Enjoy Skipton’s cultural scene – a visit full of art, theatre and inspiration in a stunning location

From contemporary art and photography to theatre, workshops and thought-provoking exhibitions, the town has plenty to offer visitors. Whether it’s your first time in town, or you are regular repeat visitor, there’s always something new to enjoy, and the town balances contemporary culture alongside, quaint venues and centuries old settings … this is a unique take on the arts, where the location plays its own part.

Part of the appeal is that culture in Skipton comes amid historic buildings and intimate community venues, making exploring the arts an opportunity to discover another side of the town at the same time.

For culture lovers looking for a great day out or a weekend away, Skipton offers an appealing combination. Enjoy exhibitions and performances, as well time to explore the town and soak up the beautiful Yorkshire Dales.

Craven Arts House

Craven Arts, is based at Craven Arts House, providing exhibitions, workshops and events, making it a particularly good stop for visitors who enjoy discovering emerging and established creative work.

Hosting exhibitions and events throughout the year, you can experience fine art, to sound installations and live music. This is a must visit for any art lover.

Mill Bridge Gallery

For art in a setting steeped in history, head to Mill Bridge Gallery. Housed in a water-side building dating from around 1675, the gallery is said to occupy Skipton’s oldest dwelling and was Grade II listed in 2023.

Inside, visitors can browse fine art, photography, ceramics and sculpture by local artists, while the upstairs space provides studios for two artists in residence.

Outside, the garden provides another opportunity to enjoy original sculptures in metal, ceramics and stone. The gallery is open Thursday to Sunday, 11am to 4pm, with other times available by appointment.

Skipton Town Hall and Gallery

At the heart of Skipton's cultural offering is Skipton Town Hall; it is home to the award-winning Craven Museum and Gallery, alongside a programme of events and performances.

For contemporary art enthusiasts, Aesthetica Art Prize 20: Defining the Future of Contemporary Art – Part I: Future(s) runs until 27 September 2026. The exhibition celebrates contemporary art.

Skipton Music brings world-class music to Skipton with internationally renowned artists alongside award-winning younger musicians. Six concerts run throughout the year.

Skipton Little Theatre

For an evening of live entertainment, Skipton Little Theatre offers something altogether more intimate. The home of the Skipton Players since 1960, this community theatre seats just 72 people, creating a friendly and personal atmosphere.

The programme includes productions by the Skipton Players as well as visiting theatre groups and musical concerts. For visitors who enjoy live performance without the scale of a large theatre, it is an ideal way to round off a cultural day in town.

Workshops in Yorkshire

Workshops in Yorkshire is celebrating its ninth year in Skipton! Over the year's they've hosted sessions with world class artists including Henrik Uldalen, Jill Carver, Shane Wolf and Nanzy Guzik.

Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced painter, Workshops in Yorkshire offers an experience where you can learn with world-class artists covering painting, drawing, portraiture, landscape work, and other fine art disciplines.

A cultural weekend in Skipton

Skipton's galleries, museum, exhibitions and theatre provide plenty to explore, while the character of the buildings and the surrounding Yorkshire landscape make the experience feel distinctly local.

Find out more about these and everything else going on at welcometoskipton.com