Welcome to the Event Hub, a calendar of friendly one-off, irregular or annual events and activities for older adults taking place across West Yorkshire. The list includes community gatherings, inclusive cycling events, heritage festivals, and gentle guided walks. All have links for more details or booking. Although we’ve made every effort to ensure that our information is up to date, please check with the websites etc of organisers before travelling to an event.
May 2026 Events in West Yorkshire – Friendly Spring & Early Summer Activities for Older People, Families & Friends
May is a wonderful month for getting out and about. With longer days, warmer weather and plenty happening across West Yorkshire, it’s an ideal time to enjoy a gentle day out, meet friends or try something new. From heritage talks and gardens to creative workshops and community activities, there’s something for everyone.
Here are 10 welcoming May events and activities to look out for.
1. Yorkshire Archaeological & Historical Society – Heritage & History Talks
📅 May 2026 (various dates)
📍 Leeds and West Yorkshire venues
🔗 https://www.yas.org.uk
Friendly talks exploring Yorkshire’s fascinating history, archaeology and local heritage. These sessions are relaxed, informative and popular with older audiences.
2. Tea & Talk – Leeds Museums Spring Programme
📅 May 2026
📍 Leeds Museums venues
🔗 https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/whats-on
A combination of interesting talks, tea and conversation in welcoming museum settings. Ideal for anyone looking for a gentle and sociable outing.
3. Ilkley U3A – Talks, Workshops & Social Groups
📅 May 2026
📍 Clarke Foley Centre, Ilkley
🔗 https://ilkleyu3a.org
Ilkley U3A continues its varied programme of talks and activities throughout May, covering everything from history and gardening to arts and wellbeing.
4. Harewood House – Gardens, Birds & Estate Walks
📅 Throughout May
📍 Harewood House, Leeds
🔗 https://harewood.org
May is one of the best times to visit Harewood, with gardens in full bloom and plenty of accessible outdoor spaces to enjoy at your own pace.
5. Bradford Museums – Creative & Heritage Events
📅 May 2026
📍 Bradford venues
🔗 https://bradfordmuseums.org
Bradford Museums host a variety of exhibitions, talks and craft sessions throughout spring. Indoor seating, cafés and accessible facilities make these venues ideal for relaxed visits.
6. Through The Maze – Wellbeing & Community Sessions
📅 May 2026
📍 Leeds & West Yorkshire
🔗 https://www.through-the-maze.org.uk/events/
Friendly sessions supporting confidence, independence and wellbeing. Many activities are suitable for older adults, carers and families.
7. Calverley Old Hall – Arts & Crafts Workshops
📅 May 2026
📍 Calverley, Leeds
🔗 https://www.landmarktrust.org.uk
Creative workshops in beautiful historic surroundings. A calm, welcoming atmosphere and beginner-friendly sessions make these events especially appealing.
8. Yorkshire Museum – Spring Exhibitions & Talks
📅 May 2026
📍 York (easy train access)
🔗 https://www.yorkshiremuseum.org.uk/your-visit/events/
Enjoy exhibitions, curator talks and heritage events in one of Yorkshire’s best-loved museums. Easy to combine with a relaxing day in York.
9. Calderdale Forum 50 Plus – Events & Activities Listings
📅 May 2026 (various dates)
📍 Across Calderdale
🔗 https://calderdaleforum50plus.com/events-activities
A regularly updated guide to local walks, coffee mornings, talks, social groups and community activities for people aged 50+.
10. Community Gardens, Parks & Guided Walks
📅 May 2026
📍 Across West Yorkshire
🔗 https://www.leedsinspired.co.uk
May is perfect for enjoying nature. Many parks, gardens and community groups organise gentle guided walks and outdoor social activities suitable for different mobility levels.