Spring bank holiday events in Yorkshire [2026 guide]

Looking for something to do in Yorkshire on 25 May? Explore 6 spring bank holiday events and experiences.



If you have the day off on 25 May – the second bank holiday of the month – you may be looking for a little entertainment.

And if you're in Yorkshire, you truly are spoiled for choice. The spring bank holiday calendar is packed to the margins with things to do.

Some of the events in this guide are one-offs. Others are part of longer events, exhibitions and experiences.

Here at Stump Cross Caverns, our show caves are open all year round and in every weather. This 25 May, why not join us for an underground adventure?

Just 60 steps below the surface of the Yorkshire Dales lies an enchanted world of stalagmites, stalactites and other glistering rock formations. Since its accidental discovery by two local miners in 1860, the cave has provided visitors from around the world with an unforgettable experience.

Whether you make us part of a day-long itinerary or make a day of it, we look forward to meeting you this spring!

The best spring bank holiday events in Yorkshire

1. Yorkshire Classic & Performance Motor Show

Where: Scampston Hall, Malton

Date: Monday 25 May
Time: 10 am to 4 pm
Cost:  £12.50 for adults; £5 for children

For most of the year, Scampston Hall in Malton, North Yorkshire, is a 17th-century country estate set among parks, lakes and leafy boulevards.

But on 25 May, it's a destination for car-lovers from across the country. In the words of the organisers, you can expect "hundreds of classic cars, bikes and performance icons spanning the decades… From Jaguars to Jensens, Triumphs to TVRs, Lamborghinis to Land Rovers."

2. Sheffield Food Festival

Where: Sheffield city centre
Dates: Saturday 23 to Monday 25 May
Cost: free

Sheffield is a city that loves its food – from traditional fare like Henderson's Relish, hot roast pork sandwiches and curd tarts to its vibrant restaurant scene.

And from 23 to 25 May this year, Sheffield Food Festival returns. It's a sprawling, free-entry event taking place in the Peace Gardens and Winter Gardens.

Take a wander through the festival and you can explore more than 60 food stalls from the city's finest traders. More than 50 musical acts are planned, too.

3. Storybook Spring

Where: Stockeld Park, near Wetherby
Dates: Saturday 23 to Sunday 31 May
Time: 9:30 am to 5.30 pm

Cost: from £24.69 (discounts available for seniors and under-2s)

Located between Wetherby and Harrogate in North Yorkshire, Stockeld Park is a listed country house with a 2,000-acre estate.

Known for its huge Christmas tree plantation, it's perhaps most famous for its Adventure Park. Open at weekends and school holidays, this is a family fun zone that offers over 40 acres of outdoor play, enchanted forests and the massive indoor Playhive.

From 23 to 31 May this year, Stockeld will, in its own words, "come alive with the magic of storytelling".

Participants are invited to take part in the Storybook Spring Trail. This is a choose-your-own-adventure with live-action fairytale characters followed by riddles to solve in the Magical Maze.

4. Tommy Treebark's Wild Adventure Trail

Where: York city centre
Dates: Friday 10 April to Saturday 26 September
Cost: free

York city centre is famous for many things. Its rich history spanning the Romans, the Vikings and the chocolate industry. Its (apparently) haunted locations. And, of course, its magnificent minster.

From 10 April to 26 September, however, it's also home to 55 wild animal models, hidden on brightly coloured benches around the city.

Each animal can be found in the Yorkshire wilds, from the seven-spot ladybird to the Dales pony. The models, designed by local artist Selkie Ray, provide a fun adventure for the little ones. Plus, it's a great opportunity to learn about all creatures great and small.

5. Leeds Jazz Festival

Where: venues across Leeds
Dates: Thursday 21 to Tuesday 26 May
Cost: individually ticketed events

Taking place at venues across the city, Leeds Jazz Festival returns from 21 to 26 May for its fifth instalment. And on the spring bank holiday, there are two dramatically different concerts.

First, there's the organist and pianist Kit Downes launching his new album. He will play at Mill Hill Chapel, starting at 7:30 pm.

Secondly, there's Jazz Sabbath – a jazz trio playing interpretations of Black Sabbath songs. You can catch them at City Varieties Music Hall, also at 7.30pm (decisions, decisions…)

6. Stump Cross Caverns

At Stump Cross Caverns, we give visitors an unforgettable experience in the form of our underground caverns, all decked out with mysterious and beautiful rock formations.

It's a great place to be, whatever the weather. See the caves lit by UV torches. Embark on an interactive fossil dig, with real finds you can take home and keep. Pan for gems in our mining sluice – or discover your own natural treasure at the Geode Shack. There's always something exciting to see and do.

Located on the road between Grassington and Pateley Bridge, we're a subterranean jewel in the gorgeous green heart of the Yorkshire Dales. Whether you're coming alone, with friends or with all the family, expect to be dazzled, transported and entertained.

This May half term (23 to 31 May), we're open daily from 9 am to 6 pm.

Are you looking for an unforgettable spring day out in Yorkshire? Whatever your age, whatever the weather – Stump Cross Caverns is always an adventure. It's quick and easy to book your tickets online.