What’s On In Herefordshire

‘Song Of The Earth’ is the Spring 2019 exhibition at Old Chapel Gallery in Pembridge. The exhibition opens on Saturday March 2nd with drinks from 11am Encompassing a unique collection of hand picked, desirable, contemporary British fine art and craft including watercolours, textile collage, ceramic sculpture, painted wood and silver jewellery. Each piece inspired by nature, we hope this latest exhibition strikes a heartening mood of optimism.  Heading the line up is self taught textile artist Barbara Shaw, who creates art using fabric like paint to construct her magnificent collage pictures. By hand-stitching or bonding many small pieces of fabric together in layers. She uses patterned and tactile materials in vibrant or subtle colours are useful as well as chiffon ribbons for shading, sparkly fabric for light, lace for intricate detail and tweed for texture all help to bring the artwork alive.    Northumberland-based artist, Mary Ann Rogers, paints vibrant watercolour paintings full of energy, from an in-depth knowledge of her subject matter. Her studio is surrounded by the wild hills of Northumberland, whose inhabitants, along with her own menagerie of birds, feature in her work. Mary Ann’s work is highly collectable and she was warded ‘Best selling published artist’ by the  Fine Art Trade Guild in 2009. […]

LEGO® Brick History exhibition is coming to Hereford! Brick History takes famous moments from history and imagines them in LEGO® bricks – how many do you recognise? From DNA and the Big Bang to Mozart, Martin Luther King and mobile phones, LEGO® artist Warren Elsmore and his team have created a celebration of our shared stories, struggles, and triumphs, made from everyone’s favourite Danish toy. From tiny recreations of Concorde and the Titanic that could fit in your hand, to a 1.5m square medieval castle bustling with activity, there are models to make you smile, to make you think, and to inspire you to build a better world. Tickets £2 child, £3.50 adult, £8.50 family (2 adults, 2 children), Under 5s free (Plus £1.50 booking fee per transaction) Book LEGO® tickets or call The Courtyard Box Office on 01432 340555. W: herefordshire.gov.uk

FURZIE Wool Sculpture Courses Needle-felt an animal at Trumpet Corner Gallery and Tea Room near Ledbury Course cost £55 and includes:  A full day 10.00am – 4.30pm  and all materials, a light lunch, tea and coffee You will learn how to needle-felt with wool and how to make a wire armature There is an option to purchase felting tools and mat before or after course To book: Phone 01594 516906 Email: felt@furzie.co.uk W: furzie.co.uk “It’s one of the best things I have done in a long time” “Great teacher, great course, great location, great value for money!” “I was apprehensive that my skills wouldn’t be good enough to create anything like the beautiful creations on her website. How wrong was I!” “I’d highly recommend going with a few friends. the laughs are as good as the course”

Organised by Wild Food UK, Spring Foraging Courses will be held at Eastnor Castle Deer Park on the outskirts of Ledbury, by kind permission of Eastnor Castle. This beautiful, well situated venue is within easy reach of Malvern, Bromyard, Hereford, Worcester, Ross-on-wye, Cheltenham and Gloucester. Meet in the parking area along the road opposite to the main entrance to the Castle grounds at 12pm for a short introduction on what to look for and a brief of the general countryside codes, where they relate to foragers. The course starts with a short introduction on what to look for and a brief of the general countryside codes, where they relate to foragers. Then we’ll set off on a roughly 2.5 hour walk around the deer park and the castle grounds, teaching you how to identify the different Spring shoots, plants, flowers and hopefully mushrooms that we find. There will be a break along the way for some homemade refreshments such as our lovely hogweed and wild garlic soup. After the walk we will end the day with a tasty wild food lunch based on what we have found. This will include some treats made from our recent finds, a wild salad that we […]

Walenty Pytel is a renowned contemporary artist and is internationally recognised as a leading steel and bronze sculptor of birds and beasts, based in Herefordshire. Walenty has recently opened his private Gallery and Studios at his Herefordshire home. The Gallery and Sculpture Trail offers a unique opportunity to meet Walenty, a tour of his gallery and studio and includes a guide of all the other local sculpture locations for you to visit at your own leisure. Whilst at the gallery you will also be able to view a short film about Walenty’s life and work, followed with refreshments at the main house. Sculptures, metal and bronze, limited edition prints and cards can be purchased from the gallery. Current Dates are April 4, May 16, June 13, June 27. £12. per person, concessions (groups of 10 or more, OAPs, students £10 per person.) If you are interested contact the team using the ‘BOOK NOW’ button on their Facebook page to let them know which date you are interested in and a member of staff will get back to you. Venue: Bromsash, HR9 Ross on Wye

At Swan Brewery Tasting Days, there’s a drink on the house for all visitors, brewing to watch, the shop to browse and a dart board for practice.  Be among the first people to taste a new seasonal beer, alongside other ales from the Swan Brewery portfolio. On 5th April Swan Blonde will be launched.  It’s a beautiful blonde coloured, 3.7% Herefordshire hopped ale.  Pale Maris Otter finest brewing malt delivers the inviting pale golden hue.  The hops cover Challenger for bittering and Cascade, Ernest and Goldings for aroma, all grown in the Hopshires, specifically the Hereford-Ledbury-Bromyard triangle.  What stands out for us is the honey, spicey notes from Head Brewer’s favoured Goldings hops.  At 3.7% Swan Blonde is distinctly sessionable. Open from 9am to 6pm.

Ferrous Festival 2019 follows on from the success since launching Ferrous2017. Hereford city centre will come alive to the sights and sounds of six hot metal forges as blacksmiths and members of the public gather in High Town to create a stunning new piece of art. Ferrous2019 will be back from 5th April 2019.  Brought to you by Hereford Business Improvement District and Hereford College of Arts, this year’s festival is packed with exhibitions, talks, film and of course blacksmithing demonstrations and the chance to have a go. Live Forging – Your chance to Have a Go and Save the Bees From 5th – 7th April the huge marquee with seven hot metal forges will be making its return to Hereford’s High Town. This offers another chance for Hereford residents and visitors to the city to watch demonstrations by expert blacksmiths or try their own skills at the anvil. This year’s challenge is to make a beautiful seed marker for your garden or balcony which you will be able to take home with you afterwards. And we are giving you a packet of wildflower seeds to plant and mark with your seed marker – our small contribution to celebrating and supporting the […]

Spend a relaxing weekend making pots on the potter’s wheel. The therapeutic benefits of working with soft clay on the potter’s wheel are well documented. Participants often leave the studio on Sunday afternoon feeling totally de-stressed and with an overwhelming sense of well-being. “I feel like I’ve spent a weekend at a health farm!” commented a recent punter. Small friendly groups and eight electric potter’s wheels ensure plenty of individual attention and guidance. You will explore a whole range of making techniques based upon the potter’s wheel including: throwing, turning, attaching handles & motifs and decorating methods using under-glaze and coloured slip. Cost: £240 Includes refreshments, lunch, materials, (1-4 pots) firing, glazing and the cost of posting your finished masterpieces. Content: Day 1 The workshop starts at 10am where you’ll be individually assigned a potter’s wheel for the duration of the workshop. After tea/coffee, introductions and initial demonstration you will be taken as a group, step by step, through the pot throwing process. Once you have got the hang of things, you will be encouraged to develop at your own pace with individual tutoring as and when required. Around 1pm, a lunch consisting of rolls, cheese, ham, salad and fruit is […]

The next Bromyard Speed Festival street event will be on 7th April 2019 with a similar format to the 2016 and 2017 events. From 2019 onwards we plan for it to be a biennial event to reflect the massive effort entailed in staging it and the need to keep it fresh and improving. FIFTY YEARS SINCE THE END OF THE SIXTIES Bromyard Speed Festival 2019 salutes the classic era of the 60’s. The streets of Bromyard will once again become automotive party central on Sunday 7th April 2019. This year’s festival celebrating the motoring golden years of the swinging 1960’s, as it is 50 years since they ended! As well as 60’s feature cars, grids will also include; Vintage, Classic, 50’s, 60’s, 70’s Race Cars, Rally, Classic Karts, Hill Climb and Aero Engined machines that shake the very foundations of this historic market town. The motorcycle section this year will celebrate the Triumph marque, with special recognition of the Bonneville. And as a nod to the epic 1969 film Easy Rider, a class for choppers, a spectacle to induce the spirit of its day with much sound, colour and vibe man! A special tribute this year will be to the late Whizzo […]

Ferrous Festival 2019 follows on from the success since launching Ferrous2017. Hereford city centre will come alive to the sights and sounds of six hot metal forges as blacksmiths and members of the public gather in High Town to create a stunning new piece of art. Ferrous2019 will be back from 5th April 2019.  Brought to you by Hereford Business Improvement District and Hereford College of Arts, this year’s festival is packed with exhibitions, talks, film and of course blacksmithing demonstrations and the chance to have a go. Live Forging – Your chance to Have a Go and Save the Bees From 5th – 7th April the huge marquee with seven hot metal forges will be making its return to Hereford’s High Town. This offers another chance for Hereford residents and visitors to the city to watch demonstrations by expert blacksmiths or try their own skills at the anvil. This year’s challenge is to make a beautiful seed marker for your garden or balcony which you will be able to take home with you afterwards. And we are giving you a packet of wildflower seeds to plant and mark with your seed marker – our small contribution to celebrating and supporting the […]

Spend a creative and relaxing day making pots on the potter’s wheel. Ever yearned to go ‘hands on’ with a potter’s wheel…or maybe you need to fine tune your technique? Whatever your experience, beginner or improver, this is the course for you. Small friendly groups and eight electric potter’s wheels ensure plenty of individual attention and guidance. Participants are consistently amazed at what they achieve in a day! Cost: £130 Includes refreshments, lunch, firing, glazing (1-3 pots) and the cost of posting your masterpieces. Dates for 2019 Sat 12 Jan, Sat 26 Jan, Sat 9 Feb, Sat 16 Feb, Sat 9 Mar, Sat 23 Mar, Sat 13 Apr, Sat 27 Apr, Sat 11 May, Sat 25 May, Sat 8 Jun, Sat 22 Jun, Sat 6 Jul, Sat 14 Sept, Sat 21 Sept, Sat 12 Oct, Sat 26 Oct, Sat 16 Nov, Sat 23 Nov, Sat 7 Dec. 10am – 4pm Other dates are available for x2 or more participants and large groups How to book: Please contact the Pottery to check availability admin@eastnorpottery.co.uk Tel: 01531 633886. Pottery address: Eastnor Pottery & The Flying Potter Home Farm Eastnor Ledbury Herefordshire HR8 1RD W: www.eastnorpottery.co.uk

The Kington Walking Festival is the primary annual event of the Kington Walks charity with the Kington Walks Festival being held in September as usual. By popular demand, however, the committee are introducing a Spring Weekend to give everyone a chance to experience the glorious countryside at a different time of year. Think daffodils, bluebells, wood anemones, lambs, and trees in bud and maybe blossom! Kington is one of the great small market towns of Britain. Situated close to the Welsh border it was for centuries a centre for cattle drovers, so a web of footpaths and byways, accessible on foot from the town centre await discovery by present day walkers. The Offa’s Dyke Path National Trail, the Herefordshire Trail, Mortimer Trail from Ludlow, and the Wyche Way from Broadway all pass through (or start/finish) in the town. Download the booking form and brochure. The base cost for most walks is £5.50 for a half day and £7.50 for a longer walk. Some walks involve an additional cost to cover transport, food or admission charges. E: info@kingtonwalks.org T: 07552 087786 W: kingtonwalks.org Border Bean Cafe If you are looking for somewhere to stop off for some suitable refreshments during your walks the wonderful […]

Chase Distillery offer a unique tour and tasting experience that unlock some of the secrets and skills that go into creating their award winning range of spirits. Your expert tour guide will take you through the whole field to bottle process of how Chase transform the humble potato into delicious vodka and gin. After the tour, you’ll head back to the Chase bar to enjoy a tutored tasting and maybe even pick up a bottle or two at the Distillery Shop. Chase Distillery have decided to open this Easter too, please see opening times and how to book below: Thursday 18th April 12pm, 3pm and 6pm Good Friday 19th April 12pm and 2pm Saturday 20th April 11am, 1pm, 3pm and 5pm. Easter Sunday Closed Monday 22nd April 12pm and 2pm. Booking is strongly advised and can be done online here or by emailing the team at tours@chasedistillery.co.uk Tour tickets: £25 per person (£10 of each ticket is redeemable when spending over £20 in the distillery shop). Tour duration: 1 hour 45 minutes More about Hereford

CountryTastic returns to the Three Counties Showground this Easter Holiday on Thursday 18 April 2019.  Visitors can expect an action packed day of discovery with plenty of indoor and outdoor activities.  Everyone’s favourite farmer from BBC Countryfile and the Cotswold Farm Park, Adam Henson will be headlining this year’s show. Get involved in an action-packed, hands-on event with food, farming and the countryside at its core. Whatever the weather, with plenty of indoor and outdoor activities, CountryTastic is the perfect Easter Holiday family day out. There’s so much for youngsters to get involved in, with many of the activities free – hop on board for a tractor ride, go wild with bushcraft or try your hand at some fun crafts with Junk Fish. Tractor and Trailer Rides – Always popular, take a trip on one of our tractor and trailer rides. Pottery Workshop – Create a clay pony with professional potters from Eastnor Pottery & The Flying Potter. Take your pony away at the end of the session to dry and paint at home. Suitable for all ages and abilities. NFU Let’s Talk Farming Discovery Barn – Learn about food provenance and the hard work British farmer do 365 days a year to produce glorious […]

Organised by Wild Food UK, Spring Foraging Courses will be held at Eastnor Castle Deer Park on the outskirts of Ledbury, by kind permission of Eastnor Castle. This beautiful, well situated venue is within easy reach of Malvern, Bromyard, Hereford, Worcester, Ross-on-wye, Cheltenham and Gloucester. Meet in the parking area along the road opposite to the main entrance to the Castle grounds at 12pm for a short introduction on what to look for and a brief of the general countryside codes, where they relate to foragers. The course starts with a short introduction on what to look for and a brief of the general countryside codes, where they relate to foragers. Then we’ll set off on a roughly 2.5 hour walk around the deer park and the castle grounds, teaching you how to identify the different Spring shoots, plants, flowers and hopefully mushrooms that we find. There will be a break along the way for some homemade refreshments such as our lovely hogweed and wild garlic soup. After the walk we will end the day with a tasty wild food lunch based on what we have found. This will include some treats made from our recent finds, a wild salad that we […]

The Flower Garden, Art Exhibition at Aardvark Books in Brampton Bryan is a celebration of botanical art, garden pottery and sculpture, by artists Sabina Rüber, Ruth Kirkby, Lottie O’Leary and Tony Hall. The exhibition begins with a Private View on Friday 19th April (Good Friday) at 11am, and opens to the Public on Saturday 20th April (Easter Saturday). Aardvark Books and café is closed on Easter Sunday 21st April, but then the exhibition will be open every day from Monday 22nd April up to and including the early Spring Bank Holiday Monday, 6th May. All are welcome, free entry and free parking. Look out for details of demonstrations by the artists during the exhibition! W: aardvark-books.com

Poetry Breakfast is an informal and relaxed way to experience your poetry, whether you are a confirmed poetry lover already, or were put off in the 5th form by having to study it for O level. Whatever your reason for coming, enjoyment is guaranteed as we bring the very best of poetry and share it by simply reading aloud to each other. There are always plenty who like to read so there is no pressure to perform and listeners are very much wanted too, so don’t be shy about joining us. The cost is £8 per person, to include your breakfast and a free coffee refill, and the session lasts about an hour. If you can let us know by the day before if you are coming, that does help enormously with planning, but if you’re last minute, just turn up. We will be delighted to see you. Poetry Breakfast was created by Anna Dreda, of Wenlock Books and Wenlock Poetry Festival, The Aardvark Poetry Breakfast will normally be held on the fourth Wednesday of the month. All enquiries to Anna at info@wenlockbooks.co.uk W: aardvark-books.com

Following audience favourites ‘Stories from the Hop Yards’ and ‘Chewing the Cud’, this new Catcher Media film delves deep into the Derek Evans photographic archive from the 1950s – 1970s to bring you the stories behind his photographs of the county, from the May Fair to Hereford United, from the Fownhope Heart of Oak walk to jazz clubs, from childhood to politics and much more. The film is part of the Herefordshire Life Through a Lens project, which explores the huge collection of photographs and negatives from Herefordshire photographer Derek Evans. Alongside digitising and exhibiting his archive, the project is creating an extensive selection of a over a 100 oral history videos from Herefordshire people, about the memories the photographs evoke. The archive consists of over 200,000 negatives, 790 exhibition images, hundreds of prints, scrapbooks full of newspaper cuttings, photo journals, and daily log books of the studio’s activities. “Derek was clearly passionate about Hereford and the region. His image repertoire is affectionate, humanist, liberal and well crafted.” Dr Russell Roberts, University of South Wales Thursday 25th April – Wellington Social Club – 7.30pm (tickets £5) W: herefordshirelifethroughalens.org.uk

Steampunk Festival set to bring another celebration of fantasy Victoriana to Hereford. In addition to the annual riot of colours, sounds, marvellous machines and fantastical costumes, this year’s Steampunk spectacular, to be held at Hereford’s Waterworks Museum on April 27 and 28, will feature one of the country’s most renowned children’s entertainers, David Alexander and his Travelling Show. Adding to the daytime entertainment visitors will again be amazed by Greg Chapman – Juggler, Magician, Story Teller, Comedian, Unicyclist and Escapologist, and a one man show by Ichabod Steam (AKA musician, Paul Snook) who performs in his self built Steampunk submarine, supported by his own robotic band. This popular event, now in its third year, celebrates the steam-powered world of the 19th century. Steampunk is a subgenre of science fiction or science fantasy that incorporates technology and aesthetic designs inspired by 19th century science fiction and the industrial steam-powered machinery of that age. This is why the Waterworks Museum, on one of its in-steam days, is a favourite venue for this event. Markets stalls will be selling colourful Steampunk costumes, period jewellery and collectables and confectionery. A pop-up stall will be offering wood-fire baked pizzas. The Waterworks Museum will be open for extended […]

WONDERWOOL WALES 2019, Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells, April 27 and 28 A go-to diary date for fibre fans, craft-lovers and makers, the vibrant, annual wool and natural fibres showcase Wonderwool Wales 2019 returns to the Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells on April 27 and 28. Stock up on wool and natural fibre products from more than 200 high quality stalls, enjoy special exhibitions and learn skills from an expert. Book early for Woolschools on needle felting, spinning, braiding and more. There’s also a masterclass with award-winning crochet designer Jane Crowfoot of Janie Crow. Opening hours:  Saturday 10am – 5.30pm & Sunday 10am – 4.30pm. Tickets, available online now, cost £10.00 for adults, children under 16 free. Weekend ticket costs £18.00. For more details visit W: wonderwoolwales.co.uk E: enquiries@wonderwoolwales.co.uk T:  01938 820495 / 07980 913972 / 01873 821205 Like Wonderwool Wales Ltd on Facebook or follow on Twitter @wonderwoolwales Photo: An exhibit at Wonderwool Wales 2017. Photo: John Teale

This will be a special day out in the beautiful Broxwood Court gardens where quality nurseries, plantsmen and providers of horticultural miscellany will inspire and delight those who know about and love their gardens, and who wish to find really interesting plants early in the season. There will be delicious homemade refreshments all day, demonstrations and a chance to win some great prizes in the lucky dip/raffle. Entrance £5 per person. All proceeds will support The Cart Shed, (Reg Charity No 1167802), that uses woodland and horticulture to work with adults and young people experiencing an emotional imbalance in their lives. The Cart Shed was awarded the Queen’s Award in 2017. Further inf. Tel: 01544 318 231 W thecartshed.co.uk/spring_plant_fair/

This year marks the seventh Hellens Music Festival and it is thrilling to welcome again remarkable players, young instrumentalists and all lovers of sublime music! Join in this for a five-day musical feast and listen to world-class artists perform, inspire local children and teach talented students from the best music colleges in Britain. Hellensmusic is a music festival that takes place every Spring over five days at Hellens Manor in Herefordshire. The event’s aims are threefold: to bring exceptional musicians to work together in intimate surroundings exploring new ideas; to provide talented music students from all over the country with the opportunity to learn from world-class professionals in the field; and to bring great music to a lost corner of England, inspiring local audiences, both children and adults, to a greater understanding and appreciation of all music. The event has a strong focus on music education and training for the young. The main concerts take place in the early evenings, and during the day the performing musicians deliver a series of masterclasses to talented students from the UK’s best music schools and colleges. During five days of intense musical work, students have the chance to learn from renowned professionals coming from […]

The workshop, held at Stockton Bury Gardens near Leominster, welcomes photographers of all levels and no specific expertise is required. Acclaimed garden photographer Philip Smith aims is to provide you with a set of skills and techniques that you can use to improve your photography of plants and gardens no matter what type of equipment you use. In a friendly, open and stunning environment, he will inspire you to get more pleasure and fun from your photography for years to come. Includes coffee and light lunch £70 To book call Tamsin 07880 712649 or email twstocktonbury@outlook.com www.stocktonbury.co.uk

Spend a relaxing weekend making pots on the potter’s wheel. The therapeutic benefits of working with soft clay on the potter’s wheel are well documented. Participants often leave the studio on Sunday afternoon feeling totally de-stressed and with an overwhelming sense of well-being. “I feel like I’ve spent a weekend at a health farm!” commented a recent punter. Small friendly groups and eight electric potter’s wheels ensure plenty of individual attention and guidance. You will explore a whole range of making techniques based upon the potter’s wheel including: throwing, turning, attaching handles & motifs and decorating methods using under-glaze and coloured slip. Cost: £240 Includes refreshments, lunch, materials, (1-4 pots) firing, glazing and the cost of posting your finished masterpieces. Content: Day 1 The workshop starts at 10am where you’ll be individually assigned a potter’s wheel for the duration of the workshop. After tea/coffee, introductions and initial demonstration you will be taken as a group, step by step, through the pot throwing process. Once you have got the hang of things, you will be encouraged to develop at your own pace with individual tutoring as and when required. Around 1pm, a lunch consisting of rolls, cheese, ham, salad and fruit is […]

Rossbeerfest is a beer and cider festival for Ross-on-Wye. Showcasing locally made beers and ciders, it is planned to make improvements each year to make the event better each time! So it will always be new and improved! There is a live band stage for music throughout and our huge marquees make an indoor ‘beerhall’ with a food tent alongside. Organised by Ross Rotary and Ross Lions we also raise funds for charitable good causes. W: rossbeerfest.org

Big Apple Blossomtime Weekend is a celebration of Springtime! For an afternoon, a day or a full weekend – the Big Apple is a special opportunity to enjoy the spring countryside in the Herefordshire parishes on the Marcle Ridge.  The local orchards are famous for their cider fruit and excellent eating apples and trees will be in full blossom over the weekend. There will be Grand Cider Tasting and Teas. Cider, perry and apple juice tasting. Leaflets will be available for self-guided orchard walks. Meet lots of exciting local suppliers for tastings and sales. Keep an eye on the website for all the updates bigapple.org.uk More about Hereford  

Rossbeerfest is a beer and cider festival for Ross-on-Wye. Showcasing locally made beers and ciders, it is planned to make improvements each year to make the event better each time! So it will always be new and improved! There is a live band stage for music throughout and our huge marquees make an indoor ‘beerhall’ with a food tent alongside. Organised by Ross Rotary and Ross Lions we also raise funds for charitable good causes. W: rossbeerfest.org

Hergest Croft Spring Flower Fair is an auction and events in aid of St Micheal’s Hospice which helps people affected by terminal illness to live life to the fullest. Marches Makers Festival will be exhibiting local sculpture Over 40 plant and craft stalls from a wide range of local specialist nurseries. For more information visit www.hergest.co.uk/hergest Normal Admission prices apply.

FURZIE Wool Sculpture Courses Needle-felt an animal at Trumpet Corner Gallery and Tea Room near Ledbury Course cost £55 and includes:  A full day 10.00am – 4.30pm  and all materials, a light lunch, tea and coffee You will learn how to needle-felt with wool and how to make a wire armature There is an option to purchase felting tools and mat before or after course To book: Phone 01594 516906 Email: felt@furzie.co.uk W: furzie.co.uk “It’s one of the best things I have done in a long time” “Great teacher, great course, great location, great value for money!” “I was apprehensive that my skills wouldn’t be good enough to create anything like the beautiful creations on her website. How wrong was I!” “I’d highly recommend going with a few friends. the laughs are as good as the course”

Nest of Voices – four nights of vocal concerts – eclectic, intimate and sublime – all held in a marvellous large yurt at The Nest, Ledbury, Herefordshire, a remarkable café, plant centre and place of events. A celebration throughout May 2019 of marvellous vocal music combined with delicious food and drink 2 May – Akervinda – Swedish Folksong Quartet – www.akervinda.com Jazz singers at heart, the four members of vocal quartet Åkervinda share a deep love of folk music, and give new life to the Scandinavian folk tunes in their original and modern interpretations. Like so many storytellers and artists before them, Iris, Agnes, Linda and Lise carry tales of women throughout the ages, embodied in a visual musical live performance. The group have performed at an array of European vocal festivals and folk venues and at venues in Canada and the USA. They come to The Nest straight from a performance with The Swingles in London. 9 May –  Cotswold canel Singers  The interestingly named Cotswold Canal Singers were founded in 2016 to bring the best of local classical singers together to raise money for the Cotswold Canal Trust and other local causes. Drawing singers from excellent choirs including Bath […]

Set against the magnificent Malvern Hills, the RHS Malvern Spring Festival is packed with flowers, food, crafts and family fun. Hosted annually at Three Counties Showground in Malvern, RHS Malvern Spring Festival is a partnership between the Royal Horticultural Society, the world’s largest and most prestigious gardening charity, and Three Counties, a specialist rural event organiser and agricultural society dating back to 1797. RHS Malvern Spring Festival is the fastest growing RHS show following an ambitious repositioning in 2014. Whilst it is the gardening show for the Midlands and South West region, it attracts a national spotlight and offers unique engagement opportunities with an affluent and influential audience. As well as plants and gardening ideas there will be great food available and cookery demonstrations with artisan crafts for you to browse and buy too. Ticket prices vary so please visit the website for prices of each day. w: threecounties.co.uk/rhsmalvern

The 27th Antiques and Decorative Fair is coming to Burton Court in Leominster on the 11th and 12th May. The fair includes 45 deals, located in one blummin’ huge marquee with several throughout the rooms of the stunning house. Alongside the antiques, there will be homemade delicious food for you to enjoy whilst staring out to the beautiful grounds. The admission for this wonderful day out is only £4. It’s probably worth that just to see the gorgeous house (let alone the antiques!) W: antiquesintents.co.uk

Set against the magnificent Malvern Hills, the RHS Malvern Spring Festival is packed with flowers, food, crafts and family fun. Hosted annually at Three Counties Showground in Malvern, RHS Malvern Spring Festival is a partnership between the Royal Horticultural Society, the world’s largest and most prestigious gardening charity, and Three Counties, a specialist rural event organiser and agricultural society dating back to 1797. RHS Malvern Spring Festival is the fastest growing RHS show following an ambitious repositioning in 2014. Whilst it is the gardening show for the Midlands and South West region, it attracts a national spotlight and offers unique engagement opportunities with an affluent and influential audience. As well as plants and gardening ideas there will be great food available and cookery demonstrations with artisan crafts for you to browse and buy too. Ticket prices vary so please visit the website for prices of each day. w: threecounties.co.uk/rhsmalvern

The 27th Antiques and Decorative Fair is coming to Burton Court in Leominster on the 11th and 12th May. The fair includes 45 deals, located in one blummin’ huge marquee with several throughout the rooms of the stunning house. Alongside the antiques, there will be homemade delicious food for you to enjoy whilst staring out to the beautiful grounds. The admission for this wonderful day out is only £4. It’s probably worth that just to see the gorgeous house (let alone the antiques!) W: antiquesintents.co.uk

Bouncing Bunnies Toddler Mornings at Newbridge Farm Park Join in the fun bouncing bunnies toddler mornings at Newbridge Farm Park. Included in the normal admission price, no pre-booking necessary.  The session runs from approximately 10:10 – 10:45am. In dry, warm weather, the session will take place in our park or orchard, and for cooler or wetter weather, it will be in our barn, so the weather need not determine your plans! More sessions on the dates below will be confirmed soon… 2019 Dates Thursday 2nd May- Rhythm, Rhyme & Songtime with Becky Friday 10th May – Tappy Toes with Julia Friday 17th May- Yoga with Estzer Thursday 23rd May- Sing & Sign with Liz Wednesday 5th June- Moo Music with Natalie Thursday 13th June- TBC Wednesday 19th June- Rhythm, Rhyme & Songtime with Becky Friday 28th June- TBC Thursday 12th September – Sing & Sign with Liz Friday 20th September- TBC Thursday 26th September- TBC W: newbridgefarmpark.com

The Weir Garden is a beautiful National Trust property boasting a lovely riverside garden, mature trees and even some ancient Roman ruins. Being just outside Hereford this stunning venue is easy to reach from Weobley, Leominster, Hay-on-Wye, Bromyard, Kington and even Presteigne. The course starts with a short introduction on what to look for and a brief of the general countryside codes, where they relate to foragers. Then we’ll set off on a roughly 2.5 hour walk around the gardens and along the River Wye, teaching you how to identify the different Spring shoots, plants, flowers and hopefully mushrooms that we find. There will be a break along the way for some homemade refreshments such as our lovely hogweed and wild garlic soup. After the walk we will end the day with a tasty wild food lunch based on what we have found. This will include some treats made from our recent finds, a wild salad that we will pick on the day and possibly even some wild garlic pesto. After the course we will email you a list of everything we talk about on the day; to help you remember what you have learnt. Please note that only assistance […]

Nest of Voices – four nights of vocal concerts – eclectic, intimate and sublime – all held in a marvellous large yurt at The Nest, Ledbury, Herefordshire, a remarkable café, plant centre and place of events. A celebration throughout May 2019 of marvellous vocal music combined with delicious food and drink 2 May – Akervinda – Swedish Folksong Quartet – www.akervinda.com Jazz singers at heart, the four members of vocal quartet Åkervinda share a deep love of folk music, and give new life to the Scandinavian folk tunes in their original and modern interpretations. Like so many storytellers and artists before them, Iris, Agnes, Linda and Lise carry tales of women throughout the ages, embodied in a visual musical live performance. The group have performed at an array of European vocal festivals and folk venues and at venues in Canada and the USA. They come to The Nest straight from a performance with The Swingles in London. 9 May –  Cotswold canel Singers  The interestingly named Cotswold Canal Singers were founded in 2016 to bring the best of local classical singers together to raise money for the Cotswold Canal Trust and other local causes. Drawing singers from excellent choirs including Bath […]

HowTheLightGetsIn is returning to Hay-on-Wye for the Bank Holiday weekend from 24th – 27th May with a festival experience unlike any other. Nestled in the beautiful Wye Valley on the edge of the Black Mountains, you’ll find headline music acts, the best in stand-up comedy from the UK and beyond, debates between the world’s leading thinkers, and so much more. HowTheLightGetsIn runs from late afternoon Friday 24th May to Monday 27th May with over 300 events across 12 stages, including more than 180 music and performance events and over 100 debates and talks. THE WORLD’S LARGEST PHILOSOPHY AND MUSIC FESTIVAL To book tickets click here. More about Hay on Wye

The Aardvark Brocante Events have gained a solid reputation for their variety and quality of flea-market style stalls selling vintage, antique, bric-a-brac goods and upcycled crafts. Held them 4 times a year, visitors can enjoy browsing the stalls and the bookshop, with refreshments from the Aardvark Café and live music to add to the relaxed, party atmosphere that Aardvark is known for. Free entry, free parking (in the car park or nearby field), all are welcome! For those wishing to book a stall, prices for 2019 are: £12 for a six-foot space if you bring your own table, or £15 if you wish to hire one of our tables. W: aardvark-books.com/aardvark-events

Join the team at Stockton Bury Gardens for the annual traditional plant fair in the heart of the garden. Now in its 5th year this charming event offers the chance to enjoy the garden and café and shop for plants, sundries and garden art from local suppliers. Our exhibitors include: Seggins Bees (honey and more), Old Court Nurseries (perennials and alpines), The Cottage Herbery (Herbs), Carrob Plants (rose and woodland plants), Mynd Hardy Plants (perennials), The Woodee (fire pits), Metalsmiths (garden art), Basket Jenny (willow supports) and plenty more. Expect about 15 stalls, lots of free advice and friendly people. Also music from a local folk band. Normal garden entry applies (season ticket holders are free). www.stocktonbury.co.uk

From 25th – 27th May 2019, Ewyas Harold will hold its second Arts Festival, showcasing and selling the works of local artists, photographers and crafts people in Ewyas Harold Memorial Hall, St Michael’s Hall, St Michael’s Church, the Temple Bar Inn, the Baptist Hall, and the Methodist Hall. There will be other events and activities too; craft demonstrations and videos, a display of old photos of the village, music by community choirs and The Psychedelic Heart’s Club Band, and opportunities to learn how to ring the church bells.  Villagers and local schoolchildren are already helping make bunting, as well as making plans for their scarecrows. The Festival is very much a community event, and the Kemble Centre marquee will be the base for local groups and organisations that work for the benefit of the local community, and the local environment. Old King Street Farm’s llamas will be putting in an appearance outside the Memorial Hall, and Sunanta’s Thai Kitchen will be selling homemade Thai cuisine outside the Kemble Centre. The Festival Information tent will also be based outside the Kemble Centre and ‘park and ride’ transport between Ewyas Harold Memorial Hall and the village centre will be provided by Dore […]

Kington Summer Food & Drink Festival is a great way to spend a Saturday. Tempt your taste buds with some great street food, music, ciders, ales and spirits from the very best of the borders with free parking and admission, runs from 9:30 till 3.30 right in the centre of the town of Kington. Located in the heart of Kington at the Market Hall, Place de Marines, Coach House, Cloud Nine car park and the Mill Street car parks, HR53BQ. More information as it is released. w: Kingtonfoodfestival.co.uk

Part of the Music in Quiet Places Programme, visit St. John the Baptist Church at Eastnor and enjoy a fundraising Charity Musical Evening performance with the Dean of Hereford followed by a reception at Eastnor Castle. The reception at the wonderful Eastnor Castle will include wine and canapes by kind consent of the High Sheriff (2019) James Hervey-Bathurst DL. The Dean of Hereford, the inimitable, The Very Reverend Michael Tavinor, will be entertaining with a programme of music, verse and anecdote. Music in Quiet Places was established in 2015 as a collaboration between Herefordshire Historic Churches Trust, and Hereford Cathedral School’s Music Outreach programme. MiQP is now run by HHCT with the brief of presenting live performances in churches throughout the County using local musicians as much as possible.  This event is in association with the Herefordshire, Shropshire & Worcestershire Branch of the British Red Cross. Eastnor village is seeking help to raise up to £100,000 during 2018 and 2019 for a project to repair its ancient and beautiful church and to improve its facilities to allow wider use. The church is a grade 1 listed Place of Worship and on the Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register (no.1266756). Proceeds will be shared between Eastnor PCC, British Red Cross and HHCT. Booking Essential. Book tickets here. Learn more about Ledbury […]

Hereford Arts Markets act as showcases for local talent and designer/makers from the region and are held regularly throughout the year. Offering a range of original artworks, traditional and contemporary crafts and handmade jewellery, the Art Markets offer visitors the chance to meet the professional and semi-professional Designer/Makers. Our artists in turn really enjoy meeting their customers and chatting about their work or discussing bespoke commissions. For additional information contact Becky at office@boffyartsandevents.com 2018 Dates are as follows: Saturday 8 June Saturday 14 September Saturday 16 November Saturday 14 December Learn more about Hereford

Visit the wonderful setting of Hellens Manor in Much Marcle, Herefordshire this year on June 8 & 9 and find the beautiful garden and parklands brought to life with Hellens Garden Festival 2019. The 2019 theme is ‘Hands on the Soil, Good for the Soul’, with a focus on healing and learning in nature. During the weekend there will be hands on workshops, talks, demonstrations of traditional crafts, a great soundscape of local music and plenty of activities for kids, of all ages to enjoy. Watch this space for more info… See, hear, engage and be part of it! WATCH THIS SPACE FOR FURTHER UPDATES. The guiding principles of Hellens Garden Festival ~  To celebrate the natural world ~  Have a positive, constructive and educational approach to local and global issues ~  Create an enjoyable, celebratory atmosphere ~  Raise awareness of environmental and ecological issues ~  Share profits between charities promoting similar ideas and have social and community benefit w: hellensgardenfestival.co.uk

Visit the wonderful setting of Hellens Manor in Much Marcle, Herefordshire this year on June 8 & 9 and find the beautiful garden and parklands brought to life with Hellens Garden Festival 2019. The 2019 theme is ‘Hands on the Soil, Good for the Soul’, with a focus on healing and learning in nature. During the weekend there will be hands on workshops, talks, demonstrations of traditional crafts, a great soundscape of local music and plenty of activities for kids, of all ages to enjoy. Watch this space for more info… See, hear, engage and be part of it! WATCH THIS SPACE FOR FURTHER UPDATES. The guiding principles of Hellens Garden Festival ~  To celebrate the natural world ~  Have a positive, constructive and educational approach to local and global issues ~  Create an enjoyable, celebratory atmosphere ~  Raise awareness of environmental and ecological issues ~  Share profits between charities promoting similar ideas and have social and community benefit w: hellensgardenfestival.co.uk

This year’s Royal Three Counties Show is set to be one of the biggest events of the farming schedule this year. The Heart of England’s premiere celebration of the countryside and rural life Come with family and friends and help celebrate 60 years of Royal Three Counties Show being held at Three Counties Showground – it’s a great summer’s day out. Lots of activities for all the family ensure that there is never a dull moment. Try your hand at lots of different activities, or get up close with the friendly animals in Fur, Feather & Farm. In the theatre, show ambassador Adam Henson delivers fascinating talks and insights and over in the Main Arena nonstop entertainment culminates in the Grand Parade of Livestock. Adult (16yrs +) – £21 in advance (£25 on the day) Children – new for 2019 under 16s gain free entry to the show* Senior (65yrs +) – £18 in advance (£21 on the day) Three Counties Member** – £18 in advance (£25 on the day) Group (8 people +) – £18 in advance (£25 on the day) w: www.royalthreecounties.co.uk/whats-on/ Learn more about Malvern

This year’s Royal Three Counties Show is set to be one of the biggest events of the farming schedule this year. The Heart of England’s premiere celebration of the countryside and rural life Come with family and friends and help celebrate 60 years of Royal Three Counties Show being held at Three Counties Showground – it’s a great summer’s day out. Lots of activities for all the family ensure that there is never a dull moment. Try your hand at lots of different activities, or get up close with the friendly animals in Fur, Feather & Farm. In the theatre, show ambassador Adam Henson delivers fascinating talks and insights and over in the Main Arena nonstop entertainment culminates in the Grand Parade of Livestock. Adult (16yrs +) – £21 in advance (£25 on the day) Children – new for 2019 under 16s gain free entry to the show* Senior (65yrs +) – £18 in advance (£21 on the day) Three Counties Member** – £18 in advance (£25 on the day) Group (8 people +) – £18 in advance (£25 on the day) w: www.royalthreecounties.co.uk/whats-on/ Learn more about Malvern

Following audience favourites ‘Stories from the Hop Yards’ and ‘Chewing the Cud’, this new Catcher Media film delves deep into the Derek Evans photographic archive from the 1950s – 1970s to bring you the stories behind his photographs of the county, from the May Fair to Hereford United, from the Fownhope Heart of Oak walk to jazz clubs, from childhood to politics and much more. The film is part of the Herefordshire Life Through a Lens project, which explores the huge collection of photographs and negatives from Herefordshire photographer Derek Evans. Alongside digitising and exhibiting his archive, the project is creating an extensive selection of a over a 100 oral history videos from Herefordshire people, about the memories the photographs evoke. The archive consists of over 200,000 negatives, 790 exhibition images, hundreds of prints, scrapbooks full of newspaper cuttings, photo journals, and daily log books of the studio’s activities. “Derek was clearly passionate about Hereford and the region. His image repertoire is affectionate, humanist, liberal and well crafted.” Dr Russell Roberts, University of South Wales Upcoming Screening Dates Thursday 18th April – Market Theatre Ledbury – 8.00pm (tickets £3-6) Thursday 25th April – Wellington Social Club – 7.30pm (tickets £5) Wednesday […]

Spend a creative and relaxing day making pots on the potter’s wheel. Ever yearned to go ‘hands on’ with a potter’s wheel…or maybe you need to fine tune your technique? Whatever your experience, beginner or improver, this is the course for you. Small friendly groups and eight electric potter’s wheels ensure plenty of individual attention and guidance. Participants are consistently amazed at what they achieve in a day! Cost: £130 Includes refreshments, lunch, firing, glazing (1-3 pots) and the cost of posting your masterpieces. Dates for 2019 Sat 12 Jan, Sat 26 Jan, Sat 9 Feb, Sat 16 Feb, Sat 9 Mar, Sat 23 Mar, Sat 13 Apr, Sat 27 Apr, Sat 11 May, Sat 25 May, Sat 8 Jun, Sat 22 Jun, Sat 6 Jul, Sat 14 Sept, Sat 21 Sept, Sat 12 Oct, Sat 26 Oct, Sat 16 Nov, Sat 23 Nov, Sat 7 Dec. 10am – 4pm Other dates are available for x2 or more participants and large groups How to book: Please contact the Pottery to check availability admin@eastnorpottery.co.uk Tel: 01531 633886. Pottery address: Eastnor Pottery & The Flying Potter Home Farm Eastnor Ledbury Herefordshire HR8 1RD W: www.eastnorpottery.co.uk

Bromyard Gala is a hugely popular show and highlights the best of country pursuits, classic vehicles, steam engines and local produce, with an action packed central arena. The first Bromyard Gala was held in 1967 to showcase the attractions of the market town of Bromyard. Fast forward 52 years, and the event remains Herefordshire’s biggest celebration of country pursuits and rural lifestyle. Welcoming thousands of visitors over a two-day event, Bromyard Gala is a fantastic outing for all the family. From Heavy horses to steam engines, vintage caravans to handicrafts, every year the Gala gets bigger and better. There is a jam-packed programme of events over the weekend as well as countless stalls, demonstrations and activities to join in with. On-site parking is free and well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome. On-site parking is free and well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome. For more information visit the website Bromyard Gala Tickets. Learn more about Bromyard.

The Ledbury Poetry Festival is the UK’s longest and largest poetry festival with ten days of readings, events and celebrations running from 5th – 14 July 2019. See Ledbury come alive and enjoy immersing yourself in poetry and celebrations with poets from near and far there is something for everyone at this unique festival. Festival programme TBC. If poetry is your passion, try Ledbury Poetry Festival, in the Malvern Hills near Hereford. Ledbury hosts a glorious 10-day early-summer immersion in poetry of all sorts, with a good international line-up of names to savour and discover. The atmosphere is quieter and perhaps more intense than at Hay; definitely recommended for devotees’ – The Financial Times” For further information contact the festival manager Phillippa Singer e manager@poetry-festival.co.uk t 01531 636232 a The Master’s House, St Katherine’s, Bye Street, Ledbury HR8 1EA Box Office 01531 636232 e boxoffice@poetry-festival.co.uk General Enquiries: e admin@poetry-festival.co.uk TICKET PRICES VARY EACH DAY AND FOR DIFFERENT EVENTS Find out more about Ledbury here

Shobdon Food & Flying Festival has been a fixture of the county’s calendar for over a decade making it the longest running event of its kind in Herefordshire. What started as a village show with a few dozen visitors has grown into an event that now sees thousands flock to the small north Herefordshire village. Set in beautiful north Herefordshire surroundings at an historic WW2 airfield, this event combines the best local food, a host of aviation attractions, arts and crafts, demonstrations, live music and lots more. For Fliers: Browse the incredible collection of static aircraft and helicopters and watch dozens of interesting arrivals from around the country throughout the weekend. Could flying be the hobby for you? Take a light aircraft or helicopter trial flight over beautiful Herefordshire countryside. Enjoy talks and demonstrations on various aspects of aviation. Also this year Great British Bake Off favourite, Jane Beedle will demonstrate at this year’s event. Read more here. Entry Fees – : Adults -£8, Under 16’s £2 and under 5’s Free of Charge Parking is free. No dogs allowed. W: shobdonfoodandflyingfestival.co.uk   Sponsored by  

Beer on the Wye XV Hereford’s annual beer and cider festival is back for its fifteenth year and is set to return to Hereford over the weekend of the 5th to 7th July 2019 at the Hereford Rowing Club. BEER: Beer on the Wye XV will showcase over 135+ different real beers from breweries the length and breadth of the UK, with styles ranging from light ales to stouts; from lagers to dark milds and probably everything in between. As always there will be the popular Herefordshire Brewers’ Bar). The Foreign Beers Bar will again offer an eclectic and interesting range of 40 beers from overseas catering for those with more international tastes. CIDER & PERRY: As you might expect for an event based in Hereford there will be the very best range of ciders and perries from our local producers as well as some from the neighbouring counties. In total there will a choice of 130+ draught ciders and perries (over 100 from small Herefordshire producers) and a number of bottled products, some will be from new producers, as this vibrant sector continues to expand. Once again, beers and ciders will be sold in third-pint measures, as well as the normal […]

Shobdon Food & Flying Festival has been a fixture of the county’s calendar for over a decade making it the longest running event of its kind in Herefordshire. What started as a village show with a few dozen visitors has grown into an event that now sees thousands flock to the small north Herefordshire village. Set in beautiful north Herefordshire surroundings at an historic WW2 airfield, this event combines the best local food, a host of aviation attractions, arts and crafts, demonstrations, live music and lots more. For Fliers: Browse the incredible collection of static aircraft and helicopters and watch dozens of interesting arrivals from around the country throughout the weekend. Could flying be the hobby for you? Take a light aircraft or helicopter trial flight over beautiful Herefordshire countryside. Enjoy talks and demonstrations on various aspects of aviation. Also this year Great British Bake Off favourite, Jane Beedle will demonstrate at this year’s event. Read more here. Entry Fees – : Adults -£8, Under 16’s £2 and under 5’s Free of Charge Parking is free. No dogs allowed. W: shobdonfoodandflyingfestival.co.uk   Sponsored by  

Beer on the Wye XV Hereford’s annual beer and cider festival is back for its fifteenth year and is set to return to Hereford over the weekend of the 5th to 7th July 2019 at the Hereford Rowing Club. BEER: Beer on the Wye XV will showcase over 135+ different real beers from breweries the length and breadth of the UK, with styles ranging from light ales to stouts; from lagers to dark milds and probably everything in between. As always there will be the popular Herefordshire Brewers’ Bar). The Foreign Beers Bar will again offer an eclectic and interesting range of 40 beers from overseas catering for those with more international tastes. CIDER & PERRY: As you might expect for an event based in Hereford there will be the very best range of ciders and perries from our local producers as well as some from the neighbouring counties. In total there will a choice of 130+ draught ciders and perries (over 100 from small Herefordshire producers) and a number of bottled products, some will be from new producers, as this vibrant sector continues to expand. Once again, beers and ciders will be sold in third-pint measures, as well as the normal […]

The Herefordshire County Fair is now in its 41st year and promises a great family day out.  This year there will be the usual country fair favourites: terrier racing, working gun dogs, inter hunt relay, scurry racing, clay shooting, fly fishing and a parade of foxhounds.  With over a 100 trade stands, the shopping and craft marquee and the fabulous food hall, the fair offers a great shopping experience. The Herefordshire Country Fair will be held at the Whitfield Estate, HR2 9DG. The doors open at 9:30 on what will be a great day of country sport and fun for all the family. There will be equestrian and dog competitions and displays running throughout the day. The Food Hall and the Shopping Marquee offer a great shopping experience. There is also a Motor Village, showcasing the best in new models and the ever popular Classic Car Display. Entertain the children including a fun fair, Punch and Judy and other displays. For more information and enquiries e: showdirector@herefordshirecountryfair.co.uk t: 01981 550 005 w: herefordshirecountryfair.co.uk Learn more about Ross on Wye

The Weir Garden Summer Foraging Courses. The Weir Garden is a beautiful National Trust property boasting a lovely riverside garden, mature trees and even some ancient Roman ruins. Being just outside Hereford this stunning venue is easy to reach from Weobley, Leominster, Hay-on-Wye, Bromyard, Kington and even Presteigne. The course starts with a short introduction on what to look for and a brief of the general countryside codes, where they relate to foragers. Then we’ll set off on a roughly 2.5 hour walk around the gardens and along the River Wye, teaching you how to identify the different plants, flowers, fruits and mushrooms that we find. There will be a break along the way for some homemade refreshments such as our lovely wild food soup or elderflower champagne. After the walk we will end the day with a tasty wild food lunch based on what we have found. This will include some treats made from our recent finds and a wild salad that we will pick on the day. After the course we will email you a list of everything we talk about on the day; to help you remember what you have learnt. Please note that only assistance dogs […]

The Aardvark Brocante Events have gained a solid reputation for their variety and quality of flea-market style stalls selling vintage, antique, bric-a-brac goods and upcycled crafts. Held them 4 times a year, visitors can enjoy browsing the stalls and the bookshop, with refreshments from the Aardvark Café and live music to add to the relaxed, party atmosphere that Aardvark is known for. Free entry, free parking (in the car park or nearby field), all are welcome! For those wishing to book a stall, prices for 2019 are: £12 for a six-foot space if you bring your own table, or £15 if you wish to hire one of our tables. W: aardvark-books.com/aardvark-events

Bromyard Folk Festival is a stalwart event in the Bromyard festival calendar. Bromyard Folk Festival is the best folk cultural event in the Welsh Border area, featuring over 170 hours of entertainment in just one weekend of traditional music, song and dance. Some of the most outstanding local, national and international traditional folk musicians performing in concert, ceilidhs and displays. Headliners will be announced shortly  + many more artists… The Best Of Folk. Bromyard Folk Festival is a registered charity whose aim is to promote traditional folk activities in an annual festival. e: info@bromyardfolkfestival.co.uk w: bromyardfolkfestival.co.uk Learn more about Bromyard

Kington Show offers a traditional show with horses, cattle, sheep and Poultry classes culminating with a grand parade of livestock. There is something for everyone including a motorbike stunt team, horticultural tent, young farmers, an after show dance and much more! There will be nearly 200 trade stands at the event, with many local producers, arts and crafts, food, tools, toys, clothes, tractors to name just a few! The show will combine the traditional feel of an agricultural show, including horse, cattle and sheep classes, with an action-packed programme of entertainment. In the main ring, excitement will be provided by the country’s top Freestyle Motorcross Team – Broke FMX with their heart stopping stunts. In addition, we will have the grand parade of livestock, sheep dog displays, trotting races and vintage vehicles. Elsewhere on the showground there will be thrilling displays. There will be plenty of opportunity to eat and drink during the day at the wide variety of catering stands and the licenced public bar. In addition, there will be nearly 200 trade stands, a dog show, horticultural classes, shearing and YFC competitions. Further information can be found on the website kingtonshow.co.uk or contact the show secretary e: wendy@kingtonshow.co.uk t: 01544 340598 […]

Hereford Arts Markets act as showcases for local talent and designer/makers from the region and are held regularly throughout the year. Offering a range of original artworks, traditional and contemporary crafts and handmade jewellery, the Art Markets offer visitors the chance to meet the professional and semi-professional Designer/Makers. Our artists in turn really enjoy meeting their customers and chatting about their work or discussing bespoke commissions. For additional information contact Becky at office@boffyartsandevents.com 2018 Dates are as follows: Saturday 8 June Saturday 14 September Saturday 16 November Saturday 14 December Learn more about Hereford

Malvern Autumn Show, in association with Westons Cider Mill, returns this September, and offers fun for all the family. Expert gardeners battle it out to see who can grow the heaviest or longest veg and be crowned the ultimate vegetable growing champion at the CANNA UK National Giant Vegetables Championship. Last year saw four world records beaten! Youngsters can explore the vintage village and the Old Tyme Fairground, or visit the World of Animals. With dog agility, floral displays and familiar faces, from Carol Klein to Mark Diacono, there is something for everyone. Drawing around 65,000 visitors over two days, foodies, farmers and families can immerse themselves in a plethora of autumnal activities. Tickets are on sale now, ranging from £6 for a child age 5-16 and £17 for an adult. Tickets brought in advance are lower priced than on the day. Buy your advance ticket. Adult (16yrs +) – £18 in advance (£22 on the day) Children – new for 2019 under 16s gain free entry to the show* Three Counties** & RHS Member – £17 in advance (£22 on the day) Group (8 people +) – £17 in advance (£22 on the day) w: www.threecounties.co.uk t: 01684 230128

Malvern Autumn Show, in association with Westons Cider Mill, returns this September, and offers fun for all the family. Expert gardeners battle it out to see who can grow the heaviest or longest veg and be crowned the ultimate vegetable growing champion at the CANNA UK National Giant Vegetables Championship. Last year saw four world records beaten! Youngsters can explore the vintage village and the Old Tyme Fairground, or visit the World of Animals. With dog agility, floral displays and familiar faces, from Carol Klein to Mark Diacono, there is something for everyone. Drawing around 65,000 visitors over two days, foodies, farmers and families can immerse themselves in a plethora of autumnal activities. Tickets are on sale now, ranging from £6 for a child age 5-16 and £17 for an adult. Tickets brought in advance are lower priced than on the day. Buy your advance ticket. Adult (16yrs +) – £18 in advance (£22 on the day) Children – new for 2019 under 16s gain free entry to the show* Three Counties** & RHS Member – £17 in advance (£22 on the day) Group (8 people +) – £17 in advance (£22 on the day) w: www.threecounties.co.uk t: 01684 230128

The Maiden & the Thief:  18th and 19th century popular Spanish Music from street and stage. Rogers Covey-Crump, tenor.  Renowned as Evangelist in the great Bach Passion settings for more than half a century, Rogers has been a member of many early music groups and has a vast discography. As a member of the world-famous Hilliard Ensemble he appeared across the world.  He currently sings with the three-tenor ensemble Conductus, and also performs as a continuo player. Box&Fir.  Formed in 1994, the Windsor Box&Fir Co has given many concerts. Appearances include the London Handel Festival, Jane Austen’s House in Chawton, Classic FM, BBC1 Television, Goodnestone Park, Channel 4, BBC Radio, Meridian Television, Kensington Palace, V&A, National Portrait Gallery, and many more. They have also made a number of acclaimed commercial recordings. Tickets Standard £15  Student under 25 £7.50 Further information:  www.concertsforcrawall.org/concerts or info@concertsforcraswall.org

Hergest Croft Gardens Plant Fair offers over 40 plant and craft stalls from a wide range of local specialist nurseries. Many rare and unusual plants will be available, some of them propagated at the gardens Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the beautiful Hergest Croft Gardens as it basks in Autumn colours as well as the wonderful array of plants and crafts for sale. Hergest Croft Gardens lies in the heart of the Welsh Marches with stunning views towards the Black Mountains. The gardens contain a unique collection of rare plants, trees and shrubs and over 90 “Champion” Trees. There are gorgeous flower borders, an old fashioned Kitchen Garden, Azalea Garden, Maple Grove, and Park Wood, all to discover. With a Gift Shop and Tearooms the Gardens are the perfect place to explore and relax. w: hergest.co.uk Learn more about Kington   

Spend a relaxing weekend making pots on the potter’s wheel. The therapeutic benefits of working with soft clay on the potter’s wheel are well documented. Participants often leave the studio on Sunday afternoon feeling totally de-stressed and with an overwhelming sense of well-being. “I feel like I’ve spent a weekend at a health farm!” commented a recent punter. Small friendly groups and eight electric potter’s wheels ensure plenty of individual attention and guidance. You will explore a whole range of making techniques based upon the potter’s wheel including: throwing, turning, attaching handles & motifs and decorating methods using under-glaze and coloured slip. Cost: £240 Includes refreshments, lunch, materials, (1-4 pots) firing, glazing and the cost of posting your finished masterpieces. Content: Day 1 The workshop starts at 10am where you’ll be individually assigned a potter’s wheel for the duration of the workshop. After tea/coffee, introductions and initial demonstration you will be taken as a group, step by step, through the pot throwing process. Once you have got the hang of things, you will be encouraged to develop at your own pace with individual tutoring as and when required. Around 1pm, a lunch consisting of rolls, cheese, ham, salad and fruit is […]

Hereford Arts Markets act as showcases for local talent and designer/makers from the region and are held regularly throughout the year. Offering a range of original artworks, traditional and contemporary crafts and handmade jewellery, the Art Markets offer visitors the chance to meet the professional and semi-professional Designer/Makers. Our artists in turn really enjoy meeting their customers and chatting about their work or discussing bespoke commissions. For additional information contact Becky at office@boffyartsandevents.com 2018 Dates are as follows: Saturday 8 June Saturday 14 September Saturday 16 November Saturday 14 December Learn more about Hereford

Spend a creative and relaxing day making pots on the potter’s wheel. Ever yearned to go ‘hands on’ with a potter’s wheel…or maybe you need to fine tune your technique? Whatever your experience, beginner or improver, this is the course for you. Small friendly groups and eight electric potter’s wheels ensure plenty of individual attention and guidance. Participants are consistently amazed at what they achieve in a day! Cost: £130 Includes refreshments, lunch, firing, glazing (1-3 pots) and the cost of posting your masterpieces. Dates for 2019 Sat 12 Jan, Sat 26 Jan, Sat 9 Feb, Sat 16 Feb, Sat 9 Mar, Sat 23 Mar, Sat 13 Apr, Sat 27 Apr, Sat 11 May, Sat 25 May, Sat 8 Jun, Sat 22 Jun, Sat 6 Jul, Sat 14 Sept, Sat 21 Sept, Sat 12 Oct, Sat 26 Oct, Sat 16 Nov, Sat 23 Nov, Sat 7 Dec. 10am – 4pm Other dates are available for x2 or more participants and large groups How to book: Please contact the Pottery to check availability admin@eastnorpottery.co.uk Tel: 01531 633886. Pottery address: Eastnor Pottery & The Flying Potter Home Farm Eastnor Ledbury Herefordshire HR8 1RD W: www.eastnorpottery.co.uk