea and discussion of our photos. Cameras or mobile phones welcome, no experience necessary.

2026 SP - CG     

  We regret that this group is full.
   
When 24 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:30
Information Colin Speakman: Yorkshire - Ancient Nation, Future Province: A light hearted look at Yorkshire history and why there is a powerful case for Yorkshire Devolution. We are delighted to welcome Colin to the Summer Programme this year. Colin is a keen walker and environmental campaigner, and author or co-writer of over 50 outdoor books.

2026 SP - DA     

When 24 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 13:30 to 16:00
Information Vee Eastham Film: Radical

2026 SP - DB     

When 24 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 13:30 to 16:00
Information Chris Skidmore: Amazing Grace: a history of hymns General William Booth said it was the devil who had all the best tunes but the Christian church has used music in many forms as an aid to worship since the beginning. Many of us will have been introduced to singing through hymns at school. This course will explore the history of hymn singing, particularly in Britain, and give participants an opportunity to listen to many styles of church music, and even to sing some old favourites.

2026 SP - DC     

When 24 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 13:30 to 16:00
Information Stewart Longbottom: The Barbizon School of Painting. The Barbizon School emerged in the1830s close to the Forest of Fontainebleau in France. The Artists rejected the formalism and idealised subjects of academic painting, instead embraced painting directly from nature. The Barbizon School (Corot, Millet, Daubigny and Rousseau) profoundly influenced the Impressionists who expanded the exploration of light and colour initiated by the Barbizon artists.

2026 SP - DD     

When 24 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:30
Information Bernard Peel: Glaciation in the Yorkshire Dales Glacial periods have occurred in the Dales over the last 750,000 years, evidence for earlier ones largely overwritten by the last one, the Devensian. The session will concentrate on the various glacial features in the Dales.

2026 SP - DE     

When 24 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 13:30 to 16:00
Information Bob Seeley A little bit of Chinese bronze A history of the Victoria Cross. The VC is the highest, most prestigious decoration of the British decorations system. Since introduction in 1856 only 1,358 have been awarded. The talk is about Non-Combatants e.g. Doctors, Priests, Stretcher Bearers and their display of supreme courage and devotion to duty.

2026 SP - DF     

When 24 July 2026
Venue Ermysteds Grammar School - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 13:30 to 16:00
Information Maureen Wright Creative Arts 4 Wellbeing (Taster session) A mix of short creative activities designed to boost wellbeing in a friendly group setting. Suitable for anyone who is prepared to try various creative activities, which may include singing, dancing, different art media, drama, creative storytelling, photography, etc. No prior experience needed - just a willingness to try new things!

2026 SP - SS     

  We regret that this group is full.
   
When 20 July 2026
Venue 
Normally meets 08:45 to 13:30
Information Guided Walking Tour of Little Germany, Bradford, the Synagogue and Jewish Cemetery. Transport: Bibby’s of Ingleton minibus. Depart Skipton Bus Station, Stand 8 at 9.00am prompt. Please arrive at 8.45. Guided visit to the Synagogue, Coffee break and guided walking tour of Little Germany Visit to Scholemoor cemetery. NB respectful dress required, and practical footwear for walking tour. The minibus will transport between locations and will leave Bradford at 13.00. When making payment by bank transfer, reference of ‘synagogue’ required.

2026 SP - TT     

When 22 July 2026
Venue 
Information Settle and Carlisle Railway Trust trip to Armathwaite Transport: rail departing from Skipton Station at 9.58am . The package includes a breakfast butty on the train (bacon ,sausage or veggie), a train guide with group commentary, guided visit to Armathwaite Signal box, walk to an ancient Chapel and train back to Skipton. There is a local pub for lunch, or the village hall will be available for anyone bringing a packed lunch. NB practical footwear required. Be prepared for the weather! When making payment by bank transfer, reference of ‘Settle’ required.

2026 SP - VV     

When 26 July 2026
Venue 
Normally meets 11:00 to 12:00
Information Hindu Temple Visit: Transport: Members make their own way by train or car share to the Hindu Cultural Society of Bradford, 341 Leeds Road, Bradford, BD3 9LS. There is a car park at the front of the temple. Allow plenty of time for traffic and parking in the car park in front of the temple. Bradford Forster Square for those getting public transport. Then a 25 minute walk to the temple. Dress code: respectful dress

2026 SP - XX     

  We regret that this group is full.
   
When 29 July 2026
Venue 
Normally meets 10:00 to 17:00
Information Breezy Knees Garden: Transport: Bibby’s of Ingleton Coach, departing Skipton Bus station, stand 8 at 10.00 am prompt. Please arrive at 9.45. Breezy Knees Award Winning Garden This wonderful 20 acre garden is well worth a visit for its splendid nursery, cafe, vibrant borders and fountains. The coach will leave Breezy Knees at 4pm to return to Skipton. In addition, there is an admission fee to pay on arrival at Breezy Knees of £13 per person. The £13 should be paid by each passenger to the Gardens on arrival. When making payment by bank transfer, reference of ‘Breezy’ required. Only the coach cost of £16 is required.

2026 SP - YY     

When 30 July 2026
Venue 
Normally meets 10:45 to 15:00
Information Visit to the Hepworth, Wakefield, with guided tour of the Hepworth Gallery and entry to Exhibition: ‘Rhythm, Dance and Everything: The Body and Performance from Hepworth to Now’ Transport: Train to Wakefield Kirkgate plus 15 minute walk or car share. Meet at the Hepworth 10.45. Tour begins at 11.00 Refreshments/lunch available in the café When making payment by bank transfer, reference of ‘Hepworth’ required.

2026 SP RR     

When 16 July 2026
Venue 
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:30
Information Visit to Allerton Waste to Energy facility The site tour involves a walk of about 1 km round trip. You will need to climb 30 metal steps. Some groups can access the control room. There is a lift, but in an emergency, you must use the stairs. There are 8 flights of stairs to descend. Access to the control room depends on availability that day. It's essential to wear suitable footwear and clothing for an industrial site visit. Wear thick-soled shoes with no open toes. This keeps your feet completely covered—no bare skin or high heels. You must cover your legs. Trousers are best, but leggings or similar are fine too. We will not allow anyone dressed unsuitably on the site tour. Please be aware the site tour can leave a lingering smell on clothing. Due to the risk of infection, if you have an immune-suppressed disease, have had an organ transplant recently, or are on chemotherapy, we do not recommend joining the onsite tour.

Ad Hoc Walking Group     

When Varied
Venue 
Information Group Leader - Mike Valiant. All year, 1/9/2026 to 31/8/2027. There is no programme; walks are proposed by group members at short notice taking advantage of good weather. Any group member can propose a walk anytime, anywhere, any length. The proposer can set the maximum group size. Groups are usually small (historical maximum: 18, average: 6). On joining the group, you will be sent the latest guidelines. Venue surcharge £0.00

Allotment     

When Sunday
Venue Allotment
Normally meets 09:30 to 12:00
Information Group Leader - Helena Tudhope. 1/9/26 to 31/8/27. Joint working on three plots at Broughton Road allotments. No experience needed just enthusiasm. The group meets together on Sunday mornings but it is expected that members will work at other times in the week in the busy season and be part of the watering rotation when necessary. Venue surcharge £5.00 autumn and spring.

Badminton     

When Thursday
Venue Sandylands Sports Centre - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 12:00 to 13:00
Information Group Leader - Jon Tomlinson. 3/9/2026 to 26/8/2027. Played on marked courts in the main hall at Sandylands, Skipton. Clothing as for indoor sports with non-marking shoes. A reasonable level of fitness is required. Game details: we usually play doubles but also singles depending on numbers. 2 games played to 11 points with 2 points clear. Players rotate between courts. Rackets and shuttlecocks provided. Fees - £4 on a “pay per play” basis. Payable by bank transfer to the Group Leader. Venue surcharge - £0.

Book Group - Non-fiction     

When Wednesday
Venue 
Normally meets 18:15 to 19:15
Information Group Leader - John Hoole. 7/10/2026 to 7/7/2027. The only requirement for this group is to have read the book! Meeting on the first Wednesday of the month. Members can choose books in advance from a list provided by Skipton Library which will be emailed before the first meeting. Everyone is responsible for collecting from and returning their book to the library by the due date. There is no requirement to be a member of the library. The venue may vary, using local pubs to meet. Ideally, everyone should be happy to be a member of a WhatsApp group which will be used for reminders and recommendations about books and authors - no pictures of pets, holidays or grandchildren! Venue surcharge £0.

Book Group Fiction A     

  We regret that this group is full.
   
When Monday
Venue Member's Home
Normally meets 16:00 to 17:00
Information Group Leader - Chris Bowley. Start date 7.9.26. Meetings take place monthly on Mondays. This is an informal group. We choose a book each month to read and discuss but the discussion is wide ranging so it’s always worth coming along if you haven’t quite finished. The books are chosen by consensus. The meetings are held in members’ homes. Communications are through WhatsApp. Venue surcharge £0.

Book Group Fiction B     

When Monday
Venue 
Normally meets 18:15 to 19:15
Information Group Leader - Linda Hoole. 12/10/2026 to 12/7/2027. (Introductory meeting: Thursday 3/9.26, 18.15, venue to be decided). Meetings take place on the second Monday of the month, with alternative arrangements if this is a bank holiday. We meet in local pubs, with lift sharing encouraged. Our favourite venue has been the Old Swan in Gargrave. Members negotiate the book choice from a list provided by Skipton Library. All members should be comfortable being in a WhatsApp group which will be used for reminders and recommendations of other books and authors- no pictures of pets or grandchildren! Venue surcharge £0.

Craven u3a Newsletter Group     

  Note that Craven u3a Newsletter Group is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Anytime
Venue 
Information Fancy being part of the Newsletter Team? Want to try your hand as a ‘roving reporter’ or a budding photographer? Craven u3a newsletter is produced by and for Craven u3a members. It is distributed by email fortnightly from October to March, and monthly during the summer. The focus is on Craven u3a's group activities, at a half or one A4 page per group. We try to get as many groups as possible to contribute to each issue. You could be a reporter in a group you participate in. Each written report would be accompanied by picture(s), so if you want to develop your skills in photography or desktop publishing, do join us. This is a team effort, we largely communicate by email, with occasional face-to-face meetings.

Croquet     

When Wednesday
Venue Pendle and Craven Croquet Club - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 13:30 to 15:30
Information Group Leader - Graham Read Weekly 5/5/27 - 29/9/27. The group provides friendly, social competition playing ‘golf Croquet’ from the beginning of May to the end of September (weather permitting) . The rules are very straightforward . It is suitable for all members. All equipment is provided. Flat soled shoes should be worn. There will be a weekly charge of £2.50. Venue surcharge £10.

Crown Green Bowls Group 1     

  We regret that this group is full.
   
When Friday
Venue Whinfield Bowling Club
Normally meets 11:30 to 14:00
Information Group Leader - Rosemary Bootland. 7/5/2027 to 17/9/2027. Guidance on how to play crown green bowls. Venue surcharge £5.00.

Crown Green Bowls Group 2     

  We regret that this group is full.
   
When Friday
Venue Whinfield Bowling Club
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:30
Information Group Leader - Shirley Desgranges. 7/5/2027 to 17/9/2027. Guidance on how to play crown green bowls. Venue Surcharge £5.00.

Culture Vultures     

When Varied
Venue 
Information Group Leader - Wendy Brown 1/9/26 - 30/8/27. If you’re into the arts but your friends and/or family aren’t, the Culture Vulture group could be for you! Via our WhatsApp group, we arrange to meet up with other members to attend theatre, cinema, music and other arts events, both in Skipton and further afield. Where appropriate, we arrange to travel together and have been known to meet up before or after events for a drink or two! Venue Surcharge £0.

Day Trips social group     

When Varied
Venue 
Information Group Leader - Anne Macdonald. 1/9/26 - 31/8/27. We are a friendly group who enjoy getting out and about together. We organise our trips on WhatsApp and travel by train, bus and car share. We don't have an organiser, we hope that everyone will suggest destinations. If there is somewhere you want to go or somewhere you enjoy going just ask on our WhatsApp group if anyone is interested in to going to a particular place and people will respond. We have been to Liverpool, Carlisle and lots of interesting places both near and further afield, as well as some lovely scenic walks. Venue surcharge £0.

E-biking     

When Varied
Venue 
Normally meets 09:00 to 10:00
Information Group Leader - Linda Hoole. 1/9/26 - 31/8/27. We are a relaxed, friendly and supportive group of cyclists of varying experience and fitness. We arrange outings on ad hoc basis via a WhatsApp group, riding more frequently in the better weather! Our routes tend to start from Skipton or Gargrave, and are usually between 20 and 30 miles, with a stop at a tea-room. All members are encouraged to propose and plan routes. Some members can transport several bikes if necessary. Venue surcharge £0.

Fabrics,Threads and Yarns     

When Wednesday
Venue Skipton Sports Community Hub - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information Group Leader - Anne Reay. 30/9/26 - 9/12/26 (no session 28/10/26) and 6/1/27 - 17/3/27 (no session 27/2/27). Working with fabrics and threads is a wonderfully extensive skill that can be applied to small and large, simple and complicated projects. Items to use daily or pieces to give as presents. The Group embrace all aspects of working with fabrics and threads. Everyone can learn to sew or knit, you just require a vision of the finished project and the determination to complete it. If you enjoy sewing or knitting or want to learn to then come along and join our group. We are interested in making all things patchwork from placemats to sophisticated quilts and all the other ways of using this versatile skill. Bring your own work, or a basic sewing kit and some fabric if you want to learn something new. I have ideas for simple starter projects. Everyone welcome, from experienced Quilters/dressmakers/knitters to complete novices. We can all share with each other what we know and ask for help with what we don’t know. Venue surcharge £10 autumn and spring.

Floral Art     

When Thursday
Venue St Stephens Church Hall Skipton - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information Group Leader - Jesca de Rijk. 10/9/26 - 8/7/27 (on second and fourth Thursday of month) (except 3/12/26). This group is aimed at people who enjoy flowers and creative thinking. With a different theme each session, and including development of technical skills, it provides an opportunity to interpret titles in individual ways. There is no right or wrong, just your own take on flowers, foliage and mechanics. A supportive and friendly group shares ideas, materials and conversation. We finish with discussion of our ideas and the pleasure of admiring each other’s arrangements and learning from each other, before some planning for our next session. Venue surcharge £10.00 autumn and spring.

French Conversation     

  We regret that this group is full.
   
When Friday
Venue Craven Heifer Blooms
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information Group Leader - Jennifer Hanson. 2/10/26 - 11/12/26 (not meeting 30/10/26) and 8/1/27 - 19/3/27 (no meeting 12/2/27). An informal course for those already able to speak some French who want to improve their ability and confidence in the spoken word. Members have frequent opportunities to talk in small groups and may also present topics to the class. Modern texts and articles are studied to practice reading, revise grammar and stimulate discussion. Venue surcharge £15 autumn and spring.

Gardening     

When Varied
Venue 
Information Group Leader - Anne MacDonald. 1/9/26 - 31/8/27. If you enjoy gardens and gardening, this is the group for you. You do not even have to have a garden. We share plants and gardening tips. We visit formal gardens and spend time is each other's gardens. It is a lovely way to spend a couple of hours in the spring and summer, in a garden, chatting with our gardening friends over a coffee. We can communicate with each other via Whatsapp and email. We get together a couple of times a year to plan the following gardening year. Venue surcharge £0.

Geography Forum     

  We regret that this group is full.
   
When Wednesday
Venue St Stephens Church Hall Skipton - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information Group Leader - Jonathan Hauxwell. 7/10/26 - 9/12/26 (except 28/10/26) and 6/1/27 - 17/3/27 (except 17/2/27). Talks, mainly by members of the Forum, on Geography, History, People and Places. Venue surcharge £5 autumn and spring.

Geology Walks     

When Monday
Venue 
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information Group Leader - Diane Killock. Alternate Mondays 8/3/27 - 20/9/27. Please come along and join us on our friendly Monday morning walks, mostly following geology trails of up to 4 miles with a focus on the fascinating geology of Yorkshire. The walks are offered and led by Group leaders but please note we are not experts, just keen to share our knowledge and learn from each other. Walk details will be circulated the week before and will include date, time, meeting place, walk length and geology features. Venue surcharge £0.

Motorcycle Group     

When Varied
Venue 
Normally meets 10:00 to 00:00
Information Group Leader - Harry Taylor. March - Ocober 2027. The motorcycle group restarted its formal Programme for motorcyclists who enjoy a ride out and a chat. All are welcome. There are scheduled rides from March to October, usually on a Monday or Friday, a couple of times a month. There are also impromptu rides outside the formal programme, around the year, depending on the weather. Send a Whatsapp message to Harry Taylor on 07522 343181 and you'll be added to the group. If you're not already a member of u3a you'll be expected join after a couple of rides. Send an email to harrytaylor1950@hotmail.com and you'll be sent the Programme for this year, but watch out for changes on the Whatsapp group. The rides start from Morrisons Car Park in Skipton at 10 am unless otherwise advised on Whatsapp group. Surcharge - £0.

Nature Rambles     

When Varied
Venue 
Information Group leader - Maurice White. 1/9/26 - 30/8/27. The aim of the group is encourage members to look at the natural world around them, plants and invertebrates, but not exclusively, and note seasonal changes. Group members can bring and share their knowledge so we all learn from each other. There is also a WhatsApp group where members can share their photographs, observations, questions and comments from other locations and keep interest going between rambles. The rambles will be suggested and organised by group members using Whatsapp. Locations should be within a reasonable distance of Skipton, and accessible to suitable parking if needed. Rambles should be approximately an hour. Current knowledge about Nature is not important as the group is about learning from each other. Venue surcharge - £0.

Padel Tennis     

  Note that Padel Tennis is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Wednesday
Venue Skipton Tennis Club
Normally meets 13:00 to 14:30
Information Group Leader - Roland Styles. 2/9/26 - 4/11/26 and 15/4/27 - 16/6/27. Two covered courts + one outside court(subject to availability). All equipment is provided. There will be a coach at the first session to explain the rules. Wear tennis shoes with flat soles please. No trainers or running shoes. There is a club house to socialise in whilst waiting to play. Craven u3a has negotiated 90 minute sessions for the next 10 week block. Venue surcharge for each group of members £20 per 5 sessions autumn and summer.

Photo Group     

When Varied
Venue 
Information Group Leader - Anne MacDonald. 1/9/26 - 31/8/27. If you are keen on photography, either using your camera or phone, this group will enable you to share your skills with others and maybe learn some new tips on how to improve your photographs. It will be a Whatsapp group where members will meet up at a specific location to take photographs , share your photos on line and discuss the results. There is no leader of the group as the aim is for group members to communicate with each other to decide what they want from the group. Venue surcharge £0.

Politics Discussion Group     

  We regret that this group is full.
   
When Thursday
Venue Swadford Centre Assembly Room
Normally meets 13:00 to 15:00
Information Group Leader - Dick Newson. 24/9/26 - 3/12/26 (except 29/10/26) and 7/1/27 - 18/3/27 (except 11/2/27). The Politics Discussion Group meets weekly to discuss current political events. We also consider the background to political decisions, and the processes of government (in the UK and elsewhere). Group members will bring to bear their wide-ranging experience(s), knowledge, reading and viewing to try to get a better understanding of what’s going on and where it might lead. Occasionally, a member of the group may offer a more formal short input to inform and focus our discussions. The group is not intended to be a forum for political knockabout from entrenched positions, (although members will clearly have, and express, their own views), but rather an enlightening experience from which we emerge having learned something new and/or questioning our previous assumptions and interpretations. Venue surcharge £10 autumn and spring.

Racketball     

When Monday
Venue Sandylands Sports Centre - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 09:30 to 10:50
Information Group Leader - Mike Valiant. 7/9/2026 - 30/8/2027. Played on the squash courts at Sandylands, Skipton. Clothing as for indoor sports with non-marking shoes. A reasonable level of fitness is required. Game details: Singles. 2 games played to 11 points with 2 points clear. Players rotate between opponents and courts. Rackets and balls provided. Fees - £5 on a “pay per play” basis. Payable by cash. Venue surcharge - £0.

Shorty Walks     

When Varied
Venue 
Information Group Leader - Sally Crowley. 1/9/26 - 31/8/27. Walks of up to 5 miles can be offered by any group member. The walks can be anything any member would like to share with the group. Amongst others, we have enjoyed town trails, moors walks and canal walks. A walk can be any day of the week, throughout the whole year. If you wish to lead a walk or there is a particular place you would like to walk, please contact me. Venue surcharge - £0.

Sketching outdoors     

  We regret that this group is full.
   
When Tuesday
Venue 
Normally meets 10:30 to 12:30
Information Group Leader - Nancy Stedman We will go on short walks (up to 1 mile or so) using our sketchbooks to observe and capture sights and experiences as we go. Destinations will include woods, rivers, canal, villages, moorland. We will keep it simple - just bring your own sketchbook and some pencils / crayons / charcoal to draw with. For all abilities; this is not a tutored group but advice can be sought, and we can all share our ideas, approaches and techniques. 16/6/2026 to 21/7/2026 Surcharge £0.00

Sunday Lunch Social Group     

When Sunday
Venue 
Information Group Leader - Sandra Mason. 1/9/26 - 31/8/27. Our Sunday lunches are are very friendly and all about good food, good chats and catching up once a month. There is no organiser. We all take turns to book and organise a lunch when our name comes round. We stay in touch and organise the lunches on WhatsApp, and we car share wherever possible. So far we've had a great mix of local venues and a bit further afield, which keeps things interesting. So suggestions and recommendations for good venues are always welcome. Venue surcharge £0.

Table Tennis     

  We regret that this group is full.
   
When Friday
Venue Sandylands Sports Centre - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information Group Leader - Jenny Crook. 2/10/26 - 4/12/26 and 8/1/27 - 20/3/27. Have fun and improve your fitness and coordination at the same time. Beginners welcome. Venue surcharge £5 autumn and spring.

Tenpin Bowling     

  We regret that this group is full.
   
When Monday
Venue Matrix Superbowl - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information Group Leader - Gail Matthews. 14/9/26 - 11/12/26 and 11/1/27 - 25/4/27. We play 2 games per week. Just for fun! The cost for 2 games is £6 or £7 per week. Venue surcharge £0.

Two Hour walks     

  We regret that this group is full.
   
When Tuesday
Venue 
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information Group Leader - Jay Cundell Walker. 1/9/26 - 31/8/27. This group is intended for people who only want a short walk every fortnight, (about 3.5 to 4 miles) or have limited time. They are not necessarily easy, just short. The walks are always within a ten mile radius of Skipton, and there is consideration of access by public transport or lifts can be arranged. There is a small group of walk leaders, but members with walk offers are always welcomed. In the unlikely event of more than twenty wanting to come on a walk, we will restrict numbers in order to keep within the time limit. Venue surcharge £0.

Walk to Lunch 25-26     

  We regret that this group is full.
   
When Thursday
Venue 
Normally meets 10:00 to 00:00
Information Group Leaders - Jenny Robinson and Brigida Martino. 8/10/26 - 23/9/27. We offer morning walks of up to 5 miles, every fortnight, followed by a pub/café lunch. Please note that a regular commitment to walks is required and pre-booking for walks/lunches is essential. Members must be fit to walk at a good pace and able to manage hills and stiles. Meeting points and pub menus are circulated by email a week before each walk. You’ll need boots, waterproofs, email access and (sometimes) a sense of adventure !! Your own transport to the varied meeting points is required. Venue surcharge £0.

Walking Cricket     

When Tuesday
Venue Skipton Sports Community Hub - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information Group Leader - Anne MacDonald. 11/5/27 - 11/11/27. Come and have a go at Walking Cricket! The game is played between teams of 6 or 8 players, with each team batting in pairs. Each pair bats for 4 overs. Each time the batter is out, the batters change ends, unless it occurs at the end of the over or is a run out. Each bowler bowls at least one over (max balls 6). Can bowl underarm. Extras are worth 2 runs. No one is allowed to run!! Modified soft ball is used. No protective equipment needed. Venue surcharge £15.

Walking Group 25-26     

When Tuesday and Thursday
Venue 
Information Group Leader - Fran Valiant. 2/9/2026 to 1/9/2027. We meet every Tuesday and Thursday weekly for walks in the Yorkshire Dales, Moors and Lake District, between 6 to 13 miles, either easy, moderate or strenuous in grade. Full details in the the group's programme are published for the Winter, Spring and Summer walks. You will receive a copy as a member. Venue surcharge £0.

Walking Group Admin     

When NULL
Venue 
Information For Walking Group administration only. NOT for general use. DO NOT add members without consulting Treasurer

Wharfedale Walking     

When Saturday
Venue 
Normally meets 10:00 to 00:00
Information Group Leader - Nick Jarvis. 5/9/2026 to 28/8/2027. A friendly way to walk, at an easy pace up and down the Dales. Walks are mainly in Wharfedale. Typically, walks will be between 6 and 8 miles. You should have appropriate clothing, boots, drink and a picnic lunch. We meet at the start of the walk at 10.00. (Sorry, but no dogs). We like to stop from time to time to take in the scenery and anything else of interest during the walk. A few days before the Saturday walk a description of the walk will be sent by e-mail, and you reply if you want to come on that walk. New walkers can join at any time and members are welcome to offer to lead a walk. Venue surcharge £0.

WhatsApp Community     

When NULL
Venue 
Information This group contains the link for the Craven u3a community. Link: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DFfTjZjBf6VBYx1jYgvQcv?mode=ac_t To use this link, hold your finger on the link until you see an option to copy it. Then select copy. Then open your web browser, hold down your finger in the address bar until you see a Paste option. Then select Paste. Then click on enter or search.

Woodturning in Summer 2026     

  Note that Woodturning in Summer 2026 is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Monday
Venue Carleton Woodturning
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information Weekly June to August This group will be held in a woodturning club in Carleton. There will be 10 sessions with a set of medium level projects This course is aimed at those with a bit of experience in woodturning but will not be too challenging. It is not the best environment for beginners as time for individual supervision is limited. NB access to the premises involves rough terrain and a steep staircase. There are no toilet or kitchen facilities in the building or the village so members must bring their own refreshments. As we are hiring a club there is a £20 surcharge and also additional costs for materials. At this stage the dates are indicative. Provisional Dates for 2026 sessions: June - 08, 15, 22, 29, July 09,13,20,27, Aug 10,17 Surcharge £20.00