NEE Region Activity Break Overview 30th October to 2nd November 2025
This recent region event, thoughtfully organised by Ann Durham, the region programme and development adviser, supported by her dedicated team, was held at the idyllic Skipton Hotel, situated on the outskirts of the town overlooking the Leeds to Liverpool canal.
The gathering attracted a total of 40 members from across the region and beyond, with 24 staying for four nights and 16 for two nights, all enjoying a memorable weekend together.
Activities and Experiences
Local members played an active role in both participating and leading a diverse range of activities. Attendees enjoyed local walks, geocaching, bird watching, canal trips, and ten pin bowling. These engaging options ensured there was something for everyone, regardless of experience or interests.
Crafts and Creativity
An impressive array of craft activities catered to various skill levels. Participants contributed by knitting over 40 hats for premature babies and creating bereavement bears intended for distribution to local hospitals. There were multiple opportunities to design and make Christmas cards, decorations, and gifts. Members also explored silk painting and crafted Tezzle ladies, each unique in its own way.
Excursions and Local Exploration
Many members delighted in a trip to Grassington, the setting for the beloved series ‘All Creatures Great and Small’. Local guild members warmly welcomed the group and led a comprehensive guided tour of the village’s highlights. Other participants chose to visit Haworth independently, discovering the historic home of the Brontë sisters and browsing the characterful shops lining the village’s steep, cobbled streets.
Short walks along the canal or into Skipton town were popular, offering opportunities to explore the bustling market, visit Skipton Castle, and admire the autumnal beauty of Skipton Woods. Bird watching, quizzes, and visits to charming cafés added to the weekend’s enjoyment.
Canal Barge Trips
Members had the option to join one of three private barge trips, each lasting two and a quarter hours, travelling along the canal from the hotel to Farnhill. These excursions provided spectacular scenery and historic insights, with Lesley, the region chair, serving as the responsible adult! and guide for the day.
Walking Adventures
More experienced and adventurous walkers ventured further afield to Malham, tackling routes to Janet’s Foss, Gordale Scar, and Malham Cove, braving the classic Yorkshire weather of wind and rain. Although the planned walk over Pen-y-ghent was cancelled due to the weather, spirits remained high.
Evening Entertainment
Each evening offered a varied programme of entertainment that included a beetle drive, panto’s, quizzes and pig racing. Some members chose to unwind and continue knitting, while others actively participated in the group activities.
Saturday night featured a lively ten pin bowling competition, with 16 members forming three teams. The alley echoed with laughter, cheers, and applause as everyone enjoyed the friendly rivalry.
Farewell and Acknowledgements
As the weekend drew to a close, members departed with treasured memories, new friendships, and innovative ideas. A select few even earned Motivate badges, having completed the requirements during the event.
Sincere thanks were extended to Ann Durham for her impeccable organisation, the talented crafts team of Norma Riley (WYW) and Barbara Smith (NYW), supportive local members, and Lesley, who documented the event and contributed to its overall success.