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Discover how retirement is changing with Ilkley & District u3a

Monday, 15 June 2026 07:39

For many people retirement has become the perfect opportunity to learn something new, meet new friends and enjoy an active social life.

Anyone curious about what life after work could look like is invited to the Ilkley & District u3a Annual Showcase on Saturday 20 June, from 10.30am to 1pm at Clarke Foley Community Hub in Ilkley.

The free event offers visitors the chance to meet members, chat with group leaders and explore more than 100 interesting groups covering everything from walking, family history and railways to languages, photography, music, art, technology and much more. Complimentary tea or coffee will also be available. With around 2,300 members, Ilkley & District u3a provides opportunities to stay active, make new friends and continue learning throughout retirement.

A spokesperson said:

“People often think retirement means slowing down. Many of our members tell us they’re busier, happier and more socially connected than ever. The Showcase is a relaxed opportunity to discover just how much is available locally.”

Visitors can also find out about the organisation’s popular Summer Taster Programme, which gives potential members the opportunity to try activities before deciding whether to join.

During June and July there are free or low-cost taster sessions including Walking Cricket, Singing for Pleasure, Coffee & Chat, Diplomacy, Disco Dancing and the popular Artificial Intelligence for Everyone session, showing how AI can help with everyday tasks such as planning holidays, researching family history, writing letters and getting more from smartphones and computers.

Details of upcoming taster events and the annual showcase can be found at https://ilkleyu3a.org/ or just search for Ilkleyu3a.

Admission to the Showcase is free and everyone considering retirement, recently retired, or simply looking for new interests and friendships is warmly welcome.

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