Great Ayton History Society

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Great Ayton History Society

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A group of local history lovers who research, help preserve and promote the history of Great Ayton

09/09/2026

It’s That Time of Year Again – Join Us For Roseberry Exposed

We're back with another season of exciting and informative winter talks - and we launch with a real biggie! ROSEBERRY EXPOSED.

Join us at 7pm on Wednesday, October 14th 2026, and explore just how well you really know the famous local landmark of Roseberry Topping

This fascinating presentation will be led by Society stalwart Ian Pearce who will reveal some of the surprising stories and mysteries surrounding the Topping. Ian will question whether this is our local Vesuvius or the Matterhorn of the North? Is the character structure on the way up a shooting box or summerhouse? What connects Roseberry with a prince and a lord? And what on earth do llamas and a rhino have to do with it?

Come and discover a side of Roseberry Topping you may never have encountered before.

It all takes place at Friends Meeting House, High Green, Great Ayton. Entry is free, all are welcome and no bookings is required. Just turn up, take a seat and enjoy an entertaining journey into the stories behind one of North Yorkshire’s most recognisable landmarks – with tea, coffee and biscuits too! Donations to support the Society’s work are always warmly welcomed.

You know the view. Now discover the story.

21/04/2026

Today we share a deeply moving and historic update of a local fallen hero.
Following the recent discovery in Oisy-le-Verger, France, where engineers uncovered the remains of Squadron Leader George Morley Fidler—found seated in the cockpit of his Hawker Hurricane almost 86 years after being shot down—the story of this young man from Great Ayton has taken on renewed significance.
George, just 27 years old, was the son of George and Christiana Fidler and served as a pilot with 607 Squadron. His aircraft, Hurricane P3535, was brought down by a Messerschmitt Bf 109 over France on 19 May 1940, where it buried itself in the ground with George still inside.
In light of this remarkable discovery, the Society will be updating George’s story as part of our annual Remembrance Day memorial plaques at Christ Church.

01/02/2026

The Society Invites You to Step ‘Through the Keyhole’ of One of the Village’s Finest Homes

The Society is closing its winter lecture season with a fascinating talk uncovering the story of Cleveland Lodge — one of the finest houses in the village that’s seen ambition, generosity and remarkable lives pass through its doors.
Built in 1844, Cleveland Lodge was the vision of Thomas Richardson — a Quaker philanthropist whose impact on the village still shapes the community today. From education to local development, his legacy reaches far beyond the walls of the house. And that’s just the start. The talk also reveals the surprising stories of two other men connected to the Lodge who rose from humble beginnings to national significance. This is more than architecture, it’s people, purpose and the social history of a village told through one extraordinary home.
Entry is free, no booking needed, and tea & coffee is provided. Just turn up and enjoy a warm, welcoming evening of local heritage. A perfect night out for history lovers, the curious, and anyone who enjoys discovering the stories hidden in plain sight.
When: 7pm, Wednesday 18 February 2026
Where: Friends Meeting House, High Green

04/01/2026

Happy New Year Everyone? Let’s Get 2026 Off To A Fascinating Start!

Did you know Great Ayton has been home to some remarkable people whose stories have almost been forgotten?

Join the Society for our first winter talk of 2026 as members Ken Taylor and Brian Pearce uncover the fascinating lives of lesser-known figures who helped put the ‘Great’ into Ayton.
Lasting for around an hour, the talk will explore the contributions of ‘Great Aytonians: Famous Residents and Personalities Associated with the Village that Few People Have Heard Of.’

When: Wednesday 21 January at 7pm
Where: Friends Meeting House, High Green

From architecture and botany to sport and beyond, this talk will reveal how surprising talent and influence have quietly shaped our village’s past. Expect insight, storytelling and a few surprises along the way.

• Free entry, no booking required
• Tea, coffee and biscuits provided
• Donations welcome

Come along, bring a friend, and discover Great Ayton’s unsung heroes.

Address

Friends Meeting House Great Ayton
Great Ayton
TS96HA

Telephone

+447512663952

Website

http://greatayton.wikidot.com/home

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