Where Art Meets Action

This year’s Open Day literally had something for everyone...

Tea and cake for the hungry and weary. Our superlative Rivers4Life exhibition for anyone wanting to lose themselves in the wonders of nature and others’ creative responses to it. Two talks for the more academically minded. A guided walk of the River Ure in the sunshine to see our restoration work, along with a fun Riverfly demonstration. And, for those seeking an even bigger immersion, a fabulous community theatre performance (with a brilliant live folk score) under the June evening sky in the Dales Countryside Museum’s open-air amphitheatre.

Apologies if you missed it – but many of the day’s highlights continue to be available (until 27 September!)…from the soundscape of a freshwater snail gurgling away, stunning wildlife dress up clothes, to Applegarth Primary School’s utterly brilliant stop-frame short animation film.

There is even one further performance of Tributaries left to run at Ripon Workhouse Museum on 4 July by Fellfoss Theatre supported by the acclaimed The Brothers Gillespie.

Here’s what some of those who came along had to say about the day:

“What a comprehensive exhibition and what an awful lot of work has gone into producing it! The way it all linked together like a seamless flow was so impressive. And the fact that you’ve involved so many children and young people in it was marvellous – as they are the future custodians of our rivers. The whole experience is really enjoyable.”

Sheila Simms, supporter and member of Yoredale Natural History Group

“I really enjoyed the outdoor theatre performance − its fusion of beautiful folk elements and immersive acting really brought the river and its history to life. The poetry of Thomas Maude was captured by some creative performances and a well-crafted story. Loved it – a huge well done to all those involved!”

Issy Preston, supporter

“An interesting exhibition. I thought the information about diffuse metal mine pollution was really insightful. It was also great to read more about the Trust’s Invasive Non-Native Species mapping and what’s been done to identify future priority areas – which I look forward to volunteering for!”

Mark Booth, volunteer

The Rivers4Life project is supported and funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. For further information visit: