RURAL ARTS

RURAL ARTS Rural Arts is a registered charity that delivers inspiring and inclusive creative opportunities Welcome to Rural Arts' page. Thank you!

Like or follow to stay up-to-date with event announcements, behind-the-scenes pictures, the latest news and updates from the team. Our page is here to celebrate the very best of Rural Arts and we encourage you to share your questions, comments and concerns. Rural Arts reserves the right to delete unacceptable comments, which might include (but are not limited to):

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12/06/2026

Step into a world of creativity with the latest exhibition from Art & Co, now on display at The Courthouse.

Featuring a diverse collection of work by local artists, this exhibition celebrates the talent of our artistic community.

For almost two years, Andy has volunteered his time as a Trustee, helping to support the governance, finance and future ...
07/06/2026

For almost two years, Andy has volunteered his time as a Trustee, helping to support the governance, finance and future direction of Rural Arts.

Behind the scenes, trustees play a vital role in helping charities thrive, sharing their skills, experience and time to support both the organisation and the communities it serves.

We're incredibly grateful to Andy for his dedication, guidance and commitment to Rural Arts.

Interested in volunteering? Whether you have a few hours to spare, specialist skills to share, or simply want to be part of a friendly, welcoming community, we'd love to hear from you!

Get in touch to find out more about volunteering opportunities at The Courthouse.

Volunteer Spotlight - Gill, Café Assistant“I’ve been volunteering in the café for the past two years and have loved feel...
06/06/2026

Volunteer Spotlight - Gill, Café Assistant

“I’ve been volunteering in the café for the past two years and have loved feeling connected to the community in a new way.

Having retired from my role as a GP, volunteering has given me the opportunity to meet people, stay involved and be part of the welcoming atmosphere that makes Rural Arts so special.

For me, the café is the heart of the building. It’s where conversations happen, friendships are made and the community comes together.”

A huge thank you to Gill for her warmth, kindness and dedication every Thursday. We’re so grateful to have you as part of the team!

Volunteer Spotlight - Lynne, Volunteer Decorator “I’ve enjoyed helping repaint the offices at The Courthouse over the pa...
05/06/2026

Volunteer Spotlight - Lynne, Volunteer Decorator

“I’ve enjoyed helping repaint the offices at The Courthouse over the past week. As a painter’s daughter, I’ve always loved getting stuck into practical creative jobs. There’s something very satisfying about keeping my hands busy and seeing a space transformed.

It’s been lovely feeling part of the team and helping brighten up the building.”

A huge thank you to Lynne for all her hard work, energy and care this week. The Courthouse offices are already looking so refreshed!

Volunteer Spotlight: Monica, Café Assistant “Every day volunteering at Rural Arts has felt special. It’s one of the frie...
05/06/2026

Volunteer Spotlight: Monica, Café Assistant

“Every day volunteering at Rural Arts has felt special. It’s one of the friendliest and most supportive places I’ve ever been part of, and the team really feels like family.

Volunteering is such an important thing. It brings people together, builds confidence, creates friendships and helps people feel connected and valued.

I’d say to anyone thinking about volunteering: go for it! Especially at Rural Arts, where you’ll be welcomed into such a creative and supportive environment.

After first working with the Heart & Craft project, I returned as a volunteer in the café because I didn’t quite want to leave the community behind. It’s been a real pleasure to be part of Rural Arts, and I hope it continues to do what it does best, and that’s making people happy.”

Thank you Monica for all your support, kindness and creativity over the years. We’re so grateful for everything you’ve brought to The Courthouse.

Volunteer Spotlight: Helen & Martyn, Event Volunteers "We both love playing an active role in Rural Arts and have met su...
04/06/2026

Volunteer Spotlight: Helen & Martyn, Event Volunteers

"We both love playing an active role in Rural Arts and have met such a lovely group of people over the years.

I started volunteering properly after retiring in 2016, helping in the café and at evening events, while Martyn was already involved as a trustee and later set up the Thursday Ceramics Group and The Arts Collective.

Volunteering has given us the chance to try new things, revisit old passions and give something back to the community we live in. One of our proudest and most terrifying moments was performing music at The Courthouse to help raise money for Rural Arts!

The best thing about Rural Arts is the friendliness, optimism and passion of the people here. It’s enriched our lives in such a big way."

Thank you to Helen and Martyn for the incredible energy, creativity and community spirit you’ve brought to Rural Arts over the years.

Volunteer Spotlight - Philippa, Studio Technician “As a single older woman, I began to feel isolated and wanted to find ...
04/06/2026

Volunteer Spotlight - Philippa, Studio Technician

“As a single older woman, I began to feel isolated and wanted to find friendship, creativity and a sense of purpose. I first joined Rural Arts through the Hearts and Crafts group, where my confidence really began to grow.

With a background in studio pottery, learning support and working with people with disabilities, I later began teaching people to use the potter’s wheel, which developed into my role as Studio Technician.

What I love most about Rural Arts is the sense of community. I feel safe, valued and connected, and I enjoy encouraging others to share their own skills and creativity too.”

Thank you, Philippa, for all the knowledge, care and encouragement you bring to the team.

Address

The Old Courthouse
Thirsk
YO71QS

Opening Hours

Tuesday 10am - 4pm
Wednesday 10am - 4pm
Thursday 10am - 4pm
Friday 10am - 4pm
Saturday 10am - 4pm

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