Sunday 1st
Christmas at STEAM
STEAM Museum, 10am-5pm
Bringing to you the sights and sounds of Christmas. Enjoy plenty of sparkles as you step into a wonderland of over 50 Christmas market stalls set amidst STEAM’s fabulous story-telling displays and famous GWR locomotives. Find that unique gift from one of our specially selected market stalls – from hand crafted silver jewellery, photographic prints, glass artworks and home furnishings, to Christmas tree decorations, wooden toys, traditional games, chutneys and luxury confectionary. Adults £3, seniors/students £2 (student ID required), children 3-15 years £1. For more information see www.steam-museum.org.uk
Santa Specials
Swindon and Cricklade Railway
Bring the children to meet Santa in his Grotto. Presents selected to suit ages of children. We have a great reputation for super Santa events.
Santa vs. Rudolph Run
Lydiard Park, 11am-2pm
This will bring together Swindon’s most loved winter fun runs to create one big event. There will be the choice of 3K, 5K or 10K routes, which participants can run, jog or walk chasing the carrot. It is open to all ages and is suitable for dogs and pushchairs. Depending on your team, runners will be able to wear a Santa hat or reindeer antlers. Fancy dress is optional, but highly recommended. All money raised will be split between Brighter Futures and the Swindon Phoenix Rotary Club, who will be donating their share of the fundraising to Wiltshire Air Ambulance. To enter, please go to www.swindonsanta.org.uk
Quizmas at Cricklade House Hotel
Cricklade House Hotel
Want to get into the Christmas spirit? Then enjoy a night of Quizmas at Cricklade House Hotel! £2 per person, up to 6 people per team, with the winning team taking home the jackpot!
Sunday 1st – Monday 2nd
Christmas Tree Festival
St Bartholomew and All Saints Church, Royal Wootton Bassett
Raising funds for the Richard Jones Foundation and St Bartholomew’s Church.
Monday 2nd
Memory Box Reading Group
Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre, 2-3:30pm
Do you enjoy history and listening to stories? Our group is meeting on the first and third Monday afternoon of every month to listen to an extract from one of the amazing collection of books in our Local Studies Library. We will take time to share memories and thoughts, and also have a chat over refreshments! If you would enjoy some friendly company in a relaxed environment, this is for you. All welcome! Free entry, parking right outside and refreshments, supported by Hob Nob Press. Read - Reminisce – Enjoy.
Tuesday 3rd
A Night With Steve Swanson
The Deanery CE Academy, Wichelstowe, 5pm
A night with Steve Swanson, NASA astronaut and ISS commander. Licensed bar and food from 5pm, photographs from 6:15pm, talk starts at 7pm. For tickets see www.ticketsource.co.uk/the-deanery-ce-academy.
Friday 6th
Swindon Philosophical Society Talk: Disinterest in Politics
Friends’ Meeting House, Eastcott Hill, 7:40pm-9:40pm
1 hour talk by Patrick Herring on Disinterest in Politics, followed by a 1 hour discussion. Everyone is welcome – just turn up. There is a charge of £2 to cover expenses (students free). https://www.facebook.com/swindonphilsoc/
Saturday 7th
Author Signing Elizabeth St John
11.00 – 12.30 Central Library
Come and meet Elizabeth St John the author of the Lydiard Chronicles who will be signing copies of her recently published title ‘Written in Their Stars’, the final book in the trilogy. Free entry.
Festive Wreath Making
Lydiard Park, 10am-2pm
Join the Estate Team on a festive adventure and harvest materials from around Lydiard Park to make your own festive Lydiard wreath. £32.50 per person. Includes a light lunch, mince pie and warm drink. Over 12s only. Please call to book on 01793 464644.
Children’s Workshop – Deck the Halls
Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 11am-3pm
Feel festive and make a cute Christmas decoration. All workshops are drop in sessions and take place between 11am and 3pm. Cost £3 per child. Please note that if sessions are busy you may have to wait a while to take part but there will be lots of other things to see and do while you wait! Parental guidance is required at all times.
Rumpelstiltskin – A Family Pantomime
Ellendune Community Centre, Wroughton, 2:30/7pm
Wadams presents Rumpelstiltskin, by Tina, Isaac and Rob Burbidge. Tickets £10/£8. For tickets call the box office on 01793 813847 or email tickets@wadamsdrama.org.uk.
Stanton Park Christmas Event
Stanton Park, 4-8:30pm
Welcome all to the annual Christmas celebration at Stanton Park. The proceedings will start with seasonal crafts in the Great Barn, and children’s story-time in the Forgotten Kingdom. After a short break to set up in-between, we will then lead into the spectacular carol service, held in the Great Barn, led by The Stratton Team Ministry and accompanied by the wonderful brass band. Hot drinks and refreshments will be available. Meet at the Great Barn, Stanton Park. Please wear warm clothes for the evening concert, bring a blanket and torch. Christmas jumpers are always welcome. Bring some money for hot drinks and refreshments, and for the craft workshops. Crafts will encompass a range of ages, and cakes will include gluten-free. This is a FREE event, however crafts will be charged for to cover material costs, and hot drinks/cakes will be priced to help raise money. Donations are welcomed, as all proceedings go to St Leonard’s Church and brass band. No need to book, for more info call 01793 490150.
Carols by Candlelight
Lower Shaw Farm, 6-7:30pm
An old-fashioned twenty-first century evening in the farmyard and the old cowshed, with all the right seasonal ingredients to eat, drink, see, hear, and sing! A roaring fire to keep us warm; Jake and his performing circus crew; the Swindon Scratch Choir to lift our singing spirits; fire jugglers to juggle fire; and cartloads of carols for us all to sing, together. This event raises money for the homeless in Swindon at Christmas and local charities. Price includes seasonal hot drink and mince pie. Suitable for all ages. No need to book. Dress up warm and bring a torch. Adults £5, children £2.
Swindon Choral Society Family Christmas Concert
Christ Church
Featuring Aldbourne Brass Band and Aldbourne Primary School.
Saturday 7th – Sunday 8th
A Victorian Christmas
Railway Village Museum, 34 Faringdon Road, 10:30am-4pm
Step back in time this Christmas at Swindon’s Railway Village Museum. Have you ever wondered when Christmas crackers were invented? Or when we first started sending Christmas cards? Or when Christmas trees first became popular? Find out about the origins of these Christmas traditions and more at the Railway Village Museum as you join volunteers for a Victorian Christmas. Learn about the families who lived in this former railway worker’s cottage and how they might have celebrated Christmas in the late Victorian period. Experience the sights, sounds and smells of a Victorian Christmas as you explore the museum, then head to the Baker’s Café across the road for refreshments. Christmas craft sessions will be running all weekend and you can try making Victorian decorations, crackers and Christmas cards to share with friends and family. Don’t miss the children’s robin trail around the museum.
Santa Specials
Swindon and Cricklade Railway
Bring the children to meet Santa in his Grotto. Presents selected to suit ages of children. We have a great reputation for super Santa events.
Sunday 8th
Rumpelstiltskin – A Family Pantomime
Ellendune Community Centre, Wroughton, 2:30/7pm
Wadams presents Rumpelstiltskin, by Tina, Isaac and Rob Burbidge. Tickets £10/£8. For tickets call the box office on 01793 813847 or email tickets@wadamsdrama.org.uk.
Quizmas at Cricklade House Hotel
Cricklade House Hotel
Want to get into the Christmas spirit? Then enjoy a night of Quizmas at Cricklade House Hotel! £2 per person, up to 6 people per team, with the winning team taking home the jackpot!
Tuesday 10th
Swindon Artswords Reading Group
Lower Shaw Farm, 7:30pm
The book discussed in December will be The Warden by Anthony Trollope. A little classic of a certain kind of 19th Century English Literature, here is a story of an elderly clergyman and controversy in a familiar county’s cathedral city. £2 per session.
Cricklade Garden Club ‘The Garden Makeover’
Cricklade Town Hall Annex, 8pm
Cricklade Garden Club have invited Bob Brown of Cotswold Flowers to talk about The Garden Makeover’s view of what works and what doesn’t. The meeting is open to all, starts at 8pm and you are invited to arrive early for home-made refreshments, seed swap and raffle.
Wednesday 11th
Cantanti Choir Christmas Concert
By the Town Hall, Royal Wootton Bassett High Street, 9:30-11am
Enjoy a glass of non-alcoholic mulled wine and a mince pie whilst you enjoy listening to the festive songs at this free concert.
Swindon Film Society – Faces Places
Swindon Arts Centre, 7:45pm
Legendary French film director Agnes Varda and hipster muralist JR take us on the most appealing of road trips. Charming, eye-opening, and consistently hilarious, this photographic adventure through a series of French villages highlights the changes through rural life and how people of all ages are responding. Documentary, certificate 12A, 94 minutes. Tickets £9, available from www.swindontheatres.co.uk.
Thursday 12th
Free Conservation Surgery
Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre, 2-4pm
Come and get advice from our archive conservators about caring for your precious family photographs, keepsakes and treasures. Booking essential! Tickets for events at the History Centre may be purchased in advance at the help desk or can be reserved on 01249 705500 (Tues-Sat 9:30-5). Numbers may be limited so please reserve your ticket in advance. Please aim to arrive 15 minutes before your event begins.
Royal Wootton Bassett Cinema – Eaten By Lions
Sixth Form Building, Royal Wootton Bassett Academy, 7pm
Omar and Pete are half-brothers. When their parents are eaten by lions they embark on a funny, heart-warming journey of self-discovery for both boys… in Blackpool. The Choudray family represents a truly contemporary example of modern multicultural Britain – but what will the brothers make of their eccentric newfound family? Will they be going to Mecca or Mecca Bingo? British Comedy Drama, Certificate 12, 93 minutes. Tickets £5 (cash only please). Bottled drinks and sweets available for purchase.
Cricklade WI ‘Eglantyne Jebb – Founder of Save the Children’
Cricklade Town Hall Annex, 7:30pm
Cricklade WI invite you to hear Nicholas Baxter, who will tell the story of Eglantyne Jebb, Founder of Save the Children. All ladies welcome to attend.
Friends’ Talk – Craft Matters
Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 7:30-8:30pm
A talk by Isobel Dennis, Director of Collect from the Crafts Council. ‘We believe that craft plays a dynamic and vigorous role in the UK’s social, economic and cultural life. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to make, see, collect and learn about craft. We believe that the strength of craft lies in nurturing talent; children and young people must be able to learn about craft at school and have access to excellent teaching throughout their education. We believe that craft matters’. Doors open at 7pm. Tickets available online, via 01793 466556 or in person at Swindon Museum and Art Gallery. Tickets £6 for Friends, £8 for non-Friends.
Friday 13th
Swindon Philosophical Society Talk: Desert Island Books
Friends’ Meeting House, Eastcott Hill, 7:40pm-9:40pm
1 hour talk by Gerry Merrison on Desert Island Books, followed by a 1 hour discussion. Everyone is welcome – just turn up. There is a charge of £2 to cover expenses (students free). https://www.facebook.com/swindonphilsoc/
Saturday 14th
An Introduction to Ancestry.co.uk
Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre, 9:30-10:30am
Are you unsure how to use the website Ancestry.co.uk but would like to get to grips with your family history? Ancestry contains many useful sources for family history. Find out how to get started in this hands-on workshop with Ian Hicks. Tickets £5. Places are limited, so booking is essential. Tickets for events at the History Centre may be purchased in advance at the Help Desk or can be reserved on 01249 705500 (Tues-Sat 9:30-5). Numbers may be limited so please reserve your ticket in advance. Please aim to arrive 15 minutes before your event begins.
Festive Wreath Making
Lydiard Park, 10am-2pm
Join the Estate Team on a festive adventure and harvest materials from around Lydiard Park to make your own festive Lydiard wreath. £32.50 per person. Includes a light lunch, mince pie and warm drink. Over 12s only. Please call to book on 01793 464644.
Meet the Railway Workers
STEAM Museum, 10am-4pm
Whatever your age, our friendly team of volunteers will add to the STEAM experience as you tour the Museum. They will welcome you aboard three famous locomotives: No. 4073 Caerphilly Castle, No. 3717 City of Truro, and No. 6000 King George V! You'll even get to find out how the controls worked on the great engines! Expect to hear some fascinating anecdotes of what it was like to be a GWR engine driver, fireman or labourer; or an engineer, craftsman or office worker at one of the 'Shops' inside GWR's Swindon Works. This great experience is free with standard admission and to STEAM Season Ticket holders.
Children’s Workshop – Deck the Halls
Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 11am-3pm
Feel festive and make a cute Christmas decoration. All workshops are drop in sessions and take place between 11am and 3pm. Cost £3 per child. Please note that if sessions are busy you may have to wait a while to take part but there will be lots of other things to see and do while you wait! Parental guidance is required at all times.
Christmas Craft Fair
Gorse Hill Community Centre, 11am-3pm
Fundraising event in aid of the Brighter Futures Charity Dementia Services. There will be 25 traditional festive stalls, something to suit everyone’s taste. Hot and cold beverages and cakes available to buy. Entertainment from the group Merrifolk 12-1pm. Plenty of free parking and free entry.
Royal Wootton Bassett Orchestra Christmas Concert
St Bartholomew and All Saints Church, Royal Wootton Bassett, 7:30pm
With Cantanti. Popular Christmas music and sing along carols for all the family. Tickets available on the door or can be reserved by email at contact@rwbo.org.uk Adults £8, students and under 16s free.
Saturday 14th – Sunday 15th
Santa Specials
Swindon and Cricklade Railway
Bring the children to meet Santa in his Grotto. Presents selected to suit ages of children. We have a great reputation for super Santa events.
Sunday 15th
Quizmas at Cricklade House Hotel
Cricklade House Hotel
Want to get into the Christmas spirit? Then enjoy a night of Quizmas at Cricklade House Hotel! £2 per person, up to 6 people per team, with the winning team taking home the jackpot!
Monday 16th
Memory Box Reading Group
Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre, 2-3:30pm
Do you enjoy history and listening to stories? Our group is meeting on the first and third Monday afternoon of every month to listen to an extract from one of the amazing collection of books in our Local Studies Library. We will take time to share memories and thoughts, and also have a chat over refreshments! If you would enjoy some friendly company in a relaxed environment, this is for you. All welcome! Free entry, parking right outside and refreshments, supported by Hob Nob Press. Read - Reminisce – Enjoy.
Christmas Carols on the Carpet
Immanuel Church, Upham Road, Old Walcot, 6pm
A one hour event for all the family.
Wednesday 18th
The Parkinsons Café
Cricklade Club, 10:30-11:30am
Meet for coffee and a chat on the third Wednesday of every month at the Club, Cricklade.
Friday 20th
Free Lunchtime Talk – Hit Repeat
Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 12:30-1pm
Join our Curator for this free lunchtime tour and talk on Hit Repeat – Prints from the Swindon Collection of Modern British Art. This exhibition brings together a selection of prints from Swindon’s Collection, so visitors can explore this vital and engaging art form for themselves. Lunchtime talks are free, start at 12:30 and last for approximately 30 minutes.
Saturday 21st
Children’s Workshop – Reindeer Ready
Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 11am-3pm
With only a few days until his big day, Santa needs to get his reindeer ready for action! Make a fun reindeer head-dress and help him in his task. All workshops are drop in sessions and take place between 11am and 3pm. Cost £3 per child. Please note that if sessions are busy you may have to wait a while to take part but there will be lots of other things to see and do while you wait! Parental guidance is required at all times.
Saturday 21st – Sunday 22nd
Santa Specials
Swindon and Cricklade Railway
Bring the children to meet Santa in his Grotto. Presents selected to suit ages of children. We have a great reputation for super Santa events.
Sunday 22nd
Quizmas at Cricklade House Hotel
Cricklade House Hotel
Want to get into the Christmas spirit? Then enjoy a night of Quizmas at Cricklade House Hotel! £2 per person, up to 6 people per team, with the winning team taking home the jackpot!
Thursday 26th
Boxing Day Break Out
Coate Water Park, 11am-2pm
Like Steve McQueen revving his bike to jump the barbed wire, you’ll be itching to get away from those turkey sandwiches. Get out in the fresh air for this gentle four mile meander through the winter wonderland and chocolate box cottages. We’ll even stop off halfway, at a local watering hole to warm our bones, before taking the shortcut back to Coate. Suitable for dogs. Meet at Coate Water Ranger Centre. Please wear clothes to suit the weather and stout shoes, Christmas jumpers welcome. Bring some money for refreshments at the halfway stop. Event leader Tom Murawicki. Book in advance on 01793 490150 or email swindonrangers@swindon.gov.uk.
Friday 27th
Children’s Workshop – New Year Wishes and Festive Fireworks
Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 11am-3pm
Celebrate New Year by making a wand to help make all your wishes for 2020 come true and a festive firework ring! All workshops are drop in sessions and take place between 11am and 3pm. Cost £3 per child. Please note that if sessions are busy you may have to wait a while to take part but there will be lots of other things to see and do while you wait! Parental guidance is required at all times.
Saturday 28th
Meet the Railway Workers
STEAM Museum, 10am-4pm
Whatever your age, our friendly team of volunteers will add to the STEAM experience as you tour the Museum. They will welcome you aboard three famous locomotives: No. 4073 Caerphilly Castle, No. 3717 City of Truro, and No. 6000 King George V! You'll even get to find out how the controls worked on the great engines! Expect to hear some fascinating anecdotes of what it was like to be a GWR engine driver, fireman or labourer; or an engineer, craftsman or office worker at one of the 'Shops' inside GWR's Swindon Works. This great experience is free with standard admission and to STEAM Season Ticket holders.
Children’s Workshop – New Year Wishes and Festive Fireworks
Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 11am-3pm
Celebrate New Year by making a wand to help make all your wishes for 2020 come true and a festive firework ring! All workshops are drop in sessions and take place between 11am and 3pm. Cost £3 per child. Please note that if sessions are busy you may have to wait a while to take part but there will be lots of other things to see and do while you wait! Parental guidance is required at all times.
Sunday 29th
Quizmas at Cricklade House Hotel
Cricklade House Hotel
Want to get into the Christmas spirit? Then enjoy a night of Quizmas at Cricklade House Hotel! £2 per person, up to 6 people per team, with the winning team taking home the jackpot!
Tuesday 31st
Children’s Workshop – New Year Wishes and Festive Fireworks
Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 11am-3pm
Celebrate New Year by making a wand to help make all your wishes for 2020 come true and a festive firework ring! All workshops are drop in sessions and take place between 11am and 3pm. Cost £3 per child. Please note that if sessions are busy you may have to wait a while to take part but there will be lots of other things to see and do while you wait! Parental guidance is required at all times.
ONGOING EVENTS
10th December – 4th January
Hit Repeat: Prints from the Swindon Collection of Modern British Art
Swindon Museum and Art Gallery
Printmaking can take many forms, from lithographs to etchings to woodcuts and even digital prints. This exhibition brings together a selection of prints from Swindon’s Collection, so visitors can explore this vital and engaging art form for themselves. The exhibition includes work by Allen Jones, Basil Beattie, Christopher Nevinson and Katherine Jones.
Until 19th December
Festive Afternoon Tea and Guided Tour
Lydiard Park
Indulge in an exquisite afternoon of festive treats at Lydiard House this winter and see beautifully decorated halls. For just £19.95 per person, you enjoy a variety of hand-cut sandwiches, a warm mince pie, a selection of festive cakes served with tea or mulled wine. All guests will be invited on a guided tour of Lydiard House, giving you the opportunity to experience the beautifully decorated halls for the festive season. To make a reservation, please call 01793 465270. Full payment over the phone is required to secure your booking, and a minimum of 24 hours’ notice is required. For full details, please visit www.lydiardpark.org.uk
Until 21st December
Open Exhibition 2019
Swindon Museum and Art Gallery
Swindon’s 2nd Open Exhibition celebrates the wealth of talent found in Swindon and the South West. The exhibition brings together work in a variety of media including portraits, landscapes and abstract work from established and emerging artists. This year, the exhibition has been judged by publisher, writer and curator Matthew Price, New College’s Karen Pau and Sophie Cummings, Curator of Swindon Museum and Art Gallery. All works in the exhibition will be available for sale.
Until 22nd December
Celebrating 75 Years
Lydiard House and Gardens
Throughout this year, we are celebrating 75 years since the local authority in Swindon took over the ownership of Lydiard House and Park. The exhibition tells the story of the extensive restoration work which has taken place since. Standard admission cost applies.
Visions of Lydiard
Lydiard House and Park
The changing face of Lydiard House and Parkland has been recorded through art since the 18th Century. This gives us a fascinating visual insight into the evolution of this historic estate. Visions of Lydiard showcases a selection of paintings and photographs from the Lydiard House collection which illustrate the last 70 years of the estate’s rich history. The exhibition features work by both internationally acclaimed and local artists, as well as accomplished photographers, all of whom portray Lydiard from their own unique perspective. Cost included in standard admission.
A Country House Christmas
Lydiard House and Park
Step back in time and experience the decorated halls at Lydiard House for the festive season. See all the elegant State Rooms adorned with traditional foliage, a beautiful Christmas tree decorated with handmade decorations and a traditional kissing ball. We are extremely grateful to the Royal Wootton Bassett Flower Arranging Club for providing the stunning decorations. Lydiard House is open Wednesday to Sunday, 11am-4pm.
Until 23rd December
World’s Fastest
STEAM Museum
In May 1904, the Swindon-built City of Truro locomotive achieved a world record speed of 100mph. Speed was the fascination of the 20th Century and a speeding locomotive epitomised both prestige and glamour. The GWR rebuilt, refined and remodeled locomotives focusing on strength, power and speed. By the 1920s and 1930s these express locomotives became iconic symbols of the GWR. STEAM’s new special exhibition explores the GWR’s race to become the fastest railway in the World and how advances in design and technology have changed since City of Truro became the first train to travel at 100mph 115 years ago! A collection of fascinating objects and archive material from the STEAM collection are used to illustrate this story, including the famous Cheltenham Flyer headboard. This exhibition complements our other new special exhibition Time on Trial, which takes a look at the exhilarating speed trials that took place between the GWR and other railway companies between 1910 and 1948. Cost: Included with standard STEAM admission, special event admission and is free for STEAM season ticket holders.
Spark of Genius Exhibition
STEAM Museum
A look at some of the GWR’s most influential designers, engineers and inventors. Cost included with standard STEAM admission, special event admission and is free for STEAM season ticket holders.
Christmas at Roves Farm
Roves Farm
Dress up and join the animals in our nativity plays. We have plenty of costumes for all ages from toddlers to grannies! Sit amongst the animals in the barn as the Nativity story comes to life around you. Then follow the sparkling lights to meet Father Christmas in his magical grotto and choose your gift from the Elves’ Toyshop. Prices may vary depending on the date. For more info see www.rovesfarm.co.uk
Until 31st December
Time on Trial – The Story of Locomotive Speed Trials
STEAM Museum
In 1910 a Great Western Railway Star Class engine entered into a race against a London and North Western Railway Company Experiment Class engine. The competition was held to determine which was the best locomotive. This was the first officially recorded time trial between locomotives from different railway companies. STEAM’s new exhibition Time on Trial takes a look at the exhilarating speed trials that took place between the GWR and other railway companies between 1910 and 1948. Pride and reputation were at stake as the companies attempted to prove their locomotive building expertise. Visitors will also find out about the first dynamometer car, built by the GWR in 1838 and used to record data from the official test runs. A collection of stunning images and fascinating archive material from the STEAM collection are used to illustrate this story. Time on Trial is included with standard STEAM admission, special event admission and is free for STEAM season ticket holders.
HST Nameplate Display
STEAM Museum
After over 40 years in service GWR’s fleet of the iconic HST trains are no longer operating intercity services from London Paddington, having been replaced with a fleet of 93 new Intercity Express Trains. Over the years of service they have carried the names of people and organisations from the cities, towns and communities they serve. STEAM is delighted to be hosting a unique exhibition of nameplates which have been carried by Great Western Railway’s iconic high-speed trains. Cost included with standard admission.
Until 4th January
Auto Memento: Stickyback Photography in Swindon, 1900-1919
Swindon Museum and Art Gallery
In the early 20th Century, a photographic studio in Regent Street, Swindon, offered a unique way of having your picture taken. Stickyback photos were quick, casual, fun and cheap. The Family Museum acquired its collection of 72 ‘stickyback’ photographs in September 2016. This exhibition shows the entire set of images and explores this little-documented style of Edwardian popular photography. It offers a unique glimpse of everyday life and ordinary people in Swindon in the last century. The exhibition also explores the advent and rise of amateur photography during the 20th century through The Family Museum’s extensive archive of family photographs and albums, cameras and photographic ephemera. This exhibit is a collaboration between The Family Museum and Swindon Museum and Art Gallery.
Until 7th March
Time For Tea!
Swindon Museum and Art Gallery
Our new ceramics exhibition brings together some of our favourite tea cups, teapots and other items from collections. This exhibition is displayed alongside modern ceramics by Ann Stokes, Lucy Rie and David Leach. We will also share Victorian and Edwardian tea sets from some of Britain’s finest pottery manufacturers.
Every Monday
Poppy Patchers
Gerard Buxton Sports Ground, Royal Wootton Bassett, 10am-1pm
We are a friendly, local patchwork and sewing group, and we are looking for more members. For more information contact Elizabeth Hodgson on 01793 848627 elizabeth.hodgson959@btinternet.com or pop along on a Monday morning.
Every Tuesday
Lunch Club
Silver Threads Hall, High Street, Purton, 10am-2pm
Want to socialise and catch up with some friends while enjoying some delicious food and taking part in some fantastic activities? Lunch Clubs are run by Royal Voluntary Service volunteers who give their time so that you can come together with friends new and old to enjoy tasty food and company on a regular basis. Our Lunch Clubs usually provide a two course meal at affordable prices.
Afternoon Tea
Christ Church Community Centre, 2-4pm
Come along every Tuesday afternoon between 2-4pm for a piece of cake and a drink. We try to put on a different activity each week. A great chance to meet new people and have a fun time. Donations are welcome.
Highworth Artists’ Society
Community Room, Council Offices, 3 Gilbert’s Lane, Highworth, 12:30-3:30pm
Highworth Artists’ Society invite artists who are non-members (and aged 18 years or over) to bring along their own projects and painting materials to work alongside our members during our weekly Tuesday afternoon workshops. Our workshops are not led by a tutor or any ‘expert’ and are simply for all artists to draw/paint/work on their own projects in friendly surroundings where a warm welcome awaits and tea or coffee is freely available! Sessions on Tuesday afternoons are between 12.30pm to 3.30pm and will cost £5 each week for non-members (pay when you come).
Every Tuesday & Thursday
Richard Jefferies Museum, 10:30am-12pm
On Tuesday and Thursdays (term-time) from 1030-1200 we will be running Nature Kids at the Museum .These are fun filled nature-based events for under 11’s (and their carers) with a different theme every week with arts, crafts and other activities, check out the Richard Jefferies Facebook page for more details and dates. Families are welcomed to stay and play in the gardens after the event. It is £3 for the first child and £2 for each additional child.
Every Wednesday
Brushstrokes Art Group
Beechcroft Library, 12:30pm
If you like drawing or painting why not come along? There is no charge and it does not matter what level of artist you are - we would be pleased to see you! beechcroft.library@strattonstmargaret.gov.uk
Park Writes
Park Library, Cavendish Square, 2pm-4pm
Join us in having fun with words and sharing stories. What you write is right. Suitable for all abilities. All welcome, all equal. No need to book, just come along!
Swindon Go Club
Windmill Pub, Freshbrook Village Centre, 7.30pm – Close
Go is one of the oldest board games in the world. Its true origins are unknown, but it almost certainly originated in China over 2500 years ago. The rules are very simple, yet the strategy is complex and the patterns that emerge are intricate and beautiful. Visitors to the club are always welcome, especially newcomers to the game. Contact Paul on 01793 692408 or David on 01793 521625 or at secretary@swindongoclub.org.uk
Royal Wootton Bassett Market
High Street around the Town Hall, 8:30am-4pm
The regular weekly market features a wonderful array of stalls, complementing the wide range of independent retailers, which keep our town bustling and vibrant. You might meet our Town Crier and Sword bearer, Owen Collier, who cries for the market every Wednesday morning. With a number of wonderful uniforms, we are very proud of our town crier. Free parking for up to 2 hours on the High Street.
Every Thursday
Darkroom Espresso Cycling Club
Darkroom Espresso (round the back), 5:30pm for 6pm start
Over the lighter months we’re running our Thursday club rides every week. These rides are open to everyone, and vary in length between around 15 and 30 miles, taken at our usual pace of 13-14mph. Details of where we’re headed each week can be found on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/darkroomcycleclub/ There’s usually the opportunity to head to the pub afterwards too.
Old Town Community Art Group
Savernake Street Social Hall, Swindon, 10am-12:30pm
An informal, friendly and fun Art Group for adults! £3 per session. Call Marilyn on 07768442393.
Every Friday
Swindon Country Market
St Aldhelm’s Hall, off Regent Street, 9am-12pm
Come along for an array of home baking, preserves, home grown fruit & veg, flowers, plants & crafts on offer for you to browse.
Fun and Games at Park Library
Park Library, Cavendish Square, 2pm-4pm
Board games, puzzles, crafts and colouring! Drop-in session for children aged 4+ accompanied by an adult.
Every Saturday
Highworth Market
Highworth Market Square, 8am-2:30pm
Traders sell freshly baked bread and cakes, seasonal vegetables, free-range meat, plants for the garden, fish, pastries and homewares.
Swindon Park Run
Lydiard Park, 9am
A 5km run with you against the clock, it welcomes every one of different abilities! Running for your own enjoyment, don’t worry about how fast your pace is – you’re only competing with yourself. Just come along, have a go, and have some fun! This is a free event, but to register see www.parkrun.org.uk/swindon/
Every Sunday
Farmers’ Market
Swindon’s Designer Outlet, 10am-4pm
You will find around 20 stalls each week offering freshly baked bread and cake, seasonal produce, free range meats, local cheese, jams and a range of hot foods including hot dogs, bacon rolls, burgers and falafels. Lots of tasters will be available - so try before you buy!
Swindon Go Club
Beehive Pub, Prospect Hill
Visitors and beginners welcome. Contact Paul on 01793 692408 or David on 01793 521625 or at secretary@swindongoclub.org.uk See also www.britgo.org
If you would like to publicise your event through these pages please contact Swindon Libraries and Information Centre at: infocentre@swindon.gov.uk, tel. 01793 466454, or call in to the Visitor Information Centre at Central Library, Regent Circus. Find us on facebook www.facebook.com/swindonVIC or twitter @visit_swindon
You can also submit events for publication on www.visitswindon.org.uk
Current events tickets available at the Information Centre include:
MECA Events
Swindon Film Society Screenings