Happy Yorkshire Day
1/08/2020
Yorkshire Day is an annual celebration of all things Yorkshire promoting and celebrating “God’s Own County”. Celebrated on 1st August each year, Yorkshire Day, is a great way of showcasing all that our county has to offer.
Why 1st August?
The date alludes to the Battle of Minden, which was already celebrated by the Light Infantry, successors to the King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry. On Minden Day, the Light Infantry, together with five other regiments of the British Army, a rose is permitted to be worn in the headdress. In the Light Infantry, the colour of the rose is white, and a white rose is the emblem of Yorkshire.
It's thought that the white rose was adopted as a symbol in the 14th century, when it was introduced by Edmund of Langley, who was the first Duke of York and founder of the House of York.
What is the history of Yorkshire Day?
First celebrated in 1975 by the Yorkshire Ridings Society, Yorkshire Day began as part of a protest movement against local government reforms that came into force in 1974.
How do people celebrate?
I’d love to say that we eat Yorkshire Puddings from morning until night and I’m sure that many people do but, for us, it’s chance to reflect on the fabulous things our county has to offer, from coast to country, from isolated villages to big cities. Whilst our local attractions would usually offer typically “Yorkshire” activities, this year is a little different and things are, understandably, a lot quieter. However, it’s still a time to celebrate especially since 1st August sees the opening of many more of our local attractions:
York Castle Museum - Reopening their doors on August 1st, just in time for Yorkshire Day, the museum offers visitors the chance to discover hundreds of years of York's social history.
North Yorkshire Moors Railway - It's full steam ahead as of August 1st, but due to limited capacity services it's essential to book online ahead of your visit.
York Art Gallery - Visitors are welcomed back to see the gallery's impressive collection, providing tickets are purchased in advance online.
Rievaulx Abbey - Set in a remote valley in the North York Moors National Park, Rievaulx is one of the most complete, and atmospheric, of England’s abbey ruins. Book online to secure your entry time.
Helmsley Walled Garden The garden will be open from August 1st. Initially it will open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm, last entry 4.30pm.