Thirsk events – live music, theatre, workshops and community events in Thirsk

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Upcoming events in and around Thirsk

Today's Date - Wednesday 27th May 2026


Thursday, June 18th 2026
Embracing Silence
Holy Rood House, Centre for Health & Pastoral Care, 10 Sowerby Road, Thirsk YO7 1HX.

A peaceful day exploring the healing power of silence and meditation through the Christian contemplative tradition. Led by Christopher Ryushin Collingwood Roshi, this reflective retreat offers time for quiet contemplation, spiritual insight and guided practice.

Time: 10am - 4pm
Tel: 01845 522580
Email: enquiries@holyroodhouse.org.uk


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Saturday, June 20th 2026
Repair Your Stuff
Thirsk Library, Meadowfields, Chapel Street, Thirsk YO7 1TH.

Help reduce waste and save money by bringing along your broken or worn-out household items to Thirsk Repair Cafe. A skilled team of friendly volunteers will try to repair items and give them a new lease of life. Voluntary donations are welcome and new volunteers are always encouraged to get involved.

Time: 10am - 1pm (last repair 12.30pm)
Admission: Free, donations welcome
Email: thirskrepaircafe@gmail.com


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Sunday, June 21st 2026
Father's Day at Monk Park Farm
Monk Park Farm, Green Lane, Bagby, Thirsk YO7 2AG.

Treat Dad to a fun-filled family day out this Father's Day with free entry for dads at Monk Park Farm when booking in advance. Enjoy animal encounters, indoor and outdoor play areas, Tractor Town, Little Thirsk and plenty more family attractions throughout the day. Please note under 1s do not qualify and some activities may carry a small additional charge.

Time: From 10:00am
Prices: From £3pp
Tel: 01845 421124
Tickets: Online or on the door
Email: eyup@monkparkfarm.co.uk
Web: monkparkfarm.co.uk


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Sunday, June 21st 2026
Thirsk Artisan Market
Market Place, Thirsk YO7 1EY.
Browse a wonderful selection of handcrafted goods, artisan food, unique gifts and locally made products at this popular monthly market in the heart of Thirsk. Meet talented independent makers and enjoy a friendly community atmosphere while discovering creative stalls packed with Yorkshire charm. 10am-3pm.
Web: littlebirdmade.com


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Wednesday, June 24th 2026
Thirsk PROBUS Ladies Meeting
Meadowfields, Chapel Street, Thirsk YO7 1LU.
Enjoy light refreshments and friendly conversation before a talk by Jane McKeown on The Changing Face of Newspaper, followed by a short business meeting. New members and visitors are always welcome to come along and join the group. 10am-12 noon. £3. Tel: 01845 597487


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Wednesday, July 1st 2026
Thirsk Races: Make the most of a summer midweek race day at Thirsk Racecourse, with a relaxed afternoon of racing and a great atmosphere to match. It's the perfect excuse to get out and enjoy some live sport in the sunshine.

What's On: Enjoy live music from ELENA LARKIN, along with a variety of bars and food vendors available throughout the day. If you're looking to upgrade your experience, choose one of the hospitality packages and reserve a table for the occasion.

Saver Rate: Book before midnight on Sunday 28th June to take advantage of discounted tickets. After this date, prices will increase to the on-the-day rate-so be sure to book early and save.


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Thursday, July 16th 2026
Afternoon Racing

Mid summer Racing at Thirsk Races.
www.thirskracecourse.net/events/thirsk-races-2026-dates/


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Friday, July 24th 2026
Family Day

Enjoy with the family all the Racing at Thirsk Races.
www.thirskracecourse.net/events/thirsk-races-2026-dates/


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Saturday, August 1st 2026
William Hill Summer Cup at Thirsk races
Save the date for one of the highlights of the summer racing calendar - the William Hill Summer Cup - Thirsk Racecourse - Expect a thrilling day at the races packed with atmosphere and top-quality action on the track.
Tickets available from Tuesday 2nd December
For advance dining or private hospitality enquiries, please contact info@thirskracecourse.net


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Friday, August 7th 2026
Family Day at Thirsk Races.
Join in for Family Day! Enjoy free kids entertainment.
https://www.thirskracecourse.net/events/friday-7th-august-family-day/


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Keep checking back for new events

 

Make sure to visit Thirsk - A PERFECT LOCATION FOR ANY OCCASION...



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HOW TO GET TO THIRSK



By car - Thirsk is located just off the A19 and around 40 minutes from the historic city of York.

By train - LNER and Grand Central Trains run regularly to Thirsk train station.

ATTRACTIONS - Thirsk Cinema

Since 1995 the cinema has been run by a dedicated team, the cinema always aims to screen recent film releases to the town at affordable prices. A volunteer operated cinema in Thirsk.

Open seven days a week screening current films.
The Ritz doors open at 7pm each evening with the main film being shown at 7.30pm.

16 Westgate, Thirsk, YO7 1QS
Tel: 01845 524751

Visit site:

James Herriot Museum in Thirsk: A Tribute to the Beloved Veterinarian

worldofjamesherriot.com

museum
Thirsk is famously associated with Alf Wight, the vet-turned-author known as James Herriot.

Step inside to the multi award winning visitor attraction - for fans of the beloved veterinarian and author James Herriot, a visit to the James Herriot Museum in Thirsk, North Yorkshire, is a pilgrimage that offers a unique glimpse into the life and work of the man behind the heartwarming stories of country life and veterinary practice.

The museum, located in the very building where Herriot once practiced, provides a captivating experience for fans and anyone with an interest in rural life, animals, and the history of veterinary medicine.

The James Herriot Museum is housed in a beautifully preserved 1940s period house, reminiscent of the days when Herriot, whose real name was James Alfred Wight, tended to the animals of the Yorkshire Dales. The museum is a celebration of not only Herriot's literary achievements but also his dedication to the welfare of animals and the rural community of Thirsk. With its carefully curated exhibits, the museum offers visitors an intimate look at the world that inspired Herriot's iconic tales.

Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a treasure trove of personal memorabilia, including Herriot's writing desk, personal artifacts, and original veterinary instruments. These authentic items provide an immersive experience, transporting visitors back to the time when Herriot treated his quirky animal patients and forged enduring bonds with the local farmers and residents.

The museum also houses a recreation of his famous surgery, complete with the actual instruments and equipment he used during his practice.

One of the most charming features is its meticulously recreated 1940s-era living room, which offers an evocative portrayal of domestic life during Herriot's time. The attention to detail in this exhibit helps visitors understand the everyday life and challenges faced by Herriot and his colleagues, further enriching the experience of stepping into the world of "All Creatures Great and Small."

The museum doesn't just focus on the professional life of James Herriot; it also showcases his literary legacy. Visitors can explore an extensive collection of editions of his books, foreign translations, and rare manuscripts.

Additionally, the museum hosts temporary exhibits that delve into various aspects of Herriot's life and work, ensuring that each visit offers something new and engaging.

For fans of the "All Creatures Great and Small" television series, the museum offers a behind-the-scenes look at the show's production, featuring original props, photographs, and anecdotes from the cast and crew. This aspect of the museum serves as a delightful addition for those who have been charmed by the small-screen adaptation of Herriot's tales.

In conclusion, the James Herriot Museum stands as a fitting tribute to the enduring legacy of a man whose love for animals and the Yorkshire countryside captured the hearts of readers around the world.

Whether you're a die-hard fan of his literary works or simply have an appreciation for the art of storytelling, a visit to the museum in Thirsk promises an immersive and enriching experience that celebrates the life and work of James Herriot, the beloved veterinarian and author.

Tel: 01845 524234 - World of James Herriot Ltd, 23 Kirkgate, Thirsk, North Yorkshire, YO7 1PL

Shopping in Thirsk

places to visit in Thirsk

Once upon a time ... if my memory serves me well, there was the traditional half-day closing on a Wednesday in my hometown.

These days however, the shops (including the ones in Thirsk) are open mainly from 9am to 5.30pm - Monday to Saturday, including Sundays too, with restricted hours.


INDEPENDENT STORES
In Thirsk, you can shop in the smaller, more independent stores and there are plenty of them to choose from, along with the bigger traditional shops, like Tesco, Lidl, The Co-operative and Heron Foods.

Just one of the delightful things about shopping in Thirsk is the little alleyways tucked away, where you will discover tea shops, clothes shops and furniture sellers that you may not have known even existed.

Also, you will hear the sounds and the smells of bakers, butchers and flower shops spread out around this lovely historic place.


MARKET PLACE - GET YOUR FRESH FRUIT & VEG
Try not to miss the open-air market in the Medieval market square on a Monday or Saturday and a chance to buy your fresh produce - the regular weekly markets are operated in the town's historical cobbled Market Place - come along and enjoy the experience of the market, which is part of the local scene. Make sure to get down there nice and early if possible. Opens at 8.30am.


PARKING
Car parking is free for one hour in the market place.


BANKS
At the time of publishing this site - the Banks in the town include Barclays Bank, HSBC, Lloyds Bank and Nationwide Building Society, all situated in the Market Place.


CITY OF YORK
If you fancy visiting York for even more shopping - the city is just over 23 miles away from Thirsk Via the A19 (around 35 minutes).
There is also the train you can hop onto, whch takes around 16 minutes. Thirsk Railway Station, Station Road, Thirsk YO7 4LS

nationalrail.co.uk


Weather in Thirsk

weather
THIRSK WEATHER

The Ritz Cinema

ritz cinema
16 Westgate, Thirsk YO7 1QS

Whats On

Thirsk Hall

Thirsk Hall
A stunning Georgian-style country house. It was constructed in 1723 by John Bell. This timeless residence has been lovingly maintained by generations of the same family and holds the prestigious Grade II listing, symbolizing its historical and architectural significance.

Nestled within expansive, exquisitely landscaped grounds, Thirsk Hall boasts formal gardens, walled gardens and extensive parkland. In recent times, the addition of modern sculptures has beautifully blended traditional landscaping with contemporary art.

Having transformed into a vibrant cultural venue, the hall regularly hosts art exhibitions and events.

The sculpture garden proudly showcases works by contemporary artists, while the estate welcomes the public for open garden days and weddings, despite being a private residence.
Certain parts of the estate are also occasionally accessible to the public for special events or private tours, offering a captivating insight into its rich history and art collection.

Thirsk Hall's influence extends beyond its architectural grandeur, as it stands as a cultural focal point in North Yorkshire, seamlessly intertwining its heritage with modern artistic expression.

A Country Home to the Arts