www.valeandspa.co.uk WHAT’S ON 2019

HOW TO FIND US

The convenient central position of ’s Vale & Spa makes it the ideal destination for a relaxing break, easily accessible from anywhere in the country by road, rail and water. With the M5, M4, M42 and M50 motorways right on the doorstep; new increased mainline rail links from , the and the South West; and fully navigable rivers and , you definitely can’t miss this area, whatever your mode of transport.

to & NW M42 to Coventry & East

Key M5 A435 A Roads J.5 Motorways

Droitwich Railways Spa Hanbury Worcestershire’s Vale and Spa area

River J.6 WORCESTER Stratford upon Avon A46

J.7

River Severn A44 M5 / River Avon LONDON A46 J.8 A44

M50 Broadway

Bredon to South Wales to OXFORD J.9

Cheltenham to & SW

Whilst every care has been taken in compiling this guide and the statements herein are believed to be correct at the time of publication, District Council are not liable for any errors or omissions. © 2019. All rights reserved. No part of this guide may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, electrostatic, magnetic tape, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the written permission of the publishers. Published and designed by Wychavon District Council. Please note that all information has been supplied by the event organisers themselves and we recommend that you check all details prior to any visit. 2 www.valeandspa.co.uk WHAT’S ON 2019

WELCOME TO THE 2019 WHAT’S ON GUIDE FOR WORCESTERSHIRE’S VALE & SPA

The district’s towns of , Evesham and Pershore – together with the village of Broadway – are all well known for their diversity. This is partly a result of the sheer variety of events and festivals that take place. Vast numbers of businesses and individuals work tirelessly to put on fantastic events for your entertainment ranging from international and award-winning, to local, fun and quirky.

Whatever your hobbies and interests are, this guide has been put together to ensure you will never be stuck for FUN FOR KIDS something to do when you’re in the area. There’s more?! Look out for this symbol – it means Even more events can be found on our the event organiser website under the ‘What’s On’ page – take believes children will be greatly a look to help plan your visit: entertained during their visit! www.valeandspa.co.uk www.valeandspa.co.uk 3 WHAT’S ON 2019 E R E X P L O Markets

Bands in the Park Local producers can be found A series of Sunday afternoon concerts take exhibiting at markets as part place throughout the summer of numerous events. These Droitwich Spa: Lido Park include seasonal farmers’ and Evesham: Abbey Park specialist markets at different Pershore: Abbey Park times of the year. However, weekly and monthly markets These are largely organised by volunteers can also be visited across the and provide free live music for all to enjoy. district. For more information please visit: www.bandsinthepark.org.uk

Tourist Information For information regarding local accommodation, town and village maps, attraction leaflets, tickets and souvenirs please contact: Broadway: 01386 852937 [email protected] Droitwich Spa: 01905 774312 For more information on [email protected] where and when, please visit www.valeandspa.co.uk to Evesham: 01386 446944 experience the pride of the [email protected] area’s local distinctiveness. Pershore: 01905 843896 [email protected]

Guided Town Walks Discover DROITWICH SPA Discover Walks starting at 11am from St Richard’s EVESHAM & PERSHORE House, costing £3 per adult and lasting approximately 1 ½ hours will take place on: Guided town walks in Evesham Saturday 9 March, Saturday 13 April, and Pershore available for group Saturday 4 May, Saturday 11 May, Saturday bookings only. 8 June, Saturday 13 July, Saturday 10 August, These must be pre-booked Saturday 7 September, Saturday 12 October by calling the relevant Tourist Advanced booking recommended by calling Information Centre. 01905 774312.

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DROITWICH SPA

Although the majority of famous local produce is typically fruit or vegetables, Droitwich Spa still has a connection with food, but with a famous condiment instead! Droitwich Salt has been enjoying a huge boom since its re-launch in 2017 and the town is the best place to get your hands on its old-but-new famous product. Droitwich Salt is sourced from one of the oldest and purest brine springs in the world – naturally existing under the town for millions of years. It was historically, and justly, celebrated for its great purity and today this pure and natural flavour still comes through. The salt is harvested by hand at Churchfields Saltworks – situated at Churchfields Farm – where the gentle process of crystallising the natural brine to pure salt is done using renewable energy. It was an internationally valuable resource in Roman, Anglo Saxon and Norman Times. For this reason, don’t be surprised if you see the odd Roman or two marching through the town during events – they are quite the attraction! One of these events is the Droitwich Food & Drink Festival on Saturday 22 – Sunday 23 June. With strict rules on who can exhibit, the very best from local producers can be found here within the beautiful Lido Park. Featuring cookery demonstrations, entertainment, children’s activity zone and a plethora of food & drink stalls, come and see why this event was recently voted the best in Worcestershire. Oh, and don’t forget to buy your Droitwich Salt and associated products here too.

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EVESHAM

The British Asparagus Festival | 23 April – 21 June

The famous Vale of Evesham asparagus is grown in the heart of Worcestershire. Its prestige has gained PGI European protected food names status in the fruit and vegetable category – where it joins an elite group of products which includes Jersey Royal potatoes and rhubarb. The world’s finest ‘gras’ is the pride of the area’s many restaurants, pubs and cafes that showcase this majestic vegetable on their menus and it is celebrated across a two month festival with events and activities which are fun for the whole family.

Tuesday 23 April Sunday 19 May The Great English Asparagus Run Asparagus Family Fleece Inn, Colour Fun Run Official launch of the 2019 British Asparagus A multi terrain family friendly run. Festival and the start of the English www.thevalleyshopping.co.uk Asparagus season. Sunday 26 May & Sunday 2 June Sunday 12 May The Famous Fleece Asparagus Asparagus Sunday Lunch Auctions , Bretforton Eckington Manor Bretforton Silver Band entertains the crowds Our chefs will be using the famous Vale as the season’s best and freshest local of Evesham ‘gras’ in dishes on our special asparagus is auctioned to raise vital funds. Sunday menu. www.thefleeceinn.co.uk www.eckingtonmanor.co.uk Monday 27 May Thursday 9 & 16 May Asparagus Fun Day Asparabus Coach Tours The Fleece Inn, Bretforton Enjoy the ultimate asparagus experience on Enjoy live music, drink beer, and try your luck this unique coach tour. at the annual Asparagus Eating Competition! www.dudleys-coaches.co.uk www.thefleeceinn.co.uk

For more information visit: www.britishasparagusfestival.org [email protected] | 01386 565373 The British Asparagus Festival | @AsparagusFest

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PERSHORE

The Pershore Plum Festival | 30 July – 26 August

Pershore’s long history with the plums that made the town so famous is celebrated at this award winning festival. The whole town turns purple and yellow throughout August to commemorate this special fruit. Climaxing in a three day ‘plumtacular’ event over August Bank Holiday weekend, you will be spoilt for choice with so many ‘plum crazy’ events and activities taking place, all of which are fun for kids.

Thursday 22 August Pershore Plum Festival Bike Nite All bikes welcome at this evening of fun, live music and plum food and drink. Something for all the family. Saturday 24 – Monday 26 August The Big Plum Festival, Angel Hotel Live music, food, garden bar and spectacular firework display in the Riverside Gardens. Saturday 24 – Monday 26 August Plum Festival Bank Holiday weekend Tuesday 30 July Attractions and entertainment throughout Pershore Plum Festival Evening Race the town. Resurrecting local racing history courtesy of Worcester Racecourse. Sunday 15 September Plum Bikeaway Wednesday 7 & 14 August 3 plum themed cycle routes around Plum Coach Tours Hill raising money for local charities. A unique guided tour for all plum lovers, including the opportunity to pick your own! Saturday 17 – Sunday 18 August Plum Weekend at Walsgrove Farm Offering up to 20 varieties of pick your own plums and guided walks around the orchards.

Pershore For more information visit: www.pershoreplumfestival.org.uk [email protected] | 01386 565373 Pershore Plum Festival | @PlumFestival Plum Festival

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JANUARY

Friday 11 January Saturday 12 January Wednesday 23 – Benjamin Grosvenor Wassail! Sunday 27 January Piano Concert The Fleece Inn, Bretforton Sleeping Beauty – Evesham Arts Centre The apple orchard comes The Pantomime Winner of BBC Young alive with cider, singing, and Evesham Arts Centre Musician competition. Piano morris dancing. An ancient A traditional panto for all the recital, programme to tradition of waking the trees! family brought to you by the include: Schumann, Janacek, www.thefleeceinn.co.uk Phoenix Theatre Group. Prokofiev & Liszt. 7.30pm. www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk www.evesham-music-club.co.uk Thursday 17 – Sunday 20 January Friday 11 January Aladdin and his St Richard’s Hospice Wonderful Lamp Christmas Tree The Norbury Theatre, Collection Droitwich Spa Support St Richard’s Hospice Our traditional pantomime by having your real tree for all the family. recycled for a donation www.norburytheatre.co.uk towards our care. www.strichards.org.uk/ Sunday 20 January christmas-tree-collection (and 8 further dates in 2019) Friday 11 – Panorama Tower Thursday 24 – Sunday 13 January Open Day Saturday 26 January Aladdin and his National Trust Croome Aladdin and his Wonderful Lamp Climb the staircase of Wonderful Lamp Croome’s eye-catcher with The Norbury Theatre, The Norbury Theatre, panoramic views of the Droitwich Spa Droitwich Spa countryside at the top. Our traditional pantomime Our traditional pantomime www.nationaltrust.org.uk/croome for all the family. for all the family. www.norburytheatre.co.uk www.norburytheatre.co.uk

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FEBRUARY

Friday 1 February Saturday 16 February Tuesday 19 February Orchestra of the Swan: ‘Love Letters’ Mark Thompson’s Vivaldi & Piazzolla – Hampton Community Hall Spectacular The 8 Seasons A tale of two people who Science Show Number 8, Pershore meet at primary school and Number 8, Pershore This is the first of three keep up a correspondence all You think science is boring? concerts in the OOTS Spring their lives. Tickets £10. Think again; this is science like 2019 Season at Number 8. www.eveshamfestivalofwords.org you have never seen it before! www.number8.org Saturday 16 February – www.number8.org Saturday 30 March Thursday 21 February Sci-fi Spectacular Talk on the art of at the Almonry World War 2 The Almonry Museum, Broadway Museum and Art Evesham Gallery Exhibition of science fiction John Noot’s collection over & fantasy memorabilia from 30 years, amateur & official film & TV. For sci-fi fans of all war artists. Friday 1 February – ages! www.broadwaymuseum.org.uk Tuesday 31 December www.almonryevesham.org Sunday 24 February Antony Bridge: Landscape exhibition Duathlon Peopleton Village Hall National Trust Croome 4 mile run, 18 mile bike & 2 Croome’s artist-in-residence mile run; or 2 mile run, 9 mile recreates Richard Wilson’s bike & 2 mile run. Start 9am. landscape painting in his www.worcestertriclub.co.uk exhibition. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/croome Thursday 28 February Tuesday 12 February Trio Goya Concert Talk ‘Ashwood Evesham Arts Centre Nurseries Specialities’ Kati Debretzeni – Violin. Sebastian Comberti – Cello. Pershore College, Room 14 Maggie Cole – F Piano. Playing Plant Heritage meeting: Mozart & Beethoven. 7.30pm. talk by Samantha Hopes www.evesham-music-club.co.uk including Lewisias, Hellebores. Contact: 01905 830370 www.valeandspa.co.uk 9 WHAT’S ON 2019

A fabulous packed programme of events throughout the year, celebrating words in all their forms – spoken, sung and written. Main Festival weekend Friday 28 June – Sunday 30 June, but with fringe events every month through the year. With plays, author talks, writing workshops, short story competition, and poetry, there really is something for everyone.

www.eveshamfestivalofwords.org [email protected]. Sue Ablett (Festival Chair): 07871 285606. Evesham Festival of Words @infoFoW

MARCH

Friday 1 March Saturday 2 March – Thursday 7 March An Evening of Food & Sunday 29 September Cuckoos & Corncrakes: Wine Pairing Grayson Perry – A Guide to the Wonders Eckington Manor Cookery Landscapes of Birdsong School National Trust Croome Number 8, Pershore A fantastic culinary evening, Works by international Join Springwatch veterans come and enjoy fine wines contemporary artist Grayson and Tweet of the Day authors that complement the food Perry including the Battle of Stephen Moss and Brett perfectly. Britain tapestry. Westwood. www.eckingtonmanor.co.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/croome www.number8.org

Sunday 3 March Mid March – Mid May Wedding Fayre Spring Blossom Trail The Fleece Inn, Bretforton Vale of Evesham Meet the team and local A 50 mile AA signposted suppliers. Fall in love with the route around the UK’s only Fleece Inn as your perfect Blossom Trail. wedding venue. www.valeandspa.co.uk/blossom www.thefleeceinn.co.uk

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Monday 18 March W Factor Final Show Number 8, Pershore Young people aged 11–18 showcasing their talents in various categories of performing arts. www.wychavon.gov.uk/events-training-and-workshops

Monday 18 March – Friday 31 May Snowshill Garden Talks Snowshill Manor and Garden A garden guide will take you on a tour of the garden revealing its hidden secrets. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/snowshillmanor

Thursday 21 March World’s Smallest Works of Art Broadway Museum and Art Gallery Willard Wigan MBE talks about his incredible micro-sculptures. www.broadwaymuseum.org.uk

Saturday 23 March Droitwich Spa & District Horticultural Society Spring Flower Show Chawson Barns, Droitwich Spa, WR9 0AQ Traditional flower show, classes for all, tombola during the afternoon. droitwichhortsoc

Sunday 24 March , Uphampton & the Scenic Severn Walk with Evesham Ramblers Cricket Club, Ombersley, WR9 0ET A level easy 5.5 mile walk through Uphampton and then alongside the scenic . www.ramblers.org.uk/Evesham

Friday 29 March Mark Steel: Every Little Thing’s Gonna Be Alright Evesham Arts Centre Stand-up comedy – funny, thoughtful and interesting reasons to still be cheerful. www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk

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APRIL

Saturday 6 April Sunday 7 April Thursday 11 & 18 April Worcestershire Spring Show Spring Time in the Vale Youth Orchestra Villages Hall, Coach Tours Evesham Arts Centre A colourful extravaganza of Various pick up points A full orchestra with the the year’s first blooms with across the county county’s premier young displays of floral art and Experience the wonderful players. 4pm. spring flowers. sights of the fruit orchards www.evesham-music-club.co.uk www.bishamptongardeningclub. throughout the Vale of org.uk Evesham. Saturday 6 – www.dudleys-coaches.co.uk Sunday 28 April Tuesday 9 April Family Garden Talk ‘Hardy Plant Saturday 13 – Trail Society Conservation Sunday 14 April Snowshill Manor and Garden Scheme’ Waking up Follow the trail to find out Pershore College Wolf’s Cove more about Charles Wade’s Plant Heritage meeting: talk Snowshill Manor and Garden magical garden. by Jan Vaughan, Chairman Find out more about Charles www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ of the HPS. Wade’s remarkable model Contact: 01905 830370 snowshillmanor village as it is put back in the Sunday 7 April Wednesday 10 April garden. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ Blossom Trail Evesham Rambling snowshillmanor Bikeaway Club Hampton Ferry Inkberrow Enjoy the stunning blossom Meet at 10am for a 10 mile of the Vale whilst raising walk around Inkberrow money for local charities. including pub lunch. Further www.bikeawayventures.co.uk details on website. www.eveshamramblingclub.org.uk

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Saturday 13 – Tuesday 23 April Monday 22 April Great English Cadbury Easter Asparagus Run Egg Hunt The Fleece Inn, Bretforton Snowshill Manor and Garden Not only celebrating St Follow the Bugs and Beasties George’s Day but also the Trail and find out who lives in start of the award winning the garden at Snowshill. Saturday 20 – British Asparagus Festival £2 per trail. Monday 22 April in the Vale of Evesham. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ Easter Model and Asparagus will be transported snowshillmanor in true ‘Asum Style’. Collectors Show www.britishasparagusfestival.org Saturday 13 – Stoke Prior Sports and Saturday 27 April Country Club, Bromsgrove, Thursday 25 April Family Fun B60 4AL Nick Sharratt’s Right for Easter Cars, miniatures, displays, Royal Draw Along trade stalls, indoor railway The Almonry Museum, Number 8, Pershore exhibition, Easter bonnet Evesham Join this much loved parade and bunny hunt. children’s writer and Follow our Easter Trail www.shakespearesrally.com around the museum plus fun illustrator in a fun filled draw craft activity. See website for Monday 22 April along for all ages! details and prices. Easter Family www.number8.org www.almonryevesham.org Fun Day Saturday 27 – Wednesday 17 – Hampton Ferry Sunday 28 April Monday 22 April Charity stalls and side shows. Wartime in the Golden Egg Trail Hunt for Easter eggs and Cotswolds meet the Easter Bunny. Spetchley Park Gardens www.hamptonferry.co.uk Follow the Easter egg trail, Railway, solve the puzzle, and collect a Broadway yummy Easter treat. Take a trip back in time to the www.spetchleygardens.co.uk 1940’s and visit the Cotswolds at war. www.gwsr.com

Thursday 18 April Monday 22 April Sunday 28 April CountryTastic Vienna Festival Spetchley Specialist Three Counties Ballet: Coppelia Plant Fair Showground, Malvern Evesham Arts Centre Spetchley Park Gardens Expect an action packed day The classic comic ballet 1000s of rare and unusual of countryside discovery with danced live on stage in plants for sale from over plenty of indoor and outdoor Evesham. Get close to the 30 specialist nurseries with activities. magic of live ballet! refreshments available. www.countrytastic.co.uk www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk www.spetchleygardens.co.uk www.valeandspa.co.uk 13 WHAT’S ON 2019

MAY

May – December Saturday 4 – Thursday 9 & 16 May Embroiderers’ Guild Sunday 5 May Asparabus Coach exhibition Evesham Rowing Club Tours National Trust Croome Annual 2 Day Regatta Various pick up points An exhibition of Croome’s Evesham Rowing Club across the county landscape through textile 2 days of top class rowing Enjoy an ‘asparagus art works. on the Avon. Refreshments experience’ with this unique www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ and bar facilities with no tour. croome admission charge. www.dudleys-coaches.co.uk www.erc.club Thursday 2 – Thursday 9 – Saturday 4 May Sunday 5 May Saturday 11 May Wind in The Tiddesley Wood Wind in The Willows Spring Open Day Willows The Norbury Theatre, Tiddesley Wood Nature The Norbury Theatre, Droitwich Spa Reserve, nr Pershore, Droitwich Spa Wind in the Willows by Alan WR10 2AD Wind in the Willows by Alan Bennett. Open day in beautiful Bennett. www.norburytheatre.co.uk woodland with guided walks, www.norburytheatre.co.uk children’s activities and Friday 3 – Thursday 9 – Wildlife Discovery Zone. Monday 6 May www.tiddesley.org.uk Sunday 12 May St Richard’s RHS Malvern Festival Sunday 5 – Spring Festival Monday 6 May Vines Park, Droitwich Spa Three Counties Family friendly festival Cropthorne Showground, Malvern with attractions and Walkabout There is no better place for entertainment throughout Cropthorne, nr Pershore gardeners of all abilities the weekend. A different Open gardens, church to discover summer theme each day. Many flowers, stalls, refreshments, inspiration. boats and vintage cars on bar, music and dog show. www.rhsmalvern.co.uk display. www.cropthornewalkabout. www.strichardsfestival.co.uk co.uk

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Friday 10 May Seann Walsh: After This One, I’m Going Home Saturday 25 May Evesham Arts Centre Unquestionably the best Street Market observational comic of his Manor Lane, Little generation. Comberton, nr Pershore www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk Children’s fun area, stalls, village exhibition, morris dancers and live music. Adults £1. Friday 24 May www.little-comberton.com/ Las Vegas Racenight street-market Worcester Racecourse Vegas comes to Worcester this Bank Holiday weekend! With jump racing, casino games and live music. www.worcester-racecourse.co.uk Friday 24 May ‘Outside the Box’: An Evesham Festival Saturday 25 May Tuesday 14 May of Words event The Amazing A Morning Walk with Friends Meeting House, Adventures of Stunning Views Cowl Street, Evesham Pinocchio Bishampton Store, WR10 2LX A live one-woman show about Evesham Arts Centre A very pretty 5.5 mile walk death, written and performed The much loved family at an easy pace to Naunton by Liz Rothschild. £10. favourite in a high energy, Beauchamp. www.eveshamfestivalofwords.org brand new musical www.eveshamramblers.org.uk Friday 24 – adaptation. No strings! www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk Thursday 16 – Monday 27 May Saturday 18 May Dubs in the Middle So that’s what we Ashdown Farm, nr Evesham, call Musicals WR11 7EL Evesham Arts Centre The alternative VW show Come and join EODS as we for dubbers, car enthusiasts, transport you through the families and music lovers. times and worlds of our www.dubsinthemiddle.co.uk favourite musicals. www.eods.org.uk

Saturday 25 – Monday 27 May Cotswold Festival of Steam Gala Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway, Broadway The best steam gala for miles. www.gwsr.com www.valeandspa.co.uk 15 WHAT’S ON 2019

Sunday 26 May & Monday 27 May Sunday 2 June Pershore Carnival The Famous Fleece Throughout Pershore & Asparagus Auctions Abbey Park The Fleece Inn, Bretforton A traditional carnival parade Bretforton Silver Band followed by a fun filled entertain as the best and afternoon and evening of freshest local asparagus is events. auctioned to raise funds. www.pershorecarnival.co.uk www.thefleeceinn.co.uk PERSHORE Saturday 25 May – CARNIVAL Saturday 1 June IN THE ANGEL Meet the Monks of RIVERSIDE GARDENS Evesham Abbey Monday 27 May The Almonry Museum, Evesham The Angel Hotel riverside gardens Find out about the monks of Evesham Abbey with our Celebrate Pershore family trail and craft activity Carnival with great drink, this half term. food and live music at The www.almonryevesham.org Angel Hotel. www.angelpershore.co.uk Saturday 25 May – Monday 27 May Sunday 2 June Asparagus Storytelling Fun Day Snowshill Manor and The Fleece Inn, Bretforton Garden Enjoy live music, drink beer, Settle down and listen as the and try your luck at the storyteller weaves tales of annual Asparagus Eating Snowshill and beyond. Competition! www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ snowshillmanor www.thefleeceinn.co.uk

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— OPEN GARDENS —

Saturday 8 – Sunday 9 June The 42nd Open Gardens 1pm–6pm

2019’s theme: ‘The English Country Garden’. Various refreshments, stalls, and local produce. Local arts and crafts exhibitions and displays in St Barbara’s Church. Free parking. Adults £6 | under 16s free. Discounts available for larger parties. Tickets are valid for both days.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: www.ashtonopengardens.co.uk

JUNE Wednesday 5 June Friday 14 – Saturday 1 June An Evening with Simon Sunday 16 June Ladies Day Brett: An Evesham Royal Three Worcester Racecourse Festival of Words event Counties Show The only place to be seen in Three Counties Worcestershire! Book your Ecgwins Club, Evesham Famed for his prolific writing tickets in advance for early Showground, Malvern and radio work, and a superb Come with family and friends bird discounts. www.worcester-racecourse.co.uk speaker. Tickets £7. to celebrate the countryside – www.eveshamfestivalofwords.org it’s a great summer’s day out Sunday 2 June for everyone. Sunday 9 June Bretforton www.royalthreecounties.co.uk Classic Vehicle Open Gardens Clubs Day Saturday 15 June Bretforton village Gloucestershire Super Irish Saturday A variety of beautiful gardens Race Evening including The Manor garden. Warwickshire Railway, Refreshments and plant stall. Broadway Worcester Racecourse A new Saturday evening Entry £5. Combine the scene of www.bretforton-gardenclub.co.uk historic road transport with a fixture. Hopefully you’ll have backdrop of vintage trains. the luck of the Irish! www.gwsr.com www.worcester-racecourse.co.uk

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Tuesday 18 June ROH: Romeo & Juliet Number 8, Pershore Saturday 15 – Friday 21 – Shakespeare’s star-crossed Sunday 16 June lovers encounter passion and Sunday 23 June Eckington Flower tragedy in this ballet. Steam & Real Ale Festival and Open www.number8.org Weekend Gardens Thursday 20 – Gloucestershire Eckington Village Saturday 22 June Warwickshire Railway, Featuring 30+ gardens. Broadway Refreshments, free transport My Fair Lady Raise a glass to real ale around village, coach The Norbury Theatre, brewers from all over the parties welcome. Wheelchair Droitwich Spa country. friendly. £6. Our summer musical for 2019. www.gwsr.com www.eckington.info www.norburytheatre.co.uk Saturday 22 June Sunday 16 June Friday 21 – Charlton Evesham Cyclefest Sunday 23 June Country Fayre The Valley, Evesham National Morris The Green, Charlton Mountain Bike Racing. A Weekend Entertainment for all the celebration of all things In and around Evesham family plus free entry and cycling in the Vale of Multi-side national festival of parking. Evesham. Morris Dancing. www.charlton-worcestershire. www.cycleeveshamvale.org www.nationalmorrisweekend.co.uk org.uk/country-fayre/

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Sunday 23 June Family Fun Day Worcester Racecourse Friday 28 June Saturday 22 June A great value day out for An evening with Hampton Ferry Car the whole family, with free author Mike Gayle: & Bike Show entry for U18’s and free kids An Evesham Festival entertainment! Hampton Ferry www.worcester-racecourse.co.uk of Words event A great family day out for Northwick Hotel, Evesham car and bike enthusiasts. Former agony uncle, Mike Free admission. Spectators Gayles best-selling romantic parking £2 all day. novels are a gem! Tickets www.hamptonferry.co.uk £7.50. Saturday 22 – www.eveshamfestivalofwords.org Sunday 23 June Friday 28 – Droitwich Spa Food Sunday 30 June & Drink Festival Evesham Festival Thursday 27 – Lido Park Saturday 29 June of Words Free event with local quality See page 10 for details food producers, demo My Fair Lady Main festival weekend with kitchen, entertainment and The Norbury Theatre, fringe events every month celebrity chefs. Featuring Salt Droitwich Spa through the year. Check Day on the Sunday. Our summer musical for 2019. website for details. www.droitwichspafestival.co.uk www.norburytheatre.co.uk www.eveshamfestivalofwords.org www.valeandspa.co.uk 19 WHAT’S ON 2019

ARMED FORCES DAY IN THE ANGEL GARDENS

Saturday 29 June The Angel Hotel riverside gardens A celebration of service men and women, past and present, with great entertainment, food and drink. www.angelpershore.co.uk

Saturday 29 June Bish Bosh Bash Summer Fete St. James’ Church, Bishampton Join us for a fun filled afternoon of traditional music, entertainment, stalls and activities. www.bishamptonandthrockmorton.org.uk

Saturday 29 June Fete Redfern House, WR7 4QQ A traditional village fete with attractions for all ages. Free entry and ample parking. 2pm-4.30pm. Contact: 01905 345371

Saturday 29 – Sunday 30 June Flower Festival and Open Gardens Church Lench and Open gardens and scarecrows in both villages, with plants, crafts and refreshments in the Village Hall. Contact: 01386 870236

Late June / early July 2019 The Confetti Flower Field Wyke Manor Estate, Wick, nr Pershore. Visit the wonderfully colourful Confetti Flower Field! A unique place to walk around and take photos. www.confettidirect.co.uk/flowerfields

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JULY

Saturday 6 July Saturday 6 – EVESHAM WALKING Street Sunday 7 July FESTIVAL Market Church Row, Overbury Walkabout Monday 1 – Two hours of trading with Sunday 7 July Village centre something for everyone. Featuring Open Gardens Evesham & district – Refreshments, music, free car various locations & Flower Festival in this park. No dogs. 10am-12pm. Evesham’s first ever riverside village. Including www.overbury.org walking festival providing a market, music, classic cars, week of great free rambles and boat/carriage rides. www.fladburyvillage.co.uk/ in scenic countryside. walkabout www.eveshamramblingclub. org.uk

PERSHORE MIDSUMMER BRASS Wednesday 3 July AT THE ANGEL HOTEL Pershore Jazz Club Saturday 6 July Special – Marla Dixon The Angel Hotel Pershore Town Football Club riverside gardens A Jazz Club special with Brass bands from across America’s gutsy and powerful the country perform in jazz singer and trumpeter. our garden marquee, with Tickets only. food and drink available. www.pershorejazz.org.uk/ www.angelpershore.co.uk festival-2019

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SATURDAY 6 JULY Tickets £7.50

H PERS ORE MIDSUMMER BRASS Pershore Abbey | Chapman Court Pershore Baptist Church | The Angel Hotel OVER 30 BRASS BANDS PLAYING A BROAD SPECTRUM OF POPULAR MUSIC from 10am–10pm www.pershoremidsummerbrass.org.uk

Sunday 7 July, Saturday Saturday 13 – Thursday 18 July 17 August & Wednesday Sunday 14 July ‘Remembering Johnny 18 September Broadway Car Kingdom’: An Evesham Dunstall Castle Show Festival of Words Event Open Day Broadway Village Evesham Rowing Club National Trust Croome A new and exciting event for TV producer, David Parker, Climb the narrow spiral Broadway with both supercars with film and memories of staircase to 360 degree views and classics on show. wildlife presenter Johnny at top of the tower. 11am–3pm. www.broadwaycarshow.co.uk Kingdom. Tickets £6. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/croome www.eveshamfestivalofwords.org Saturday 13 – Saturday 13 July Sunday 14 July Saturday 20 July Evesham River Chateau Impney Boat Festival Hill Climb Flower Show Workman Gardens Chateau Impney, The Rec, Badsey, WR11 7EZ A free event for all to enjoy Droitwich Spa Large village show with main the river Avon. Stalls, live Join us for an exhilarating arena, stalls, side shows and music, water displays and weekend packed with historic a large marquee of exhibits. fireworks. motorsport and fun for all the www.badseyflowershow.co.uk @eveshamboatfest family. www.chateauimpneyhillclimb.com

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Friday 26 – Sunday 28 July Heritage Diesel Gala and Bus Rally Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway, Broadway A chance to re-live the 60’s and 70’s with our collection of heritage diesel locomotives. www.gwsr.com Saturday 20 July Pershore River Saturday 27 July Festival The Hampton King George’s Field, Ferry Show Pershore Hampton Ferry Fun for all the family by Celebrating 90 years and on the river Avon. 2019 in business. Fun and theme will be ‘Beach Party’. games for all ages. Free www.pershoreriverfestival.org admission, car parking £2 all day. Saturday 20 July – www.hamptonferry.co.uk Saturday 14 September A New Perspective, Tuesday 30 July The Work of Edmund Pershore Plum Hort New Festival Evening The Almonry Museum, Races Evesham Worcester Racecourse Exhibition of work by Paint Pitchcroft purple at Evesham born illustrator this popular annual race E H New, and family evening, with prizes for the activities for the summer best purple outfit! holidays. www.worcester-racecourse. www.almonryevesham.org co.uk

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AUGUST

Friday 2 August Wednesday 7 & Tuesday 13 August Battle of Evesham Wednesday 14 August Pershore Plum Cookery Coach Tour Plum Coach Tours Demonstration Various pick up points Various pick up points Eckington Manor Cookery across the county across the county School A fascinating Celebrating the fruit that Join us for an entertaining commemoration of the made Pershore famous. Plum evening as Head Chef Mark historic Battle of Evesham. guides will accompany both demonstrates a range of www.dudleys-coaches.co.uk tours. plum dishes. www.dudleys-coaches.co.uk www.eckingtonmanor.co.uk Saturday 3 – Sunday 4 August Saturday 10 – Friday 16 – Battle of Evesham Sunday 11 August Sunday 18 August Crown Meadow, Evesham Cotswold Bricks and Pershore Jazz Festival Free to attend medieval Trains Weekend Pershore College Campus festival and life- Gloucestershire Join us to listen to 150 of the demonstrations, plus the Warwickshire Railway, UK’s best musicians playing main battle re-enactment. Broadway a diverse range of foot www.battleofevesham.co.uk Helping to build children’s tapping jazz. www.pershorejazz.org.uk/ Saturday 3 – imaginations. festival-2019 www.gwsr.com Sunday 4 August Saturday 17 August Saturday 10 – Vale of Evesham Bishampton Sunday 11 August Sheepdog Trials Summer Flower & Living History Show Baldwyn’s Farm, Produce Show Road, Spetchley Park Gardens 60th anniversary of one of A fascinating family day out – Villages Hall, Bishampton A summer cornucopia ’s premier sheepdog join over 1000 re-enactors as with displays in 74 classes trials, with the best handlers they battle it out throughout including fruit, vegetables, and their dogs. the day. Contact: 01386 830292 www.spetchleygardens.co.uk flowers and crafts. www.bishamptongardeningclub. org.uk 24 www.valeandspa.co.uk WHAT’S ON 2019

Saturday 17 – Sunday 18 August Plum Weekend Walsgrove Farm, Evesham Road, WR7 4QL Up to 20 varieties of plum to try, PYO/ready picked. Guided walks around the orchard. www.walsgrove.co.uk Saturday 24 August Saturday 24 – Monday 26 August Flower Show Worcestershire Brailles Orchard, Great Open Studios Comberton Locations across Traditional village show. Worcestershire Competitive classes. Stalls, Free entry to artists’ studios games, refreshments and and shared spaces at family entertainment. locations across the county. www.theflowershow.org.uk www.worcestershireopenstudios.org Saturday 24 – Monday 26 August Monday 26 August Droitwich Spa & Evesham Angling Festival District Horticultural Crown and Corporation Society Annual Meadow Flower Show Nationally renowned annual Droitwich Sports & angling festival. Leisure Centre www.eveshamfestival.com Traditional flower show Saturday 24 – with produce, stalls and Monday 26 August entertainment. Something for all the family. Pershore Plum droitwichhortsoc Festival Bank Holiday weekend Saturday 31 August Enjoy a plum filled weekend Peopleton with attractions and Autumn Show entertainment throughout the Peopleton Village Hall town. Sat: Heritage and retail; and fields Sun: Family Fun Day; Mon: Classic cars, live music, Traditional plum fun. beer, food, drink, games, www.pershoreplumfestival.org.uk craft stalls, fruit & veg competitions. www.peopletonvillage.co.uk THE ANGEL’S Saturday 31 August – BIG PLUM FESTIVAL Sunday 1 September Saturday 24 – Evesham Monday 26 August Scarecrow Festival The Angel Hotel Hampton Ferry riverside gardens Build your own scarecrow, Pershore’s biggest live King of the Crows music, beer and food event. competition, live music and www.angelpershore.co.uk Cider Festival. www.hamptonferry.co.uk

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SEPTEMBER

Sunday 1 September Saturday 14 September Pebworth Party Droitwich Spa & in the Park District Horticultural Village green Society Autumn Renowned for quirky Flower Show events; Cow Pat Bingo, Chawson Barns, Egg Splat, Pebworth Red Droitwich Spa, WR9 0AQ Barrows and dog show. Traditional flower show. www.pebworth.org/ pebworth-party-in-the-park Classes for all. Tombola during the afternoon. Sunday 8 September droitwichhortsoc Evesham Cyclefest Evesham Leisure and sportive rides Saturday 14 September for all ages and capabilities. Broadway www.cycleeveshamvale.org Horticulture and Tuesday 10 September Craft Show Talk ‘For Ever, For Broadway Village green Everyone; Managing Display of locally grown Historic Gardens in fruits, vegetables, flowers, plants, baked goods, the 21st Century’ jams & craft items. Great Pershore College, Room 14 family fun, stalls, music & Plant Heritage meeting; refreshments. 1pm–4.30pm. talk by Simon Gulliver of www.broadway-cotswolds. the National Trust. co.uk/broadway- Contact: 01905 830370 horticultural-craft-show

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Thursday 19 – Sunday 22 September Saturday 14 – Dubs of Anarchy Sunday 15 September Ashdown Farm, Stoke Prior nr Evesham, WR11 7EL Steam Rally VW motorbike show. www.dubsofanarchy.co.uk Little Intall Fields, Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove, B60 4LF Traction engines, miniatures, cars and other vehicles, organs, displays, trade stalls, bar, refreshments and much more. www.shakespearesrally.com Sunday 15 September Saturday 28 – Broadway Food Sunday 29 September Festival Sunday 15 September Malvern Autumn Show Village green Plum Bikeaway Three Counties Local artisan food and drink Pershore College Showground, Malvern producers. Cooking demos Choice of three plum based Harvesting the best of by local chefs. Delicious food routes around Bredon Hill autumn – enjoy a festival of to go. raising money for local gardening, food, drink and www.broadway-cotswolds. charities. nostalgia. co.uk/food-festival www.bikeawayventures.co.uk www.malvernautumn.co.uk

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Wednesday 23 October Christmas Cake OCTOBER Saturday 12 October Baking & Decorating Evesham Rowing Demonstrations led by Club Junior Head Tuesday 8 October Sarah Hughes of the River Eckington Manor Talk: ‘The Evolution Evesham Rowing Club Cookery School of Flowers’ Processional timed rowing on Join our demonstrations Pershore College, Room 14 the river Avon. Refreshments where you can learn how Plant Heritage meeting; talk available. Free entry for to bake and decorate the by Nicholas Wray of Bristol spectators. perfect Christmas cake. University Botanic Garden. www.erc.club www.eckingtonmanor.co.uk Contact: 01905 830370 Tuesday 15 October Saturday 26 – Thursday 10 – Autumn Coach Tour Thursday 31 October Sunday 13 October Various pick up points Spooky Root Sister Act – across the county House Trail The Musical Experience a guided tour Spetchley Park Gardens Evesham Arts Centre through the beautiful Follow the spooky trail The West End hit musical autumnal Vale. around 30 acres of beautiful www.dudleys-coaches.co.uk performed by Evesham’s gardens, it’s going to be Phoenix Theatre Group. Saturday 19 – spookier than ever! www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk Sunday 20 October www.spetchleygardens.co.uk Friday 11 – Cotswolds Food Saturday 26 October – Sunday 13 October & Drink Fayre Saturday 2 November Apple & Ale Gloucestershire Happy Halloween! The Fleece Inn, Bretforton Warwickshire Railway, The Almonry Museum, A weekend of Morris Dancing Broadway Evesham and a real ale festival, as A chance to see artisan food Half term Halloween fun at the apples are traditionally and drink producers from the Almonry including a trail pressed to make cider. around the region selling their and craft activity. See website www.thefleeceinn.co.uk products. for details. www.gwsr.com www.almonryevesham.org 28 www.valeandspa.co.uk WHAT’S ON 2019

NOVEMBER

THE ANGEL BONFIRE, FIREWORKS Saturday 30 November & LIVE MUSIC Church Lench SPECTACULAR Christmas Fayre Friday 1 November Church Lench Village Hall The Angel Hotel Traditional stalls and crafts riverside gardens with seasonal refreshments. Tuesday 12 November A roaring bonfire, hot 2.30pm–4.30pm. local food, great drinks Talk ‘Romanian Contact: 01386 870236 and Pershore’s biggest Mountain Plants’ Saturday 30 November fireworks display. Pershore College, Room 14 www.angelpershore.co.uk Plant Heritage meeting: talk Droitwich Spa by Razvan Chisu. Christmas Lights Contact: 01905 830370 Saturday 2 November Switch On Town centre Pershore Town Tuesday 12 – Family entertainment and Fireworks Display Saturday 16 November festive fun getting ready King George’s Field The Sound of Music for Christmas. Featuring Pershore’s Bonfire night Evesham Arts Centre Santa’s grotto, seasonal with a free firework display. EODS present their production markets, fun fair and switch Gates open at 5.30pm with of the classic Rodgers and on ceremony including choirs fireworks at 7pm. Hammerstein Musical. and countdown. www.visitpershore.co.uk www.eods.org.uk www.visitdroitwichspa.com www.valeandspa.co.uk 29 WHAT’S ON 2019

Saturday 30 November Saturday 30 November Evesham Christmas Hampton Ferry Lights Switch On at Christmas Market Place, Evesham Hampton Ferry Annual event featuring Mulled wine, mince pies, entertainment, Santa, carols and Father Christmas reindeer, switch on and himself. Lights switch on fireworks. approximately 7pm. www.visitevesham.co.uk www.hamptonferry.co.uk Saturday 30 November Saturday 30 November Evesham Rowing Club Pershore Christmas Senior and Masters Lights Switch On Head of the River St Andrews Gardens, Evesham Rowing Club Pershore Processional timed rowing Switching on the Christmas racing on the river Avon with Lights. Father Christmas refreshments and bar. Free and his reindeer, stalls and entry for spectators. entertainment. www.erc.club www.visitpershore.co.uk

DECEMBER

Various dates in December Santa Specials Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway, Broadway All aboard to visit Santa in his grotto! Must pre-book. See website for dates and more details. www.gwsr.com

Friday 6 December Christmas Party Night Eckington Manor Cookery School Arrive from 7.15pm with a three course dinner served at 8pm. Disco and dancing until midnight. www.eckingtonmanor.co.uk

Wednesday 11 December Christmas Cake Baking & Decorating Demonstrations led by Sarah Hughes Eckington Manor Cookery School Join our demonstrations where you can learn how to bake and decorate the perfect Christmas cake. www.eckingtonmanor.co.uk

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