dry-stone walling demo

From a bucking sheep to a milking cow, flock to Skipton this year for some shear family fun at the town’s annual celebration of its historic roots.

Sheep Day, held on Sunday 4 July from 10am – 4pm, is the main event on the town’s calendar with entertainment celebrating the Dales heritage – dry stone walling, spinning and weaving, sheep dog demonstrations and vintage tractors.

The event, which has been running in various forms for over 20 years, is organised by Skipton Town Council and this year has been given a helping hand from Skipton BID to boost entertainment.

“Sheep Day is a busy and popular event,” said Tony Barrett of Skipton BID. “The name ‘Skipton’, in medieval-speak actually means ‘Sheep Town’ – and the whole history of the town owes its origins to our fluffy friends.

“Additional funding from ourselves and other sponsors means it can be even better and the top quality entertainment on offer will make it a great day out for visitors.”

Said Brett Butler of Skipton Town Council: “Thanks to support from the BID there will be a children’s activity tent including an art workshop, plus we have been able to hire white picket fencing to add to the ‘Dales’ feel and a chainsaw carver – which is new to this year’s event.

“Long ago, real, live sheep were a regular feature on the town's High Street. Today we celebrate by bringing a range of traditional crafts, displays and demonstrations into the heart of the town centre, celebrating what the area has to offer.”