Discover the History of Askham Bog (York Festival of Ideas 2026)

Join Yorkshire Wildlife Trust for a captivating event uncovering Askham Bog’s 15,000 year geological origins, its unique layers of ancient history and its status as one of the region’s most ecologically diverse wildlife havens.

Askham Bog is one of the most extraordinary natural treasures in Northern England, described by Sir David Attenborough as a ‘cathedral of nature conservation’.

Join our panel of experts – including Rachael Bice, YWT CEO and Professor Alastair Fitter, President of YWT for a captivating event uncovering the bog’s 15,000-year geological origins, its unique layers of ancient history, and its status as one of the region’s most ecologically diverse wildlife havens.

Learn why this rare remnant of ancient peatland has become deeply woven into York’s cultural and environmental heritage. You’ll also hear the inspirational story of how the people of York and conservationists helped protect this irreplaceable landscape from modern development threats -continuing a legacy that champions biodiversity and natural beauty.

Don’t miss this immersive journey into the heart of one of Yorkshire’s most remarkable wild spaces.

This event is wheelchair accessible.

Image credits: David Powell and Lana Huntley

If you have any questions about this event, please don't hesitate to get in touch. You can email us at [email protected] or give us a call on 01904 659570 (option 1).

Your personal details will be used regarding this event only. For more info on how we protect and manage your personal data, please visit ywt.org.uk/privacy-policy.

Yorkshire Wildlife Trust is the only charity entirely dedicated to conserving, protecting and enhancing Yorkshire's wildlife and wild places. Find out more about what we do on our website and discover how you can support our work.

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Host or Publisher Yorkshire Wildlife Trust