Each event below has a contact who is responsible for taking names so that we have an idea of how many people to expect. This is particularly important for tasks so that we can give the warden time to arrange tools and staff, etc. Unfortunately we rarely know very far in advance what exactly a given task will involve, as we like to be as flexible as possible for the wardens, but you can read about the typical types of task that we do on each property in the Work Sites section. You’ll also find links to maps on the property pages to help you find the task venues.
We don’t like to disclose home phone numbers on this website, so the names below will only be of use if you already have the contact details. However, if you would like to join us on one of the tasks or socials below, you can email the webmaster who will forward your message to the relevant person. For more information about getting involved, click here.
Note: Tasks usually start at 10am and finish at about 4pm. You’ll need a packed lunch, something for tea breaks, sturdy footwear, and gardening gloves if you have any. Don’t wear your best clothes!
See also: Task dates for the whole of 2009
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Weekend 1st/2nd November — Cragside — Task
Our annual weekend trip to Cragside in Northumberland.
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Wednesday 12th November — Bowling — Kirkstall
The perfect social occasion — if you like bowling. If you’re not sure, this is your opportunity to try it. Our system of handicapping makes it ideal both for beginners and expert bowlers alike with plenty of time for conversation between frames. See our bowling pages for more details. Meet in the bar at Hollywood Bowl by 7.45pm to start at 8pm. Just let Sarah know, a couple of days in advance please, if you would like to come along. Novices welcome!
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Sunday 16th November — East Riddlesden Hall — Task
The unique Orchard Garden, opened on 13th April 2000 and designed from scratch by the Hall’s gardener, Jill Saunders, who we work with, provides an amazing contrast with the adjacent formal garden directly behind the Hall. Please phone Jean or Dave to find out what autumnal jobs Jill has planned for us.
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The ‘Not Quite Christmas’ Walk and pub meal — Eccup Reservoir, Alwoodley, Leeds. Why not join us on our customary pre-Christmas walk, this time around Eccup Reservoir, with a meal at The Roundhay Fox afterwards? This ‘very easy’ walk is 5.2 miles and should take a couple of hours, starting at 2pm. Drive along Alwoodley Lane and park at the side of the road near to the public footpath sign. Please let Liz or Pete know if you would like to come along.
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Sunday 30th November — Hardcastle Crags — Task
The Official Guide to Hardcastle Crags of 1899 says: ‘Near the Crags a quaint little Mill is passed, called Lord Holme Mill, but better known as Gibson Mill.’ We may not get as far as the mill but please ring Pete on to put your name down for this task.
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Wednesday 10th December — Bowling — Kirkstall
Arrangements as for Wednesday 12th November above. Contact Sarah.
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Sunday 14th December — Brimham Rocks — Task
The fantastic rock formations set in open moorland overlook Nidderdale and the famous ‘golf balls’ at RAF Menwith Hill. Please get in touch with Sue or Colin if you would like to work at this spectacular location. It could be amongst the rocks, out on the moor, or in the woods.
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Jean and Dave have very kindly agreed to host the traditional WYNTV New Year gathering for food and drink, following the equally traditional family walk (children — of all ages — are very welcome) starting at 11.00am. It will be around Ilkley, of no more than 5 or 6 miles, and we’ll try to incorporate a return point midway in case anyone with shorter legs would like a shorter option. Meet at 10.30am at Jean & David’s. Please phone them for details, including what to bring to eat and drink.
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Wednesday 7th January — Bowling — Kirkstall
Arrangements as for Wednesday 12th November above. Contact Sarah.
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Sunday 11th January — Rievaulx Terrace — Task
The round Tuscan Temple, like many similar rotundas, was inspired by the Temple of Vesta at Tivoli near Rome, whereas the Ionic Temple was influenced by the Maison Carrée at Nîmes. If you would like to join us here, please let Peter know.
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Sunday 25th January — Nostell Priory — Task
Joiners Wood having finally been cleared of rhododendrons, we moved on to Roebuck Wood in October and in all probability we will be doing more of the same this time. Please give Vinny a call if you like the idea of even more cutting and burning.
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Everyone is welcome. It’s very informal, although we do aim to start promptly at 8pm. Do come along and have a say in how the group is run. To book a seat, please let Jean or Dave know you are coming. They will provide directions if needed.
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Thursday 5th February — Indoor Bowls — South Leeds
From 8pm till 10pm. We aim to have the venue to ourselves — it’s so much less embarrassing that way — which is why we go on a Thursday. Wednesday is league night. Shoes and woods can be hired at the centre and there is a bar. Let Pete know if you want to join us.
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Sunday 8th February — Beningbrough Hall — Task
The Hall was built by local carpenter-architect William Thornton. He was responsible for the exceptional woodcarvings which are such a feature of the house. To work in the fabulous walled garden or possibly out on the estate, please ring Margaret or Geoff.
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Warm yourself by a roaring log fire, enjoy a good meal and a chat at The Cow and Calf, another in the chain of Vintage Inns. Look out for other WYNTV members from 7pm. If you don’t know anyone, or would like directions, please phone Liz or Pete.
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Sunday 22nd February — East Riddlesden Hall — Task
The impressive front entrance is dominated by a striking two-storey porch with a doorway flanked by classical columns and an ecclesiastical rose window set beneath battlements and Gothic pinnacles. Please speak to Margaret Holmes to find out what we’ll be doing on our second visit in this programme.
The next full event programme is due out at the beginning of March 2009. Task dates for all of 2009 are available here.