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Thornton-le-Dale: a North York Moors village guide

What's on

Thornton-le-Dale Gala

By Jon Cosson · Last checked

The Thornton-le-Dale Gala is a one-day event on a Sunday, usually on the late May bank holiday weekend. It is run by Thornton Dale Sports Association as a fundraiser, and centres on a horse and pony show with show jumping, alongside dog shows, classic vehicles, stalls and children's entertainment.

The 2026 gala was held on Sunday 24 May 2026 on the Sports Field, Maltongate. The 2027 date has not been announced yet. When it is, we will add it here.

Thornton le Dale Gala dates

2026: Sunday 24 May 2026, from 9am, at the Sports Field, Maltongate, Thornton-le-Dale, YO18 7SD.

2025: Sunday 25 May 2025, at the same venue.

2027: not yet announced. The gala is usually held on the late May bank holiday weekend, but check the organisers' Facebook page before you plan a visit, because the venue has changed in the past. In 2022 it was held at Millers Hill on Priestmans Lane.

What happens at the gala

The main event is a horse and pony fun show, with two rings running from 9am, clear round jumping and championship classes. Around it there are dog shows, a display of classic vehicles, trade stands and stalls, food and drink, and entertainment for children.

Parking is in a field next to the event. Entry is paid on the day.

Who runs it and where the money goes

The gala is organised by Thornton Dale Sports Association (TDSA), a registered charity, number 1173694. The association provides the sports pavilion and sports fields in the village for the cricket club, the football club and other clubs, and the gala raises money towards them.

The organisers post news and the year's details on their Facebook page, Thornton le Dale Sports Association Gala, and can be contacted at thorntonledalegala@yahoo.com.

Coming for the day

The Sports Field is on Maltongate, a short walk from the village centre. The late May bank holiday is a busy weekend in Thornton-le-Dale, so the village car park can fill early. Our parking guide covers the alternatives, and our eating and drinking guide lists cafés and pubs for after the show.

Related links

Common questions

When is the Thornton le Dale Gala 2027?
The 2027 date has not been announced yet. The gala is usually held on a Sunday on the late May bank holiday weekend. The 2026 gala was on Sunday 24 May 2026.
Where is the Thornton le Dale Gala held?
In 2025 and 2026 it was held on the Sports Field, Maltongate, Thornton-le-Dale, YO18 7SD. The venue has changed in the past, so check the organisers' Facebook page each year.
What is on at the Thornton le Dale Gala?
A horse and pony show with show jumping, dog shows, classic vehicles, stalls, food and drink, and children's entertainment.
Is the Thornton le Dale Gala the same as the Spring Gala?
Yes. It is the Thornton Dale Sports Association gala, sometimes called the Spring Gala.
Who organises the gala?
Thornton Dale Sports Association, a registered charity (number 1173694) that provides the village sports pavilion and sports fields.

Sources