Monday 1st

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 2nd

Highworth Artists’ Society Demonstration

Community Room, Council Offices, 3 Gilbert’s Lane, Highworth, 1-3pm

This is a demonstration with Chris Forsey, who will be painting a river scene in acrylic and mixed media. Entrance is free for members - visitors £5. There will be a small buffet reception for members after the demo – 3pm-4pm. This event is arranged in the memory of Estelle Billesdon who was a long standing member of the society.

Tuesday 2nd

Tea, Cake and Chat

The Goddard Arms, Old Town, 2:30-4pm

Everyone welcome. £1 for a hot drink, including unlimited refills. A small desert is available for an extra charge of £1.50. For more information contact parishoffice@christchurchswindon.co.uk

Friday 5th

Free Lunchtime Talk – Town and Country: Images of Swindon

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 12:30pm

Join our curator for a free lunchtime tour of our current exhibition, Town and Country. Discover images of Swindon and its surrounding countryside from the last hundred years, and see just how much the town has changed. Lunchtime talks are free, start at 12:30pm and last for approximately 30 minutes.

Friday 5th

100 Years of Country Markets

Ellendune Community Centre, Wroughton, 9-11am

Come and celebrate 100 years of Country Markets (formerly WI markets) with us on Friday 5th July. Stallholders will be dressed in 1919 costumes, and refreshments will be available at 1919 prices. Just bring along a pre-decimal coin to buy a cuppa and a cake. While you’re there browse the sales tables and see what Wroughton Country Market has to offer – local plants, produce, honey and eggs, baked goods and preserves, and handmade crafts.

Friday 5th

Barn Dance

Purton Village Hall, 7-11pm

St. Mary’s School PTA presents ‘Blazing Saddles’ Hoedown Barn Dance with a caller. This is a family event, with optional fancy dress. There will be a raffle and hot dogs. Tickets on sale from St. Mary’s School reception. Adults £7, children £4.

Friday 5th

Trial By Jury

Christ Church, Cricklade Street, Old Town, 7:30pm

Presented by the Swindon Gilbert and Sullivan Society. Trial By Jury is a one act opera, about the trial of Edwin, who’s been dragged to a seriously corrupt court by his ex, Angelina, who’d like to sue him for every penny he’s got. Also there will be various songs from Gilbert and Sullivan productions. Tickets £10, for more information contact 01793 695685.

Saturday 6th

Jumble Sale

St. Barnabas Church Hall, Cricklade Road, Gorse Hill, 10:30am-12pm

Sale of books, clothes, household items. Entry 20p.

Saturday 6th

Bishopstone Village Fete

The Old Vicarage, Bishopstone, 12-4pm

Come and enjoy a wide range of attractions. Lots of stalls including plants, homemade produce, bric-a-brac, books, toys, accessories. Bouncy castle, games and sideshows. BBQ, licensed bar, cream teas. Vintage cars and bikes. A traditional fete in a lovely garden. Entrance £1.50 each.

Saturday 6th

Charity Concert

The Deanery CE Academy, Wichelstowe, 7:30-10pm

Stardust Dance Promotions present the fabulous Swing Birds, Swindon’s all female 16 piece big band and singers. Doors open at 6:30pm. Licensed bar and raffle, tickets £8 in aid of Brighter Futures. For online ticket sales visit www.ticketsource.co.uk/stardustdance (booking fees apply).

Saturday 6th

Swindon Jazz and Soul Festival Fundraiser Concert

Christ Church, Cricklade Street, Old Town, 8pm

Fundraising concert for next year’s Jazz and Soul Festival. Featuring Pee Wee Ellis (saxophone) – a jazz funk legend and the ‘Architect of Funk’, Pee Wee Ellis was famously a member of James Brown’s band co-writing the hits ‘Say it Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud’ and ‘Cold Sweat’. He was also a long-standing collaborator of Van Morrison. Most recently he has toured with The Ginger Baker Jazz Confusion and been honoured with a doctorate at Bath University. He will be joined by special guests, Gareth Williams (piano), Will Harris (double bass), Danny Ilett Jr (guitar), and Andrew Tween (drums). Tickets £12.

Sat 6th – Sun 7th

Coate Water Railway

Coate Water Country Park, 11am-5pm

The above railway will be open to the public for our annual charity weekend. All your fares go to the chosen charity. The charity this year is Sabrina Moccia, who died at an early age from complications with diabetes. The charity was set up in her memory to bring to the public’s notice the importance of awareness and diagnosis of diabetes. All openings are subject to the weather and sufficient volunteers from North Wilts Model Engineering Society who operate the railway. £2 per ride, no age limit.

Sat 6th – Sun 7th

Cheese and Chilli Festival

Lydiard Park, 10am-5pm

The Cheese and Chilli Festival provides fun activities for all ages. With free cooking demonstrations, taste tents, a beer festival, street theatre, live music, free crazy golf, free human sized table football, children’s entertainments including magic shows, Punch & Judy, balloon modelling, treasure hunts. Come and see what the festival has to offer. Tickets cheaper if bought in advance – adults from £6, senior from £4, children under 16 free. To buy tickets visit www.cheeseandchillifestival.com

Sat 6th – Sun 7th

Purton Open Gardens 2019

10:30am-4:30pm

Variety of gardens, refreshments, stalls, pop-up market and more! More than twenty private gardens and other venues are opening. Some of these gardens have not been open to the public before, and some are old-timers. Entrance proceeds to the Jubilee Gardens Project and Purton Defibrillators Maintenance. Entry by programme, available from the gardens at the event, or PIPs café, Andrew Hiscock’s Butchers, and nearby garden centres. Adults £5, accompanied children free.

Sunday 7th

Central Southern Fellowship Band

Town Gardens Bandstand, 3-4:30pm

This is a free event.

Sunday 7th

JTPTrust Summer Gala

STEAM Museum, 7-8:30pm

The JTPTrust Academy Singers present ‘Never Work With…’ – a historical exploration of children and animals in shows and films. Featuring our Youth Choirs and Ensembles, with adult soloists Matilda Wale, Natalie Chequer, Catherine Welch, Charlotte Johnson, Sally Rudd, Abigail Daniels, Bob Hills, Joseph Annetts and David Higgins. Tickets £10. For more information contact jtptacademy@gmail.com

Monday 8th

Fostering Information Session

Everleigh Centre, Everleigh Road, SN2 5HB

This is an informal session where you can find out more about becoming a foster carer and an opportunity to ask any questions you have. Some of our current foster carers will also be there to chat to you about their experiences and what it means to be a foster carer. If you wish to attend, please book onto the session via this link: www.eventbrite.co.uk

Monday 8th

Getting the Builders In

Swindon Borough Council Civic Offices, Euclid Street, 3-4:30pm

Building a house extension can be a stressful experience. Swindon Borough Council would like to help make the process easier with a free workshop for residents. The “Getting the Builders In” workshop aims to steer you around the pitfalls of extending your home. Council planning and building control experts will be on hand to explain how building designs can be made to comply with Planning and Building Regulations. They will also be offering tips on finding a good builder and will advise on how to make sure the building work delivers what you want from your extension. The workshop is free to residents of Swindon Borough. If you would like to attend please email BControl@swindon.gov.uk to book a place. If you cannot make the workshop but would like a “Getting the Builders In” information pack please email: BControl@swindon.gov.uk

Tuesday 9th

Oooh Beehive

Beehive, 55 Prospect Hill, Old Town, 7:30pm

Monthly poetry/spoken word open mic night held on the second Tuesday of the month. Newcomers welcome.

Thursday 11th

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.

Thursday 11th

Royal Wootton Bassett Cinema – The Keeper

Sixth Form Building, Royal Wootton Bassett Academy, 7pm

The extraordinary story of German POW Bert Trautmann. Talent-spotted playing football in the camp by the manager of St Helens Town, he stayed on in England at the end of the war and married the manager’s daughter. Facing down hostility and abuse for being German, he went on to be signed by Manchester City, securing victory for his team in the 1956 Cup Final despite a broken neck. Starring David Kross (The Reader) and Freya Mayor, this promises to be a huge hit with Moviola audiences. Real Life Drama/Romance. Running time 120 mins, certificate 15. Tickets £5 (cash only please). Bottled drinks and sweets available for purchase.

Thursday 11th

A Perfect World by The Miracle Theatre Company

Maizey Lodge, Ogbourne Maizey, 7:30pm

Special charity performance by The Miracle Theatre Company In aid of Diabetes UK (Swindon Local Group). Miracle Theatre is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a specially written rollicking musical for lovers of open-air theatre and comedy, taking you on an adventure into undiscovered places. 7.30pm at Ogbourne Maizey near Marlborough (gates open at 6pm for picnics). Bar/WC/Coffee & Sweetie Bar/Ice Creams/Parking. Tickets: Adults £14.00 Children (under 16) £8.00 Family £40.00 (2A+2C) Tickets in advance only 01672 – 512125 or email: maizey50@gmail.com

Thursday 11th

Wroughton History Group Event

St Joseph’s Church Hall, Wroughton 7:30-9pm

A walking tour of Wroughton village followed by refreshments. All are welcome to attend. The first visit is free and after that there is a charge of £2 for non-members, payable on the night.

Thurs 11th – Sun 14th

Swindon Shuffle

The Swindon Shuffle has again chosen the Swindon & Gloucestershire branch of Mind as its charity partner for this year’s festival. There are a variety of events happening at a range of locations in Swindon – for more information, see www.swindonshuffle.org.uk

Friday 12th

Open Air Theatre: A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Lydiard Park, 5-8pm

Multi-award nominated Immersion Theatre are thrilled to present the most magical and romantic comedy of them all, A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Gates open 5pm, performance starts 6pm. Bring picnic blankets, rugs or low back chairs and enjoy live theatre in the beautiful surroundings of Lydiard Park. Refreshments are also available on site. Performances last approximately 100 minutes and include a 20 minute interval. Performances will continue in wet weather so please come prepared! All tickets are non-returnable and non-refundable. Adults £14, children 3-15 years £10. Tickets can be purchased through the Wyvern Box Office on 01793 465270 or online (includes booking fee). Parking charges apply.

Friday 12th

Murder Mystery Evening

Swindon and Cricklade Railway, 7:15-10:30pm

These Friday night events have always proved popular. Ticket includes a hot buffet. Pre-booking advised. Please contact our Murder Mystery Administrator for more information on scrmm@rudi.org.uk

Saturday 13th

Lego Club Beechcroft Library

Beechcroft Library, Beechcroft Road, 10:30am

Open to all aged 4 to 99 years starting at 10:30 If you would like further information, please contact the Library beechcroft.library@strattonstmargaret.gov.uk or telephone 01793 829023

Saturday 13th

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.

Saturday 13th

Highworth Artists’ Society Open Day

Community Room, Council Offices, 3 Gilbert’s Lane, Highworth, 10am-4pm

This day will feature 9/10 of our artists who will be painting and happy to talk about their work. Drinks will be available with any donations being given to local Dementia Support Initiatives.

Saturday 13th

Mikron Theatre Company

Cricklade High Street, 6:45pm

Mikron Theatre Company present ‘Redcoats’ on Saturday 13th July from 6:45pm. Bring your own drinks and nibbles, chairs will be provided. Outdoor event with indoor alternative in the case of bad weather. Tickets £10.00. Tel; 01793 751394 www.crickladeinbloom.co.uk Tickets available from The Council Office, Ockwells, 113 High Street, Cricklade, SN6 6AE

Saturday 13th

Wroughton Silver Band Presents A Night at the Movies

Wroughton Parish Church, 7:30pm

Free entry, but there will be a retiring collection in aid of Prospect Hospice and Parkinson’s UK.

Sat 13th – Sun 14th

Kids for a Quid

Swindon and Cricklade Railway

Bring the kids for a ride on a steam train for only £1 each! (Adults pay normal fares).

Sat 13th – Sun 14th

Wroughton’s secret gardens

Wroughton, 2pm-5pm

Wroughton and District Gardeners Society will be running “Wroughton’s secret gardens”. Come and visit some very interesting gardens, see what lies behind those hedges & fences, and with four properties bordering on the Wroughton brook, get ideas, talk to the garden owners, teas & toilets available at various locations plus plants and produce for sale. Something for the children, find the “Golden pebble” & claim your prize. A great social event for the village, with funds raised going to “Vision 4 Wroughton”, Willowbrook garden. Maps available from various Wroughton locations including: Coventry Farm Stores, McColls, Devises Road Co-Op and the Parish Council office in the Ellendune Centre & participating gardens. Maps at £4-00, admits two adults, children under sixteen go free, that works out at approximately 17p per person per garden, you cannot better value than that! While touring the gardens, look out for the scarecrows, this year’s theme is, “Sports personalities, which there are approximately twenty five scarecrows dotted around the village & will be available for viewing & judging over the following two weeks.

Sunday 14th

An Introduction to Summer Fruit Tree Pruning

Stanton Park, 10am-12pm

Learn how to Summer prune an apple tree with ranger Ross Sheppard in the orchard at Stanton Park. Showing both the theory and practical applications of fruit tree pruning, focusing on fruit disease, thinning and foliage reduction. Limited spaces on this practical task, so please book early. Please wear clothes to suit the weather and stout shoes, bring note pad, gardening gloves, secateurs and pruning saw if you have them. Meet at the Great Barn, Stanton Park. Event leader Ross Sheppard. Book in advance on 01793 490150 or email: swindonrangers@swindon.gov.uk

Sunday 14th

Mind, Body and Spirit Fayre

Ellendune Community Centre, Wroughton, 2-6:30pm

Admission £2 with free goody bag to first 100 people.

Sunday 14th

Cricklade Band

Town Gardens Bandstand, 3-4:30pm

This is a free event.

Sunday 14th

Tea Service

Immanuel Church, Upham Road SN3 1DH, 4-5:30pm

If you enjoy singing some of those favourite old hymns and songs then come along to the tea service. It’s a simple act of worship where you can enjoy good company and a cuppa in an informal friendly atmosphere. Choose a favourite hymn and we will all sing it! Large car park and disabled facilities available.

Monday 15th

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.

Wednesday 17th

Junior Wildlife Photography Session

Coate Water Park, 10am-12pm

What wildlife and birds will we see as we go out into the Nature Reserve and photo hotspots at Coate Water, camera in hand to capture some interesting pictures. Whatever your photographic interest, there’s something for everyone. Why don’t you come along and find out for yourself. Limited spaces on this walk, so please book early. Please wear clothes to suit the weather and stout shoes, bring your camera and any additional lenses you may have, and a bag of wild bird seed. Meet at Coate Water Ranger Centre. Event leader Mark Jennings. Book in advance on 01793 490150 or email: swindonrangers@swindon.gov.uk

Wednesday 17th

Cricklade Parkinson’s Café

Cricklade Club, 10:30-11:30am

Cricklade Parkinson’s Café offers advice and support to all those affected by Parkinson’s. It is held on the third Wednesday of every month. For more information, contact Sally Wood on 03442253670.

Wednesday 17th

Chiseldon Local History Group Talk – ‘Revolting Marlborough: Episodes from the Town’s Turbulent Past’ by Nick Baxter

Church Hall, Butts Road, Chiseldon. 7:30pm

Marlborough may seem like a peaceful country town today, but this has not always been the case. Nick Baxter will tell us about some of the noteworthy events of the last 800+ years, including during the English Civil War when the town supported parliament against King Charles I and paid a heavy price for confronting the Royalist army. Marlborough Castle also had a key role to play in the civil wars between King Henry III and Simon de Montfort. Previous talks by Nick have been highly entertaining, so please come along and learn more. Visitors are welcome for £3 per meeting, or you can join for £10. For more information contact info@chiseldonlhg.org.uk

Thursday 18th

Fostering Information Session

Committee Room 3 Civic Offices, Euclid Street, 4-5pm

This is an informal session where you can find out more about becoming a foster carer and an opportunity to ask any questions you have. Some of our current foster carers will also be there to chat to you about their experiences and what it means to be a foster carer. If you wish to attend, please book onto the session via this link: www.eventbrite.co.uk

Thursday 18th

Cricklade WI ‘Stranger in My Heart’

Cricklade Town Hall Annexe, 7:30pm

The ladies of Cricklade WI welcome Mary Munro to their July meeting. Mary will talk about a book she has written about her father’s life in Hong Kong as a prisoner of war in 1941. All ladies are invited to come along.

Friday 19th

Free Lunchtime Talk – Artist and Model and Town and Country

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 12:30pm

Artist and Model explores portraits from our collection, while Town and Country shares some of our favourite images of Swindon. Join our curator for a free lunchtime tour of our exhibitions before they finish on 20th July. Lunchtime talks start at 12:30pm in the Art Gallery and last for approximately 30 minutes.

Friday 19th

Community Cinema @ Christ Church: Bohemian Rhapsody

Christ Church, Cricklade Street, Old Town, 6:30-8:45pm

Bohemian Rhapsody celebrates the band Queen, their music, and their extraordinary lead singer Freddie Mercury, who defied convention to become one of the most beloved entertainers ever. Doors will open at 6pm ready for a film starting at 6:30pm. Tickets are purchased on the door at just £4 per adult and £2 per junior. Refreshments/snacks are also available for purchase at reasonable prices. Bohemian Rhapsody contains moderate sex and drugs references and infrequent strong language. Rating 12A.

Friday 19th

Cricklade Garden Club

Cricklade Town Hall Annexe, 8pm

Cricklade Garden Club welcome Nathalie Mignotte to their July meeting. Nathalie will speak about ‘The Gardens of Alhambra and General Life in Granada’. The meeting is open to all, starts at 8pm and you are invited to arrive early for home-made refreshments, seed swap and raffle. One off visits cost £3.

Saturday 20th

Wanborough Farmers’ Market

Village Hall, Wanborough, 9am

The next Wanborough Farmers' Market and Community Cafe are on Saturday 20th July, 9am to midday in the Village Hall, Wanborough High Street SN4 0AD. For more information ring 01793 790438 or email sbirley@gn.apc.org

Saturday 20th

Guided Walk in Malmesbury

10:30am

The Purton Historical Society will be having a guided walk in Malmesbury, led by Campbell Ritchie. For more information contact Marion Hobbs on 01793 770185 or roy.marion@btinternet.com

Saturday 20th

Hidden Treasures of Coate

Coate Water Park, 1:30-3:30pm

Look at the various trees from all over the world in the Coate tree collection. Join us on this leisurely stroll around one of Swindon’s beautiful hidden treasures with a fascinating “around the world trip”. Our local tree expert will give an interesting insight into the trees of Swindon’s own tree collection. Dogs welcome. Meet at Coate Water Ranger Centre. Please wear clothes to suit the weather. Event leaders Ian Barker and Dave Absalom. Book in advance on 01793 490150 or email: swindonrangers@swindon.gov.uk

Saturday 20th

The Exceedingly Sensible Saturday

The Post Modern Gallery, Artsite, Theatre Square, 12pm-midnight

A 12 hour extravaganza of music, art and entertainment, featuring SexJazz, Grasslands, Spunking Octochoke, Robert Ridley Shackleton, Fuzzy Disco, Fort Boyard, Tempus Transmuto, Zero Gravity Tea Ceremony, and DJ Bergamasq. Tickets £4 in advance or £5 on the door. Tickets available from Baristocats, 115 Commercial Road, or from the bands.

Saturday 20th

An Evening with Derek Paravicini

Bath Road Methodist Church, 7pm

Ipsum invites you to an evening with Derek Paravicini. Derek is an autistic, blind, piano playing maestro with perfect pitch. Join us for an evening with the amazing talents of Derek in this beautiful venue. Tickets £15 with refreshments included. Contact Ipsum on 01793 695405 or email admin@ipsum.care if you would like tickets.

Sunday 21st

Swindon Concert Band

Town Gardens Bandstand, 3-4:30pm

This is a free event.

Mon 22nd – Sun 28th

Haydon Artists’ Society Exhibition

St. Peter’s Church

Exhibition by the Haydon Artists’ Society. www.haydonartists.co.uk

Thursday 25th

Friends Talk – International Tennis Art with Prof Ann Sumner

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 7:30-8:30pm

Professor Ann Sumner will highlight the painting Tennis of 1928 by Vicente de Rego Monteiro (1899-1970), held in the collection of Swindon Art Gallery. Ann will discuss his famous tennis painting in the context of artists who have been drawn to depict the game of tennis from the 1870s onwards, beginning with British artists such as John Lavery through to Laura Knight and Eric Ravilious, before exploring European depictions of tennis particularly by French, Italian, Spanish and German artists and then considering American and South American examples of the genre. The talk is planned to mark the publication of Routledge’s Handbook of Tennis. The Swindon painting was selected to be on the cover of this new book. Her talk will be introduced by Carol Osborne, of Leeds Trinity University who is Assistant Editor of the Routledge book. Doors open at 7pm. Tickets can be purchased online, via 01793 466556 or in person at Swindon Museum and Art Gallery. Tickets £6 for friends of SMAG, £8 for non-friends.

Saturday 27th

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.

Saturday 27th

Swindon Zine Fest

Central Community Centre, Emlyn Square, 12-4pm

Come and have a go at making your own zine and take a look at all the beautiful work we have for sale made by illustrators, small batch comic creators and zine makers. We will also have cakes for sale made by Baking So, Duh! Free entry, accessible venue.

Saturday 27th

MFOR Festival

Lydiard Park

MFOR Festival is a one day music event, featuring Years & Years, Ella Eyre, HRVY, Toploader, Becky Hill & more. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.mforfestival.co.uk

Sat 27th – Sun 28th

Steam, Cider and Sausages

Swindon and Cricklade Railway

Celebrate summer with a bang(er) and a glass of cider! We’ll be bringing you hand-picked apple cider and specially selected sausages for you to enjoy while the steam train provides the backdrop to a perfect weekend. Normal train fares apply.

Sunday 28th

Cemetery Walks

Holy Rood Cemetery Lawns, 2pm

Join the Swindon Heritage Team for an interesting walk around Holy Rood Chapel and Cemetery. Meet at the main entrance to Holy Rood Cemetery, Lawns. Event leaders Fran, Andy and Noel Book in advance on 07968 246 792 or email: ambamwas@yahoo.com

Sunday 28th

Jefferies’ Land Rediscovered -- Guided Walk

Richard Jefferies Museum 10.30–4pm.

Join us for a leisurely, guided, circular walk through some of the local countryside that inspired Jefferies’ writings. Park at Coate Water. Walk starts from museum garden. This walk is not suitable for dogs. Please wear clothes to suit the weather and stout shoes. Advisable to carry water. The route includes some field-walking, stiles and a short gradient section rising 100 metres up to the hillfort for about 0.5 km. We will be stopping for lunch on Liddington Hill, please bring a packed lunch. For anyone wishing to do a shorter version of this walk, buses back to Swindon run through Chiseldon. Booking essential, email: walks@richardjefferies.org Route: RJ Museum to Liddington Hill, return via Chiseldon, Hodson and Coate Water -- approx 10 miles/16 km. This is a free event

Sunday 28th

Highworth Silver Band

Town Gardens Bandstand, 3-4:30pm

This is a free event.

Sunday 28th

Purton Artists’ Society Demonstration

Silver Threads Hall, Purton, 2-4:30pm

Graham Cox will be giving a pastel demonstration, followed by a bring and share tea. For more information see www.purtonartistssociety.co.uk

Tuesday 30th

Fostering Information Session

Lyndhurst Centre, Lyndhurst Crescent, SN3 2RW, 10:30-11:30am

This is an informal session where you can find out more about becoming a foster carer and an opportunity to ask any questions you have. Some of our current foster carers will also be there to chat to you about their experiences and what it means to be a foster carer. If you wish to attend, please book onto the session via this link: www.eventbrite.co.uk

Tuesday 30th

Artswords Writers’ Café

Swindon Central Library, 7-9pm

The emphasis is on writers and would-be writers connecting with one another, having a chat, and offering feedback on one another’s writing. Everyone and anyone interested in writing will be welcome! For more information contact lflower@swindon.gov.uk or matt@lowershawfarm.co.uk

Wednesday 31st

Taran Matharu – Author Talk

Central Library, 10am-11am

Young Adult author Taran Matharu will be talking about his New York Times bestselling Summoner series and his new book, The Chosen. Tickets £3. Available from Central Library. 01793 466454.

Wednesday 31st

Taran Matharu – Writing Workshop

Central Library, 11:10am-1pm

Writing workshop with author Taran Matharu. Pick up some great ideas to help you on your writing journey! Tickets £6. Available from Central Library. 01793 466454.

Wednesday 31st

Rodbourne Community History Group Talk

Even Swindon Community Centre, Jennings Street, 7-9pm

The topic of July’s talk is ‘The Unknown Warrior’ by Revd. John Railton. This talk is about the genesis and development of the concept of the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, the brainchild of one of Revd. Railton’s forebears, Revd. David Railton, who served as an Army Chaplain in the First World War. Our monthly meetings usually take the form of a talk or film lasting about an hour, then the slightly less formal business of the group followed by complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits.

Ongoing Events

Until 14th July

GWR With Everything

STEAM Museum

Come and explore our new special exhibition ‘GWR with Everything’ and discover how the Great Western Railway branded anything and everything. From pen nibs, to bricks and from bars of soap to door handles, everything was branded with the company initials. The exhibition displays an array of weird and wonderful objects that were printed, stamped and marked with GWR. There is a real treasure trove of material and objects on display, some of which are being displayed for the first time. There are some really quirky items on display, such as toilet paper and manhole covers. Visitors will also get to test their skills with a ‘Guess the Object’ game. With almost a 100 objects on display this exhibition is a visual feast of everything GWR. This exhibition complements our 'The Art of Publicity' and 'The GWR Publicity Machine' displays. FREE with admission and to STEAM Season Ticket holders. We are delighted to have the modern 'Great Western Railway' on board as sponsor of this exhibition.

Until 20th July

Town and Country: Images of Swindon

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery

This exhibition explores some of the wonderful depictions of Swindon and its countryside that can be found in Swindon’s collection of Modern British Art. It includes works by David Rolt, Harold Dearden, Janet Boulton and Randolph Schwabe. The exhibition is a walk down memory lane and reveals just how much the area has changed since the early 20th century.

Until 20th July

Artist and Model: Portraits, Self-Portraits and Figure Studies from the Swindon Collection

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery

The relationship between artist and model is one of the most powerful dynamics in art. This exhibition explores that relationship through a series of portraits and figure studies, examining both artist and sitter. As well as celebrating the ability of the artist to capture their sitter, this exhibition will reconsider the importance of the sitter as muse, inspiration, antagonist and confidante. The exhibition includes paintings, drawings and prints by Frank Auerbach, John Bellany, Gwen John and RB Kitaj.

26th Jul – 23rd Dec

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.

Until 7th Sept

Infocus Stitching: Great Western Embroiderers Respond to Swindon’s Historic Photography Collections

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery

This spring, members of Swindon’s renowned Great Western Embroiders will present a new exhibition of embroidery and textiles inspired by old photographs of Swindon. For the past year, members have been exploring Swindon’s rich photographic history and creating challenging and inspiring new work. The exhibition includes examples of photography, cameras and photographic equipment from the museum’s own collections.

Until 28th Sept

Uncanny: Realism and Fantasy in Modern Ceramics

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery

Ceramics that beguile, ceramics that bewitch… this exhibition celebrates the most unusual and unsettling ceramics in Swindon’s collection of Modern British Art. Ceramic artists can manipulate clay to create rippling surfaces, soft flowing shapes, or knife sharp edges. Ceramics can be inspired by dreams or nightmares. This exhibition explores the subversive side of contemporary ceramic art. The exhibition features modern and contemporary ceramics by Malene Hartmann Rasmussen, Fenella Elms, Laurence Simon, Patricia Volk, Ben Arnup and Grayson Perry.

Until 22nd Dec

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.

Until 22nd Dec

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.

Until 23rd Dec

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 remodelled 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.

Until 31st Dec

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.

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

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.

Every Tuesday

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 Wednesday

Brushstrokes Art Group

Beechcroft Library, 12:30pm

If you like drawing or painting why not come along, there is no charge, does not matter what level of artist you we would be pleased to see you. beechcroft.library@strattonstmargaret.gov.uk

Every Wednesday

Park Writes

Park Library, Cavendish Square, 1:30-3:30pm

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!

Every Wednesday

Swindon Go Club

Windmill Pub, Freshbrook Village Centre, 7.30pm – Close

Go is one of the oldest board games in the world. It’s 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 See also www.britgo.org

Every Wednesday

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: www.facebook.com/darkroomcycleclub There’s usually the opportunity to head to the pub afterwards too.

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.

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.

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!

Every Sunday

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:

Taran Matharu’s Author Talk & Writing Workshop

Yeovilton Air Day
Wessex Male Voice Choir Concert
Great Dorset Steam Fair
MECA events including

• Roller Disco
• 4FW Wrestling