OpenCountryYorks
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opencountryyorks.bsky.social
OpenCountryYorks
@opencountryyorks.bsky.social
UK-based (Yorkshire!) charity helping people with disabilities to access and enjoy the countryside. Reg Charity No. 1107331. HQ in Harrogate. Activities, accessibility to the countryside, conservation work. www.opencountry.org.uk
Open Country tandem member Will Browning has made a big splash at the Open European Down Syndrome Swimming Championships in Portugal.
Five new personal bests times, bronze medals in the 400/800m freestyle races and silver in the freestyle relay! Legend!
#OutThereTogether
#yorkshire
#disability
November 7, 2025 at 10:45 AM
Our Walk on the Wild Side group has been really enjoying the sunny, autumnal walks in the glorious Yorkshire countryside. 🍂🍁Here are a couple of snapshots from our recent rambles! 📸
#OutThereTogether #yorkshire #disability #walking
October 31, 2025 at 10:37 AM
Being outside in nature can support good mental health - reducing anxiety and depression, boosting mood and promoting feelings of calmness.
Small steps count: Even a short walk on a tree-lined street, a visit to a local park, or tending to plants can have a positive impact.
#WorldMentalHealthDay2025
October 10, 2025 at 9:38 AM
We're on a mission to help people with disabilities to access and enjoy the countryside.
Try out some of our Teesside activities.
* Weekly Tandem Club, Tues eves until end of Oct
* Saturday outings - accessible minibus adventures
T: 07848 257814 or E: teesside@opencountry.org.uk to find out more.
September 11, 2025 at 8:07 AM
Want to explore Yorkshire this Bank Holiday Weekend but worried about accessibility?
See our breakfree packs with all the info you need to plan a day out, whatever your ability.
We cover Nidderdale, Selby, York, Harrogate, Leeds and Wakefield.
Download www.opencountry.org.uk/breakfree/-
August 22, 2025 at 11:09 AM
We managed to get 35 tandems in one place to mark our 35th anniversary!
Our tandem clubs run in Yorkshire, helping people with disabilities to enjoy the fun and freedom of two wheels - thanks to an amazing team of volunteers.
#Disability
#Yorkshire
#Tandems
August 19, 2025 at 10:25 AM
Our chief officer David was invited to Westminster by Laurence Turner MP for the launch of 'Transforming Mobility', a research paper highlighting ways of making it easier for disabled people to get around.
It's a really interesting document that we hope our legislators can get put into Law.
July 10, 2025 at 1:36 PM
New allotment season has begun! Our members love it - here's Caroline explaining how it helps her.
"Coming to the allotment really helps me. It’s a nice peaceful atmosphere and I like the smell of the flowers and plants. I like doing things there and I am learning ways to help myself feel better."
May 6, 2025 at 10:52 AM
Our members spent a backbreaking day making new paths at Brimham Rocks, in North Yorkshire ready for the Easter weekend rush. We estimate they covered a mile in wood chippings, to make things a little easier for visitors.
Dip, chip and tip... on repeat!
April 11, 2025 at 1:50 PM
We're not claiming that coming out with Open Country is the secret to happiness - but just look at these happy faces from our outings!

Find out more about us, and how you can help us make miles more smiles at www.opencountry.org.uk
#InternationalDayOfHappiness
March 20, 2025 at 10:03 AM
As well as providing activities for people with disabilities, we provide info about a variety of countryside access issues.
Our Yorkshire ‘Countryside Advice Service’ includes training, access audits, talk, and general advice - from rights of way to supplying contacts for specific queries.
March 17, 2025 at 12:03 PM
We had a great day out at Beningbrough Hall, near York, for our Harrogate Outings group!
We enjoyed strolling through beautiful Mediterranean gardens and exploring the historic hall.
A lovely accessible mix of nature and history, in glorious sunshine!
March 6, 2025 at 9:10 AM
Wakefield Wild About Water group enjoyed a fantastic inclusive dance workshop with DAZL - Dance & Health Charity on Tuesday. What a fun session we had with dance moves suitable for all abilities!
Thanks to Wakefield Council OurYear2024 Culture Grants for the funding for this session.
February 21, 2025 at 9:07 AM
We're sharing some heart-warming feedback from some of our members for Valentine's Day.

Everybody deserves to get 'out there' regardless of ability. Our mission is to open up new landscapes for people with disabilities, creating opportunities for them to connect with and enjoy the outdoors.
💚
February 14, 2025 at 1:04 PM
Our Harrogate Nature Force group had a great day of hedgerow planting, with volunteers from East Keswick Wildlife Trust. Together we planted over 600 trees that will soon turn into a valuable habitat for wildlife.
February 10, 2025 at 8:51 AM
We’re looking for people who love the outdoors to get involved with our new Teesside hub, helping people with disabilities to access and enjoy the countryside.
Are you interested in joining us – or can you help us spread the word?
Get in touch E: teesside@opencountry.org.uk
February 3, 2025 at 12:53 PM
2025 is a really exciting year for us!
As well as celebrating 35 years of helping people with disabilities to access and enjoy the countryside, we're expanding, with a new hub in Teesside!
We can't wait to start running activities later this year. Watch this space . . .
January 23, 2025 at 3:27 PM
Hoorah!! We love tree planting - last year, our members planted around 2,000 young trees across Yorkshire.
January 17, 2025 at 11:32 AM
Our walking group members don't mind the weather - at least our coats are cheerful!
#York #Disability #OutThereTogether
Where is your favourite place for a stroll?
January 16, 2025 at 2:30 PM
Hello!
This is our first post. We're lucky to be have some glorious places on our doorstep.
Our members have been doing conservation work here in Nidderdale, to make an accessible footpath at a beauty spot called Fishpond Wood. Very satisfying!
#OutThereTogether #Disability #Yorkshire
December 5, 2024 at 3:40 PM