Providing opportunities for people who are retired from full-time employment in Skipton and neighbouring areas

People and Places Groups

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Craven u3a Newsletter Group ()

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

Crown Green Bowls Group 1 (Out and About)

Whinfield Bowling Club Guidance on how to play crown green bowls.

Crown Green Bowls Group 2 (Out and About)

Whinfield Bowling Club Guidance on how to play crown green bowls.

French Advanced (World Languages and Cinema)

and 8.1.27 - 12/3/27 St Stephen's Church Hall, Skipton An opportunity to practise 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!

French Conversation (World Languages and Cinema)

(not meeting 30/10/26) and (no meeting 12/2/27). Craven Heifer/Blooms 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.

Railway Study Group (Science and Technology)

Friday and Swadford Centre Assembly Room Illustrated 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.

Solo Latin Dance Advanced (Indoor Fun and Games)

(except 6/11/26) and (except 12/2/27) Sandylands Sports Centre For people who have done the 20 weeks in 2025/26 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. Podcast - copy and paste this link into your browser address field: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7h0fgPtYCJlQXskde7DuSk?si=c7fa22d2225f41f7

Solo Latin Dance Beginners (Indoor Fun and Games)

(except 6/11/26) and (except 12/2/27) Sandylands Sports Centre We will cover the 6 Latin dances starting with Cha cha, Rumba and Jive. Please wear comfortable flexible shoes , not heels and bring water and energy. Podcast - copy and paste this link into your browser address field: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7h0fgPtYCJlQXskde7DuSk?si=c7fa22d2225f41f7

Solo Latin Dance Improvers (Performing Arts)

(except 6/11/26) and (except 12/2/27) Sandylands Sports Centre For people who have completed the Beginners' course or are experienced Latin dancers. Please wear flexible comfortable shoes but no heels. Bring water and plenty of energy! Podcast - copy and paste this link into your browser address field: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7h0fgPtYCJlQXskde7DuSk?si=c7fa22d2225f41f7

Table Tennis (Indoor Fun and Games)

and Sandylands Sports Centre Have fun and improve your fitness and coordination at the same time. Beginners welcome.

Birdwatching (Out and About)

Fortnightly Monday 10.00 am - 12.00 (no session 9/11/26) and (no session 15/2/27). Bolton Abbey Village Hall Group has indoor meetings at Bolton Abbey Village Hall every fortnight, mostly with presentations from speakers with accompanying pictures. Expert members contribute and external experts and photographers. These are from 10-12. Outdoor 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. New members are welcome to this long established and popular group. Podcast - copy and paste this link into your browser address field: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2nwmX4ixJbtrcJZWO2pOja?si=e19b2e25a1e74999

Book Group Fiction A (People and Places)

Monthly Monday 4.00 - 5.00 pm Start date 7.9.26. Members' homes. Meetings take place monthly on Mondays. This is an informal group. We choose a book each month to read and discuss but the discussion is wide ranging so it’s always worth coming along if you haven’t quite finished. The books are chosen by consensus. The meetings are held in members’ homes. Communications are through WhatsApp.

Book Group Fiction B (People and Places)

Monthly Monday 6.15 - 7.15 pm (Introductory meeting: Thursday 3/9.26, 18.15, venue to be decided). Local pubs Meetings take place on the second Monday of the month, with alternative arrangements if this is a bank holiday. We meet in local pubs, with lift sharing encouraged. Our favourite venue has been the Old Swan in Gargrave. Members negotiate the book choice from a list provided by Skipton Library. All members should be comfortable being in a WhatsApp group which will be used for reminders and recommendations of other books and authors- no pictures of pets or grandchildren!

Four Great Female Artists (People and Places)

Fortnightly Monday 5.30 - 7.30 Four sessions 26/10/26, 9/11/26, 23/11/26 and 7/12/26. Bradley Village Hall We will be exploring the very different lives and art of four great female artists: Artemisia Gentileschi, Angelica Kauffman, Mary Cassatt and Frida Kahlo. Refreshments will be available. There is ample parking at the Hall; members are encouraged to lift share via the WhatsApp Group.

Geology Walks (Out and About)

Fortnightly Monday 10.00 am - 12.00 Please come along and join us on our friendly Monday morning walks, mostly following geology trails of up to 4 miles with a focus on the fascinating geology of Yorkshire. The walks are offered and led by Group leaders but please note we are not experts, just keen to share our knowledge and learn from each other. Walk details will be circulated the week before and will include date, time, meeting place, walk length and geology features.

Indoor Games 26-27 (Indoor Fun and Games)

and Three Links Club 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

Italian continuers (World Languages and Cinema)

(no session 2/11/26) and (no session 15/2/27). Quaker Meeting House 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.

Literary Lives (People and Places)

Group Leaders - David Turner and Judith Barras. Fortnightly Monday 2.00 - 4.00 pm (no session 26/10/26) and St Stephen's Church Hall, Skipton A series of illustrated talks on the lives of literary figures from the 18th, 19th and 20th century by Judith Barras, David Turner and guest presenters.

Music theory & improvisation (Performing Arts)

Fortnightly Monday 2.00 - 4.00 pm and Draughton Village Hall 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 and a mix of musical theory with practical demonstration, harmony and chord progressions.

MusicalTheatre:Great Composers (Performing Arts)

Fortnightly Monday 2.00 - 4.00 pm 5 sessions autumn - 5/10/26, 19/10/26, 9/11/26, 23/11/26, 7/12/26 St Stephen's Church Hall Each session will look in detail at the life and music of one composer: Irving Berlin, George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim. Extensive use will be made of video clips of some of their greatest music and to demonstrate influences on their work and their distinctive styles.

Pickleball (Indoor Fun and Games)

Start date September 2026 - to be confirmed Sandylands Sports Centre Come and try Pickleball. Pickleball is played on a court with the same dimensions as Badminton. It is played by two pairs, using pickleball paddles and a pickle ball over a central net.

Racketball (Indoor Fun and Games)

. Sandylands Sports Centre Played on the squash courts at Sandylands, Skipton. Clothing as for indoor sports with non-marking shoes. A reasonable level of fitness is required. Game details: Singles. 2 games played to 11 points with 2 points clear. Players rotate between opponents and courts. Rackets and balls provided. Fees - £5 on a “pay per play” basis. Payable by cash.

Recorder Continuers (Performing Arts)

(except 26/10/26) and (except 8/2/27) St Andrew's Church Primary Room 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.

Recorder Ensemble (Performing Arts)

(except 26/10/26) and (except 8/2/27) St Andrew's Church Primary Room Four or five part music will be played on descant, treble, tenor and bass recorders, with the addition of sopranino and contrabass as required. Music from different genres will be played, from early music to contemporary repertoire. It is an asset if members can sight read and 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. Podcast - copy and paste the following link into your web browser address: https://open.spotify.com/episode/77jFhXiPSsPYJp7EufFOlQ?si=4543e959a1874216

Science and technology disc (Science and Technology)

and St Stephen's Church Hall Podcast - copy and paste the following link into your web browser address: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5wLvrthKX94BCr3fbgzelN?si=549e9607719a4876

Stretching / Yoga (Indoor Fun and Games)

and St Andrew's Church Hall 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.

Tenpin Bowling (Indoor Fun and Games)

and Matrix Superbowl We play 2 games per week. Just for fun! The cost for 2 games is £6 or £7 per week.

Woodturning 1 (Creative Arts and Crafts)

and Group leader's home (Skipton) A mixed ability class. Beginners will learn 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 covered. 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 anyone. Persons with health problems such as postural hypotension MUST inform the Group Leader. Additional cost <£5 for cost of materials, wood.

Woodturning 2 (Creative Arts and Crafts)

and Group leader's home (Skipton) Mixed ability class. Beginners will learn 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 covered. 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 anyone. Persons with health problems such as postural hypotension MUST inform the Group Leader. Additional cost <£5 for cost of materials, wood.

Woodturning in Summer 2026 (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. Provisional Dates for 2026 sessions: June - 08, 15, 22, 29, July 09,13,20,27, Aug 10,17 Surcharge £20.00 Podcast - copy and paste this link into your browser address field: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6CBdEprwN1Gy7C3k9V4zSh?si=1dbb6f2a5326469b

Woodturning in Summer 2027 (Creative Arts and Crafts)

Summer 2027 - dates to be announced in Spring 2027 and will probably run from June to August. Carleton Woodturning 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. There is an additional cost for materials.

Walking Group Admin ()

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

Wharfedale Walking (Out and About)

Saturday 10.00 am A friendly way to walk, at an easy pace up and down the Dales. Walks are mainly in Wharfedale. Typically, walks will be between 6 and 8 miles. You should have appropriate clothing, boots, drink and a picnic lunch. We meet at the start of the walk at 10.00. (Sorry, but no dogs). We like to stop from time to time to take in the scenery and anything else of interest during the walk. A few days before the Saturday walk a description of the walk will be sent by e-mail, and you reply if you want to come on that walk. New walkers can join at any time and members are welcome to offer to lead a walk.

Allotment (Out and About)

Broughton Road allotment 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. Podcast - copy and paste this link into your browser address field: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7j0ncw8F7pwaq0m7p2HVon?si=accb7dd2e9ca41c3

Sunday Lunch Social Group (Indoor Fun and Games)

Monthly Sunday Our Sunday lunches are are very friendly and all about good food, good chats and catching up once a month. There is no organiser. We all take turns to book and organise a lunch when our name comes round. We stay in touch and organise the lunches on WhatsApp, and we car share wherever possible. So far we've had a great mix of local venues and a bit further afield, which keeps things interesting. So suggestions and recommendations for good venues are always welcome.

Adventure into Classical Music (Performing Arts)

St Andrew's Church primary room 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 French music through the ages.

Badminton (Indoor Fun and Games)

Sandylands Sports Centre Played on marked courts in the main hall at Sandylands, Skipton. Clothing as for indoor sports with non-marking shoes. A reasonable level of fitness is required. Game details: we usually play doubles but also singles depending on numbers. 2 games played to 11 points with 2 points clear. Players rotate between courts. Rackets and shuttlecocks provided. Fees - £4 on a “pay per play” basis. Payable by bank transfer to the Group Leader.

Bridge Play (Indoor Fun and Games)

and . This is a friendly group who enjoy playing duplicate bridge in a relaxed setting. It is intended for people who have played 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. £1 a year is charged for materials and a 50p charge for tea/biscuits. Members are asked to arrive by 1.35pm. Podcast - copy and paste the following link into your web browser address: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4QG55Oj59CDElIqFmWdFvX?si=ad5e504861bf40ac

Drumming Circle 1 Beginners (Performing Arts)

(no session 26/10/26) Skipton Sports Community Hub 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. Course will initially be limited to 12 people due to instrument availability. Please let me know if you have your own drum as this could help the number on the group to be extended. Let’s get banging those drums!

Drumming Circle 2 Continuers (Performing Arts)

(No session 26/10/26) Skipton Sports Community Hub This course is for those who have previously done the beginners course or who have previously played djembe or some other type of hand drum. Whilst the course will recap on playing technique it will primarily focus on playing together as a group and playing a range of more complex beats and rhythms. The aim as always is to have fun playing together. Some drums will be provided. Course will initially be limited to 12 people due to instrument availability. Please let me know if you have your own drum as this could help the number on the group to be extended. Let’s get banging those drums!

Films on Thursdays (World Languages and Cinema)

and . Champions Church 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

Floral Art (Creative Arts and Crafts)

Twice monthly Thursday 2.00 - 4.00 pm (on second and fourth Thursday of month) (except 3/12/26). St Stephen's Church Hall, Skipton This group is aimed at people who enjoy flowers and creative thinking. With a different theme each session, and including development of technical skills, it provides an opportunity to interpret titles in individual ways. There is no right or wrong, just your own take on flowers, foliage and mechanics. A supportive and friendly group shares ideas, materials and conversation. We finish with discussion of our ideas and the pleasure of admiring each other’s arrangements and learning from each other, before some planning for our next session.

History Happens (People and Places)

Fortnightly Thursday 10.00 am - 12.00 and Swadford Centre Assembly Room A series of lively talks, on all things historical, with a variety of speakers. Fortnightly, from October to March, specifically designed for our members who enjoy hearing about 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 story of Rapanui (Easter Island), the peace that followed World War One, archaeology in Uganda, plus geology, garden history and much more. Plenty to entertain and stimulate.

Mah Jong (Indoor Fun and Games)

and Three Links Club Mah Jong is an old Chinese game based on three suits, winds and dragons. It stretches the mind, is competitive and satisfying, but needs concentration!

Politics Discussion Group (People and Places)

(except 29/10/26) and (except 11/2/27) Swadford Centre Assembly Room The Politics Discussion Group meets

Walk to Lunch 25-26 (Out and About)

Group Leaders - Jenny Robinson and Brigida Martino Fortnightly Thursday 10.00 am We offer morning walks of up to 5 miles, every fortnight, followed by a pub/café lunch. Please note that a regular commitment to walks is required and pre-booking for walks/lunches is essential. Members must be fit to walk at a good pace and able to manage hills and stiles. Meeting points and pub menus are circulated by email a week before each walk. You’ll need boots, waterproofs, email access and (sometimes) a sense of adventure !! Your own transport to the varied meeting points is required.

Weimar Republic (People and Places)

Fortnightly Thursday 10.00 am - 12.00 Oct 8th and 22nd, Nov 5th and 19th, and Dec 3rd Swadford Centre The combination of defeat in 1918 and the exceptionally harsh terms of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919 traumatised the German nation. Against this grim background the newly installed Weimar Republic sought to bring democracy and stability to post-war Germany. But it was destined to preside over a tumultuous, fractious era only to be ousted in 1933 to make way for the Nazis under Adolf Hitler. But the Weimar Republic was no mere ‘mechanical’, let alone inevitable prelude to the Third Reich. It was also period of striking developments in new social freedoms as well as in art, architecture and cinema. In short, the Weimar Republic was a momentous, epoch-changing era in German and hence European history. Try to attend all five talks. Podcast - copy and paste the following link into your web browser address: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0bVjIW9f4gegEbWK0VYxSE?si=036cc42e312a4ffe

Art and Calligraphy (Creative Arts and Crafts)

Autumn .2026. Spring . Skipton Sports Community Hub Come and enjoy spending time sharing your artistic skills and learn from each other using different media, watercolours, pastels, pencils, charcoal and acrylics. Come and spend a couple of hours, relaxing with friends painting or drawing. Beginners are welcome for Calligraphy and guidance will be given by experienced Calligraphers. Practising beautiful handwriting is mindful and relaxing. Come and join our friendly group.

Art Forum face to face (Creative Arts and Crafts)

Fortnightly Tuesday 10.30 am - 12.30 pm 13.10.2026 - 08.12.2026 (final date to be negotiated). 05.01.2027 - 16.03.2027. Members' homes We are essentially a discussion group, meeting in each other’s homes once a fortnight. We 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 image around one theme. We might continue looking at various aspects of one artist in depth or we might have a picture Quiz. We are beginning to explore ‘What Art is, who makes it, what The Art World is and who decides what happens in it.’ Please click on this link for the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/33EolpbE88K9YqE1Svyheh?si=c71c47e834fe4e6f

Early 20th Century Art (Creative Arts and Crafts)

(5 sessions) Skipton Sports Community Hub ART 1900+ We will have a close look at the major figures of the period following the Post Impressionists. Powerpoints, presentations and books will support our discussion. Matisse and Picasso will be considered in detail. Podcast - copy and paste this link into your browser address field: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1Eka0bDVHfAKWEDphQ1ws5?si=24c2df7b6eed4e98

Films on Tuesday international (World Languages and Cinema)

and . Champions Church Films chosen from around the world as well as the UK to lighten the mood during Winter and beyond into Springtime. ALL films shown will have subtitles regardless of the language of the film. Tea, coffee and biscuits midway (£1). Pick and choose the films you want to see, you don't have to come every week.

German (World Languages and Cinema)

and . St Andrew's Church Primary Room 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.

History of Art (Creative Arts and Crafts)

(except 27/10/26) and (except 9/2/27). Embsay Village Hall Side Room The story of Western art - major movements in the arts from Ancient Greece to Postimpressionism, set against their wider historical background. Podcast - copy and paste the following link into your web browser address: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7BgKWGzWa5NWkOW0R6vOPv?si=dc22d40d0bef4100

Indoor Curling and Boccia (Indoor Fun and Games)

and Skipton Sports Community Hub Boccia is the most inclusive and accessible sport in the world. It can be played by anyone regardless of age or ability. Anyone can play it as long as they remain seated during play so if any of our members need to use wheelchairs. This might be a fun game to come and have a go. The venue has a free car park, disabled access and toilet facilities. Indoor Curling is a fun, accessible game, no ice just great vibes and competition. Come and join the group for a bit of fun!

Music for fun (Performing Arts)

(except 27/10/26) and (except 9/2/27). Trinity Methodist Church 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 ten songs each. We have a coffee break when members are encouraged to socialise. All instrumentalists welcome whether you sing or not. Likewise singers who don't play an instrument welcome. There is a beautiful piano available for anyone who can play.

Popular Music (Performing Arts)

(no session 27/10/26) and Three Links Club Nostalgia is our choice of music. The sessions include delightful refreshments, good company and enjoyable music. We listen to various composers, singers and big bands, approx 25 songs each week, remembering songs our parents and ourselves have enjoyed over the years.

Proms Catchup 2026 (Performing Arts)

Tuesday evenings 20th July to September 2026 Group Leader: Doug Hirst Watch the Proms by catch-up on BBC I Player. The idea is for a small group of members to watch Prom concerts on BBC I player at home in the company of others interested in Classical music. Tuesday nights from 20th July to September at my house are suggested but the day, time and venue could be varied by mutual agreement. The iPlayer schedule will be circulated when it becomes available. Nibbles may be provided but members bring their own wine. Surcharge - £0 Podcast - copy and paste the following link into your web browser address: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4QbUhAGrc5gCJly8s3wsU2?si=740c68a6904e449b

Proms Catchup 2027 (Creative Arts and Crafts)

Tuesday evenings July to September 2027 Group Leader: Doug Hirst Watch the Proms by catch-up on BBC I Player. The idea is for a small group of members to watch Prom concerts on BBC I player at home in the company of others interested in Classical music. Tuesday nights from 20th July to September at my house are suggested but the day, time and venue could be varied by mutual agreement. The iPlayer schedule will be circulated when it becomes available. Nibbles may be provided but members bring their own wine. Surcharge - £0 Podcast - copy and paste the following link into your web browser address: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4QbUhAGrc5gCJly8s3wsU2?si=740c68a6904e449b

Sketching outdoors (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. Surcharge £0.00

Two Hour walks (Out and About)

Fortnightly Tuesday 10.00 am - 12.00 This group is intended for people who only want a short walk every fortnight, (about 3.5 to 4 miles) or have limited time. They are not necessarily easy, just short. The walks are always within a ten mile radius of Skipton, and there is consideration of access by public transport or lifts can be arranged. There is a small group of walk leaders, but members with walk offers are always welcomed. In the unlikely event of more than twenty wanting to come on a walk, we will restrict numbers in order to keep within the time limit. Podcast - copy and paste the following link into your web browser address: https://open.spotify.com/episode/75P49gyiEy9nhLNy3NU7F6?si=41d7e12903e24123

Victorian Women Novelists (Performing Arts)

(five weeks) Skipton Sports Community Hub A more detailed look at Mrs Gaskell, the Brontes and George Elliot. Context-readings and discussion. No need to read the novels beforehand, unless you want to. Podcast - copy and paste this link into your browser address field: https://open.spotify.com/episode/20vj8upM4CNYMAUknMuobN?si=6adf971bfc7149cb

Walking Cricket (Indoor Fun and Games)

Skipton Sports Community Hub Come and have a go at Walking Cricket! The game is played between teams of 6 or 8 players, with each team batting in pairs. Each pair bats for 4 overs. Each time the batter is out, the batters change ends, unless it occurs at the end of the over or is a run out. Each bowler bowls at least one over (max balls 6). Can bowl underarm. Extras are worth 2 runs. No one is allowed to run!! Modified soft ball is used. No protective equipment needed.

Walking Netball. (Indoor Fun and Games)

Oct 6th to Dec 15th 2026 (except Oct 27th) and Jan 12th to March 23rd 2027 (except Feb 9th). Sandylands Sports Centre 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 surgery.

Walking Group 25-26 (Out and About)

We meet every Tuesday and Thursday Podcast: Please copy and paste this link into your web browser address: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4MfTbfXcJE5pU0DIidgbEb?si=0e2e297b379045f9

Creative Arts 4 Wellbeing (Creative Arts and Crafts)

Skipton Sports Community Hub Each session will contain a mix of creative arts activities designed to boost wellbeing in a friendly group setting. Group members will be encouraged to express preferences and influence how the programme develops. Suitable for anyone who is keen to try various creative arts activities, which may include exploring different art media (eg. mark making, sketching, painting, collage, abstract patterning, etc), singing, dancing, creative storytelling, photography, etc. No prior experience or expertise needed - just a willingness to explore the feel-good power of regular, varied creative arts activity in a sociable setting. Materials fee - £10.

Ad Hoc Walking Group (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.

Culture Vultures (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! Podcast - copy and paste the following link into your web browser address: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7pWTUujyl3HaE8jr3kgTAP?si=72701b9a50924833

Day Trips social group (Out and About)

We are a friendly group who enjoy getting out and about together. We organise our trips on WhatsApp and travel by train, bus and car share. We don't have an organiser, we hope that everyone will suggest destinations. If there is somewhere you want to go or somewhere you enjoy going just ask on our WhatsApp group if anyone is interested in to going to a particular place and people will respond. We have been to Liverpool, Carlisle and lots of interesting places both near and further afield, as well as some lovely scenic walks.

E-biking (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! Our routes tend to start from Skipton or Gargrave, and are usually between 20 and 30 miles, with a stop at a tea-room. All members are encouraged to propose and plan routes. Some members can transport several bikes if necessary.

Gardening (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 other's gardens. It is a lovely way to spend a couple of hours in the spring and summer, in a garden, chatting with our gardening friends over a coffee. We can communicate with each other via Whatsapp and email. We get together a couple of times a year to plan the following gardening year.

Motorcycle Group (Out and About)

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

Nature Rambles (Out and About)

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

Photo Group (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.

Podcasts (Performing Arts)

The aim of this group is to gather a group of members who are interested in any aspect of producing podcasts. This can involve not only actually direct involvement in the podcast, but also planning, finding prospective volunteers, recording, editing, posting, promulgating. publicising. The hope is to start off by meeting through Zoom and WhatsApp and use these systems for most operations, but also have an occasional social gathering in a cafe or bar to get to know each other better. We will first need to agree some aims and objectives so we are all pulling together. I would like all who want to join this group to have an involvement in putting out podcasts, and not just be there as an observer. If you think you have a skill which might help please let us know. Podcast - copy and paste the following link into your web browser address: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5jkmyV1hLZ16iTAsFH4zsN?si=afe5fafa9c4e4ea1

Shorty Walks (Out and About)

Walks of up to 5 miles can be offered by any group member. The walks can be anything any member would like to share with the group. Amongst others, we have enjoyed town trails, moors walks and canal walks. A walk can be any day of the week, throughout the whole year. If you wish to lead a walk or there is a particular place you would like to walk, please contact me.

Adaptive Tennis (Indoor Fun and Games)

. 10 sessions in total Skipton Tennis Club Adaptive Tennis is suitable for anyone but especially members who have mobility issues, or lack full muscle strength. It is played on a shorter court with a lighter ball. The serving technique can be flexible. All equipment is provided.

Adaptive Tennis summer 26 (Indoor Fun and Games)

There are six sessions starting on Wednesday June 3rd Coaching support will be available on June 3rd Adaptive Tennis is suitable for everyone but especially for those with reduced muscle strength The court is shorted, the balls lighter and the serve can vary to suit the member All equipment is provided

Aerobic Fitness Training (Indoor Fun and Games)

Autumn . Spring . Sandylands Gym 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.

Book Group - Non-fiction (People and Places)

Monthly Wednesday 6.45 - 7.45 pm Various venues 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!

Crafting for Christmas (Creative Arts and Crafts)

Fortnightly Wednesday 2.00 - 4.00 pm Draughton Village Hall We will make a variety of Christmas decorations, cards and presents, primarily using fabric and ribbons. Each session we will work together to make a different item, some of which we should be able to finish during the session and some of which you will need to finish at home. Basic sewing skills required. There will be an additional charge of £20 for materials. Podcast - copy and paste this link into your browser address field: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7pWTUujyl3HaE8jr3kgTAP?si=72701b9a50924833

Craven u3a Orchestra (Performing Arts)

(no session 28/10/26) and (no session 10/02/27). Embsay Village Hall 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. Podcast - copy and paste the following link into your web browser address: https://open.spotify.com/episode/18kSyNNvpebWrw0C3Mymke?si=821971406e42456c

Croquet (Indoor Fun and Games)

. Pendle and Craven Croquet Club The group provides friendly, social competition playing ‘golf Croquet’ from the beginning of May to the end of September (weather permitting). The rules are very straightforward . It is suitable for all members. All equipment is provided. Flat soled shoes should be worn. There will be a

Fabrics,Threads and Yarns (Creative Arts and Crafts)

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

Geography Forum (People and Places)

(except 28/10/26) and (except 17/2/27). St Stephen's Church Hall, Skipton Talks, mainly by members of the Forum, on Geography, History, People and Places. Podcast - copy and paste the following link into your web browser address: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2uIifYh5pmBdNIqYBLGybU?si=a83acc6c041d4ba4

Italian Improvers (World Languages and Cinema)

(except 4/11/26) and (except 17/2/27). Quaker Meeting House This year's course will build on last year's vocabulary, covering a few more topic areas and revising last year's work. The emphasis will be on how the language is structured, covering very basic grammar: definite and indefinite article, gender, adjectives, how to form singular and plural nouns and adjectives; also verbs; basic present tense, the most used past tense, and the future. At the end you should be more comfortable with a basic level of fluency and be able to make up your own language and construct your own sentences. You do not need knowledge of English grammar to do this.

Modern Art and Architecture (Creative Arts and Crafts)

(no session 28/10/26). Embsay Village Hall Side Room Art, Architecture and Design in the 19th and 20th centuries - concentrating on developments in Britain in the 19th century and the wider western world in the 20th century. Podcast - copy and paste the following link into your web browser address: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7BgKWGzWa5NWkOW0R6vOPv?si=dc22d40d0bef4100

Padel Tennis (Indoor Fun and Games)

and Skipton Tennis Club Two covered courts + one outside court(subject to availability). All equipment is provided. Two groups of 8 playing for one hour each week. There will be a coach at the first session to explain the rules. Wear tennis shoes with flat soles please. No trainers or running shoes There is a club house to socialise in whilst waiting to play. Craven u3a has negotiated two sessions of one hour, for the 10 week block.. Two courts

Singing Madrigals (Performing Arts)

and St Andrew's Church Primary Room 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.

Spanish Intermediate/Advanced (World Languages and Cinema)

Fortnightly Wednesday 7.00 - 8.30 pm 7/10/26, 21/10/26, 4/11/26, 18/11/26 and 2/12/26 St Stephen's Church Hall 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 may be required to facilitate it. The course is not suitable for beginners.

Stories of Scientists (Science and Technology)

(except 17/03/27) Skipton Sports Community Hub Stories of Scientists their background and discoveries.

Stretching /Movement (Indoor Fun and Games)

(except 14/10/26) and St Andrew's Church Hall 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.

Victorians (People and Places)

(no session 11/11/26) Swadford Centre Ten speakers, ten topics. Everything from Queen Victoria to the songs of the Victorian streets, and from John Ruskin to work and play in Victorian Skipton. There will be a £3 (for the term) contribution to the costs of guest speakers.