Wednesday 2nd

Poetry Reading & Talk

Beechcroft Library, 11am
Local poet, Olivia Tuck, will be reading poems and talking about her book at Beechcroft Library on Wednesday 2nd October from 11am, this is a free event and there is no need to book. For further details, please contact the library on 01793 829023 or beechcroft.library@strattonstmargaret.gov.uk

Wednesday 2nd

Swindon Film Society – Wajib

Swindon Arts Centre, 7:45pm
Nazareth, the present. Shadi has returned home from Italy for the wedding of his sister Amal, and is now accompanying his father Abu, as they drive around town in Abu’s battered old Volvo, hand-delivering the wedding invitations, as is required by custom. Drama, certificate 15, 97 minutes. Tickets £9, available from www.swindontheatres.co.uk.

Thursday 3rd

Royal Wootton Bassett Cinema – All Is True

Sixth Form Building, Royal Wootton Bassett Academy, 7pm

The year is 1613, and Shakespeare is acknowledged as the greatest writer of the age. But disaster strikes when his renowned Globe Theatre burns to the ground. Devastated, Shakespeare returns to Stratford, where he must face a troubled past and a neglected family. Haunted by the death of his only son, Hamnet, he struggles to mend the broken relationship with his wife and daughters. In so doing, he is ruthlessly forced to examine his own failings as a husband and father. Historical Biopic, Certificate 12, 101 minutes. Tickets £5 (cash only please). Bottled drinks and sweets available for purchase.

Thursday 3rd

Wroughton History Group Open Meeting

St Joseph’s Church Hall, Wroughton, 7:30-9pm
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. Open evenings are for everyone to get together over tea/coffee and chat about events, share information (perhaps some old photographs), and discuss matters of interest to the group.

Thursday 3rd - Monday 7th

Poetry Swindon Festival

All events take place at the Richard Jeffries Museum in the Tent Palace of the Delicious Air, except workshops which are at the Holiday Inn opposite the museum.

Friday 4th

Swindon Philosophical Society Talk: Political Philosophy

Friends’ Meeting House, Eastcott Hill, 7:40pm-9:40pm
1 hour talk by Sarah Church on Political Philosophy, followed by a 1 hour discussion. Everyone is welcome – just turn up. There is a charge of £2 to cover expenses (students free). www.facebook.com/swindonphilsoc

Saturday 5th

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 5th

Moth Trapping at Stanton Park

Meeting place to be advised on booking, 7pm-10pm
Robin Griffiths leads an evening trapping of autumn moths at one of the premier Wiltshire moth sites. Children especially welcome to this event. Cost: £5. To book contact Robin Griffiths: 01793 751081/07761 290725 or robswildlife@googlemail.com

Saturday 5th

An Evening with The Ukey D’Ukes

St. Augustine’s Church, Summers Street, 7-10pm
Come and join us for an evening with The Ukey D’Ukes, one of the UK’s leading ukulele bands. There will be a small selection of drinks available by donation on the evening but feel free to bring your own. There will also be a raffle on the night. Adults £10, children £5 (includes supper). Tickets must be purchased in advance and are available before the evening from the church, by phoning 07776 458278 or available to reserve on the church website. We will contact you once you have reserved your tickets. We are able to accept cash, cheques, or credit/debit cards.

Saturday 5th

Salvation Army Coffee Morning

Devizes Road, 9:30am-12:30pm
Coffee morning and table top sale. Everyone welcome to join for coffee and homemade cake. Money raised supports local work.

Saturday 5th - Sunday 6th

Great Western Brick Show

STEAM Museum, 10am-5pm
Experience gigantic LEGO models and inventions. There will be new models for 2019, exciting LEGO robot wars tournaments, help build a giant LEGO mosaic, LEGO shop and marketplace for some superb deals, and a brick café to keep you refreshed in first-class style. For more information and to book tickets, see www.steam-museum.org.uk.

Saturday 5th - Saturday 12th

Highworth Artists’ Society Exhibition

Community Room, Council Offices, 3 Gilbert’s Lane, Highworth, SN6 7FB, 10am-4pm
Entrance free.

Monday 7th

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.

Monday 7th

Great British Classic Charity Night in aid of Swindon Guide Dogs

The Crown Inn, 7pm
The Crown Inn at Stratton, Swindon are holding a Great British Classics Charity Night in aid of Swindon Guide Dogs on Monday 7th October and starts at 7pm with last orders at 9.30pm. Main courses cost £7.95 and £5 of this goes straight to Swindon Guide Dogs. British favourites such as fish & chips, pie & mash, Ham eggs & chips being just some on the charity night menu. To book a table call The Crown on 01793827530 or email thecrownstratton@gmail.com. This is a very popular event so please book early to avoid disappointment.

Wednesday 9th

Swindon Society Talk

Goddard Park School, Welcome Avenue, Park North, 7:30pm
October’s talk is titled ‘Our Boys: A Family’s War’ and will be given by Paul Gentleman. 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 10th

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 10th

Rusty Goat’s Central Library Poetry Takeover

Swindon Central Library, 7-9pm
Rusty Goat’s Poetry Corner for Mental Health day – two professional poets, and open mic slots available! This is a free event, no booking required.

Thursday 10th

Wiltshire Family History Society Swindon Branch Meeting

Gorse Hill Community Centre, 7:30pm
Tony Painter’s topic will be ‘West Country Dialect, Dead or Alive’. 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 11th

Swindon Osteoporosis Support Group

Central Community Centre, 1:30pm
Meeting of the support group followed with an Osteoporosis Update by Dr. David Collins Consultant Rheumatologist, G.W.H. 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

Friday 11th

Free Lunchtime Talk: Ken White: Railways and Landscapes

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 12:30pm-1pm
Join our curator for a free lunchtime tour of our brand new exhibition, Ken White: Railways and Landscapes. This exhibition is a selection of paintings by one of Swindon’s best loved artists, Ken White. Lunchtime tours are free, start at 12:30pm and last for approximately 30 minutes.

Friday 11th

Swindon Philosophical Society Talk: The UN Sustainable Development Goals

Friends’ Meeting House, Eastcott Hill, 7:40pm-9:40pm
1 hour talk by Peter von Lany on the UN Sustainable Development Goals, followed by a 1 hour discussion. Everyone is welcome – just turn up. There is a charge of £2 to cover expenses (students free). www.facebook.com/swindonphilsoc

Saturday 12th

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.

Saturday 12th

Techfest

Swindon Central Library, 11am-3pm
Swindon: Learning Town in partnership with Swindon Libraries presents Techfest 2019, as part of Libraries Week. Experience the latest technology and find out about career and other learning opportunities. Featuring Render Media with VR, Create Studios, Fayju Games, 3D printing, STEM Clubs, ebooks and more! This is a free event for all the family.

Saturday 12th - Sunday 13th

Richard Jefferies Winter Challenge

Richard Jefferies Museum, from 9am
The event is 24 x 4.2 mile laps that start each hour. They complete as many laps as they want to (and not necessarily consecutively). They accrue distance up to 100 miles. No credit or advantage will be given to those that complete laps quickly (and those that finish a lap outside the hour will be able to count their distance) . They all start the next lap together and no times will be taken. Those that do all 24 will run in together at the head of the field possibly holding hands. There is going to be lots of quirky stuff such as themed laps and party type games. There will be a ceremony for those solos or teams that get timed out on a lap and those that complete the whole 24 lap event. In addition they will lay on some entertainment in the evening and they will have a speaker or two. There will be unlimited refreshments for runners as well as a lunch, evening meal and breakfast. Entry fee: £24.

Sunday 13th

Swindon Vegan Festival

The Rolleston Arms Hotel, 12pm-5pm
We will have stalls selling a variety of vegan products, vegan speakers, vegan groups, live music as well as vegan roast dinners and puddings in the Rolleston. All proceeds from the event will go towards vegan charities. We encourage everyone to come along and find out more about veganism.

Wednesday 16th

Cricklade Historical Society Talk

Cricklade Town Hall Annexe, 7pm
October’s talk is ‘A History of Cricklade in 10 Objects’ by Mark Clarke. Doors open at 7pm for a 7:30pm start. Non-members always welcome.

Wednesday 16th

Chiseldon Local History Group Talk

Church Hall, Butts Road, Chiseldon, 7:30pm
October’s meeting will include the AGM as well as David Bailey’s talk ‘A Night Out – 23rd September 1943’. Visitors are welcome, £3 per meeting or you can join for £10. For more information contact info@chiseldonlhg.org.uk

Thursday 17th

Yoga and Meditation

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 7pm-9pm
Explore your inner and outer world in the beautiful gallery setting inside the Swindon Museum and Art Gallery in the heart of Old Town. This two hour long event led by Michelle Jane will soften the body, calm the mind and lift the spirit as you embark on a yoga and meditation session based around one of the pieces in the Gallery's current exhibition. We will start with a walking meditation practice connecting with the self and the space then moving onto the asana practice, finishing off with relaxation. Spaces are limited so booking is essential and this event is suitable for and open all levels. This is an adult only event and if you have any pre-existing injuries or recent surgeries please contact to check that this session will be suitable for you. Please contact Michelle Jane Healing at www.facebook.com/michellejanehealing to book a place. £15 if booked before 1st October, £20 before 9th October, £22 after 9th October.

Thursday 17th

Wroughton History Group Speaker Event

St Joseph’s Hall, Wroughton, 7:30-9pm
Martin Collinson will give a talk titled ‘First Earl of Pembroke’. 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.

Friday 18th

Free Lunchtime Talk: Touring the Swindon Collection

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 12:30-1pm
Join our curator for a free lunchtime talk of our brand new exhibition, Touring the Swindon Collection. Discover the challenges and secrets behind Swindon’s decision to tour 44 works of art around England, and learn more about some of the key works of art. Lunchtime talks are free, start at 12:30pm and last for approximately 30 minutes.

Friday 18th

Brighter Futures Quiz Night

Lethbridge School, 7-10:30pm
Pit your wits against our resident quiz master, and lead your team to victory! Teams of 6 for just £30 (£5 per person). Prize for the winning team. There will be a licensed bar and a raffle on the night. Money raised will be supporting the Great Western Hospital and Community Health Service. For more information and to book, visit www.brighterfuturesgwh.nhs.uk/events/quiz

Friday 18th

Swindon Stargazers Talk

Liddington Village Hall, Church Road, Liddington, 7:30-9:30pm
October’s talks will be ‘The Grand Tour – Mission to the Giants’ given by Robert Slack, and ‘Sky Brief and Beginners Talk on Eyepieces’ by Robin Wilkey. 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: www.swindonstargazers.com

Friday 18th

Swindon Philosophical Society Talk: Science & Pseudoscience of Moons, Myths, Marvels

Friends’ Meeting House, Eastcott Hill, 7:40pm-9:40pm
1 hour talk by Geraint Day on Science and Pseudoscience of Moons, Myths, Marvels, followed by a 1 hour discussion. Everyone is welcome – just turn up. There is a charge of £2 to cover expenses (students free). www.facebook.com/swindonphilsoc

Friday 18th - Sunday 20th

Purton Artists’ Exhibition

Purton Village Hall, Fri 6-8:30pm, Sat & Sun 10am-4pm
Exhibition of original paintings, prints, cards and crafts.

Saturday 19th

GWR Works Tour of the Designer Outlet

Designer Outlet Reception Desk, meet at 10am
This popular free walking tour of the surviving buildings of the ex-GWR Works takes up to two hours. The tour focuses on the listed Joseph Armstrong buildings of the Designer Outlet but also refers to others on the old factory site, including STEAM – Museum of the Great Western Railway, The Managers Office, the Chain Test shop and the ex-drawing and administrative offices that are now Historic England’s Archive and English Heritage’s offices. We include anecdotes from Rodbournite and ex-GWR employee Ron Johnson who worked “inside” for 30 years to paint an amusing and sometimes frightening account of life in the factory. Booking essential: email secretary@rodbournehistory.org

Saturday 19th

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 19th

Crafters De-Stash Table Top Sale

Ellendune Community Centre, Wroughton 1:30-4:30pm
There will be around thirty stallholders who, having cleared out materials and equipment from their craft storage, will be hoping to sell you some crafty bargains. Previous sales have included fabric, yarn, patterns, paper/card, paints, craft equipment etc. Free parking, and refreshments available. There will be a raffle for a brand new Dyson ball vacuum cleaner, donated by Dyson. Additionally there will be a table selling donated items. The proceeds of sales from this table will go directly to two local charities – Dressability and Swindon Men’s Shed (which supports male stroke survivors). £1 entry for buyers. For more information please contact Tina on 07504813514.

Saturday 19th

Salvation Army Coffee Morning

Devizes Road, 9:30am-12:30pm
Coffee morning and table top sale. Everyone welcome to join for coffee and homemade cake. Money raised supports local M.S group.

Sunday 20th

Cemetery Walks

Radnor Street Cemetery, 2pm
Join the Swindon Heritage Team for an interesting walk around Radnor Street Cemetery. Meet at the Chapel, centre of Radnor Street Cemetery. Event leaders Fran, Andy and Noel. Book in advance on 07968 246792 or email ambamwas@yahoo.com. This is a free event.

Sunday 20th

Dreamgate Psychic Fayre

Village Inn (Devere) off Whitehall Way
Psychic readings given by exceptionally gifted psychics at Wiltshire’s longest running psychic fayre. Readings start from £20.

Monday 21st

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 22nd

Cricklade Cinema – Stan and Ollie

Cricklade Town Hall, High Street
A warm and affectionate account of the final British tour of legendary comedy duo Laurel and Hardy. It’s a bittersweet story that covers the great bond between the performers, but also the disagreements that sometimes stood in the way of their friendship. Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly are terrific in the title roles. Certificate PG, running time 95 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 23rd

How to Look After Your Wedding Dress (or any Special Outfit)

Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre, 2pm
Have you often wondered if your cherished outfit will survive for future generations? Join us in our conservation lab where Object Conservator Kayleigh will demonstrate using a vintage kimono to show the best way to package and store special garments. 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.

Wednesday 23rd

Swindon Film Society – Summer 1993

Swindon Arts Centre, 7:45pm
Six-year-old Frida looks on in silence as the last objects from her recently deceased mother’s apartment in Barcelona are placed in boxes. Although her aunt, uncle and younger cousin Anna welcome her with open arms, it’s only very slowly that Frida begins to get used to her new home in the countryside. Drama/family, certificate 12A, 101 minutes. Tickets £9, available from www.swindontheatres.co.uk.

Thursday 24th

Hidden Houses Revealed – From Wolf Hall to a Tobacco Factory on the Plain

Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre, 10:30am
With Dorothy Treasure. Discover some of the fascinating secrets to be found in Wiltshire’s buildings, from the quirky to the amazing. A must for budding house historians. 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.

Thursday 24th

Children’s Workshop – Wave to the World!

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 11am-3pm
Make a flag to celebrate United Nations Day and have a go at the world map quiz! All workshops are drop-in sessions and take place between 11am and 3pm. £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.

Thursday 24th

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust Talk: All the Ks – Birds of New Zealand

Hall behind the Woodshaw Inn, Royal Wootton Bassett, 7:30pm
Expert photographer Graham Lenton will give an illustrated talk showing New Zealand's unique birdlife. There is a car park on site. Access to the hall is via the inn’s main entrance at the front of the inn or via a side entrance. Raffle and refreshments will be available. Members and non-members welcome. Adults £4, accompanied children free. Contact Barry Bissett on 01793 848217 or barry.bissett@btinternet.com

Thursday 24th

Purton Historical Society Talk

Purton Village Hall, 7:30pm
October’s talk is titled ‘Disaster Waiting – The Severn Bridge Disaster’ and will be given by Paul Barnett. 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.

Thursday 24th

Wiltshire Family History Society Swindon Branch Meeting

Gorse Hill Community Centre, 7:30pm
Alan Gaunt’s topic will be ‘The Story of a Book’. 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.

Thursday 24th - Saturday 26th

Swindon and North Wilts Big Beer Festival

STEAM Museum
Admission price includes a souvenir tankard and programme. In addition, Camra members will receive £2 worth of beer tokens on production of a current membership card. For more information about the festival (including admission times/prices), please see www.swindon.camra.org.uk

Friday 25th

Royal Wootton Bassett Cinema – Rocketman

Royal Wootton Bassett Rugby Club, 7pm
Rocketman is an epic musical fantasy about the incredible human story of Elton John’s breakthrough years. The film follows the fantastical journey of transformation from shy piano prodigy Reginald Dwight into international superstar Elton John. This inspirational story – set to Elton John’s most beloved songs and performed by Taron Egerton – tells the universally relatable story of how a small-town boy became one of the most iconic figures in pop culture. Musical Drama, Certificate 15, 121 minutes. Tickets £5 (cash only please). Bottled drinks and sweets available for purchase.

Friday 25th

Swindon Philosophical Society Book Club Meeting

Friends’ Meeting House, Eastcott Hill, 7:40pm-9:40pm
Session led by Chris Charles. Aristotle’s Way by Edith Hall. Everyone is welcome – just turn up. There is a charge of £2 to cover expenses (students free). https://www.facebook.com/swindonphilsoc/

Friday 25th - Saturday 26th

Halloween Ghost Train

Swindon and Cricklade Railway, 6-8:45pm
Dare you ride the Ghost Train? A spooky evening extravaganza with the train and station peopled by ghosts and ghouls!

Saturday 26th

Bonfire and Fireworks

Roves Farm, 5-9pm
A family friendly fireworks display designed especially for young children. No BIG bangs, lots of sparkle! Massive bonfire, fairground rides, children’s entertainment, disco & more! For more information see www.rovesfarm.co.uk (No sparklers please!)

Saturday 26th

Brighter Futures Halloween Spooktacular

Coate Water Country Park, 10:30am-12:30pm
Trick or treat yourselves to our fun 3km for Brighter Futures. Whether you run, jog or walk, this event is open to all ages. Show us your scarily good costumes and be prepared for the unexpected on the course. You will be rewarded with a medal at the finish line and some Halloween themed treats! Adults £10, under 16s £7, under 5s £1. By taking part in our Halloween Spooktacular event, you can support any ward or department at the Great Western Hospital. With your help we can fund that extra special level of care in order to make a real difference to patients, their families and our staff who treat them, above what the NHS is able to provide. We improve the hospital environment, fund ground breaking research, support the development and training of hospital staff and provide state-of-the-art equipment. For more information and to sign up go to www.brighterfuturesgwh.nhs.uk/events/halloween-spooktacular

Tuesday 29th

Halloween Craft Event

Beechcroft Library, 11am
There will be a fun Halloween Craft event at Beechcroft Library on Tuesday 29th October at 11am, suitable for 3 to 11 year olds. Please note, numbers will be limited, 50p per child For further details please contact the Library on 01793 829023 or beechcroft.library@strattonstmargaret.gov.uk

Tuesday 29th

Children’s Workshop – Putrid Pumpkins & Spooky Spiders!

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 11am-3pm
Prepare to be petrified by putrid pumpkins and spooky spiders in this Halloween craft workshop. All workshops are drop-in sessions and take place between 11am and 3pm. £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.

Tuesday 29th

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust Talk: Bats in the UK

Hall behind the Woodshaw Inn, Royal Wootton Bassett, 7:30pm
Laura Mulholland, Chair of the Wiltshire Bat Group, will give an illustrated talk on these fascinating nocturnal mammals. There is a car park on site. Access to the hall is via the inn’s main entrance at the front of the inn or via a side entrance. Raffle and refreshments will be available. Members and non-members welcome. Adults £4, accompanied children free. Contact Barry Bissett on 01793 848217 or barry.bissett@btinternet.com

Wednesday 30th

Children’s Workshop – Nightmare Nonsense

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 11am-3pm
Use a bit of witchcraft to frighten away those nightmares and make a protective nightmare catcher. All workshops are drop-in sessions and take place between 11am and 3pm. £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.

Wednesday 30th

Autumn Children’s Activity Day

Lower Shaw Farm, 10am-3pm
For children aged 5 to 12 years. Outdoors and around the farm: meet the animals, enjoy arts and crafts; learn to cook over an open fire; and play, play, play in the big barn! Life is for learning and having fun at Lower Shaw Farm. Please wear old clothes and bring a packed lunch. £15 per child. This is a Children’s Project event. To book, please email enquiries@lowershawfarm.co.uk, with children’s names, ages, and parent/carer’s contact details. We will reply confirming, and giving details of how to pay.

Wednesday 30th

Rodbourne Community History Group Talk

Even Swindon Community Centre, Jennings Street, 7-9pm
October’s talk is titled ‘Coleshill’s Secret History – The Auxiliary Units’. Liza Dibble from The National Trust will run through the history of the Auxiliary Units, how Coleshill became the GHQ, what the training consisted of and how it was all kept top secret. Also, what there is to see now and the walks that The National Trust have at Coleshill. Our monthly meetings usually take the form of a talk or a film lasting about an hour, then the slightly less formal business of the group followed by complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits.

Thursday 31st

Children’s Workshop – The Haunted House

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 11am-3pm
oUse a spot of magic this Halloween to uncover your own mysterious haunted house. All workshops are drop-in sessions and take place between 11am and 3pm. £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.

Thursday 31st

Friends Talk – Michael Ayrton, Image Maker

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, 7:30-8:30pm
A talk by Justine Hopkins on Michael Ayrton. Painter, sculptor, illustrator and stage designer; novelist, critic, essayist and broadcaster, Michael Ayrton’s works in all media were informed by a deep fascination with people and an abiding love of myth, which he saw as fundamentally relevant to contemporary life. His works challenged both traditional and contemporary expectations and brought him criticism and admiration in equal measure. Swindon is fortunate enough to possess one of his finest early paintings, the enigmatic Roman Window, and in this lecture Justine Hopkins, Ayrton’s step-granddaughter and biographer, will explore the context and circumstances which led to its creation and its place in the enduring legacy of this intriguing and controversial artist. 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, £8 for non-friends.

Thursday 31st

Wroughton History Group Open Meeting

St Joseph’s Church Hall, Wroughton, 7:30-9pm
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. Open evenings are for everyone to get together over tea/coffee and chat about events, share information (perhaps some old photographs), and discuss matters of interest to the group.

Ongoing Events

Until 12th October

100 Years of the Wiltshire WI: Celebrating the Centenary of the Wiltshire Federation

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery
Wiltshire’s Women’s Institutes were established in 1919 and Wiltshire’s Federation is celebrating its centenary year in 2019. Swindon Museum and Art Gallery will host an exhibition celebrating the women of Wiltshire’s WI and the contribution they have made to county life. From jam and Jerusalem, to education and campaign, this exhibition looks at the history and future of Wiltshire’s WI.

October 15th - March 7th

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.

October 23rd - January 4th

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.

October 26th - November 3rd

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.

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.

Until 22nd December

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 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 23rd December

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 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.

Until 31st Dec

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.

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.

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 Tuesday & 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, 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 Thursday

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.

Every Friday

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.

Every Saturday

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

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:

MECA Events
Swindon Symphony Orchestra
Jazz in the Church
Swindon Film Society Screenings