Local sports clubs, community groups, historians and enthusiasts are being invited to help celebrate Keighley’s rich sporting and leisure heritage as part of a special Heritage Open Day at Cliffe Castle Museum.
Taking place on Sunday 13 September 2026, from 11am to 3pm, the event will explore the national Heritage Open Days theme, Everyday Histories: Sports and Pastimes, shining a spotlight on the activities, clubs and hobbies that have brought people together across Keighley and the wider district over the years.
The museum is looking for individuals and organisations to contribute to the day by sharing stories, memories and displays that showcase local sporting and leisure traditions. Whether you’re involved with a long-established sports club, a community group, or simply have a passion for local history, the team would love to hear from you.
Visitors will have the opportunity to discover the people, places and pastimes that have shaped everyday life in the area, from football, rugby, cricket and cycling to dancing, walking groups, collecting, crafts and traditional games.
Groups and individuals can get involved in a variety of ways, including:
- Hosting a stall or display
- Giving a short talk about the history of a local sport, club or pastime
- Sharing photographs, objects, memorabilia or personal stories
- Offering demonstrations or family-friendly activities
- Representing a local sports team, society or community organisation
- Suggesting other creative ways to explore Keighley’s sporting and leisure heritage
Organisers are particularly keen to hear from people with local knowledge, memories and enthusiasm to share. You do not need to be a professional historian to take part, everyone has a story to tell.
The event will be held at Cliffe Castle Museum, Spring Gardens Lane, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD20 6LH.
Anyone interested in contributing to the event should contact the Cliffe Castle team at Cliffe.Castle@bradford.gov.uk with an outline of their proposed stall, talk, display or activity.
For more event information, visit: Heritage Open Day at Cliffe Castle Museum 2026
