Since 1994, HLF has supported over 3,500 projects across the county. These represent an extraordinary range of projects, from protecting stunning landscapes and historic townscapes, to preserving community memories and historic skills.

This year grants awarded in Yorkshire and the Humber total over half a billion pounds of National Lottery investment. That's definitely something to celebrate!

Here, we look at some of the most exciting heritage projects across the region, made possible by National Lottery players.

From Parks to Pavilions

For over four decades Asian migrants to the UK have been avid cricket fans. National Lottery support helped the AYA Foundation explore the history of Quaid-e Azam, one of Britain's oldest Asian-led cricket leagues, and consider the Asian community's incredible influence on this quintessential British sport.

Ure River

Rivers play an important part in our ecosystem, industries and communities, and the River Ure is the backbone of the Wensleydale area.

The Yorkshire Dales Rivers Trust used family fun days, school visits and training days to help local people understand the river's importance as a home for wildlife. The project also safeguarded the river's future as a healthy place for wildlife and people.

Curious Collections

Taking inspiration from William Constable’s 18th century ‘Cabinet of Curiosity’ collection, volunteers and young people from Hull worked with comedian Bill Bailey to develop an exhibition of amazing untruths and intriguing items.

The artefacts included unicorn horns, a stuffed bear and doodles by Philip Larkin and Stevie Smith. It was a great opportunity for young comedians to put their spin on Hull’s history, and place heritage at the heart of the City of Culture celebrations.

Lead mining & textile heritage in the Yorkshire Dales

In 2015 the Yorkshire Dales Mining Museum closed, and The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority acquired its fascinating collection.

They used the collection to explore Yorkshire's mining heritage, particularly focusing on stories about miners supplementing their wages with hand-knitting. This became the Dales' second most important industry! The exhibitions have the stories of miners, knitters and their families at their heart, and even inspired a new play.

Generations

The Ferrybridge C power plant dominates the horizon for miles around, and gave power to the UK for 50 years. With demolition looming, community arts charity Faceless explored the impact of living with one of the last coal fired power stations and recorded the memories of the people who worked there.

If you have a story to share about Yorkshire’s heritage, or a project idea that you want to explore, contact our Leeds development team, or submit a project enquiry!