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Craven u3a Groups

Ad Hoc Walking Group 25-26     

When varied
Venue 
Information 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. Irregular All year 1/9/2025 to 31/8/2026 Surcharge £0.00

Adventure into Classical Music     

  Note that Adventure into Classical Music is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Thursday
Venue St Andrews Church Primary Room
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information Do you enjoy listening to classical music but wish you knew more of it and more about it? This group aims to cater for you - we shall listen to all sorts of music - often starting from something familiar and then exploring pieces that relate to it, always accompanied by some explanation or story which sheds new light or asks an intriguing question. There will also be a strand of discovery in each meeting - in this presentation we shall be looking at the music produced by women through the ages. Weekly 15/1/2026 to 19/3/2026 Surcharge £10.00

Aerobic Fitness Training     

  Note that Aerobic Fitness Training is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Weekly Wednesday Autumn Spring
Venue Sandylands Gym Multi use Gym
Normally meets 14:00 to 15:00
Information The course is aimed at improving overall body fitness levels. Activities include some upper body strength training, as well as the generally accepted aerobic workouts, resistance training, incorporating light weights and use of gym equipment. Numbers are limited so Members should be prepared to do press-ups squats lunges and be able to sustain some high intensity aerobic exercise (HIIT). Suitable clothing essential. Please bring water and check with your doctor that HIIT is OK for you, as heart rates will be elevated. 8/10/2025 to 10/12/2025 7/1/2026 to 11/3/2026 Surcharge £5

Allotment     

When Sunday Weekly All year
Venue Allotment
Normally meets 09:30 to 12:00
Information 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. Surcharge £5.00

Art 1840-1900     

When Tuesday Fortnightly Spring
Venue Swadford Centre Assembly Room
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information A fortnightly course alternating with Victorian Novels. You can join both or just one of the two!We will look at primarily Impressionist and Post Impressionist artists , virtually visiting galleries and discussing specific artists and the their contribution to this very fertile period of Art History. 13/1/2026 to 17/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Art and Architecture     

When Weekly Wednesday Autumn
Venue Embsay Village Hall Side Room - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information This is a follow-on course to the History of Art, but it is not necessary to have done that first. This course looks at European art, architecture and design outside in the 19th century France. The second part of the course looks at western art, architecture and design more generally in the 20th century. The course includes an architectural tour around Leeds 8/10/2025 to17/12/2025 Surcharge £5.00

Art and Calligraphy     

When Thursday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue Skipton Sports Community Hub - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information Come and enjoy spending time sharing your artistic skills and learn from each other using different media, watercolours, pastels, pencils, charcoal and acrylics. Come and spend a couple of hours, relaxing with friends painting or drawing . Beginners are welcome for Calligraphy and guidance will be given by experienced Calligraphers. Practising beautiful handwriting is mindful and relaxing. Come and join our friendly group. 9/10/2025 to 11/12/2025 8/1/2026 to 12/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Art Forum face to face     

When Fortnightly Tuesday Autumn
Venue 
Normally meets 10:30 to 12:00
Information From October we give up our screens and meet in each other’s homes. We will share all things Art in a variety of ways - individual members sharing favourite artists, paintings, sculptures or artistic movements interspersed with Mix and Match sessions when we each choose one picture around one theme. We might continue looking at various aspects of one artist in depth or we might have a picture Quiz. 7/10/2025 to 16/12/2025 13/1/2026 to 24/3/2025 Surcharge £0.00

Badminton     

When Thursday Weekly All Year
Venue Sandylands Sports Centre - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 12:00 to 13:00
Information layed 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 4/9/2025 to 27/8/2026 Surcharge - Nil

Birdwatching     

When Weekly Monday Autumn Spring
Venue Bolton Abbey Village Hall - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information Group has indoor meetings at Bolton Abbey Village Hall, mostly with presentations from speakers with accompanying pictures. Expert members contribute and external experts and photographers. These are from10-12Outdoor meetings are mostly at RSPB reserves so a good idea to join. You'll also need binoculars and group members are generous in sharing their spotting skills and telescopes! Nearby trips are by car share ( passengers contribute 10p a mile for petrol and we leave Skipton at 8.30 as a rule) but we also run several coach trips further afield which are great days out albeit more expensive. We start and end the Autumn programme with a welcome meeting and Xmas quiz and food so meetings don't always alternate indoor/ outdoor. New members are welcome to this long established and popular group. 6/10/2025 to 15/12/2025 12/1/2026 to 23/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Book Group - Non-fiction     

When First Wednesday of each Month All year
Venue 
Normally meets 18:15 to 19:15
Information 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! 1/10/2025 to 1/7/2026 Surcharge £0.00

Book Group Fiction A     

When Second Monday of the month
Venue 
Normally meets 18:15 to 19:15
Information Meetings take place on the second Monday of the month, with alternative arrangements if this is a bank holiday. This is an informal group where the only requirement is to have read the book! Members can choose from a list of books provided by Skipton Library which will be emailed in advance of the first monthly meeting Members will need to collect a copy of the book from the library and are responsible for returning it by the due date. The venue may vary, using local pubs to meet. All members should be comfortable with being in a WhatsApp group which will be used for reminders and recommendations of other books and authors- no pictures of pets or grandchildren! 1/9/2025 to 8/7/2026 Surcharge £0.00

Book Group Fiction B     

When Second Monday of the month all year
Venue 
Normally meets 18:15 to 19:15
Information Meetings take place on the second Monday of the month, with alternative arrangements if this is a bank holiday. This is an informal group where the only requirement is to have read the book! Members can choose from a list of books provided by Skipton Library which will be emailed in advance of the first monthly meeting Members will need to collect a copy of the book from the library and are responsible for returning it by the due date. The venue may vary, using local pubs to meet. All members should be comfortable with being in a WhatsApp group which will be used for reminders and recommendations of other books and authors- no pictures of pets or grandchildren! 1/9/2025 to 8/7/2026 Surcharge £0.00

Bridge for Beginners     

When Weekly Wednesday Autumn
Venue 
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information Bridge is a fascinating game of cards which will help you to develop memory, concentration and strategy. This course assumes no prior knowledge, as the first 2 sessions are devoted to the basics of card play, followed by 8 sessions covering varous aspects of bidding and card play. The objective is to reach a standard of play which would enable you to join the u3a Bridge play group which meets on a Thursday afternoon. Total cost is £5 for handouts/homework sheets and tea/biscuits. I will be recommending a website for extra practice but have some resources for people without internet.It will take place at my home in Addingham (24 Coppy Road, LS29 0TA). It is easy to park near the house, and is a 5 minute walk from a bus stop from Skipton and Keighley/Silsden. 1/10/2025 to 10/12/2025 Surcharge £0.00

Bridge Play     

When Thursday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue Draughton Village Hall
Normally meets 13:45 to 15:45
Information This is a friendly group who enjoy playing duplicate bridge in a relaxed setting. It is intended for people who have played a bit of bridge before, but inexperienced players are most welcome. There is a host system, so individuals without a partner will always get a game and players are allowed to refer to their bidding system during play. There is a tea/biscuit break half-way through for which there is a 50p charge. £1 a year is charged for materials, and there is a £5 a term charge to cover room hire. Members are asked to arrive by 1-35 at the latest to allow time for setting up.

Craven u3a Orchestra     

When Weekly Wednesday Autumn Spring
Venue Embsay Village Hall - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information The orchestra welcomes instrumental players of all abilities. We have varying levels of skill but all share an enthusiasm for making music together. We have a wide repertoire ranging from Handel’s Water Music to Morricone’s film music. The rehearsals are always an enjoyable and rewarding way of spending an afternoon. 24/9/2025 to 3/12/2025 14/1/2026 to 25/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Croquet     

When Weekly Wednesday Summer
Venue Pendle and Craven Croquet Club - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 13:30 to 15:30
Information 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 equipments is provided. Flat soled shoes should be worn. There will be a weekly charge of £2.50 , in addition to the £10 venue fee per term. 6/5/2026 to 16/9/2026 Surcharge £0.00

Crown Green Bowls Group 1     

  Note that Crown Green Bowls Group 1 is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Friday Weekly Summer
Venue Whinfield Bowling Club
Normally meets 11:30 to 14:00
Information Instruction and guidance on how to play crown green bowls. 1/5/2026 to 11/9/2026 Surcharge £10.00

Crown Green Bowls Group 2     

  Note that Crown Green Bowls Group 2 is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Friday Weekly Summer
Venue Whinfield Bowling Club
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:30
Information Instruction and guidance on how to play crown green bowls. 1/5/2026 to 11/9/2026 Surcharge £10.00

Culture Vultures     

When varied Irregular All Year
Venue 
Information 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! 1/9/2025 to 31/8/2026 Surcharge £0.00

Day Trips with Friends     

When varied
Venue 
Information The Bus Pass group uses Whatsapp to organise trips out to various interesting locations by bus, train or car share. Enjoy a day out with friends. The group runs throughout the year on different weekdays Surcharge £0.00 £0.00

Drumming Circle     

  Note that Drumming Circle is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Thursday Weekly Autumn
Venue Skipton Sports Community Hub - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information Would you like to bang a drum? Then join this group. No experience necessary. Drum circles have grown in popularity in recent years as a means of enjoyment and improving people’s wellness. The circle will involve playing a mixture of simple rhythms on hand drums and other percussion from African to Latin. It will be led by an experienced drummer who will help you to play. Some drums will be provided but if you have your own that would be good too. Course will initially be limited to 12 people due to instrument availability. If you play drums and would like to assist that would be good too. The course will be weekly from Thursday afternoon the Oct 9th 2025 to Thursday Nov 27th between 2.30 to 4 pm at the Skipton Community Sports Hub. 9/10/2025 to 27/11/2025 Surcharge £5.00

E-biking     

When varied Irregular Autumn Spring
Venue 
Normally meets 09:45 to 10:45
Information 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! Term dates are a guide only; some hardy souls might like to venture out in the winter. Our routes tend to start from Skipton or Gargrave, and are usually between 20 and 30 miles in length, with a stop at a tea-room. All members are welcome to propose and plan routes. Some members can transport several bikes if necessary. 1/9/2025 to 30/11/2025 1/3/2026 to 31/8/2025 Surcharge £0.00

Films on Thursdays     

  Note that Films on Thursdays is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Thursday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue Champions Church - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 13:30 to 16:00
Information The film group meets every Thursday from October to March. Champions Church is a comfortable venue close to the town centre. We show films from a variety of genres, foreign and English. They all have English subtitles. We welcome new members. Like the Tuesday film group, we are happy to see members who just want to come occasionally. If you cannot come every week, it is a good idea to enrol anyway so that you are on the mailing list. We break for refreshments halfway through the film. We find the films stimulate plenty of conversation. Details of the programme will be available at the Open Event in August. There is a venue surcharge of £5 per 10 week session and a weekly charge of £1, which covers refreshments and the purchase of DVDs. 9/10/2025 to 11/12/2025 15/1/2026 to 19/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Films on Tuesday international     

  Note that Films on Tuesday international is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Tuesday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue Champions Church - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 13:30 to 16:00
Information Films chosen from around the world as well as the UK to lighten the mood during winter and beyond into springtime. ALL films shown will have subtitles regardless of the language of the film. Tea, coffee and biscuits midway (£1). Pick and choose the films you want to see, you don't have to come every week. Autumn programme: 7/10/2025 to 9/12/2025. Spring programme: 13/1/2026 to 17/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Floral Art     

  Note that Floral Art is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Thursday Fortnightly Autumn Spring
Venue St Stephens Church Hall Skipton - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information 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 11/9/2025 to 4/12/2025 8/1/2025 to 9/7/2026 Surcharge £10.00

French Advanced     

  Note that French Advanced is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Weekly Autumn Spring Friday
Venue St Stephens Church Hall Skipton - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information An opportunity to practice and improve your french in a convivial atmosphere. A reasonably good grounding in french is advised as contemporary articles and videos will be used. Vas-y donc! 10/10/2025 to 12/12/2025 9/1/2026 to 13/3/2026 Surcharge £15.00

French Conversation     

  Note that French Conversation is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Friday weekly Autumn Spring
Venue Christ Church - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 00:00
Information 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. 10/10/2025 to 19/12/2025 9/1/2026 to 20/3/2026 Surcharge £10.00

Gardening     

When varied all Year
Venue 
Information 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 others 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 emailWe get together a couple of times a year to plan the following gardening year Surcharge £0.00

Geography Forum     

  Note that Geography Forum is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Wednesday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue St Stephens Church Hall Skipton - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information Talks, mainly by members of the Forum, on Geography, History, People and Places 1/10/2025 to 10/12/2025 break 29/10/2025 7/1/2026 to 18/3/2026 break 18/02/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Geology Walks     

When Monday Fortnightly Autumn Spring
Venue 
Normally meets 10:00 to 00:00
Information Please come along and join us on our fortnightly 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 members 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. 6/10/2025 to 15/12/2025 5/1/2026 to 16/3/2026 Surcharge £0.00

German     

When Tuesday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue St Andrews Church Primary Room
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information If you have a knowledge of German, and wish to improve your spoken German fluency and read a variety of newspaper/ magazine articles from German speaking countries, this group is ideal for you 14/10/2025 to 16/12/2025 13/1/2026 to 17/3/2026 Surcharge £10.00

History Happens     

  We regret that this group is full.
   
When Wednesday Fortnightly Autumn Spring
Venue St Stephens Church Hall Skipton - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information A new course, with a variety of speakers, this is a series of lively talks, fortnightly, specifically designed for our members who enjoy talks on historical topics that cover unfamiliar ground . . . that take them to unexplored realms . . . that open up new vistas. On a broad range of topics - ancient to modern. From social and cultural history to people, events and politics - such as the course of the year 1816, travel by stage and mail coach, and what you would find in cabinets of curiosities. Plenty to entertain and stimulate. 1/10/2025 to 3/12/2025 14/1/2026 to 11/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

History of Art     

When Tuesday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue Embsay Village Hall Side Room - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information A broad overview of the history of western art and architecture from Ancient Greece to the end of the 19th century. 7/10/2025 to 16/12/2025 6/1/2026 to 17/3/2025 Surcharge £10.00

Illuminating Medieval Manuscri     

When Thursday Weekly Spring
Venue Swadford Centre Assembly Room
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information Beginning with 'From Sheep to Shelf', on the crafts involved in the making of these marvellous books, we follow with their artistic history from the time of the Lindisfarne Gospels and the Book of Kells through the Middle Ages and the Renaissance to the invention of printing, and thereafter. 8/1/2025 to 26/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Indoor Games 25-26     

  Note that Indoor Games 25-26 is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Monday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue Three Links Club - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information The Indoor games Group provides an opportunity for members to meet socially, during the dreary winter months, and to enjoy some FRIENDLY competition. The group meet weekly at The Three Links Club, where a wide range of games are available, including darts, dominoes, scrabble, draughts/chess, pool and various card and board games. Members are very welcome to bring in their own games to try out. We play purely for FUN - no prizes or trophies. Refreshments are available during the afternoon from the Club Bar. 6/10/2025 to 8/12/2025 12/1/2026 to 17/3/2025 Surcharge £5.00

Italian Beginners     

When Wednesday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue Quaker Meeting House
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information The class this year (Autumn 2025) will be for complete beginners although places will be reserved for those who persisted through last year and wish to re-enrol. They will help, as revision, with the beginners' classes, but otherwise will be working separately as a group. Beginners is for complete beginners - we do very little grammar in the first year, but through repetition and role-play, by the end of the year you will have acquired a basic 'get by' knowledge of the language to help you on a holiday in Italy. Anyone who is not a complete beginner may wish to join the smaller group who have a basic fluency. They will be revising the very basics, learning some areas of vocabulary, and covering a basic grammar: singulars, plurals gender, definite and indefinite articles, adjectives and how they change to 'agree' with the nouns they describe, and the very basics of how verbs work in Italian: a present, a past, and a future tense - the formation and usage thereof. 1/10/2025 to 10/12/2025 7/1/2026 to 18/3/2026 Surcharge £10.00

Italian continuers     

  Note that Italian continuers is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Monday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue Quaker Meeting House
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information For students with a reasonable level of fluency. We spend time chatting in Italian. We do listening and comprehension exercises that can be prepared at home. We cover a wide range of topics , focused on Italy and also some advanced grammar or translation 29/9/2025 to 8/12/2025 5/1/2026 to 16/3/2026 Surcharge £10.00

Japan: A history in five talks     

When Wednesday Fortnightly Autumn
Venue St Stephens Church Hall Skipton - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information This highly compressed history of Japan begins with the ancient gods and cherry blossom and ends with a journey on the bullet train past Mount Fuji. The dominant theme is Japan’s clash and fusion with the Western world since the mid-16th century. The talks will entail considerable cross-referencing between different periods of Japanese history. Hence, this is NOT a course for dipping in and out of. Priority of place will therefore be granted to those members who to the best of their knowledge can commit themselves to attending all five talks. 8/10/2025 to 10/12/2025 Surcharge £5.00

Literary Lives     

  We regret that this group is full.
   
When Monday Fortnightly Autumn Spring
Venue St Stephens Church Hall Skipton - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information Illustrated talks on the lives of literary figures by Judith Barras, David Turner and guest presenters, covering writers from the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries. 29/9/2025 to 15/12/2025 12/1/2026 to 16/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Mah Jong     

  Note that Mah Jong is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Thursday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue Three Links Club - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information Mah Jong is an old Chinese game based on three suites, winds and dragons. It stretches the mind, is competitive and satisfying, but needs concentration! 09/10/2025 to 11/12/2025 08/01/2026 to 12/03/2026 Surcharge £10

Motorcycle Group     

When Irregular
Venue 
Normally meets 10:00 to 00:00
Information The motorcycle group restarted in March 2025 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. These rides are posted on a Whatsapp message on07522 343181The group will run in 2026, from March to October, as described above. The rides start from Morrisons in Skipton at 10 am. Please contact Harry Taylor on harrytaylor1950@hotmail.com. If you want to join our Whatsapp group 2/3/2026 to 30/10/2026 Surcharge £0.00

Music for fun     

  Note that Music for fun is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Tuesday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue Trinity Methodist Church - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:30 to 12:15
Information This course is purely for the enjoyment of singing and\or playing music. We are not a choir and no perceived ability to do either is required. If you only sing in the shower that's fine. ! Everyone welcome. We don't provide music but words and chords are projected onto the wall. We sing and accompany a very wide variety of songs old and new , including folk and sea shanties classic pop American song book jazz etc. We would like it to be a proactive group where members feel relaxed enough to request songs and \or lead them if they wish and make suggestions. Otherwise the course leaders will choose around a dozen songs each. We have a coffee break when members are encouraged to socialise. All instrumentalist welcome 7/10/2025 to 16/12/2025 6/1/2026 to 17/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Music theory, creativity & imp     

When Monday Fortnightly Autumn Spring
Venue Embsay Village Hall - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information This is a theoretical and practical creative music course supported by piano. We will explore how to develop your music ideas, come up with creative musical phrases and fit them into a musical framework – the start of improvisation and song composition. You will prepare your own musical ideas, (on your instrument or sing them out loud), and then transfer these ideas to piano, explore, harmonize and then develop them into improvisation and possibly a song melody. This course is aimed at musical instrument players with some experience/competency of chords, scales and arpeggios. Any instrument will be fine. In preparation for the above, we will also work on;-well known pop and jazz songs-playing from memory/by ear without music.-a mix of musical theory with practical demonstration-harmony and chord progressions Two terms: Please contact me for dates and times Surcharge total £10 for two terms

Musical Theatre: A History     

  Note that Musical Theatre: A History is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Monday Fortnightly Autumn Spring
Venue St Stephens Church Hall Skipton - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information From its early beginnings to the 2020s, this course will take us through the development of musical theatre, looking at shows, composers, stars, choreographers, directors. It will make extensive use of video clips from performances of well loved shows and perhaps also introduce you some less well know but equally significant and enjoyable productions. I would hope to be able to include some audience requests if they are not already in the programme, so if you enjoy musicals this is the course for you. 6/10/2025 to 8/12/2025 5/1/2026 to 9/3/2025 Surcharge £5.00

Nature Rambles     

When varied Irregular All Year
Venue 
Information Occasional short walks (no more than a mile) to observe and identify plants and invertebrates along the way. Locations will be selected for their potential variety and will be in the broadly local area. Group members bring and share their knowledge and interest and 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. 1/1/2025 to 31/12/2025 Surcharge £0.00

Opera DVDs     

When Friday Weekly Spring
Venue 
Normally meets 09:30 to 12:00
Information Madam Butterfly ( Puccini ),Carmen ( Bizet ).The Marriage of Figaro (Mozart ), Eugene Onegin ( Tchaikovsky),Akhenaten ( Philip Glass ), Beggar’s Opera (John Gay ).The end date for this course is flexible . We have lots of DVDs in the Spring I hope to start the Group shortly after the Christmas break. Surcharge £0.00

Padel Tennis     

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

   
When Wednesday Weekly Autumn Summer
Venue Skipton Tennis Club
Normally meets 13:00 to 14:00
Information Come play Padel Tennis on indoor courts. All equipment is provided. There will be a coach at the first session to explain the rules etcThere are two courts, players can have a rota , taking turns to play. There is a club house to socialise in whilst waiting to play 3/9/2025 to 5/11/2025 15/4/2026 to 17/6/2026 Surcharge £15.00

Photo Group     

When varied Monthly All Year
Venue 
Information 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 Surcharge £0.00

Pickleball     

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

   
When Wednesday Weekly Spring
Venue Skipton Tennis Club
Normally meets 12:00 to 13:00
Information Come and try Pickleball . It will be on an outside tennis court( weather dependent)You will need to purchase a Pickleball racket as they are not provided. The rackets can be purchased at a reasonable price!You can enjoy getting some exercise in the summer, make new friends and socialise in the Tennis Club room whilst waiting your turn to play 15/4/2026 to 17/6/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Poetry Group     

  Note that Poetry Group is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Friday Fortnightly Autumn Spring
Venue 
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information An informal exploration of our favourite poems. We will read them, listen to them, and talk about them, all over coffee. Based around a BBC anthology, which will be provided (£2.50). No prior poetry knowledge required. 10/10/2025 to 5/12/2025 9/1/2026 to 20/3/2026 Surcharge £0.00

Politics Discussion Group     

  Note that Politics Discussion Group is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Thursday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue Swadford Centre Assembly Room
Normally meets 13:00 to 15:00
Information 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), 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 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 educational experience from which we emerge having learned something new or questioning our previous assumptions. 25/9/2025 to 4/12/2025 15/1/2026 to 26/3/2026 Surcharge £10.00

Popular Music     

When Tuesday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue Three Links Club - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information Nostalgia is our choice of music. The sessions include delightful refreshments, good company and enjoyable music. We listen to various composers, approx 25 songs each week, remembering songs our parents and ourselves have enjoyed over the years 7/10/2025 to 9/12/2025 13/1/2026 to 24/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Pottery Collective     

  Note that Pottery Collective is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Wednesday Weekly Autumn
Venue 
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information A creative Co-op with a weekly meet to exchange ideas and support each other in a ceramic journey We have 2 venues in Sutton and Skipton with (loosly) the Sutton group for everyone including beginners and the Skipton venue for more experienced potters or those with an Arts background This year (2025) we will start on Tuesday 23rd Sept at Skipton (PM) and Wed 24th (AM) in Sutton. Term will run for 10 weeks with a possible half term break to be decided. There will be specialist technical sessions on last Tuesday Mornings of the month run by Roland on; 30th Sept: Sutton - Throwing on the wheel. 28th October: Skipton - Reclaiming Clay 25th Nov - Skipton - Glaze Recipes Sessions cost £5 each and payment should be upfront at the beginning of term. We will refund up to 50% of this if you are subsequntly unable to come. This payment covers use of the studio, all clay, glazes, equipment and firing.

Quilting and Sewing     

When Wednesday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue Skipton Sports Community Hub - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information Sewing 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 Quilting Group embrace all aspects of sewing. Everyone can sew, you just require a vision of the finished project and the determination to complete it. If you enjoy sewing or want to learn to sew 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 to complete novices. We can all teach each other what we know and ask for help with what we don’t know. 1/10/2025 to 10/12/2025 7/1/2026 to 18/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Racketball     

When mond Weekly All Year
Venue Sandylands Sports Centre - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 08:50 to 10:50
Information 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 - £4 on a “pay per play” basis. Payable by bank transfer to the Group Leader 1/9/2025 to 31/8/2026 Surcharge - Nil

Railway Study Group     

When Friday weekly Autumn Spring
Venue Swadford Centre Assembly Room
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information llustrated talks by guest speakers and group members on a wide variety of railway topics, both historic and modern, including tramways. While the majority of talks are based on UK railways, overseas subjects are also covered. 3/10/2025 to 19/12/2025 16/1/2026 to 27/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Recorder Continuers     

When Monday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue St Andrews Church Primary Room
Normally meets 15:00 to 17:00
Information We are an informal, supportive, self-help group (no tutor), and members have a varied amount of musical knowledge. We play all sorts of 2, 3 and 4 part music. Ideally you should have some previous basic experience, but if in doubt please contact me to check standard needed. Requirements: Recorder and portable music stand. Additional costs: allow £10 for music. 29/9/2025 to 8/12/2025 12/1/2026 to 23/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Recorder Ensemble     

When Monday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue St Andrews Church Primary Room
Normally meets 13:30 to 14:30
Information Four or five part music will be played on descant, treble, tenor and bass recorders, from different genre. It is an asset if members can play more than one instrument. The group usually plays at the u3a carol service in one of the Skipton churches. You will need recorders and a portable music stand. There is a £5 per term venue cost. 29/9/2025 to 8/12/2025 12/1/2026 to 23/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Science and technology disc     

When Monday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue St Stephens Church Hall Skipton - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:15 to 12:15
Information Discussion of current scientific topics that are of special interest to group members. No scientific or technical expertise is required to join. However, If you have expertise in a particular area, you will be most welcome to give a presentation. Documents for discussion are posted on our website each week: https://cravenst971700904.wordpress.com so access to the internet is required. Meetings are held in a hybrid in-person/Zoom format. We have internet access and a large screen at the venue so that participants and articles can be display to all. 29/9/2025 to 8/12/2025 12/1/2026 to 23/3/2026 Surcharge £15.00

Shorty Walks     

When varied Irregular All Year
Venue 
Information Walks of up to 5 miles are offered by group members. The walk 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. 30/8/2025 to 29/8/2026 Surcharge £0.00

Singing Madrigals     

When Wednesday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue St Andrews Church Primary Room
Normally meets 10:30 to 12:30
Information In this course we shall get together to sing examples of English madrigals and other simple part songs. Singing in parts is a group activity where we support each other and is good for both body and mind. Enthusiasm and a willingness to try will be more important than musical experience, although some knowledge of musical notation will help. 8/10/2025 to 10/12/2025 14/1/2026 to 18/3/2026 Surcharge £10.00

Sketching outdoors     

  Note that Sketching outdoors is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Tuesday Weekly Summer
Venue 
Normally meets 10:30 to 12:30
Information 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

Solo Latin Dance Advanced     

  Note that Solo Latin Dance Advanced is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Friday weekly Autumn Spring
Venue Skipton Sports Community Hub - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:30 to 11:30
Information For people who have done 20 weeks this year and gained confidence in 6 dances. Experienced dancers are also welcome as I shall reinforce last year's routines. High energy so ensure you have water and comfortable footwear with flexible soles. 10/10/2025 to 12/12/2025 9/1/2026 to 20/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Solo Latin Dance Beginners     

  Note that Solo Latin Dance Beginners is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Friday weekly Autumn Spring
Venue Skipton Sports Community Hub - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 11:30 to 12:30
Information A class to build knowledge of and skill in performing a range of Latin dances. No partner needed -just enthusiasm, water and comfortable clothing. most especially footwear. I recommend pumps/ ballet shoes rather than trainers which are not very flexible. 10/10/2025 to 12/12/2025 9/1/2026 to 20/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Spanish Conversation Advanced     

When Wednesday Fortnightly Autumn
Venue St Stephens Church Hall Skipton - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 19:00 to 20:30
Information An opportunity for those who already have a good level of spoken Spanish, to improve their knowledge and ability. We will use some videos and newspaper articles to learn useful Spanish colloquial expressions. The emphasis will be on spoken Spanish although some reading will be required to facilitate it. The course is not suitable for beginners. 8/10/2025 to 3/12/2025 Surcharge £5.00

Stories of Scientists     

When Wednesday Weekly Spring
Venue Skipton Sports Community Hub - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information Stories of Scientists their background and discoveries. 10-weeks with a break for half term holidays. Weekly from 14/01/2026 to 25/03/2026 Group fee £5.00

Stretching / Yoga     

  Note that Stretching / Yoga is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Monday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue St Andrews Church Hall Skipton - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 11:00
Information Exercise to improve balance and flexibility. You should to be able to sit down on your heels and do a shoulder stand to do the positions correctly. Please wear comfortable clothing, bring a mat and bottle of water. 13/10/2025 to 15/12/2025 5/1/2026 to 9/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Stretching /Movement     

  Note that Stretching /Movement is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Wednesday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue St Andrews Church Hall Skipton - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 11:00
Information Chair exercise to improve posture, balance and flexibility. Seated exercise, with some standing positions using the chair as an aid. PLease wear comfortable clothing and light soft shoes. Bring a bottle of water. 8/10/2025 to 10/12/2025 7/1/2026 to 11/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Sunday Lunch Club     

When Sunday Monthly All Year
Venue 
Information Enjoy meeting up with friends to enjoy lunch together. Join our Whatsapp group we organise Sunday Lunch, once a month, at different venues. Members take it in turns to suggest and book the venue. Car sharing helps . Surcharge £0.00

Table Tennis     

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

   
When Friday weekly Autumn Spring
Venue Sandylands Sports Centre - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information Have fun and improve your fitness and coordination at the same time. Beginners welcome. 3/10/2025 to 5/12/2025 9/1/2026 to 13/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Tenpin Bowling     

  Note that Tenpin Bowling is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Monday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue Matrix Superbowl - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information We play 2 games per week. Just for fun! The cost for 2 games is £6 or £7 per week. 15/9/2025 to 1/12/2025 12/1/2026 to 23/3/2026 Surcharge £0.00

Two Hour walks     

When Tuesday Irregular Autumn
Venue 
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information This group is intended for people who only want a short walk (about 3.5 miles) or have limited time. The walks are local and take place on a Tuesday morning from 10am -12pm when a walk is offered. 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. 2/9/2025 to 30/12/2025 Surcharge £0.00

Victorian Novels     

When Tuesday Fortnightly Spring
Venue Swadford Centre Assembly Room
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information We will discuss a selection of novels from 1840-1900 by a variety of British authors, some very well-known such as Dickens others less so such as Wilkie Collins. I will try to introduce lesser known novels and identity the strengths and weaknesses of Victorian novels from a 21st century perspective. Readings from the novels will exemplify the varied styles and interests of the authors. This series of 5 talks will alternate with 5 talks on Impressionist and Post Impressionist painters of the period. Members can join either group or both. 20/1/2026 to 24/3/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Walk to Lunch 25-26     

  We regret that this group is full.
   
When Thursday Fortnightly All Year
Venue 
Normally meets 10:00 to 00:00
Information We offer morning walks of 4 to 5 miles 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 !! 9/10/2025 to 24/9/2026 Surcharge £0.00

Walking Cricket     

When Tuesday Weekly Summer
Venue Skipton Sports Community Hub - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 10:00 to 12:00
Information 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 if 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. There will be a small charge to pay, amount to be confirmed 12/5/2026 to 14/7/2026 Surcharge £5.00

Walking Group 25-26     

When Tuesdays and Thursdays All Year
Venue 
Information 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 published Winter, Spring and Summer. You will receive a copy as a member 2/9/2025 to 1/9/2026 Surcharge £0.00

Walking Group Admin     

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

Walking Netball.     

When Tuesday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue Sandylands Sports Centre - Streetmap - Google maps
Normally meets 11:00 to 12:00
Information To introduce ex-players to a sport they have always loved or to engage adults in a sport they didn’t realise they could enjoy. We will develop netball skills at a slower pace for everyone to increase physical and social health; open to everyone; there is a health questionnaire for participants to assess themselves, anyone unsure if they are fit to participate should speak to someone at their GP practice . 30/9/2025 to 9/12/2025 13/1/2026 to 24/3/2025 Surcharge £10.00

Wharfedale Walking     

When Saturday Fortnightly All Year
Venue 
Normally meets 10:00 to 00:00
Information A friendly way to walk, at an easy pace up and down the Dales. Walks are on Saturdays, and 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 can come. New walkers can join at any time and members are welcome to offer to lead a walk. We will meet fortnightly and occasionally, weekly. 4/10/2025 to 29/8/2026 Surcharge £0.00

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 1     

  Note that Woodturning 1 is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Monday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue 
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information A mixed ability class. Beginners will be taught basic techniques. Returners will undertake more ambitious projects. N.B. This course involves moving machinery and sharp tools, so there are health and safety issues, which will be taught. There will be some exposure to dust, so it may not be advisable for those with breathing difficulties. Physical strength is not required, so it is suitable for both sexes. Persons with health problems such as postural hypotension MUST inform the Group Leader. Additional cost <£5 for cost of materials, wood 28/9/2025 to 14/12/2025 11/1/2026 to 29/3/2026 Surcharge £0.00

Woodturning 2     

  Note that Woodturning 2 is full and you will be added to a waiting list.

   
When Monday Weekly Autumn Spring
Venue 
Normally meets 17:00 to 19:00
Information mixed ability class. Beginners will be taught basic techniques. Returners will undertake more ambitious projects. N.B. This course involves moving machinery and sharp tools, so there are health and safety issues, which will be taught. There will be some exposure to dust, so it may not be advisable for those with breathing difficulties. Physical strength is not required, so it is suitable for both sexes. Persons with health problems such as postural hypotension MUST inform the Group Leader. Additional cost <£5 for cost of materials, wood 28/9/2025 to 14/12/2025 11/1/2026 to 29/3/2026 Surcharge £0.00

Woodturning in Summer     

When Monday Fortnightly Summer
Venue Carleton Woodturning
Normally meets 14:00 to 16:00
Information 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. The final dates will be circulated shortly before the sessions start. 8/6/2026 to 7/9/2026 Surcharge £20.00