Museums, archives and heritage in North Yorkshire

Yorkshire, North-Riding, occupies the N. of the county, between the East-Riding and the county of Durham, and is separated from the West-Riding by the Ouse, the valley of the Ure, and the hills above Wharfedale; area, 1,361,664 acres, population 346,260. The principal rivers are the Derwent, which separates the North-Riding from the East-Riding, with its tributary the Rye; the Tees, which separates the North-Riding from Durham; and the Swale and the Ure, which unite to form the Ouse. The Vale of York, along the rivers Swale and Ouse, divides the eastern moorlands from the western. In the western moorlands the picturesque dells are mostly in pasture. The eastern moorlands contain several beautiful dales, including the Vale of Cleveland and the fertile Vale of the Rye. The best land is found in the Vale of York. The mountain lime-stone yields valuable lead deposits, and alum and jet are obtained at Whitby. Valuable beds of ironstone exist in the Cleveland Hills, and iron smelting and other allied industries are carried on on a vast scale at Middlesbrough, which is also a considerable seaport. Scarborough is one of the great watering-places, and Whitby is specially known for its manufacture of jet ornaments. The North-Riding comprises 11 wapentakes; 2 liberties; 554 parishes, and parts of 5 others; the parliamentary and municipal boroughs of York, Middlesbrough, and Scarborough; and the municipal borough of Richmond. It is almost entirely in the dioceses of York and Ripon.

– John Bartholomew, Gazetteer of the British Isles (1887)

2nd Infantry Divisional Kohima Museum

Imphal Barracks, Fulford Road

York YO1 4AU

01904 662 381

www.kohimamuseum.com

The Battle of Kohima in North East India, close to its border with Burma, took place between 4th April and 22nd June 1944 and marked the limit of the Japanese Army’s advance into India. Here the enemy was stopped, defeated and forced into retreat. This museum tells the story.

Aldborough Roman Site – English Heritage

Aldborough

Boroughbridge YO51 9ES

01423 322768

goo.gl/WRvbP2

Among the northernmost urban centres in the Roman Empire, Aldborough was the ‘capital’ of the Romanised Brigantes, the largest tribe in Britain. One corner of the defences is laid out amid a Victorian arboretum, and two mosaic pavements can be viewed in their original positions.The site museum has an outstanding collection of Roman finds, a handling collection of Roman objects, and other hands-on aids for children and families.

Allied Air Forces Memorial & Yorkshire Air Museum

Halifax way Elvington

York YO41 4AU

01904 608595

www.yorkshireairmuseum.org

A Memorial Museum based on an authentic WWII Bomber Command Base, RAF Elvington, now the largest example of its type open to the public. Original buildings, including the Control Tower, now house some 15 fascinating exhibitions, including ‘Against the Odds’ the story of Bomber Command and ‘Pioneers of Aviation’, charting the work of Yorkshire aviation pioneers such as Sir George Cayley, the inventor of the aeroplane, Robert Blackburn and aviators such as Amy Johnson. The internationally renowned aircraft collection covers the birth of manned flight with the Cayley Glider, through WWI and WWII to the supersonic age.

Archaeology Live. Training Excavation

All Saints Church, North Street

York YO16JD

www.archaeologylive.wordpress.com

York Archaeological Trust offers numerous ways for people to engage with archaeology, none more hands on than our annual Archaeology Live. training excavations. Each year, we carry out an excavation in the heart of York, investigating sites that feature deeply stratified, highly complex archaeological deposits.

Bar Convent Museum, Library & Gallery

The Bar Convent, 17 Blossom Street

York YO24 1AQ

01904 643 238

www.bar-convent.org.uk

The Bar Convent Museum outlines the early history of Christianity in the North of England and tells the story of Mary Ward, foundress of a religious congregation formerly known as the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary and now renamed the Congregation of Jesus. She was a pioneer both of women’s education and apostolic religious orders for women.

Barley Hall

2 Coffee Yard, Off Stonegate

York YO1 8AR

01904 615505

www.barleyhall.co.uk

Barley Hall is a stunning medieval house, once home to the Priors of Nostell and the Mayor of York. Until the 1980s the house was hidden under the relatively modern facade of a derelict office block.

Beck Isle Museum of Rural Life

Bridge Street

Pickering YO18 8DU

01751 473653

www.beckislemuseum.org.uk

The Beck Isle Museum is housed in a handsome Regency residence near the centre of Pickering, adjacent to the Pickering Beck, a stream that flows under a four-arched road bridge. One arch of this bridge (originally much narrower) is reputedly of mediaeval origin. Here William Marshall planned England’s first agricultural institute in the early 1800s.

Bedale Museum

Bedale Hall

Bedale DL8 1AA

01677 422037

www.bedalemuseum.org.uk

The centre of this fascinating little museum is the hand drawn Bedale fire engine dated 1748. Old documents, toys, craft tools, clothing and household utensils give an absorbing picture of the life of ordinary people.

Beningbrough Hall & Gardens – National Trust

Shipton by Beningbrough

York YO30 1DD

01904 470666

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/beningbrough-hall

18th-century mansion with fine interiors and walled garden. York’s ‘country house and garden’, this imposing Georgian mansion was built in 1716 and contains one of the most impressive baroque interiors in England.

Bolton Abbey

Estate Office, Bolton Abbey

Skipton BD23 6EX

01756 718009

www.boltonabbey.com

Bolton Abbey is in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales on the banks of the River Wharfe. With just under 30,000 acres of beautiful countryside, over 80 miles of footpaths and ample space to run around and enjoy the fresh air, there is something for all ages.

Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York

Heslington

York YO10 5DD

01904 321166

www.york.ac.uk/library/borthwick

The Borthwick Institute for Archives is one of the biggest archive respositories outside London. During our 50 year history we have collected archives from all around the world, from the 12th century to the present day. The Borthwick Institute originally specialised in ecclesiastical archives, but the past three decades or so have seen an enormous growth in the range and type of our holdings. Many of our archives have regional, national or international importance.

Byland Abbey – English Heritage

Nr Coxwold

Helmsley YO61 4BD

01347 868614

www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/byland-abbey/

This beautiful ruin in a picturesque setting was once one of the great northern monasteries. A truly outstanding example of early Gothic architecture, Byland Abbey inspired the design for the famous York Minster Rose Window as well as influencing many other religious buildings throughout Europe.

Collections: The splendid collection of medieval floor tiles still in situ is the largest in Europe. The museum displays colourful interpretation panels together with archaeological finds from the site, giving an insight into monastic life.

Captain Cook & Staithes Heritage Centre

High Street, Staithes

Saltburn-By-The-Sea TS13 5BQ

01947 841454

As well as looking into the colourful history and heritage of Staithes itself, there is a tribute to the area most famous son, Captain James Cook.

Collections: A complete recreation of Sanderson’s shop, where a young Captain Cook was once an apprentice as well as an enormous amount of information about the fishing and mining industries which were very important to Staithes, with its rich deposits of alum, iron ore and latterly, potash.

Captain Cook Birthplace Museum

Stewart Park, Marton

Middlesbrough TS7 8AT

01642 311211

www.captcook-ne.co.uk/ccbm

At the Captain Cook Birthplace Museum you can discover why Captain Cook is the world’s most famous navigator. Sail into uncharted waters to see Cook and his crew encounter new peoples, lands, plants and animals through a combination of original artefacts, films, computer interactives, and hands-on displays.

Collections: Ethnography, scientific instruments for navigation, natural history, life at sea, aboriginal art collection of over 500 items, some Cook and Cook family personalia, Cook postage stamps, coins and medals.

Captain Cook Memorial Museum

Grape Lane

Whitby YO22 4BA

01947 601900

www.cookmuseumwhitby.co.uk

The museum is in the Grade-1-listed, 17c house on Whitby’s harbourside which belonged to Captain John Walker. In 1746 the young Cook came here as Walker’s apprentice.

Collections: The museum celebrates Cook’s Whitby years and his later achievements. The collection includes period rooms restored faithfully following an inventory of 1752, models, maps and manuscripts, ship plans, artefacts from the Voyages, and many fine original paintings, drawings and prints.

Captain Cook Schoolroom Museum

101 High Street

Great Ayton TS9 7HB

01642 724296

www.captaincookschoolroommuseum.co.uk

The Schoolroom Museum in Great Ayton is housed in a building once used as a charity school which was founded in 1704 by Michael Postgate, a local landowner. It was here, between 1736 and 1740, that Captain James Cook received his early education.

Castle Howard

York YO60 7DA

01653 648 444

www.castlehoward.co.uk

Built in 1699, Castle Howard is one of the country’s finest historic houses and is still the private residence of the Howard family.

Collections: Indoors, art treasures include paintings by Canaletto, Holbein, Gainsborough and Reynolds, a collection of antique sculpture, and the porcelain collections include a spectacular Crown Derby botanical dessert service. Outdoors there are temples, lead statues and an array of monuments.

City of York & District Family History Society

26 Nursery Road, Nether Poppleton

York YO26 6NN

01904 794 973

www.yorkfamilyhistory.org.uk

The society covers the modern Archdeaconry of York which stretches from Coxwold, Hovingham and Sherburn in Harfordlythe in the North to Ledsham, Birkin, Selby and Drax in the South. As well as from Bramham, Bilton and Sherburn in Elmet in the West to Huggate and Bubwith in the East.

Clifford’s Tower – English Heritage

Tower Street

York YO1 9SA

01904 646940

goo.gl/AmDfZl

With sweeping views of York and the surrounding countryside, it isn’t hard to see why Clifford’s Tower played such a crucial role in the control of northern England. The tower has a turbulent history, surviving 1,000 years of flood, fire and siege.

Courthouse Museum

Minster Road

Ripon HG4 1QP

01765 690799

www.riponmuseums.co.uk/courthouse.htm

The museum is housed in the former Quarter Sessions Courthouse built in 1830 to replace its medieval predecessor and the interior of the courtroom has not changed much since then. After Quarter Sessions ceased in 1953 the court continued as a Magistrates Court until it closed in 1998.

Craven Museum & Gallery

Skipton Town Hall, High Street

Skipton BD23 1AH

01756 706407

www.cravenmuseum.org

Craven Museum & Gallery, located in Skipton Town Hall, is a hidden gem in the market town of Skipton. This unique visitor attraction tells the story of Craven through the ages. Discover something different every time with changing exhibitions, workshops and family events.

Crimlisk Fisher Archive

Filey Town Council, Council Ofices, Queen Street

Filey YO14 9HE

www.exploringfileyspast.co.uk

In 1991 Filey Town Council started an archive of local heritage material. The basis for this now extensive collection were donations of material from Fred Fisher and also John Crimlisk. Fred had held the photographic collection of Filey photographer Walter Fisher, this collection is shared now between Filey Museum and The Crimlisk-Fisher Archive, both being located on Queen Street, Filey.

Dales Countryside Museum

Station Yard

Hawes DL8 3NT

01969 666210

www.dalescountrysidemuseum.org.uk

This fascinating museum, managed by the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, tells the story of the people and landscape of the Yorkshire Dales past and present, and stimulates visitors to think about its future. Displays interpret the development of the Dales from prehistoric times to the present day.

DIG!

St Saviour’s Church, St Saviourgate

York YO1 8NN

01904 615505

www.digyork.com

At DIG. you will become an archaeological detective, and find out for yourself what York was really like through the ages, from Roman times to the present day. You will get the chance to excavate objects from the streets of York and then decide what they are, what they are made from, and why they got there. You will also have the chance to meet real archaeologists and talk to them about their work, see and handle artefacts from York and view recent exciting discoveries.

Dorman Museum

Linthorpe Road

Middlesbrough TS5 6LA

01642 813781

www.dormanmuseum.org.uk

The Dorman Museum now has 8 permanent galleries to suit every taste from local history to dinosaurs, Ancient Egypt to 20th century Woman. Our water gallery is especially popular with children. In addition to our regular programme of exhibitions and events we are continuing to add to our permanent collections so visitors can be sure to see something new each visit.

Eden Camp Modern History Theme Museum

Malton YO17 6RT

01653 697777

www.edencamp.co.uk

A visit to our unique museum at Eden Camp will transport you back in time to wartime Britain. You will experience the sights, sounds, even the smells of those dangerous years.

Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway

Bolton Abbey Station, Bolton Abbey

Skipton BD23 6AF

01756 710614

www.embsayboltonabbeyrailway.org.uk

Now you can travel on a train pulled by a steam locomotive from the historic station at Embsay, built in 1888, or Bolton Abbey Station. The culmination of a dream stretching back almost thirty years, the newly completed track extension and the opening of the award winning Bolton Abbey station offers a whole new experience for the visitor.

Fairfax House Museum

Fairfax House, Castlegate

York YO1 1RN

01904 655 543

www.fairfaxhouse.co.uk

Come and unlock the splendour within the finest Georgian town house in England. A classical architectural masterpiece of its age, Fairfax House was originally the winter home of Viscount Fairfax.

Filey Museum

8-10 Queen Street

Filey YO14 9HB

01723 515013

www.fileymuseum.co.uk

The museum building was originally two single storey cottages and is the oldest domestic building in Filey, 1696 being the date above the doors. The museum retains the original basic layout of rooms, each one dedicated to a different aspect of local life and work which was common place in Filey until comparatively recent times.

Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden – National Trust

Fountains Abbey

Ripon HG4 3DY

01765 608888

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey

Cistercian abbey, Georgian water garden and medieval deer park.

Fulford Battlefield Society

Parish Hall, School Lane

York YO10 4LR

www.battleoffulford.org.uk

Fulford Battlefield Society formed to raise funds for research, to preserve the battle site and promote the Battle of Fulford to a wider audience. The battle took place 5 days before Stamford bridge and a few weeks before the clash at Hastings.

Gayle Mill

Mill Lane, Gayle

Hawes DL8 3RZ

01969 667320

www.gaylemill.org.uk

Gayle Mill began life as a Georgian cotton mill. Via wool and flax, it became a 19th century sawmill, and is fully restored complete with Victorian water-powered machinery.

Georgian Theatre Royal Museum

Victoria Road

Richmond DL10 4DW

01748 823 710

www.georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk

The Georgian Theatre Royal, Britain’s oldest working theatre in its original form, is both a thriving community playhouse and a living theatre museum. The theatre welcomes visitors of all ages to its hourly guided tours and museum.

Grassington Folk Museum

6 The Square

Grassington BD23 5AQ

www.grassingtonfolkmuseum.org.uk

The museum opened in its present building in 1979. Most items in its collection have been donated by local residents and businesses.

Grays Court

Chapter House Street

York YO1 7JH

01904 612613

www.grayscourtyork.com

Grays Court is possibly the oldest continuously occupied house in the country. Dating back in part to 1080 and commissioned by the first Norman Archbishop of York to provide the official residence for the Treasurers of York Minster, the house has an unrivalled history. The Sterne Room was built above the original Medieval Magnesian Limestone wall (which can still be seen) by Jaques Sterne, Precentor and Canon Residentiary of the Minster and uncle of Laurence Sterne, author of Tristram Shandy, when he owned the house.

Green Howards Regimental Museum

Trinity Church Square

Richmond DL10 4QN

01748 826561

www.greenhowards.org.uk

The Green Howards Museum is Richmond, North Yorkshire. We tell the story of the regiment from its earliest times, through 300 years of conflict, service and sacrifice.

Guisborough Museum

Sunnyfield House, 36 Westgate

Guisborough TS14 6BA

01287 634595

This is a small volunteer-run museum showing the social, agricultural and commercial history of Guisborough. The museum displays a wealth of artefacts and photographs unique to the town and its people.

Gisborough Priory Gardens

Guisborough TS14 6PR

01287 637967

www.gisboroughprioryproject.co.uk

After the dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII the land next to Gisborough Priory was acquired by the Chaloner family. Eventually in the early 18th century a mansion house and magnificent garden was created on the site. This local volunteer-run charity aims to restore these gardens to provide a public green space and ensure the gardens’ history is recorded for posterity.

Harrogate & District Family History Society

16 Swinborne Close

Harrogate HG1 3LX

www.hadfhs.co.uk

We promote and encourage the public study of both family and local history in the Harrogate and surrounding areas. We also promote the preservation, security and accessibility of archive material.

Harrogate Museums & Arts

Royal Pump Room, Crown Place

Harrogate HG1 2RY

01423 556188

www.harrogate.gov.uk/museums

Harrogate Museums & Arts serves the District of Harrogate within North Yorkshire. Our facilities include the Royal Pump Room Museum, Mercer Art Gallery, Knaresborough Castle and Museum, and St Robert’s Cave.

Helmsley Castle – English Heritage

Castlegate

Helmsley YO62 5AB

01439 770442

goo.gl/BaCiRh

Towering over the attractive market town of Helmsley, and surrounded by spectacular banks and ditches, Helmsley Castle is an imposing site with a wealth of history. It has recently undergone a thorough makeover by English Heritage, making it more accessible to a wide range of visitors.

Henry VII Experience at Micklegate Bar

Micklegate

York YO1 6JX

01904 615505

www.henryviiexperience.com

Micklegate Bar, the iconic royal gateway of the City of York, invites you to discover The Henry VII Experience. Explore the life of the first Tudor King as he created a new era in British History, after defeating his rival Richard III.

JORVIK Viking Centre

15-17 Coppergate

York YO1 9WT

01904 615505

www.jorvik-viking-centre.co.uk

At JORVIK Viking Centre travel back 1000 years and visit the Vikings of JORVIK. Explore York’s Viking history exactly where our archaeologists found the remains of the original Viking-Age City of ‘Jorvik’.

Collections: Everything in JORVIK Viking Centre is based on archaeological evidence unearthed during the Coppergate excavations undertaken between 1979 and 1981 by York Archaeological Trust. Archaeologists started digging on the site of an old sweet factory and unearthed remains of 10th century Viking-age buildings that were surrounded by moist, spongy layers of earth similar to that of a peat bog.

Kiplin Hall

Near Scorton

Richmond DL10 6AT

01748 818178

www.kiplinhall.co.uk

This hidden gem, situated between Richmond and Northallerton, was built in 1620 by George Calvert, Secretary of State to James I and Founder of Maryland, USA. Since then, the Calverts, Crowes, Carpenters and Talbots, all related by blood or marriage, have left their stamp on the house.

Kirkham Priory – English Heritage

Nr Malton YO60 7JS

01653 618768

www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/kirkham-priory

These ruins of an Augustinian priory include an elaborate gatehouse and monkâ’s washroom, all set in the peaceful Derwent valley, an area of outstanding natural beauty in the Yorkshire Wolds.

Collections: New interpretations include the story of the secret visit of Winston Churchill and the role of the site in preparation for D-Day during World War II.

Kirkleatham Museum

Kirkleatham

Redcar TS10 5NW

01642 479500

www.redcar-cleveland.gov.uk/museums

Kirkleatham Museum was opened in 1981. It is located in Kirkleatham Old Hall which was built in 1709 as a ‘Free School’ by the local Turner family.

Knaresborough Castle & Museum

Castle Yard

Knaresborough HG5 8AS

01423 556188

www.harrogate.gov.uk/museums

Knaresborough Castle and Museum is set beautifully towering over the River Nidd. Discover royalty and colourful local characters.

Malton Museum

Old Town Hall, Market Place

Malton YO17 7LP

01653 695136

www.maltonmuseum.co.uk

Malton Museum is Ryedale’s major archaeological museum, located in the heart of Malton’s market place and housed in an 18th century butter market. The museum houses an interesting array of Roman finds, from manicure sets to wall plaster paintings. Most of these have been discovered locally, the most recent find being a burial urn discovered by a local workman installing a new street light on a housing estate in nearby Norton.

Merchant Adventurers’ Hall

Fossgate

York YO1 9XD

01904 654818

www.theyorkcompany.co.uk

The Merchant Adventurers’ Hall is one of York’s medieval marvels. Set in beautiful gardens, it is open to the public as a museum, wedding and hospitality venue and meeting place some 650 years after construction began in 1357.

Collections: The Hall contains fine collections of paintings, furniture and silver, all of which are on display to the public.

Middleham Castle – English Heritage

Leyburn DL8 4QG

01969 623899

goo.gl/XtVkMz

The childhood and favourite home of Richard III, Middleham Castle was a fortress of the mighty Neville family, Earls of Westmoreland and of Warwick. Around the massive 12th-century keep, they progressively constructed three ranges of luxurious chambers and lodgings, turning the castle into a fortified palace by the mid-15th century.

Mount Grace Priory – National Trust

Staddle Bridge

Northallerton DL6 3JG

01609 883494

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mount-grace-priory

Set amid woodland below the escarpment of the North York Moors and the Cleveland Way National Trail, Mount Grace is a monastic ruin of an unusual kind. It is the best-preserved of the ten British ‘charterhouses’, whose Carthusian monks lived as hermits in cottage-like cells.

Museum of North Craven Life

The Folly, Victoria Street,

Settle BD24 9EY

www.ncbpt.org.uk/folly

The Folly is a beautiful 17th century Grade I listed building, in the heart of the pretty market town of Settle in the Yorkshire Dales. In 1996 The North Craven Building Preservation Trust purchased part of The Folly and completely restored the building and opened it to the public in 2001.

Museum of the Royal Dragoon Guards & the Prince of Wales’s Own Regiment of Yorkshire

Military Museum, 3 Tower Street

York YO1 9SB

01904 662790

www.rdgmuseum.org.uk

The Royal Dragoon Guards can trace its ancestry back to 1685, as it was formed by the amalgamation of four of the senior cavalry regiments in the British Army. The museum is well laid out in spacious surroundings and tells the story of the present day and former regiments from the late 17th century. Displays include uniforms, prints, paintings, weapons and standards, all housed in well lit, clearly labelled show cases.

Museum of the Wagoners Special Reserve

The Estate Office, Sledmere, Driffield

Driffield YO25 3XQ

01377 236637

www.sledmerehouse.com/wagoners-museum.html

Possibly the smallest military museum anywhere. This remarkable museum tells the story of the Wagoners’ Special Reserve.

Collections: Display includes photographs of wagoners in the first world war, memorabilia and some of the medals they were awarded. The exhibiton is of interest to the general visitor and historian alike.

Newby Hall & Gardens

Ripon HG4 5AE

0845 4504068

www.newbyhall.co.uk

Newby Hall is one of Britain’s finest Adam Houses. Built under the guidance of Sir Christopher Wren in 17 century, the superb contents of the house, collected by William Weddell, ancestor of the Compton family, include the Gobelins Tapestry Room, a renowned gallery of classical statuary and some of Chippendale’s finest furniture. The site also features 25 acres of award-winning gardens, full of rare and beautiful plants.

Nidderdale Museum

King Street

Pately Bridge HG3 5LE

01423 711225

www.nidderdalemuseum.com

Situated in the picturesque town of Pateley Bridge, North Yorkshire, this fascinating and friendly museum is housed in the former workhouse and is situated opposite St Cuthbert’s Parish Church. Its 11 rooms illustrate the rural life of Nidderdale in the recent and more distant past. Nidderdale Museum shows how ordinary people lived, in imaginative and realistic settings.

North East Film Archive

School of Arts and Media, Teesside University

Middlesbrough TS1 3BA

01642 384022

www.northeastfilmarchive.com

The North East Film Archive (NEFA) is the public moving image archive for the North East of England. We hold over 36,000 hours of historical films and videos illustrating 20th century life and work in County Durham, Tyne & Wear, Northumberland and the Tees Valley.

North Yorkshire County Record Office

Malpas Road

Northallerton DL7 8TB

01609-777585

www.northyorks.gov.uk/archives

The North Yorkshire County Record Office was established in 1949 and now occupies purpose-adapted premises, storing millions of documents in line with British Standard 5454, and making them available for a wide range of uses, from legal enquiries, to education and enjoyment. The Record Office offers a source of expertise in record keeping for the County Council and the people of North Yorkshire.

North Yorkshire Moors Railway

Pickering Station

Pickering YO18 7AJ

01751 472508

www.nymr.co.uk

Britain’s most popular heritage steam railway running through 18 miles of the North York Moors National Park.

Nunnington Hall – National Trust

Nunnington

York YO62 5UY

01439 748283

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/nunnington-hall

One of Ryedale’s finest attractions, Nunnington Hall nestles on the banks of the picturesque River Rye. With period rooms, major exhibitons, an organic walled garden, a full events programme, peacocks and ghosts, this honey-coloured Yorkshire family manor house offers something for everybody to enjoy.

Collections: Period rooms displayed with a 1920s feel reflecting the donor family’s period of occupation with layers of history then going back to Tudor and Stuart times before that. There are some nice examples of needlework and paintings, among a varied and interesting collection of contents.

Ormesby Hall – National Trust

Ladgate Lane,

Ormesby TS3 0SR

01642 324188

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ormesby-hall

Home of the Pennyman family for nearly 400 years, this classic Georgian mansion, with its Victorian kitchen and laundry, attractive gardens and estate walks, provides lively resources for local schools and community groups, and a unique venue.

Pickering Castle – English Heritage

Pickering YO18 7AX

01751 474989

goo.gl/TFxUPt

Pickering Castle is set in an attractive moors-edge market town. It is a classic and well-preserved example of an early earthwork castle refortified in stone during the 13th and 14th centuries, centred upon a shell-keep crowning an impressive motte.

Prince of Wales’s Own Regiment of Yorkshire Regimental Museum

3 Tower Street

York YO1 9SB

01904 662790

www.pwo-yorkshire.museum

The museum’s collection spans three centuries of travel, campaigning and war. Artefacts and photographs of the Crimean War, the North-West Frontier of India, the Boer War and the two world wars form part of the vivid presentation of the regiment’s story in both peace and war.

Prison & Police Museum

27 St Marygate

Ripon HG4 1LX

01765 690 799

www.ripon.co.uk/museums

The museum is housed in a building which formed part of the former House of Correction and Liberty Gaol and which is now an integral part of the overall attraction of the museum. The building’s origins go back to the late 17th century but the part now occupied by the museum was built as Ripon Liberty Prison in 1816 and continued to function as such until May 1878 when it, along with numerous other local prisons throughout the country, was closed as part of a government reform of prisons.

Quilt Museum & Gallery

St Anthony’s Hall, Peasholme Green

York YO1 7PW

01904 613242

www.quiltmuseum.org.uk

The Quilt Museum & Gallery is owned and managed by The Quilters’ Guild of the British Isles. The guild is an educational charity working to promote the understanding, appreciation and knowledge of the art, techniques and heritage of patchwork, quilting and applique.

Richard III Experience at Monk Bar

Monk Bar, Goodramgate

York YO1 7LQ

01904 615505

www.richardiiiexperience.com

The JORVIK Group’s newest attraction invites you to step foot into the historic Monk Bar to discover The Richard III Experience. Explore the life of the last Plantagenet King as he struggled for the throne and power during his short reign. Experience his mighty moments of battle, with multimedia presentations, and displays of the authentic medieval weapons and armour used to fight his opponents during the bloody War of the Roses.

Richmond Castle – English Heritage

Tower Street

Richmond DL10 4QW

01748 822493

goo.gl/1d5vpz

Breathtakingly sited on a rocky promontory above the River Swale, the great castle of Richmond is among the oldest Norman stone fortresses in Britain, begun in the decades after the Conquest. The story of conscientious objectors imprisoned in the keep during World War I is told in an interactive display exploring Richmond’s nine centuries of development, and woven into the Cockpit Garden.

Richmondshire Museum

Ryders Wynd

Richmond DL10 4JA

01748 825 611

www.richmondshiremuseum.org.uk

Richmondshire Museum was founded in 1974 by the Soroptimists of Richmond and the Dales; it opened its doors in 1978 in a former joiner’s workshop, and has gradually grown ever since. Your visit begins in a reconstructed cruck house, with a collection of domestic bygones. The Leadmining Gallery details the industry which flourished in Swaledale until the end of the 19th century. The Transport Gallery, with its model of Richmond Station, leads to the Herriot Set from the BBC’s All Creatures Great and Small, and Barker’s Chemist’s Shop. Next is the Wenham Gallery, which covers the history of Richmond and district, and contains a former village Post Office from just up the dale. The latest addition is a recreation of the Richmond grocer’s shop, just round the corner in Frenchgate, where the founder of the Fenwick department store chain began his working life.

Rievaulx Abbey – English Heritage

Rievaulx

Helmsley YO62 5LB

01439 798228

goo.gl/DTmNHZ

Escape the crowds and experience the serenity and beauty of this impressive monastic site, situated in the middle of the North Yorkshire Moors National Park. Rievaulx Abbey was founded by St Bernard of Clairvaux in 1132 and become one of England’s wealthiest monasteries before its dissolution by King Henry VIII in 1538.

Ripley Castle

The Ripley Castle Estate

Harrogate HG3 3AY

01423 770152

www.ripleycastle.co.uk

In 2009 Ripley Castle has been the home of the Ingilby family for the last seven hundred years. The castle’s history is one of political, military, religious and social turbulence, of plague and persecution, of renaissance, enlightenment and industrial revolution.

Ripon Cathedral

Kirkgate

Ripon HG4 1QS

01765 602075

www.riponcathedral.org.uk

For over 1300 years people have been coming to worship and pray at Ripon. The cathedral building itself is part of this continuing act of worship, begun in the C7th when Saint Wilfrid built one of England’s first stone churches on this site, and still renewed ever day.

RNLI Whitby Museum

Pier Road

Whitby YO21 3PU

01947 602001

goo.gl/HJF1If

Built in 1895, the double boathouse was used by the RNLI until 1957 when it was re-established as a museum. The museum has grown to contain an abundance of lifeboat material including models, paintings, medals, photographs, lifeboat kit and items from famous rescues.

RNLI Zetland Museum

The Esplanade

Redcar TS10 3AH

01642 494311

www.redcarlifeboat.org.uk/zetland/index.htm

The museum uses lifelike figures and models to bring to life the story of sea rescues on the north east coast. Upstairs is an extensive display of lifesaving equipment, past and present, and a reconstruction of a fisherman’s sitting room.

Robin Hood’s Bay & Fylingdales Museum

Fisherhead, Robin Hood’s Bay

Whitby YO22 4TQ

museum.rhbay.co.uk

On 31st July 1891, the building was purchased on a 1000 year lease by Rev. R.J.

Rotunda Museum

Vernon Road

Scarborough YO11 2NN

01723 353665

Explore modern interactive displays to learn about the fascinating geology of the Yorkshire coast. Find out about this unique geology that brought William Smith to the town and inspired him to design this fabulous iconic building in 1829.

Royal Pump Room Museum

Crown Place

Harrogate HG1 2RY

01423 556188

www.harrogate.gov.uk/museums

Visit the Royal Pump Room Museum to discover the intriguing story of how Harrogate became a spa town. Discover stories of Russian royalty and disappearing crime writers, marvel at the amazing spa treatments and join a tour to see the strongest sulphur well in Europe.

Ryedale Folk Museum

Hutton le Hole

Hutton le Hole YO62 6UA

01751 417367

www.ryedalefolkmuseum.co.uk

Wander into 16th, 18th and 19th century thatched cottages, the Edwardian photographic studio, Iron Age roundhouse, working blacksmiths and many attractions of Ryedale Folk Museum’s 5 acre site.

Scarborough Castle – English Heritage

Castle Road

Scarborough YO11 1HY

01723 372451

goo.gl/QchfRw

Scarborough Castle defends a prominent headland between two bays, with sheer drops to the sea and only a narrow landward approach. Specially contructed viewing platforms on the battlements offer panoramic views.

Scarborough Collections

Woodend, The Crescent

Scarborough YO11 2PW

01723 384503

Scarborough Collections is a unique facility housed in the Woodend Creative Workspace. It offers access to Scarborough’s Collections which includes a vast array of social and natural history specimens that have been collected by the town over the years and include things like ammonites, beetles, paintings, prehistoric pots, even cuddly toys. These collections are now housed under one roof in a state of the art storage facility.

Collections: Scarborough.

Selby & District Family History Group

9 Larkfield Road

Selby YO8 9AS

www.selbydistrictfamilyhistory.btck.co.uk

Formed in May 2001 from a short Workers Education Association Family History Course, it has developed into a group where experienced members offer help and advice to those that require it.

Shandy Hall

Coxwold

York YO61 4AD

01347 868465

www.laurencesternetrust.org.uk

The Laurence Sterne Trust was established as a registered charity in 1967 in order to promote the writings of Laurence Sterne, the 18th century novelist and vicar of Coxwold. Shandy Hall is where he lived and wrote The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman and A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy. The Trust promotes Sterne’s work and international reputation through exhibitions, events and public access to the property and its collection.

St Robert’s Cave

St Robert’s Cave, Abbey Road

Knaresborough HG5 8HX

01423 556188

www.harrogate.gov.uk/harrogate-1323

Sitting snugly beside the River Nidd on the outskirts of Knaresborough, Saint Robert’s Cave is a rare survival of a medieval hermit’s home. This site once attracted thousands of pilgrims to this North Yorkshire town. Robert of Knaresborough lived on this site in the late 12th and early 13th centuries.

Stewart’s Burnby Hall Gardens & Museum

Burnby Hall Gardens, The Balk, Pocklington

York YO4 2QF

01759 302068

www.burnbyhallgardens.com

The magnificent and beautifully laid out gardens incorporate two lakes which contain a National Collection of hard water lilies, recognised as one of the largest displays found in a natural setting in Europe and are teeming with a vast collection of fish which can be hand-fed. Burnby Hall gardens provide nine acres of changing vistas which include a woodland walk, Victorian and secret garden, extensive rockeries and a fine collection of ornamental and indigenous trees. The Stewart Museum houses Major Stewart’s remarkable range of cultural and religious exhibits collected on his 8 world tours in the early 20th century.

Swaledale & Arkengarthdale Archaeology Group

Hazel Brow House

Richmond DL11 6NE

01748 886542

www.swaag.org

SWAAG is a group of enthusiasts in the northernmost Yorkshiredales who are contributing to the knowledge base of the history of our dales through archaeological and related activity. SWAAG, affiliated with the Swaledale Museum, work under the guidance and supervision of Tim Laurie, the leading expert on prehistoric landscapes in the area.

Swaledale Museum

Swaledale Museum, The Green, Reeth,

Richmond DL11 6QT

01748 884118

www.swaledalemuseum.org

The Swaledale Museum is an independent museum run by volunteers with the aims of collecting, displaying and making publicly accessible the local heritage of Swaledale and Arkengarthdale. Housed in the Methodist Day School built in 1836 the lively displays and hands-on exhibits explain the development of the area from its geological foundations, via early human occupation in the Iron Age, to the growth and decline of lead mining between the 1650s and1950s. You can learn how the stone walls were built, how local crafts flourished, and how people lived.

Teesside Archives

Exchange House, 6 Marton Road

Middlesbrough TS1 1DB

01642 248321

www.middlesbrough.gov.uk/teessidearchives

Teesside Archives collects and preserves archive material from churches, official and private sources in the areas served by the councils of Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland, and Stockton on Tees. We are able to offer a postal search service for members of the public who are unable to visit the department in person.

Thirsk Museum

70 Barton Street

Thirsk YO7 1PQ

01845 527707

www.homefrontthirsk.org.uk/museum

Thirsk Museum occupies the house where Thomas Lord, the founder of Lord’s Cricket Ground, was born in 1755. There are eight rooms full of exhibits, featuring local life and industry, cricketing memorabilia, farming equipment, furniture, costumes and toys.

Transporter Bridge Visitor Centre

Ferry Road, St Hilda’s

Middlesbrough TS2 1PL

01642 248566

This visitor centre is dedicated to the rich industrial heritage of Middlesbrough. One of the powerhouses of the industrial northeast, the town was a major player in the Industrial Revolution, and especially shipping. The visitor centre promotes the history of the bridge and surrounding area through the use of graphic panels, video, computers, photographs, objects and models.

Treasurer’s House, York – National Trust

Minster Yard

York YO1 7JL

01904 624247

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/treasurers-house-york

Elegant town house dating from medieval times. Originally home to the treasurers of York Minster and built over a Roman road, the house is not all that it seems.

University of York – Institute for the Public Understanding of the Past

HRC, Berrick Saul Building University of York

York YO10 5DD

www.york.ac.uk/ipup

The Institute for the Public Understanding of the Past researches how narratives of the past function in our society and how identities are constructed in the present, using the past.

Upper Dales Family History Group

Croft House, Newbiggin in Bishopdale

Nr Leyburn DL8 3TD

01969 663738

www.upperdalesfhg.org.uk

The aim of the group is to support those members whose ancestors had their roots in Wensleydale and Swaledale. These ancestors often wandered far and wide so it is not surprising that our members’ genealogical interests spread nationally and internationally.

Upper Wharfedale – National Trust

Upper Wharfedale

near Buckden BD23 5JA

01729 830416

Along the Upper Wharfe Valley the characteristic dry-stone walls and barns of the Dales, important flower-rich hay meadows, beautiful riverside and valleyside woodland combine to create a wonderful place to relax and explore the great outdoors.

Wharfedale Family History Group

Hideaway Cottage, Middle Lane, Kettlewell

Skipton BD23 5QX

www.wharfedalefhg.org.uk

If your roots are in Wharfedale or further afield you will find help and encouragement in this fascinating hobby by joining the Wharfedale Family History Group.

Whitby Abbey – English Heritage

Whitby Abbey

Whitby YO22 4JT

01947 603568

www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/whitby-abbey/

High on a cliff above the seaside town of Whitby are the gaunt, imposing remains of Whitby Abbey. Founded in 657 by St Hilda, Whitby Abbey has over the years been a bustling settlement, a kings’ burial place, a home of saints and inspiration for Bram Stoker, author of Dracula.

Whitby Archives Heritage Centre

Flowergate

Whitby YO21 3BA

01947 821364

www.whitbyarchives.org.uk

A heritage centre containing historic photographs and artefacts from Whitby and North Yorkshire area. Family and local history departments, exhibition hall and heritage shop. Holders of the entire collection of the Whitby Gazette and home to the original West Cliff historic whalebone arch.

Whitby Museum

Pannett Park

Whitby YO21 1RE

01947 602908

www.whitbymuseum.org.uk

Whitby Museum was started by local gentlemen in 1823 to preserve the fossils and other interesting artefacts existing in the area. It is owned by Whitby Literary and Philosophical Society and run entirely by volunteers from among the society’s members.

Workhouse Museum

Sharow View, Allhallowgate

Ripon HG4 1LE

01765 690799

www.riponmuseums.co.uk

The Workhouse Museum is housed in the gatehouse building, part of the larger workhouse site (which visitors are welcome to explore), which contained the guardians’ room, vagrants cells and receiving ward for inmates. we have also worked hard to recreate the original workhouse kitchen garden, located to the rear of the workhouse site which would have been tended by the inmates and been used to feed them.

World of James Herriot, The

23 Kirkgate

Thirsk YO7 1PL

01845 524 234

www.worldofjamesherriot.org

The World of James Herriot is a unique tribute to vet and author James Herriot. Based in his original surgery at 23 Kirkgate, Thirsk, North Yorkshire – the ‘skeldale House’ of the Herriot books – it takes visitors on a journey back to the 1940s. When James Herriot died in 1995, Hambleton District Council bought the old surgery and set about painstakingly restoring it.

WR Mitchell Archive

Town Hall

Settle BD24 9EJ

01729 82229

www.settlestories.org.uk/wrmitchell

A collection of over 400 taped interviews of Yorkshire Dales Folk collected by WR ‘Bill’ Mitchell, editor of The Dalesman magazine.

York Archaeological Trust

47 Aldwark

York YO1 7BX

01904 663000

www.yorkarchaeology.co.uk

York Archaeological Trust is a registered museum. Our professionally accredited team has over 30 years experience in investigating buildings, landscapes and buried remains.

York Archives & Local History

Archives and Local History, Acomb Explore, Front Street, Acomb

York YO24 3BZ

01904 552651

www.exploreyork.org.uk

Our collection contains thousands of unique documents, plans and photographs that tell the story of 800 years of York’s history. Our oldest document dates from 1155, the most recent from 2012.

York Castle Museum

The Eye of York

York YO1 9RY

01904 687687

www.yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk

Come and see hundreds of years of York’s history in one place – from recreated Jacobean dining rooms to infamous Victorian criminals and all the way to the Space Age and the swinging Sixties. Kirkgate, the famous reconstructed Victorian Street that provides the core of the castle Museum, is a milestone in the history of museums.

York City Archives

Exhibition Square

York YO1 7EW

01904 551 878

www.exploreyork.org.uk

The council minutes and accounts cover 500 years of civic life including the Mystery Plays and many references to Richard, Duke of Gloucester (later Richard III). They include some records of York City Courts. The 20th century collection includes housing clearance areas with an extensive collection of photographs and also sources for town planning and conservation.

York Cold War Bunker – English Heritage

Monument Close

York YO24 4HT

goo.gl/AcyVOp

01904 646940

The most modern and spine-chilling of English Heritage’s properties, the York Cold War Bunker uncovers the secret history of Britain’s Cold War. Enter the blast-proof doors and investigate the more unusual side of York’s heritage. In active service from the 1960s–1990s the bunker was designed as a nerve-centre to monitor fall-out in the event of a nuclear attack.

York Mansion House

St Helens Square

York YO1 9QL

01904 552 036

www.mansionhouseyork.com

Situated in the heart of the city in beautiful St Helen’s Square, the Mansion House is an architectural masterpiece which plays host to an extensive collection of civic regalia and artefacts. The impressive collection of silver, paintings and furniture is unequalled by any other provincial city.

York Minster

York Minster

York YO1 7HH

0844 939 0011

www.yorkminster.org

York Minster provides a wealth of history for you to discover. The minster itself is an architectural masterpiece and a treasure house of stained glass.

York Museums Trust

St Mary’s Lodge

York YO30 7DR

01904 687687

www.yorkmuseumstrust.org.uk

York Museums Trust is an independent charitable trust which manages York Castle Museum, Yorkshire Museum and Gardens, and York Art Gallery. The buildings and their contents are owned by the City of York Council, which has agreed to long-term funding of the Trust.

Yorkshire Air Museum

Halifax Way, Elvington

York YO41 4AU

01904 608 595

www.yorkshireairmuseum.co.uk

A fascinating and dynamic museum, authentically based on a World War Two Bomber Command Station. The unique displays include the original control tower, air gunners’ collection, barnes wallis’ prototype ‘bouncing bomb’ and a superb airborne engineers display.

Collections: Historic aircraft collection covering aviation history from the Yorkshire aviation pioneer Sir George Cayley and his man-carrying glider of 1853, through to WWII aircraft including the unique Halifax bomber and to the supersonic age with frontline jets such as the Tornado. Significant collection of WWII air forces related artefacts, uniforms, records and vehicles.

Yorkshire Film Archive

York St John University, Lord Mayor’s Walk

York YO31 7EX

01904 876550

www.yorkshirefilmarchive.com

The Yorkshire Film Archive is the public access film archive for Yorkshire and the Humber. We hold over 14,000 items of film and video tape, dating from the earliest days of film making in the 1880s to the present day.

Yorkshire Museum & Gardens

York Museum Gardens

York YO1 7FR

01904 687687

www.yorkshiremuseum.org.uk

The Yorkshire Museum sits in the heart of York Museum Gardens, in the centre of York. The museum was opened in 1830 by the Yorkshire Philosophical Society and was one of the first purpose-built museums in the country. Housing some of the finest collections of archaeological and geological finds in Europe, the Yorkshire Museum is the ideal first port of call for any trip to York.

Collections: The collections cover numismatics, archaeological finds from Roman, Anglo-Saxon, Viking, and Medieval times, biology, geology and studio pottery.

Yorkshire Museum of Farming at Murton Park

Murton Park, Murton Lane

York YO19 5UF

01904 489966

www.murtonpark.co.uk

The museum opened in 1982 to house a range of exhibits from Burton Constable, collected by East Yorkshire Farm Machinery Preservation Society. The museum holds a fantastic regional agricultural collection.

Yorkshire Yeomanry Museum

Yorkshire Squadron, The Queen’s Own Yeomanry, Yeomanry Barracks, Fulford Road

York YO1 4ES

01482 881974

A small collection of artefacts and memorabilia from Yorkshire’s Yeomanry Regiments. The museum can be visited by prior appointment with the Yorkshire Squadron Office of the Queen’s Own Yeomanry which can be contacted on 01904 620320.