A-Z Groups List

Ad Hoc Walking Group 25-26 (70770/Out and About)
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.
- Meets: Irregular
- Leader(s): Mike Valiant
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Adventure into Classical Music (70771/Performing Arts)
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.
- Meets: Thursday 14:00-16:00 Weekly
- Leader(s): Chris Skidmore
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Aerobic Fitness Training (70772/Indoor Fun and Games)
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.
- Meets: Wednesday 14:00-15:00 8/10/2025 to 10/12/2025, 7/1/2026 to11/3/2026
- Leader(s): John Dixon
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Allotment (70773/Out and About)
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.
- Meets: Sunday 09:30-12:00 All Year
- Leader(s): Noelle Helena Tudhope
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Art ( various media) and Cafts (70774/Creative Arts and Crafts)
Come and enjoy spending time sharing your artistic skills and learn from each other using different media, watercolours, pastels, pencils, charcoal and acrylics. 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.
- Meets: Thursday 10:00-12:00 9/10/2025 to 11/12/2025, 8/1/2026 to 12/3/2026
- Leader(s): Anne F MacDonald, Lesley Perkins
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Art 1840-1900 (70775/Creative Arts and Crafts)
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.
- Meets: Tuesday 14:00-16:00 13/1/2026 to 17/3/2026
- Leader(s): Jacqui Eames
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Art Forum face to face (70781/Creative Arts and Crafts)
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.
- Meets: Tuesday 10:30-12:00 7/10/2025 to 16/12/2025, 13/1/2026 to 24/3/2025
- Leader(s): Ginny Wilkinson
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Art and Architecture (70778/Creative Arts and Crafts)
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
- Meets: Wednesday 10:00-12:00 8/10/2025 to17/12/2025
- Leader(s): Ian Adams, Joyce Adams
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Badminton (70782/Indoor Fun and Games)
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
- Meets: Thursday 12:00-13:00 4/9/2025 to 27/8/2026
- Leader(s): Jon Tomlinson
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Birdwatching (70783/Out and About)
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.
- Meets: Monday 10:00-12:00 6/10/2025 to 15/12/2025, 12/1/2026 to 23/3/2026
- Leader(s): Jacqui Eames
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Book Group - Non-fiction (70784/People and Places)
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!
- Meets: Wednesday 18:15-19:15 1/10/2025 to 1/7/2026
- Leader(s): Linda Hoole
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Book Group -Fiction (70788/People and Places)
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. Ideally, 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!
- Meets: Monday 18:15-19:15 1/9/2025 to 8/7/2026
- Leader(s): Linda Hoole
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Bridge Play (70791/Indoor Fun and Games)
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.
- Meets: Thursday 13:45-15:45
- Leader(s): David Lowe
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Bridge for Beginners (70789/Indoor Fun and Games)
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.
- Meets: Wednesday 14:00-16:00 1/10/2025 to 10/12/2025
- Leader(s): David Lowe
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Bridge for Improvers (70790/Indoor Fun and Games)
This is for those who have played bridge for at least a year and want to improve their bidding and play; preference will be given to those who have recently started to play bridge (rather than those who have played for many years). After a revision of 'Benji Acol' bidding you will play set hands which illustrate points of bidding and play. In the spring of 2026 we will look at some advanced responses and 0ther conventions.
- Meets: Thursday 10:00-11:45 16/10/2025 to 18/12/2025, 8/1/2026 to 26/3/2026
- Leader(s): Douglas Goode
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Craven u3a Orchestra (70792/Performing Arts)
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.
- Meets: Wednesday 14:00-16:00 24/9/2025 to 3/12/2025, 14/1/2026 to 25/3/2026
- Leader(s): Sue Stidworthy
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Croquet (70793/Indoor Fun and Games)
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.
- Meets: Wednesday 13:30-15:30 6/5/2026 to 16/9/2026
- Leader(s): Graham Read
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Crown Green Bowls Group 1 (70795/Out and About)
Instruction and guidance on how to play crown green bowls.
- Meets: Friday 11:30-14:00 1/5/2026 to 11/9/2026
- Leader(s): Keith Waddington, Rosemary Bootland
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Crown Green Bowls Group 2 (70796/Out and About)
Instruction and guidance on how to play crown green bowls.
- Meets: Friday 14:00-16:30 1/5/2026 to 11/9/2026
- Leader(s): Shirley Desgranges, Keith Waddington
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Culture Vultures (70797/Out and About)
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!
- Meets: Irregular 1/9/2025 to 31/8/2026
- Leader(s): Wendy Brown
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Day Trips with Friends (70798/Out and About)
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
- Meets: Varied All Year
- Leader(s): Anne F MacDonald, Sheila Mason
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Drumming Circle (70799/Performing Arts)
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.
- Meets: Thursday 14:00-16:00 9/10/2025 to 27/11/2025
- Leader(s): Charles Green
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
E-biking (70800/Out and About)
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.
- Meets: Varied 09:45-10:45 1/9/2025 to 30/11/2025, 1/3/2026 to 31/8/2025
- Leader(s): Linda Hoole
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Films on Thursdays (70804/World Languages and Cinema)
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.
- Meets: Thursday 13:30-16:00 9/10/2025 to 11/12/2025, 15/1/2026 to 19/3/2026
- Leader(s): Jean Crampton, Lesley Perkins
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Films on Tuesday international (70805/World Languages and Cinema)
Films from around the world as well as the UK. ALL films shown will have subtitles regardless of the language of the film.
- Meets: Tuesday 13:30-16:00 7/10/2025 to 9/12/2025, 13/1/2026 to 17/3/2026
- Leader(s): Veronica Eastham, Terence Makin
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Floral Art (70806/Creative Arts and Crafts)
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
- Meets: Thursday 14:00-16:00 11/9/2025 to 4/12/2025, 8/1/2025 to 9/7/2026
- Leader(s): Jesca de Rijk
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
French Advanced (70807/World Languages and Cinema)
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!
- Meets: Friday 10:00-12:00 10/10/2025 to 12/12/2025, 9/1/2026 to 13/3/2026
- Leader(s): Kevin Franks
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
French Conversation (70808/World Languages and Cinema)
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.
- Meets: Friday 10:00-00:00 10/10/2025 to 19/12/2025, 9/1/2026 to 20/3/2026
- Leader(s): Jennifer Rowlands, Laura Taylor, Pauline Kennedy
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Gardening (70809/Out and About)
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
- Meets: Varied All Year
- Leader(s): Anne F MacDonald, Karen Styles
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Geography Forum (70810/People and Places)
Talks, mainly by members of the Forum, on Geography, History, People and Places
- Meets: Wednesday 10:00-12:00 1/10/2025 to 10/12/2025 break 29/10/2025, 7/1/2026 to 18/3/2026 break 18/02/2026
- Leader(s): James Enever, Raymond Bartlett, Jonathan Hauxwell, Dagmar Akselsson
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Geology Walks (70812/Out and About)
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.
- Meets: Monday 10:00-00:00 6/10/2025 to 15/12/2025, 5/1/2026 to 16/3/2026
- Leader(s): Diane Killock, Mark Wademan, Richard Collinson
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
German (70814/World Languages and Cinema)
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
- Meets: Tuesday 10:00-12:00 14/10/2025 to 16/12/2025, 13/1/2026 to 17/3/2026
- Leader(s): Sheila Clark
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
History Happens (70038/People and Places)
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.
- Meets: Wednesday 14:00-16:00 1/10/2025 to 3/12/2025, 14/1/2026 to 11/3/2026
- Leader(s): Jane Houlton
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
History of Art (70819/Creative Arts and Crafts)
A broad overview of the history of western art and architecture from Ancient Greece to the end of the 19th century.
- Meets: Tuesday 10:00-12:00 7/10/2025 to 16/12/2025, 6/1/2026 to 17/3/2025
- Leader(s): Ian Adams, Joyce Adams
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Illuminating Medieval Manuscri (70820/Creative Arts and Crafts)
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.
- Meets: Thursday 10:00-12:00 8/1/2025 to 26/3/2026
- Leader(s): Maureen Street
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Indoor Games 25-26 (70821/Indoor Fun and Games)
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.
- Meets: Monday 14:00-16:00 6/10/2025 to 8/12/2025, 12/1/2026 to 17/3/2025
- Leader(s): Alan Newall
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Italian Beginners (70822/World Languages and Cinema)
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.
- Meets: Wednesday 14:00-16:00 1/10/2025 to 10/12/2025, 7/1/2026 to 18/3/2026
- Leader(s): Sylva Vorstman
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Italian continuers (70823/World Languages and Cinema)
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
- Meets: Monday 14:00-16:00 29/9/2025 to 8/12/2025, 5/1/2026 to 16/3/2026
- Leader(s): Sylva Vorstman
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Japan: A history in five talks (70824/People and Places)
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.
- Meets: Wednesday 14:00-16:00 8/10/2025 to 10/12/2025
- Leader(s): Nigel Holden
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Literary Lives (70825/People and Places)
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.
- Meets: Monday 14:00-16:00 29/9/2025 to 15/12/2025, 12/1/2026 to 16/3/2026
- Leader(s): David Turner, Judith Barras
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Mah Jong (70826/Indoor Fun and Games)
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!
- Meets: Thursday 14:00-16:00 09/10/2025 to 11/12/2025, 08/01/2026 to 12/03/2026
- Leader(s): Andrew Todd
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Motorcycle Group (70827/Out and About)
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. The group will run in 2026, from March to October, as described above. The rides start from Morrisons in Skipton at 10 am.
- Meets: Irregular 10:00-00:00 2/3/2026 to 30/10/2026
- Leader(s): Harold Taylor
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Music for fun (70828/Performing Arts)
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
- Meets: Tuesday 10:30-12:15 7/10/2025 to 16/12/2025, 6/1/2026 to 17/3/2026
- Leader(s): Lesley Widdop, Graham Read
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Music theory, creativity and i (70829/Performing Arts)
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
- Meets: Monday 14:00-16:00 Two terms: 8/9/2025 - 15/12/2025, 12/01/2026 - 06/04/2026
- Leader(s): Chris Brown, Phil Lawler
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Musical Theatre: A History (70830/Performing Arts)
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.
- Meets: Monday 14:00-16:00 6/10/2025 to 8/12/2025, 5/1/2026 to 9/3/2025
- Leader(s): Judith Barras
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Nature Rambles (70831/Out and About)
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.
- Meets: Varied 1/1/2025 to 31/12/2025
- Leader(s): Maurice White
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Opera DVDs (70839/Performing Arts)
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 hav lots of DVDs in the Spring
- Meets: Friday 09:30-12:00 I hope to start the Group shortly after the Christmas break.
- Leader(s): Constance Wood
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Padel Tennis (70840/Indoor Fun and Games)
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
- Meets: Wednesday 13:00-14:00 3/9/2025 to 5/11/2025, 15/4/2026 to 17/6/2026
- Leader(s): Roland Styles
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Photo Group (70841/Out and About)
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
- Meets: Varied Irregular
- Leader(s): Anne F MacDonald
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Pickleball (70843/Indoor Fun and Games)
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
- Meets: Wednesday 12:00-13:00 15/4/2026 to 17/6/2026
- Leader(s): Anne F MacDonald
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Poetry Group (70844/Performing Arts)
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.
- Meets: Friday 10:00-12:00 10/10/2025 to 5/12/2025, 9/1/2026 to 20/3/2026
- Leader(s): Elizabeth Morrison
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Politics Discussion Group (70845/People and Places)
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.
- Meets: Thursday 13:00-15:00 25/9/2025 to 4/12/2025, 15/1/2026 to 26/3/2026
- Leader(s): Richard Newson, Susan Ingham, Andrew Dickson
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Popular Music (70847/Performing Arts)
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
- Meets: Tuesday 14:00-16:00 7/10/2025 to 9/12/2025, 13/1/2026 to 24/3/2026
- Leader(s): David Wiseman
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Pottery Collective (70848/Creative Arts and Crafts)
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
- Meets: Wednesday 10:00-12:00 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.
- Leader(s): Susie Cottrell, Roland Styles
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Quilting and Sewing (70849/Creative Arts and Crafts)
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.
- Meets: Wednesday 10:00-12:00 1/10/2025 to 10/12/2025, 7/1/2026 to 18/3/2026
- Leader(s): Beverly Anne Reay, Ruth Franklin, Rachel Coombes, Wendy Brown
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Racketball (70850/Indoor Fun and Games)
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
- Meets: Monday 08:50-10:50 1/9/2025 to 31/8/2026
- Leader(s): Jon Tomlinson, Michael Swinden, Mike Valiant
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Railway Study Group (70853/Science and Technology)
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.
- Meets: Friday 10:00-12:00 3/10/2025 to 19/12/2025, 16/1/2026 to 27/3/2026
- Leader(s): Paul Haywood, Ian Appleyard
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Recorder Continuers (70854/Performing Arts)
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.
- Meets: Monday 15:00-17:00 29/9/2025 to 8/12/2025, 12/1/2026 to 23/3/2026
- Leader(s): Jennifer Crook
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Recorder Ensemble (70855/Performing Arts)
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.
- Meets: Monday 13:30-14:30 29/9/2025 to 8/12/2025, 12/1/2026 to 23/3/2026
- Leader(s): Susan Farmery
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Science and technology disc (70856/Science and Technology)
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.
- Meets: Monday 10:15-12:15 29/9/2025 to 8/12/2025, 12/1/2026 to 23/3/2026
- Leader(s): Ian Blomfield, Christopher Bowley
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Shorty Walks (70857/Out and About)
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.
- Meets: Varied 30/8/2025 to 29/8/2026
- Leader(s): Sally Crowley
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Singing Madrigals (70858/Performing Arts)
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.
- Meets: Wednesday 10:30-12:30 8/10/2025 to 10/12/2025, 14/1/2026 to 18/3/2026
- Leader(s): Chris Skidmore
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Sketching outdoors (70859/Creative Arts and Crafts)
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.
- Meets: Tuesday 10:30-12:30 16/6/2026 to 21/7/2026
- Leader(s): Nancy Stedman
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Solo Latin Dance Advanced (70860/Indoor Fun and Games)
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.
- Meets: Friday 10:30-11:30 10/10/2025 to 12/12/2025, 9/1/2026 to 20/3/2026
- Leader(s): Jacqui Eames
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Solo Latin Dance Beginners (70861/Indoor Fun and Games)
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.
- Meets: Friday 11:30-12:30 10/10/2025 to 12/12/2025, 9/1/2026 to 20/3/2026
- Leader(s): Jacqui Eames
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Spanish Conversation Advanced (70864/World Languages and Cinema)
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.
- Meets: Wednesday 19:00-20:30 8/10/2025 to 3/12/2025
- Leader(s): Phil Lawler
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Stories of Scientists (70865/Science and Technology)
Stories of Scientists their background and discoveries.
- Meets: Wednesday 14:00-16:00 10-weeks with a break for half term holidays.
- Leader(s): Mick Richings
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Stretching / Yoga (70866/Indoor Fun and Games)
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.
- Meets: Monday 10:00-11:00 13/10/2025 to 15/12/2025, 5/1/2026 to 9/3/2026
- Leader(s): Sandra Dixon
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Stretching /Movement (70867/Indoor Fun and Games)
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.
- Meets: Wednesday 10:00-11:00 8/10/2025 to 10/12/2025, 7/1/2026 to 11/3/2026
- Leader(s): Sandra Dixon, Joan Hardy
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Sunday Lunch Club (70868/Indoor Fun and Games)
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 .
- Meets: Sunday
- Leader(s): Jacqui Eames
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Table Tennis (70869/Indoor Fun and Games)
Have fun and improve your fitness and coordination at the same time. Beginners welcome.
- Meets: Friday 14:00-16:00 3/10/2025 to 5/12/2025, 9/1/2026 to 13/3/2026
- Leader(s): Jennifer Crook
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Tenpin Bowling (70870/Indoor Fun and Games)
We play 2 games per week. Just for fun! The cost for 2 games is £6 or £7 per week.
- Meets: Monday 14:00-16:00 15/9/2025 to 1/12/2025, 12/1/2026 to 23/3/2026
- Leader(s): Gail Matthews, Patricia Fawcett
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Two Hour walks (70871/Out and About)
This group is intended for people who only want a very short walk 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.
- Meets: Tuesday 10:00-12:00 2/9/2025 to 30/12/2025
- Leader(s): Shirley Davids, Stephanie Crolla, Kathy Warburton, Lynda Newhouse, Jamesine Cundell Walker
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Victorian Novels (70872/Creative Arts and Crafts)
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.
- Meets: Tuesday 14:00-16:00 20/1/2026 to 24/3/2026
- Leader(s): Jacqui Eames
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Walk to Lunch 25-26 (70873/Out and About)
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 !!
- Meets: Thursday 10:00-00:00 9/10/2025 to 24/9/2026
- Leader(s): Brigida Martino, Jenny Robinson
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Walking Cricket (70874/Indoor Fun and Games)
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
- Meets: Tuesday 10:00-12:00 12/5/2026 to 14/7/2026
- Leader(s): Anne F MacDonald
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Walking Group 25-26 (70875/Out and About)
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
- Meets: Tuesday, Thursday 2/9/2025 to 1/9/2026
- Leader(s): George Mackley, Mike Valiant, Geoff Wilkinson
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Walking Netball. (70876/Indoor Fun and Games)
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 .
- Meets: Tuesday 11:00-12:00 30/9/2025 to 9/12/2025, 13/1/2026 to 24/3/2025
- Leader(s): Clarissa Jarvis
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Wharfedale Walking (70877/Out and About)
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.
- Meets: Saturday 10:00-00:00 4/10/2025 to 29/8/2026
- Leader(s): Nick Jarvis, Maggie Jarvis
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Woodturning 1 (70878/Creative Arts and Crafts)
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
- Meets: Monday 14:00-16:00 28/9/2025 to 14/12/2025, 11/1/2026 to 29/3/2026
- Leader(s): Alan Douglas Hirst
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Woodturning 2 (70879/Creative Arts and Crafts)
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
- Meets: Monday 17:00-19:00 28/9/2025 to 14/12/2025, 11/1/2026 to 29/3/2026
- Leader(s): Alan Douglas Hirst
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader
Woodturning in Summer (70880/Creative Arts and Crafts)
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.
- Meets: Monday 14:00-16:00 8/6/2026 to 7/9/2026
- Leader(s): Alan Douglas Hirst
- Contact: Click here to contact the Group Leader