Looking for the best things to do in Yorkshire this April? Whether you’re an art lover, music enthusiast, or theatre fan, the county is bursting with unmissable events. From the dazzling return of Gregory Porter to the cinematic journey through Impressionism, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy ballet, live jazz, family-friendly festivals, and even an exclusive performance by Olly Murs. Read on to discover the must-see events happening across Yorkshire this month.
Best Things to do in Yorkshire this April
Dawn of Impressionism
Dates: Throughout April
Venue: Picturehouse York
Don’t miss an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant Parisian art scene of the 1870s. Exhibition On Screen invites cinema goers to discover the origins of Impressionism with this big screen look at the 1874 exhibition which saw the birth of the world’s favourite art movement. Told uniquely through the words of those who witnessed the birth of Impressionism – the artists, their contemporaries, art critics, writers and commentators of the time – the film reveals the political and social shifts which sparked their new approach to art.
Olly Murs
Dates: 27 April
Venue: Hull, Connexin Live
Fresh from his nationwide tour as special guest to Take That earlier this year, Olly Murs has announced a massive UK arena tour. Get ready to party with a set that features all the hits and more. Olly says: “Celebrating 15 unbelievable years doing what I love best will be truly special. But to top it off I’m taking a band with me who I was obsessed with in my college years, Blue! No doubt the pranks and banter will be free-flowing but most importantly it’s going to be a great night for the fans to enjoy, I can’t wait.”
Gregory Porter
Dates: 26 April
Venue: Leeds First Direct Arena
Gregory Porter, the internationally acclaimed jazz and soul singer, is set to return to the UK for a series of highly anticipated performances. Gregory has become one of the most successful jazz vocalists of his generation. With a voice that has been described as “liquid gold”, Gregory has captivated audiences around the world with his soulful baritone and deeply emotional performances. His unique blend of jazz, soul, and gospel has earned him critical acclaim and huge global success.
Book at Leeds First Direct Arena
Ian Prowse
Dates: 18 April
Venue: Brudenell Social Club, Leeds
Marking 20 years since the immortal Amsterdam hit ‘Does This Train Stop On Merseyside?’, Ian Prowse celebrates with a special re-release that came out on 7th March and an anniversary tour around the UK. A song that famously reduced the legendary John Peel to tears live on air, ‘Does This Train Stop On Merseyside?’ is a powerful single that has truly stood the test of time. With Ian Prowse’s heartfelt vocals journeying through the region’s astounding history (including the horrors of the Hillsborough disaster) and a gorgeous sweeping musicality, the track is one of the most noteworthy to originate from the ‘UK Capital of Pop’ this side of the millennium.
Get your tickets at the Brudenell Social Club
Snow White
Dates: 4-5 April
Venue: Hull New Theatre
Magic mirrors, poisoned apples, and a smitten prince can only mean one thing: balletLORENT’s Snow White is coming to Hull. It retains all the classic elements of the original Brothers Grimm tale, which has been familiar to story lovers for over two centuries. A jealous mother, a beautiful daughter, a magic mirror, a place of sanctuary in the woods, a poison apple, and a handsome prince are amongst the infamous motifs of this heartfelt tale of youth and ageing, betrayal, jealousy and friendship.
Expressions in Blue
Dates: 5 April-14 September 2025
Venue: Yorkshire Sculpture Park
Expressions in Blue is a solo exhibition of monumental sculptural works by Felicity Aylieff in porcelain, painted in tones of rich cobalt blue oxide using expressive brushstrokes full of movement. These hand-thrown ceramic vessels and stacked monoliths stand up to an impressive five-metres high and have a powerful sculptural presence. Shown together in The Weston Gallery and outdoors, the organic energy of their surfaces and their forest-like presentation will resonate with the forms and rhythms of the 18th-century landscape beyond.
View at Yorkshire Sculpture Park
Springtime Live
Dates: 5 April
Venue: Great Yorkshire Showground
The hugely popular Springtime Live invites families with young children to celebrate the best of farming and the countryside. Star attractions are farm animals such as sheep and pigs, heavy horses and tractor trailer rides, as well as pedal tractors, Diggerland and interactive sessions telling the story of grain from field to fork. Exotic animals, creepy crawlies, and other species feature, from giant tortoises and tarantulas to snakes and ferrets, offer a chance for children to learn more about an amazing array of creatures.
Book your tickets at Springtime Live
Reborn
Dates: 3 April
Venue: St George’s Hall, Bradford
Strictly Come Dancing stars Amy Dowden MBE and Carlos Gu will be taking to the stage across the UK with their brand-new tour Reborn. With Amy having made a return to the dancefloor following her cancer diagnosis and Carlos finding his true self in the UK, they truly feel reborn. This inspirational new show, where the transformative power of dance shines through, will feature a dazzling cast of world-class dancers and vocalists. Taking audiences on an emotional and uplifting journey through powerful and show-stopping routines, Reborn is a testament to the joy of dancing.
Get tickets at Bradford Theatres
Jane Eyre
Dates: 22-26 April
Venue: Sheffield Lyceum
Audiences can join one of literature’s most iconic heroines on a journey of resilience, romance and redemption as Northern Ballet’s critically acclaimed Jane Eyre heads to Sheffield Lyceum Theatre. Based on the novel by Charlotte Brontë, Northern Ballet will bring this beautiful love story to life with heart-stirring choreography and live music that captures the essence of her timeless tale. The ultimate dramatic tale of romance, jealousy and dark secrets, Jane Eyre is the story of one woman’s indomitable spirit overcoming all boundaries.
Em Louise
Dates: 26 April
Venue: Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery
Rising Scarborough singer songwriter and saxophonist, Em Louise, will make her debut on the Pot Still Coffee Shop stage at Spirit of Yorkshire’s Distillery Session on 26th April. Spirit of Yorkshire Marketing Director Jenni Ashwood is delighted to welcome the young musician to the second of the 2025 programme of Distillery Sessions that includes a sellout Alastair James set plus sessions from Edwina Hayes, Carrie Martin and Andy Stones. She says: “Em’s influences range from notable artists like London Grammar to powerful vocalists like RAYE and jazz icons like Amy Winehouse. Her writing is always assisted by heartfelt lyrics and soulful vocals from a twenty something year old’s perspective of navigating the complexities of life.”
Book at the Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery
How Absolutely Picks The Best For You
At Absolutely Magazines, we pride ourselves on curating only the finest recommendations for our refined readers. Our editors leverage their extensive expertise in lifestyle journalism to ensure that every selection meets the highest standards of quality and relevance. From scouring local insider tips to understanding trends and feedback, we leave no stone unturned in identifying the most exceptional venues for you. Guided by an appreciation for your taste, we prioritise venues and events that epitomise luxury, style, and premium experiences. You can trust us to bring you the Absolute best, every time.
