Classic Shakespeare events for all the family coming up at famous location near Ripon

Live Shakespeare will return to Newby Hall near Ripon with two contrasting productions of tragedies staged on the estate of the famous 18th-century country house.

First up will be a high‑energy, family‑friendly take on Macbeth.

Taking place on Wednesday, August 5, the intrepid three-strong troupe HandleBards are bringing their hilariously chaotic version of Shakespeare’s tragedy to the Victorian Gothic Revival Church of Christ the Consoler.

The production by this talented touring company is billed as “an evening chock full of mishaps, mayhem and mirth” and runs from 7pm to 9pm, approximately.

There are a range of discounts for under-21s and under‑fives will be admitted free.

For those who prefer their Shakespeare al fresco, the Lord Chamberlain’s Men will perform Othello on Friday, August 14 on Newby Hall’s West Lawn.

A powerful story of deception, jealousy and a man who loved not wisely but too well, the play is presented in traditional Elizabethan style with an all‑male cast, period costume, music and dance.

Tickets include access to the gardens from 12 noon, with visitors encouraged to bring picnics and chairs.

Doors open at 6pm, with the performance beginning at 7pm and finishing at 9.30pm, approximately.

There will be free entry for under‑fours.

Set beside the River Ure in Skelton-on-Ure, Newby Hall is a Grade I listed building originally designed in the 1690s.

It is located 15 miles from Harrogate and features historic architecture, 40 acres of spectacular grounds, and family attractions.