North York Moors National Park is 70 this year

Happy 70^th to the North York Moors National Park!

What a milestone year it is for the North York Moors National Park! We’ve seen 70 wonderful years of awe-inspiring beauty and fun in the North York Moors and long may it continue.

National Parks are a fantastic way to recognise that our landscape is precious and needs protecting. They’re a commitment to leaving the natural environment as unchanged as possible by humans. Ensuring these spaces are cared for will help ensure they’ll be around to be explored and inspire us for countless generations to come.

Reaching such a milestone can’t go uncelebrated, we’re sure you agree. Officially, the National Park will turn 70 on 28^th November 2022. But, if you’re visiting the area throughout the year, we thought you needed to know early to help you properly appreciate the history that surrounds you. Find out what’s on and get involved with some of the special events this year.

What’s on this year?

There is always so much happening in the North York Moors National Park. If you want to take part in a special event to mark the 70^th anniversary, there are plenty to choose from. Take a look at this selection of what we think will be the highlights:

Dark Skies Festival

Twice a year, the newly appointed Dark Skies spots in the National Park host a wide range of events to help you #SeeMoreStars and learn all about the galaxy. The first Dark Skies Festival occurs 18^th Feb – 6^th March and the Dark Skies Fringe Festival is later in the year, on 21^st – 30^th October.

Past, Present and Future

The Past, Present and Future exhibition is a celebration of the entries to the 2022 North York Moors Art Award. To mark the 70^th anniversary, painters, printers, photographers and mixed media artists will help tell the story of the beautiful National Park. Events take place between 9^th April and 22^nd May.

Capital of Cake

It’s not a birthday if there’s no cake! Luckily, the North York Moors is the Capital of Cake, and there are so many talented bakers living and working here. Take a look at the cake map to find out where you could be tucking into a slice this year: https://www.northyorkmoors.org.uk/visiting/see-and-do/capital-of-cake

Breath of Fresh Air

The Breath of Fresh Air programme runs all year and brings people together for free guided walks across the beautiful coast and countryside. Knowledgeable and experienced volunteers will guide you on your walk. Make sure to book in advance though, as places do tend to fill up!

Battle of Byland events

There are many different events happening this year to mark the 700^th anniversary of the Battle of Byland. This often-forgotten conflict was a hard and bloody part of our history that helped shape our future. Events are taking place at various times throughout the year, starting in April and ending in October.

WalkFest

If, like us, you never tire of walking the North York Moors, sign up for some of the incredible events that are happening during WalkFest 2022. The walking festival takes place 28^th and 29^th May this year.

Woodland Sanctuary exhibition

Between 16^th July and 12^th September, you’ll be able to take in trees and woodland of the North York Moors as captured by photographers Simon Baxter and Joe Cornish. Guest speakers and creatives will also share their works and give talks to celebrate the life-giving woodland in the National Park.

Taste the Moors

Celebrate local food producers from the North York Moors with a day of tasting at Sutton Bank National Park Centre on 7^th August. It’s free entry, and there will also be music and Morris dancing for you to enjoy.

Mindful Month

September each year features a whole host of different activities in the National Park designed to help you switch off from every day stresses and get back in touch with nature. The schedule for Mindful Month will be announced later in the year.

We’re sure you’ll join us at some point this year to celebrate the 70^th anniversary of the North York Moors National Park. Make sure to tag @HelloYorkshire on Twitter to share your pictures of your adventures this year!