Saturday 2nd

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.

Flaxlands Christmas Craft Fayre

Flaxlands Manor Farm, Flaxlands near Hook, Royal Wootton Bassett, SN4 8DY, 10:30am-3-30pm

We have been running this charity event for 11 years and will be supporting Alzheimer’s Wiltshire this year. Don’t miss it, the café food is amazing, homemade and served all day. There are stalls for the children, chocolates and fudge, cushions, blankets, Christmas decorations, cosmetics, scarves, jewellery, glass wear, wood, willow making, wooden goods, books, cards, diaries, and so much more. Activities for the children and free parking are provided and an opportunity to participate in a silent auction with fantastic prizes.

Swindon Lions Fireworks and Funfair

Polo Ground, Marlborough Road, 5-10pm

Fireworks display at the Polo Ground with Edwards funfair, BBC Wiltshire and Pudsey Bear. Gates open at 5pm and fireworks display will start at 6:45pm. Advance tickets on sale at Swindon Central Library at a discounted price – adults £7, child £4. Tickets bought on the gate will be adults £9, child £5. There is a free park and ride at Nationwide Car Park, Pipers Way.

Family Fireworks and Bonfire Night

Swindon Cricket Club, County Road, 5-10pm

Join Swindon Cricket Club as our excellent display team return for an evening of family friendly autumnal celebrations. Wrap up warm and enjoy live music, a roaring bonfire and our biggest ever fireworks display (please note we are a sparkler free event). The bar will be open serving alcohol to adults and soft drinks to all, and we will be offering a selection of hot food and drinks. Limited parking will be made available on the night, first come first served, costing £5 per car. Adult tickets are £5, children go free when accompanied by a paying adult. Tickets on sale now via www.ticketsource.co.uk – just search for Swindon Cricket Club.

Monday 4th

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 6th

Swindon Film Society – Cold War

Swindon Arts Centre, 7:45pm

In the post-war ruins, Wiktor and Zula fall deeply, obsessively and destructively in love. As performing musicians, they are forced into the Soviet propaganda machine, but dream of escaping to the creative freedom of the West. One day they spot their chance to make a break for Paris and make a split decision that will change their lives forever. Drama, certificate 15, 89 minutes. Tickets £9, available from www.swindontheatres.co.uk.

Thursday 7th

Deepest Wiltshire by Gay Pirrie-Weir and Fanny Charles

Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre, 10:30am

Journalists Fanny Charles and Gay Pirrie-Weir will be giving a talk on their new book, Deepest Wiltshire, a portrait of the county which looks at many aspects, including archaeology, history, landscape, wildlife, food and farming, the railways, the canals, the military, the church, folklore, colourful characters and the vibrant and varied arts scene. Deepest Wiltshire is raising funds for Wiltshire Community Foundation, Wiltshire Air Ambulance and SSAFA, the military charity. Tickets £4, booking advisable. 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 – Yesterday

Sixth Form Building, Royal Wootton Bassett Academy, 7pm

Jack Malik is a struggling singer-songwriter in a tiny English seaside town whose dreams of fame are rapidly fading, despite the fierce devotion and support of his childhood best friend, Ellie. After a freak bus accident during a mysterious global blackout, Jack wakes up to discover that The Beatles have never existed… and he finds himself with a very complicated problem, indeed. British Comedy/Drama/Musical, Certificate 12, 116 minutes. Tickets £5 (cash only please). Bottled drinks and sweets available for purchase.

Friday 8th

Swindon Osteoporosis Support Group

Central Community Centre, 1:30pm

Meeting of the support group followed with a talk on Memories of an Evacuee by Martin Vandervelde. Meetings are held at the Central Community Centre, Emlyn Square, Swindon SN1 5BP at 1.30pm. New members are always welcome. For further information, telephone Ali on 01793 634424 or email swindonosteoporosis@googlemail.com Website: www.swindon-osteoporosis.org.uk

Tuesday 12th

Cricklade Cinema – Rocketman

Cricklade Town Hall, High Street, 8pm

How tubby little Reg Dwight from Middlesex became Elton John, one of the biggest pop stars of the 20th century. Taron Egerton is outstanding in the lead role in the film, which confronts the star’s addictions and personal crises head on, often accompanied by lavish song and dance routines. Certificate 15, running time 125 minutes. Tickets £4 per film or £10 for a season ticket (3 films). Tickets can be bought on the night, or in advance from the Town Council Office at 113 High Street. We sell locally sourced ice creams at £1.50 each. We do not sell drinks, but if you wish to bring your own please do. We also supply you with notes on the films being screened, telling you what it’s about, who’s in it, and some expert opinion from film reviewers.

Wednesday 13th

Caroline of Brunswick, Wife of George IV

Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre, 10:30am

With Eileen Sutherland. One of royalty’s most disastrous marriages. Forgotten by history today, we take a closer look at this unruly and unwanted queen. Reviled by her husband and put on trial for adultery, we question whether she was treated unfairly or the author of her own misfortune. Tickets £4, booking advisable. 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.

Healthy Eating & Wellbeing Talk

Beechcroft Library, 10:30am

Beechcroft Library will be hosting a talk on healthy eating and wellbeing on Wednesday 13th November starting at 10.30, this is an informal chat led by Swindon Borough Council, free event with no need to book, we look forward to seeing you. Please contact the Library for further details. 01793 829023 or beechcroft.library@strattonstmargaret.gov.uk

Swindon Society Talk

Goddard Park School, Welcome Avenue, Park North, 7:30pm

November’s talk is titled ’40 Years of the Link Magazine’ and will be given by Roger Ogle. The meetings take the form of image presentations by members or visiting speakers. Member’s entry fee is 50p, visitor’s £3. This includes light refreshments.

Thursday 14th

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.

Wiltshire Family History Society Swindon Branch Meeting

Gorse Hill Community Centre, 7:30pm

John Stooke’s topic will be ‘Last Orders… At Last’. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 7:30pm. Stuck on a problem? Don’t know where to find information? Need advice? Our resident experts are there to help you. For further details of the Swindon meetings, or general queries, contact Branch Secretary Yvonne Neal on 01793 822310 or nealy1@virginmedia.com.

Friday 15th

Swindon Stargazers Talk

Liddington Village Hall, Church Road, Liddington, 7:30-9:30pm

November’s talk will be ‘Exoplanets and the Charterhouse Exoplanet Project’ by Mark Woodland FRAS. In addition to monthly talks, the club offers the opportunity to go out on clear evenings with experienced amateurs to view the night sky, and as club members even borrow club telescopes. Alternatively bring along your own telescope and get help setting it up and getting the most out of it. The club meets on the third Friday of the month at Liddington Village Hall. See the club website for more information, including directions to the venue: http://swindonstargazers.com

Saturday 16th

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.

Christmas Charity Market

Christ Church, Cricklade Street, 10:30am-2:30pm

The Mayor will be opening the event at 10:30. Over 35 local charities and community organisations have stalls in the church and community centre where refreshments will be served. The church choir and handbell ringers will be performing. Free admission.

Saturday 16th - Sunday 17th

Christmas Craft and Food Fair

Roves Farm, 10am-4pm

Kickstart the festive period with a weekend showcasing the best food from our farm shop and butchery as well as a selection of gifts from local designer-makers. With twinkling Christmas lights and locally sourced seasonal food and drink, it’s a great festive day out for all the family. Entry to the Christmas Craft and Food Fair is free. Please note entry to the play barn, animal barns and other farm activities will require a valid wristband. If you’re interested in having a craft stall at the event, please visit our website and complete an application form.

Christmas Charity Market

Christ Church, 10:30am-2:30pm

The Friends of Christ Church are hosting the annual Christmas Charity Market on Saturday 16 November at Christ Church Old Town. The Mayor is opening the event at 1030 which finishes at 1430. Over 35 local charities and community organisations have stalls in the church and community centre where refreshments will be served. The church choir and handbell ringers will be performing. Free admission.

Wanborough Farmers’ Market

Wanborough Village Hall, 9am-12pm

The next Wanborough Farmers' Market and Community Connect Cafe are on Saturday 16th November in Wanborough Village Hall from 9am to midday. We have a new stall - Michelle from Brinkworth will be selling Scotch eggs, sausage rolls, quiches and cakes using her own free range stock. Come and try! More information on 01793 790438 or sbirley@gn.apc.org

Sunday 17th

Christmas Craft Event

Holiday Inn Hotel, Marlborough Road, 10:30am-2:30pm

Fundraising event in aid of the Brighter Futures Charity. There will be 15 festive stalls situated in the Lambourn Suite just left of the reception on entry. Free parking available, you will need to tap in your vehicle registration number as you enter the reception. Hot and cold beverages available to purchase at the hotel bar. For more information please contact Claire Cambridge on clairecambridge@ymail.com or 07867 300240.

Monday 18th

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 20th

How to Care for Your Jewellery

Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre, 2pm

Object conservator Kayleigh will be demonstrating how to clean and protect silver jewellery and other precious valuables to keep your gems sparkling. Tickets £4, booking advisable. 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.

Swindon Film Society – The Guardians

Swindon Arts Centre, 7:45pm

France, 1915. On the Paridier farm the women grapple with the workload under the watchful eye and deft hand of Hortense, the family matriarch. Most of their menfolk, including two of Hortense’s sons, are away at war. Reluctantly Hortense brings in an outsider, the orphan Francine, to help her daughter Solange with the chores. Drama/war, certificate 15, 135 minutes. Tickets £9, available from www.swindontheatres.co.uk.

Friday 22nd

Free Lunchtime Talk – Time For Tea

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 12:30-1pm

Join our Curator for this free lunchtime talk on our new ceramics exhibition, Time For Tea. This new exhibition brings together some of our favourite tea cups, teapots and other items from collections. Lunchtime talks are free, start at 12:30 and last for approximately 30 minutes.

Saturday 23rd

Lego Extravaganza

Beechcroft Library, 10:30am

Beechcroft Library are holding a Lego Extravaganza, there will be prizes for the best models and a free prize draw, the theme for your model must be Winter and or Christmas. Why not come along to this free event and have some fun, you may win a prize! For further details please contact the Library on 01793 829023 or email beechcroft.library@strattonstmargaret.gov.uk

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.

Charity Christmas Coffee Morning

The Crown Inn, Stratton, 10am-12pm

In aid of Swindon Guide Dogs. A cup of tea/coffee and a slice of cake will cost just £3 and the proceeds of the event will go to our charity. There is no need to book a table, just turn up. We will also be holding a raffle during the event.

Sunday 24th

Brighter Futures Christmas Fair

Grange Community Centre, Stratton St Margaret, 10am-3pm

This is a great opportunity to get some Christmas shopping done before the December rush! We will have around 40 stall holders, a chance to meet Santa and get an early Christmas gift! You can also take a ‘Santa Selfie’ to remember your day. Enjoy the choirs and Christmas themed activities. This will be a great event to get you in the festive mood! Entry is free and there is limited free parking on site. There is plenty of street parking.

Tuesday 26th

Cricklade Cinema – Rocketman

Cricklade Town Hall, High Street, 8pm

An aspiring musician bangs his head in an accident after a global blackout, and recovers to discover that The Beatles never existed – and so sets about claiming their songs for himself, becoming an overnight sensation in the process. Written by Richard Curtis and directed by Danny Boyle. Certificate 12A, running time 116 minutes. Tickets £4 per film or £10 for a season ticket (3 films). Tickets can be bought on the night, or in advance from the Town Council Office at 113 High Street. We sell locally sourced ice creams at £1.50 each. We do not sell drinks, but if you wish to bring your own please do. We also supply you with notes on the films being screened, telling you what it’s about, who’s in it, and some expert opinion from film reviewers.

Library Shop Christmas Preview Evening

The Library Shop, Central Library, 6pm-8:30pm

The Library Shop invites you to a special preview evening with the opportunity to buy unique & locally made Christmas gifts. The shop will be open from 6pm – 8.30pm and will feature artists in residence, local authors, face painting & the Sing Your Socks Off Choir. The café will be open for refreshments.

Thursday 28th

Corruption, Murder and Suicide: Coroner’s Records for the Family Historian 1194-1916

Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre, 10:30am

In 1194 new reforms were set up which included new county officers called the Coroner. Their role was simple: to generate as much income for the King as possible. Even one hundred years after the conquest, the Saxons still had a terrible habit of killing Normans. A fine was imposed on the village where a body was found, as it was presumed to be Norman. The fine was known as ‘Murdrum’, from which the word murder derives. Coroner’s inquests dealt with these cases and the revenue from the fines imposed went to the King. In 1752 an act was passed which entitled coroners to travel expenses. These records survive and provide a glimpse at the hazardous lives that men, women and children of the 18th and 19th centuries had to endure on a daily basis. This talk will provide you with an insight into the records that have survived since the 12th century and offer the family/local historian the opportunity to learn about an interesting and underused class of records. Tickets £4, booking advisable. 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.

Purton Historical Society Talk

Purton Village Hall, 7:30pm

November’s talk is titled ‘Wiltshire Through the Eyes of a Moonraker’ and will be given by Michael Gamble. Annual membership £15, guests £3 per meeting. New members and visitors always welcome. For further information contact Marion Hobbs on 01793 770185 roy.marion@btinternet.com.

Ken White and Andy Binks – In Conversation

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

A Friends of Swindon MAG talk with Ken White. Celebrated artist and muralist Ken White embarks on a whistle stop tour of his life through some amazing photographs aided by Andy Binks of the Swindon Society. This promises to be an entertaining and informative evening. Tickets are limited so please book in advance to avoid disappointment. Doors open at 7pm. Tickets £6 for friends of SMAG, £8 non-friends. Tickets available online and via SMAG on 01793 466556.

Wiltshire Family History Society Swindon Branch Meeting

Gorse Hill Community Centre, 7:30pm

Chris and Judy Rouse’s topic will be ‘The Railway Navvies: Saints and Sinners’. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 7:30pm. Stuck on a problem? Don’t know where to find information? Need advice? Our resident experts are there to help you. For further details of the Swindon meetings, or general queries, contact Branch Secretary Yvonne Neal on 01793 822310 or nealy1@virginmedia.com.

Saturday 30th

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 – Season’s Greetings

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 11am-3pm

Celebrate the festive season by making some Christmas crafts. 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 30th - 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.

Ongoing Events

Until 3rd November

Witches and Wizards School

Roves Farm

New for 2019! Join our Witches and Wizards School this half term to complete your training in potions, spells and flying. Plus all of our daily activities, including pumpkin carving, meet the animals, tractor rides, music time, egg collecting and animal feeding. With lots of undercover activities and our heated play barn there’s plenty to keep the whole family busy all day, whatever the weather. For more information visit www.rovesfarm.co.uk

Until 9th November

Touring the Swindon Collection, 60 Years On

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery

In 1959, the Swindon Collection of Modern British Art began a tour of 16 towns and cities of the United Kingdom. From Falmouth to Sunderland, Southend-on-Sea to Bolton, thousands of museum visitors were introduced to paintings by Paul Nash, LS Lowry, Gwen John and Graham Sutherland. This new exhibition celebrates the sixtieth anniversary of this tour, which introduced the people of Britain to Swindon’s remarkable art and established the reputation of the ‘Swindon Collection’. This exhibition brings together the 44 works of art sent ‘on tour’ in 1959 and presents them alongside some of the most important acquisitions we have made in the decades since. The exhibition explores the history of the collection and the ambitions and challenges of touring so many pictures to so many places.

19th November - 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 30th November

Ken White: Railways and Landscapes

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery

This exhibition brings together a selection of paintings by one of Swindon’s best loved artists, Ken White. Known for his depictions of life in the GWR works, this exhibition includes railway paintings and local landscapes.

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.

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.

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 December

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 and Thursday

Richard Jefferies Museum

10:30am-12pm

During August over the school holidays on Tuesday and Thursdays 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 Symphony Orchestra
Swindon Film Society Screenings
Swindon Lions Fireworks