Broadway | | | www.valeandspa.co.uk

WELCOME TO THE 2018 WHAT’S ON GUIDE FOR ’S VALE & SPA

An area of sheer diversity, not only in its surroundings, but also in what is on offer with accommodation, shopping, attractions and a plethora of festivals and events – there is truly something for everyone. Ranging from international and award-winning, to local, fun and quirky – this is definitely a year-round experience not to be missed. Whatever your hobbies and interests are, There are plenty of events that will there will surely be something to suit you. provide great entertainment for With coach tours, horticulture, history, children – just look for this sign next music and more, you will never be stuck to events. for something to do. If this guide has whetted your appetite for Events in Worcestershire’s Vale & Spa are 2018 and you would like more information unlike others across the country, mainly about the area and accomodation details because of their local distinctiveness. The (so you can stay for even longer), please area prides itself on being different, and visit: throughout the towns of you will see some very unique celebrations of www.valeandspa.co.uk what makes them so special. www.valeandspa.co.uk 3 H S C P I A T W D R O I SALT

The town certainly has a soft spot for food, and for good reason – the Droitwich Spa Food & Drink Festival is officially the ‘Best Event in Worcestershire’ having won its category in the Visit Worcestershire Awards for Excellence!

Taking place this year on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 June, the Lido Park-based event comprises of a plethora of food & drink stalls; a cookery demonstration kitchen; cookery competitions; entertainment; and a kids zone. The delightful park setting allows for a wonderful, enjoyable experience. Foodie fans should be sure to also visit the town centre’s restaurants for a fabulous meal… that’s if you have room after all those samples! Droitwich Spa benefits from a naturally-occurring brine spring. When the brine is extracted and heated, it produces a very pure salt. The town celebrates this historical connection with salt through its annual Salt Fest – taking place on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 September. Not only can you purchase the 2017-launched Droitwich Salt and associated products at the event, but visitors also have the thrill of experiencing a Roman camp. There is evidence that the town had Roman occupation – it was known as ‘Salinae’ meaning ‘Salt Works’. A weekend of live music, activities, stalls and entertainment throughout the town welcomes crowds to this unique celebration of a 100% natural product. B T H E R H I T I S 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 name status and joins an elite group of food and drink which includes Champagne, Melton Mowbray pork pies, and Welsh lamb. The world’s finest ‘gras’ is celebrated across a two-month festival that consists of numerous events and activities that are fun for all the family. It is also the pride of the area’s many restaurants, pubs and cafés, which showcase the majestic asparagus on their menus. Remember, Vale of Evesham asparagus can only be purchased during its season (23 April – 21 June) so make sure you get yours whilst stock lasts! Monday 23 April Friday 22 – Sunday 24 June The Great English Asparagus Run National Morris Weekend Official launch of the 2018 British In and around Evesham Asparagus Festival. A ‘100’ round of the Multi-side national festival of Morris finest Vale ‘gras’ transported in true Dancing. ‘Asum Style’. www.nationalmorrisweekend.co.uk Thursday 10 & Thursday 17 May Asparabus Coach Tours Enjoy an ‘asparagus experience’ with this unique coach tour. Pick up at various points. Booking essential. Coaches I 01386 792206 Sunday 20 May Asparagus Family Colour Fun Run The Valley, Evesham A multi-terrain, family-friendly run. www.thevalleyshopping.co.uk Sunday 27 May & Sunday 3 June The Famous Fleece Asparagus Auctions The Fleece Inn, Bretforton Silver Band entertain the crowds as the season’s best and freshest local asparagus is auctioned to raise vital funds. Free entry. www.thefleeceinn.co.uk For more information regarding all of these events: www.britishasparagusfestival.org [email protected] | 01386 565373 The British Asparagus Festival | @AsparagusFest E R T P H E E R S H O Pershore PLUM Plum Festival Quadruple winner of the FESTIVAL Best Tourism Event and Festival Award Pershore’s long history with the plums that 31 July – 27 August made the town so famous is celebrated when the town turns purple and yellow to commemorate this special fruit. Climaxing in a three day ‘plumtacular’ event over the 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’. Sunday 1 July Plum Blossom Sunday Tuesday 31 July Angel Hotel Pershore Plum Festival Evening Races Wednesday 8 & Wednesday 15 August Plum Coach Tours Saturday 18 & Sunday 19 August Plum Weekend at Walsgrove Farm Thursday 23 August Pershore Plum Festival Bike Nite Saturday 25 – Monday 27 August The Big Plum Festival, Angel Hotel Saturday 25 – Monday 27 August Plum Festival Bank Holiday weekend Enjoy a plum filled weekend with attractions and entertainment throughout the town. Saturday: Heritage and retail; Sunday: Family Fun Day and Monday: Traditional plum fun Saturday 16 September Plum Bikeaway For more information regarding all of these events: www.pershoreplumfestival.org.uk [email protected] | 01386 565373 Pershore Plum Festival | @PlumFestival FEBRUARY

Thursday 1 February Friday 9 February Monday 19 February Catriona McDermid Noble Jacks in Concert Nick Sharratt’s (bassoon) with Number 8, Pershore Big Draw Along Jonathan Musgrave Folk band Noble Jacks Number 8, Pershore (piano) bring their roof raising, Join this much-loved high energy show to Evesham Arts Centre children’s writer and Pershore, with feel-good Classical music including illustrator in a family- footstompin’ rhythms and Elgar, Ravel & Gurney. friendly, fun filled draw- vivid lyricism. 7.30pm. Tickets £17, £16 and £3 for along for all ages. 2pm. www.number8.org students. www.number8.org www.edmc.website Saturday 10 – Thursday 8 February – Sunday 11 February Wednesday 23 May Snowdrops at Hiroshige’s Japan: Snowshill Manor Views of Mount Fuji Snowshill Manor, nr Broadway Broadway Museum and Enjoy a peak into the Art Gallery garden during the closed Over 20 views of Mount season to see these delicate Fuji by Utagawa Hiroshige little flowers. 1pm-4pm. (1797-1858), well-known www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ Japanese woodblock print snowshill-manor-and-garden designer. www.broadwaymuseum.org.uk Tuesday 13 February Plant Heritage ‘Three West Country Gardens’ Sunday 25 February Pershore College, Room 14 Duathlon A talk by Adrian James Peopleton Hall/ about Mapperton, Recreational Field Marwood Hill and Yeo Run 4 miles, bike 18 miles Valley Organic. 7pm. and run 2miles. Good Contact: 01905 830370 beginner’s race: roads and lanes. Entry £30. www.worcestertriclub.co.uk www.valeandspa.co.uk 7 MARCH

Thursday 1 March Saturday 17 March Thursday 22 March The Pelleas The Counterfeit Ensemble Stones Live John Singer Sargent’s Portraits Evesham Arts Centre The Regal, Evesham Classical music played Now in their 27th year, of Sisters on Harp, Flute and Viola. these prank-stars Broadway Museum Composers include continue to deliver the and Art Gallery Bax, Ravel and Debussy. best ‘mock ‘n’ roll’ show Former Director of Tickets £17, £16, £3 on the circuit. the Boston Museum students. 7.30pm. www.theregal.ac of Fine Arts, Malcolm www.edmc.website Rogers, discusses Singer Sunday 18 March Sargent’s works including Saturday 10 – Sunday Morning ‘Carnation, Lily. Lily Rose’. Sunday 18 March Walk with Evesham www.broadwaymuseum. org.uk Heirloom Trail Ramblers Snowshill Manor, Footpath in front of Friday 23 March nr Broadway Church Jethro: The Count Family fun to celebrate Meet at 10am for a 6 mile of Cornwall Mother’s Day. 12pm–4pm. walk along the brook and Evesham Arts Centre www.nationaltrust.org. back through Bow Wood. A memorable evening of uk/snowshill-manor-and- www.eveshamramblers. garden org.uk hysterical nonsense from the cream of Cornish Tuesday 13 March Monday 19 March comedians. Live on Plant Heritage W Factor stage: Jethro. ‘Pulmonarias’ www.eveshamartscentre. Final Show co.uk Pershore College, Room 14 Number 8, Pershore A talk by Margaret Stone. A performing arts Members free, visitors talent contest for 11 – 18 £3. 7pm. year olds living across Contact: 0121 476 1340 Wychavon. theWfactor Wednesday 28 March – Friday 30 March – SPRING Monday 2 April Sunday 15 April BLOSSOM TRAIL Golden Egg Trail Dino Eggstravaganza Spetchley Park Gardens All Things Wild Nature Follow the Easter egg Mid-March – Mid-May Centre, Trail accessible to all trail around the beautiful There’s lots of fun to be modes of transport. Gardens, solve the clues, had here at All Things Wild www.blossom-trail.org.uk and collect a yummy Easter this Easter! 01386 565373 treat. www.allthingswild.co.uk www.spetchleygardens.co.uk Thursday 29 March – Sunday 15 April Easter Fun at the Almonry The Almonry Museum, Evesham Follow our Easter Eggs- travaganza Trail around the museum and fun craft activity. See website for details and prices. Friday 23 March www.almonryevesham.org Pudding Night Jinney Ring Craft Centre, Hanbury A light supper followed by Saturday 31 March as many desserts as you can manage, all night! Spring Show www.jinneyring.co.uk Villages Hall, Bishampton, Saturday 24 March WR10 2LY An Evening with Come and celebrate the Mark Sissons first show of spring flowers! Join in and exhibit, or just Droitwich High School see and enjoy. Professional Wildlife & www.bishamptongardening Nature Photographer. Open club.org.uk to everyone. www.droitwichcamera.co.uk Saturday 31 March – Monday 2 April Saturday 24 March Friday 30 March – Easter Model and Droitwich Spa & District Monday 2 April Collectors Show Horticultural Society First Passenger Stoke Prior Sports and Spring Flower Show Trains to and from Country Club, , Chawson Barns, Broadway B60 4AL Droitwich Spa, WR9 0AQ since 1960 Cars, miniature engines, Traditional flower displays, trade stalls. Broadway Steam Rail Station show with classes for Indoor railway exhibition, Join us for this historic day. horticultural produce, Saturday and Sunday. Three Steam trains running. crafts, etc. Daffodil Society Easter Bonnet Parade & Normal prices apply. NO medal. Open to all. Free Bunny Hunt, Monday only. vouchers accepted. admission. From 1pm. www.shakespearesrally.com www.gwsr.com | 01242 621405 droitwichhortsoc

www.valeandspa.co.uk 9 A fabulous packed programme of events throughout the year, celebrating words in all their forms – spoken, sung and written. Main Festival weekend Friday 29 June – Sunday 1 July, but with fringe events every month through the year. With plays, author talks, workshops, children’s events, short story competition, a poetry walk, there really is something for everyone.

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

APRIL

Friday 6 – Sunday 8 April Sunday 8 April Monday 2 April Sing in the Spring Pershore Carnival Easter Family Fun Day The Fleece Inn, Bretforton Duck Race & Hampton Ferry, Evesham A fabulous weekend of Royalty Selection Child-friendly fun including singing, workshops and King George’s Field & an Easter Egg Hunt and Ale! Camp amongst the Pershore Town Football Club meet the Easter Bunny. blossom in our beautiful A fun-filled family event 11am–3pm. orchard and enjoy a featuring duck races on the www.hamptonferry.co.uk relaxed weekend of song. River Avon, entertainment From £15. and the Carnival Royalty Monday 2 April www.thefleeceinn.co.uk Selection. Vienna Festival www.pershorecarnival.co.uk Ballet: Swan Lake Sunday 8 April Evesham Arts Centre Go Walkies for The most-loved ballet, Guide Dogs dance live on stage in Jinney Ring Craft Centre, Evesham to the music of Hanbury Tchaikovsky. Get close to Go Walkies is a sponsored the magic! dog walk, and promises www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk fantastic fun for all the family and their pet! www.jinneyring.co.uk

10 www.valeandspa.co.uk Saturday 14 – Sunday 15 April Sunday 15 April Thursday 12 & Waking up Wolf’s Cove Thursday 19 April model village Snowshill Manor, Lambing Live Springtime in the Vale nr Broadway From Overbury Village Hall Coach Tours Discover more about the Visit lambs at Overbury, Picking up at various points magical world Charles enjoy tractor & trailer ride, across the county Wade created within the refreshments and fun for Experience the wonderful garden. 11am–5.30pm. the whole family. sights of the apple www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ www.overburyfarms.co.uk orchards in the vale of snowshill-manor-and-garden Evesham. Complete with a Saturday 21 – blossom guide to highlight Sunday 22 April the best viewpoints and Evesham provide an historical and Truck Show entertaining trip. The Ketch Field, Worcester, www.dudleys-coaches.co.uk| 01386 792206 WR5 3HW Great family fun weekend. Friday 13 April Custom/airbrushed show Vandepeer trucks, kids entertainment String Quartet Sunday 15 April and more. www.eveshamtruckshow.co.uk Evesham Arts Centre Blossom Trail Students of Royal Bikeaway Northern College of Hampton Ferry Music. Composers include Experience the ‘blooming’ Bridge, Haydn, Mozart. Bikeaway in the Vale of Bartok. Tickets £17, £16, £3 Evesham whilst raising students. 7.30pm. money for local charities. www.edmc.website www.bikeawayventures.co.uk

www.valeandspa.co.uk 11 Sunday 22 April walk with Evesham Ramblers Jubilee Bridge Car Park, , WR10 2QA Meet at 10am for a 7.5 mile walk via Baldwin’s Bank and along the . Bring packed lunch. www.eveshamramblers.org.uk

Sunday 22 April Scenic Six Peopleton Hall/Recreational Field Register for either a 6 mile run or a 2 mile fun run/walk. www.strichards.org.uk/scenic-six

Sunday 22 April Specialist Plant Fair Spetchley Park Gardens A fabulous day out at one of the Midlands’ most recognised gardening events where thousands of garden plants are for sale. www.spetchleygardens.co.uk

Monday 23 April Great English Asparagus Run The Fleece Inn & Broadway Steam Rail Station Not only celebrating St Georges Day but also the start of the award winning British Asparagus Festival in the Vale of Evesham. Asparagus will be transported in true ‘Asum Style’. www.gwsr.com | www.britishasparagusfestival.org

Saturday 28 – Sunday 29 April Wartime in the Cotswolds Steam Railway Come enjoy the railway’s nostalgic and light-hearted look at Cotswolds life in the 1940s. www.gwsr.com | 01242 621405 MAY

Friday 4 – Sunday 6 May Monday 7 May Tiddesley Wood St Richards Spring Open Day Festival Tiddesley Wood Nature Vines Park, Droitwich Spa Reserve, nr Pershore, Family friendly festival WR10 2AD with attractions and Open day in beautiful entertainment throughout woodland – guided walks, the weekend. A different children’s activities, theme each day. Many Wildlife Discovery Zone, boats and vintage cars on craft demonstrations, display. refreshments and music. www.strichardsfestival.co.uk Free parking. www.tiddesley.org.uk Saturday 5 – Sunday 6 May Sunday 6 – Friday 11 May Evesham Rowing Club Monday 7 May Ed Byrne: Spoiler Alert Annual 2 Day Regatta Cropthorne The Regal, Evesham Evesham Rowing Club Walkabout Due to popular demand Ed Two days of top class Cropthorne village has extended his critically rowing. Refreshments and Gardens open. acclaimed UK Spoiler Alert bar facilities available. Free Entertainment for children, Tour! entry for spectators. stalls, refreshments, Flower www.theregal.ac www.erc.club Festival in Norman Church. www.cropthornewalkabout.com Saturday 19 – Sunday 6 May Sunday 20 May Cotswolds Ferrari Club Sunday 6 – Flower visits Broadway Monday 7 May and Garden Festival Throughout the village VE Vintage Festival Feckenham, nr Droitwich Spa Broadway High Street will Market Place, Evesham 30 gardens open, Church be lined with supercars The VE Vintage Festival Flower Festival, nurseries courtesy of the Ferrari is back with the original plant sales, garden Owners Club. founder. Stalls, entertainment supplies, WI teas, pig roast. www.visit-broadway.co.uk and food for two days. 11am–5pm. Search ‘VE Vintage Festival’ www.feckenham.com

www.valeandspa.co.uk 13 Saturday 26 – Monday 28 May Cotswold Festival of Steam Gala Broadway Steam Rail Station The best steam gala for miles. No free entry to this event. www.gwsr.com | 01242 621405

Friday 25 – Monday 28 May Dubs in the Middle Ashdown Farm, Sunday 27 May & nr Evesham, WR11 7EL Sunday 3 June The alternative VW The Famous Fleece show for dubbers, car Asparagus Auctions enthusiasts, families and music lovers. The Fleece Inn, Bretforton www.dubsinthemiddle.co.uk Bretforton Silver Band entertain the crowds as Saturday 26 May Saturday 26 May – the season’s best and Creeds Cross: Sunday 3 June freshest local asparagus The Celtic Journey Go Down Under is auctioned to raise vital Evesham Arts Centre funds. Free entry. All Things Wild Nature www.thefleeceinn.co.uk Unstoppably exciting Centre, Honeybourne evening of toe-tapping We have lots of fun Monday 28 May Celtic & American music activities planned, so come Pershore Carnival from Galway Girl to and go wild at All Things Dueling Banjos. Pershore High Street Wild! & Abbey Park www.eveshamartscentre. www.allthingswild.co.uk co.uk/dance 50th anniversary. Saturday 26 May – Traditional family carnival Sunday 3 June parade through Pershore. Mini Beast Week Fun filled afternoon of events, spectacular evening Snowshill Manor, concert with firework finale. nr Broadway www.pershorecarnival.co.uk There are mini beasts inside the manor and out in the garden! 12pm–5pm. Saturday 26 May www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ snowshill-manor-and-garden Street Market Saturday 26 May – Manor Lane, Little Sunday 3 June Comberton, nr Pershore Summer Half Term Traditional stalls, children’s Fun at the Almonry area, bar, pork baps, cream The Almonry Museum, teas, ‘sew many friends’ quality exhibition, Morris Evesham Join us at the Almonry for dancers and live music. our Get out in the Garden Adults £1. 2pm–5pm. www.little-comberton.com/ Trail and craft activity. street-market www.almonryevesham.org

14 www.valeandspa.co.uk JUNE

Friday 1 June Sunday 3 June Friday 8 – Fairport Bretforton Sunday 10 June Convention Live Open Gardens artBEAT The Regal, Evesham Bretforton village Broadway Fairport Convention has Enjoy a variety of garden Weekend of some of the been making great music styles and scarecrows most renowned artists, for over fifty years and are in the historic village of printmakers, jewellers, credited with originating Bretforton. Refreshments, sculptors, ceramicists, British folk-rock music. tombola, plant sale and designers and craftsmen www.theregal.ac more. demonstrating their skills. www.bretforton-gardenclub. www.broadwayartsfestival.com Saturday 2 – co.uk Sunday 3 June Friday 8 – Thursday 7 June NGS Pershore Sunday 17 June The Archers Coach Tour Open Gardens Broadway Arts Various pick ups throughout Gardens in Pershore Festival the county Between 15 and 20 gardens Multiple venues in and Come and enjoy a magical will be open to the public around Broadway experience around The for charity as part of the Celebrity talks, workshops, Archer’s countryside. National Gardens Scheme. www.dudleys-coaches.co.uk | demonstrations, exhibitions, www.ngs.org.uk 01386 792206 music, and theatre for all ages to inspire and Thursday 7 June – entertain anyone interested Wednesday 12 in the arts. September www.broadwayartsfestival.com World War I Art Saturday 9 June Broadway Museum Flowers Brass Band and Art Gallery Evesham Arts Centre Curated by local gallery World class brass band owner John Noott, one of returning to Evesham by the country’s leading fine popular demand. Tickets art dealers in 20th century £17, £16, £3 students. paintings. www.edmc.website www.broadwaymuseum.org.uk

www.valeandspa.co.uk 15 OPEN GARDENS

Saturday 9 – Sunday 10 June The Village of Ashton under Hill Over 25 colourful gardens open from 1pm each day. Lunches and refreshments available from 12noon. Refreshments, cream teams, plant sales. Free parking. Adults £6, under 16s free. www.ashtonopengardens.co.uk

Monday 11 – Friday 15 June Saturday 16 – Saturday 16 June Pudding Night Sunday 17 June PODS: Best of West Jinney Ring Craft Centre, Droitwich Spa Food End & Broadway Hanbury & Drink Festival Number 8, Pershore A light supper followed by as many desserts as you Join Pershore Operatic Lido Park and Dramatic Society for can manage, all night! Free event featuring local www.jinneyring.co.uk a night of West End and quality food producers, Broadway hits! with demo kitchen, www.pershorepods.co.uk entertainment and celebrity chefs. www.droitwichspafestival.co.uk

Saturday 16 – Sunday 17 June Eckington Flower Saturday 16 June Festival and Open Charlton Gardens Country Fayre Eckington village The Green, Charlton, Approximately 30 gardens nr Pershore open, including NGS A traditional village fayre gardens, flower display with entertainment, food in church, refreshments, and games for all the family. music, coaches welcome. www.charlton-worcestershire. £6 each for day/weekend. org.uk/summer-fayre www.eckington.info

16 www.valeandspa.co.uk Friday 22 – Saturday 23 June Sunday 24 June Hampton Ferry Car National Morris and Bike Show Friday 29 June – Weekend A great family day out for Sunday 8 July In and around Evesham car and bike enthusiasts. The Real Flower Multi-side national festival 11am–4pm. Petal Confetti www.hamptonferry.co.uk of Morris Dancing. Company’s www.nationalmorrisweekend. Thursday 28 June co.uk Confetti Flower Field Folk in the Foyer: Wyke Manor Farm, Wick, Kitty Macfarlane nr Pershore Evesham Arts Centre The colourful and unique Young Somerset-based Confetti Flower Field and singer/songwriter – a rising café will be open again star of the folk scene. this Summer for visitors to www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk enjoy! Friday 29 June – www.confettidirect.co.uk Sunday 1 July Evesham Festival of Words See page 10 for details Main festival weekend 29 June – 1 July, but fringe events all through the year. Check website for details. www.eveshamfestivalofwords.org

www.valeandspa.co.uk 17 Saturday 30 June Start of Droitwich ArtsFest Droitwich Spa town centre 4 weeks and 5 weekends of a variety of arts events, mostly free and many in the open air. www.droitwichartsfest.org

Saturday 30 June Fete The Old Vicarage, WR7 4QH A traditional village fete with attractions for all ages. Free entry and ample parking. 2pm–4.30pm. Contact: 01905 345371

Saturday 30 June – Sunday 1 July Flower Festival and Open Gardens Church Lench and Open gardens and scarecrow competition throughout both villages, plus plants, craft stalls and refreshments in the Village Hall. Contact: 01386 870236

Saturday 30 June – Sunday 1 July Rous Lench and Flower Festivals Rous Lench and Abbots Morton Floral displays in both churches. Pig roast on Rous Lench village green on Saturday night with live music and dancing. www.thelenches.org.uk/events JULY

Sunday 1 July Saturday 7 – Saturday 7 – Port Street Fayre Sunday 8 July Sunday 8 July Port Street & Workman Chateau Impney Tastes of Gardens, Evesham Hill Climb the World Port Street is lined with Chateau Impney, Corporation Meadow, stalls and attractions, Droitwich Spa Evesham bands, food and Join us for an exhilarating A weekend of family entertainment. Kid’s zone weekend packed with entertainment, music, food, with more activities in historic motorsport and fun drink and culture from all Workman Gardens. for all the family. Advanced around the world. portstreetfayre tickets from £20. TastesoftheWorld2018 Saturday 7 July www.chateauimpneyhillclimb.com Droitwich Spa & District Horticultural Society Summer Flower Show Chawson Barns, Droitwich Spa, WR9 0AQ Traditional flower show, classes for flowers, fruit, vegetables, crafts, etc. Open to all. National Sweet Saturday 7 – Pea Society medal. Free Friday 13 & Friday 20 July Sunday 8 July admission. From 1pm. Edinburgh Comedy droitwichhortsoc Fladbury Festival Previews Walkabout Evesham Arts Centre Fladbury village centre Two stand-up comedians Open gardens and flower try out their 2018 festival. Boat trips, village Edinburgh Comedy Festival green stalls, live music and shows. Two nights, four children’s activities. Adults acts, see website for £6 and U15’s free. details. www.fladburyvillage.co.uk/ www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk walkabout www.valeandspa.co.uk 19 SATURDAY 7 JULY Tickets £7.50

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

Saturday 14 July Saturday 14 July Bish Bosh Bash Droitwich ArtsFest – Summer Fete Family Day Saturday 14 July St. James’ Church, Droitwich Spa town centre Bishampton Arts events for families Overbury A traditional summer fete and young people. Face Street Market featuring brass band, painting, children’s art Church Row, Overbury Morris men, fun dog show, activities, music, and more. From 10am–12pm with classic cars, and loads of Possible Chinese Dragon something for everyone, activities. 1pm–4.30pm. parade. ‘Going for a Song’, Anne’s Contact: 01386 462733 www.droitwichartsfest.org pantry, refreshments and music, local artists, free car Saturday 14 July parking. Evesham River www.overbury.org/streetmarket Festival Saturday 21 July Workman Gardens, Evesham Droitwich ArtsFest – Riverside festival with Arts in View decorated and illuminated Droitwich Spa town centre boats, water displays and Arts in View – public activities, live music, ale displays of artists at work, bar, firework finale. Free possibly including poets entry to all. and authors. www.theeveshamriverfestival.uk www.droitwichartsfest.org

20 www.valeandspa.co.uk Saturday 21 July Tuesday 24 July – Pershore River Sunday 2 September Festival and Commemorating the Family Fun Day 100th Anniversary King George’s Way of the end of Sunday 29 July Boaters and visitors World War I The Evesham Float can enjoy events and The Almonry Museum, River Avon – Evesham attractions. Boat trips, Evesham Rowing Club to Hampton games, dance classes, A summer of events Ferry funfair, water sports and and activities as we All craft, including much more. commemorate the end of inflatables, are invited to www.pershoreriverfestival.org World War I one hundred enter and join this fun event Saturday 21 – years ago. to float down the river. www.almonryevesham.org www.bonkersactivities.co.uk Sunday 22 July Relay For Life Friday 27 – Sunday 29 July Evesham Sunday 29 July The Hampton The De Montfort School Give My Regards to Ferry Show Join a 24-hour celebration Broadway Heritage A great day out for all the to show that together we Diesel Gala family. 11am–4pm. are stronger than cancer. www.hamptonferry.co.uk www.eveshamrelay.org Broadway Steam Station A chance to relive the 60s Tuesday 31 July Sunday 22 July and 70s with our superbly Pershore Plum Animals R Magic restored collection of heritage diesel locomotives. Festival Evening Charity Day www.gwsr.com | 01242 621405 Races Jinney Ring Craft Centre, Worcester Racecourse Hanbury Saturday 28 July The Pershore Plum Festival Join us in the gardens Droitwich ArtsFest – evening races are back. for this popular annual Final Day Join us to help paint event, raising awareness Droitwich Spa town centre Pitchcroft purple in your and funds for local animal A day of music and song in best purple outfit! charities. www.worcester-racecourse. www.jinneyring.co.uk the centre of Droitwich Spa. www.droitwichartsfest.org co.uk

www.valeandspa.co.uk 21 AUGUST

Throughout August Saturday 4 – Saturday 11 – Pershore Plum Sunday 5 August Sunday 12 August Festival Battle of Evesham History Comes See page 6 for details Crown and Corporation Alive www.pershoreplumfestival. Meadows, Evesham Spetchley Park Gardens org.uk A series of events, Fascinating family services and activities Thursday 2 August day out with battles, to mark the anniversary skirmishes and displays Battle of Evesham of the Battle of Evesham. performed by over Coach Tour British medieval history 650 re-enactors, and Picking up at various re-enactment. spanning eight major points across the county www.battleofevesham.co.uk periods. Book on this tour www.spetchleygardens.co.uk Wednesday 8 & which commemorates the historic Battle of Wednesday 15 August Saturday 11 – Evesham. Plum Coach Tours Sunday 12 August www.dudleys-coaches.co.uk Picking up at various Vale of Evesham 01386 792206 points across the county Sheepdog Trials Celebrating the fruit Saturday 4 August Road, that made Pershore Plant Heritage famous. Plum guides will One of ’s Penstemon Study accompany every tour. premier and longest Booking is essential. Day running sheepdog Pershore College, www.dudleys-coaches.co.uk 01386 792206 trials. See some of the Room 14 best handlers and their Morning talks and dogs. All proceeds to afternoon visit to Plant Cancer Research UK. Heritage National Refreshments available Collection. Tickets £10. on Sunday. Contact: 01214 761340 Contact: 01386 830292 Tuesday 14 August Saturday 25 August Saturday 25 – Plant Heritage Monday 27 August ‘Clematis’ Flower Show Worcestershire Pershore College, Room 14 Brailles Orchard, Great Open Studios A talk by Helen Picton. Comberton Various venues across Members free, visitors £3. 7pm Traditional village show. Wychavon Contact: 01214761340 Competitive flower, Discover locally created art vegetable, and craft classes. and craft. Meet the makers, Stalls, games, bar, tea and as artists open their cakes, games, and family/ studios, homes and shared children’s entertainment. spaces this weekend. www.theflowershow.org.uk www.worcestershireopenstudios. org Saturday 25 – Monday 27 August Sunday 26 August Evesham Angling Plum Pedal Push Festival Abby Park, Pershore Friday 17 – Crown and Corporation Experience the Sunday 19 August Meadow Plumodrome, test your bike Pershore Jazz Festival Nationally renowned annual handling skills on the plum Pershore College Campus angling festival. slalom course. Timed races 150 internationally www.eveshamfestival.com on the 250-metre plum renowned musicians play course. Dress you and your Saturday 25 – all styles of jazz. 4 venues, bike in purple. www.pershoreplumfestival.org.uk one compact location. Monday 27 August Bar and restaurant. B&B, Pershore Plum caravan, camping. Ticket Festival Bank from £20. Holiday weekend www.pershorejazz.org.uk Enjoy a plum filled weekend Saturday 18 August with attractions and entertainment throughout Bishampton Gardening the town. Sat: Heritage and Club Summer Flower & retail; Sun: Family Fun Day; Produce Show Mon: Traditional plum fun. Villages Hall, www.pershoreplumfestival.org.uk Bishampton WR10 2LY A colourful show with 74 classes covering flowers, fruit, vegetables, floristry, craft, home produce, photography and children’s Monday 27 August section. 2pm–4pm. Droitwich Spa & www.bishamptongardeningclub. org.uk District Horticultural Saturday 25 – Society 70th Annual Saturday 18 – Flower Show Sunday 19 August Monday 27 August The Big Plum Beer, Droitwich Sports & Plum Weekend Leisure Centre, WR9 0RZ Walsgrove Farm, Evesham Food and Music Festival Traditional flower show. Road, WR7 4QL The Angel Hotel, Pershore Produce and crafts, etc. Up to 20 varieties of plum. Live music, great food, Entertainment and stalls. PYO/Ready Picked. Guided a garden bar and a Open to all. Something for walks around the orchard – spectacular firework in the all the family. From 1pm. see website for times. Riverside Gardens. droitwichhortsoc www.walsgrove.co.uk www.angelpershore.co.uk www.valeandspa.co.uk 23 SEPTEMBER

Saturday 1 September Saturday 8 – Sunday 9 September Peopleton Sunday 9 September Broadway Autumn Show Evesham Cyclefest Food Festival Peopleton village hall Saturday at The Valley, The Green, Broadway and playing fields Sunday on Crown Meadow Stalls of local food and A big event with something A celebration of all things drink suppliers with to interest the whole family, cycling in the Vale of cookery demonstrations including classic cars, Evesham – sportives, and food to go. produce and craft stalls, leisure and children’s rides, www.broadway-cotswolds. games, music and food/drink. MTB racing. co.uk/food-festival www.peopletonvillage.co.uk www.cycleeveshamvale.org Saturday 1 September Saturday 8 – Pebworth Sunday 9 September Fringe Festival Salt Fest Dorsington Road, Pebworth Droitwich Spa town centre A fun event with music to and Vines Park suit all tastes as well as See page 4 for details. comedy, magic and poetry. www.saltfest.co.uk Search ‘Pebworth Fringe Festival’ Saturday 8 – Saturday 15 September Saturday 8 September Evesham Broadway Horticulture Scarecrow Festival and Craft Show A series of Scarecrow- Broadway village green themed events, including Beautiful display of flowers, scarecrow building fruits, vegetables, arts and workshops for children, crafts and home-made ending with The Apple produce. 1pm start, £1 entry. Fayre and Cider Festival. Contact: 01386 858680 www.hamptonferry.co.uk 24 www.valeandspa.co.uk Saturday 15 September Monday 17 September – Droitwich Spa & District Wednesday 19 December Horticultural Society Making an Impression: Autumn Flower Show Prints by Manet, Chawson Barns, Droitwich Pissarro and their Spa, WR9 0AQ Contemporaries Traditional flower show Broadway Museum and with classes for flowers, Art Gallery fruit, vegetables, crafts, A stimulating exhibition photos etc. Open to all. of impressionist prints Free admission. From 1pm. curated by the Ashmolean droitwichhortsoc Museum, . www.broadwaymuseum.org.uk Saturday 15 – Sunday 16 September Wednesday 19 September Stoke Prior An Evening with Steam Rally Roddy Williams Little Intall Fields, Stoke Prior, Evesham Arts Centre nr Bromsgrove, B60 4LF A performance of Cars, commercial & Schubert’s Die Schöne military vehicles, tractors, Müllerin followed by a Q&A motorbikes/cycles, session with the great organs, traction engines, baritone singer. miniatures, heritage www.edmc.website displays, models, trade stalls, refreshments and much more. www.shakespearesrally.com

Friday 21 – Sunday 23 September Dubs of Anarchy Ashdown Farm, nr Evesham, WR11 7EL VW motorbike show. www.dubsofanarchy.co.uk Friday 28 September Roy Orbison and the Traveling Sunday 16 September Wilburys tribute Plum Bikeaway The Regal, Evesham Pershore College The Big O & the Wilburys A choice of 3 plum-based show is back! Celebrate routes around Hill as they commemorate 30 raising money for local years since the Wilburys’ charities. original album. www.bikeawayventures.co.uk www.theregal.ac

www.valeandspa.co.uk 25 OCTOBER

Friday 5 October Thursday 11 – Saturday 13 October Pudding Night Sunday 14 October Evesham Rowing Club Jinney Ring Craft Centre, Grease – Junior Head of River Hanbury The Musical Evesham Rowing Club A light supper followed by Evesham Arts Centre Processional timed rowing as many desserts as you Phoenix Theatre Group racing on the River Avon. can manage, all night! present the classic West Refreshments available. www.jinneyring.co.uk End hit musical on the 40th Free entry for spectators. www.erc.club Saturday 6 October anniversary of this iconic film. Droitwich Artwork – www.phoenixtheatregroup.co.uk Art Exhibition Long Gallery, Hanbury Hall 3 week exhibition of pictures by members of Droitwich Arts Network. Many items for sale. Occasional musical accompaniment. www.droitwichartsnetwork.org Saturday 13 October Tuesday 9 October Apple Day Plant Heritage Walsgrove Farm, ‘Stumperies, Ferns Evesham Road, WR7 4QL and Shady Friends’ Up to 60 varieties of Pershore College, Room 14 apples. PYO/Ready Picked. A talk by Andrew Tolman. Guided walks around the Members £8.50, non- orchard. Apple pressing members £10. 7.15pm. available. Contact: 01905 830370 www.walsgrove.co.uk

26 www.valeandspa.co.uk Saturday 13 – Saturday 27 October – Sunday 14 October Sunday 4 November Apple & Ale Autumn Half Term The Fleece Inn, Bretforton fun at the Almonry A weekend of Morris, The Almonry Museum, mummers and live music Evesham with a real ale & cider Spooky spectacular trail festival, as the apples are around the Almonry traditionally pressed to Museum followed by a make cider. Free entry. creepy craft activity! See www.thefleeceinn.co.uk website for details and prices. www.almonryevesham.org

Saturday 27 October Pershore Midsummer Brass Pershore Abbey An afternoon of wonderful brass band music in the majestic surroundings of the Abbey commencing at 2pm. Refreshments and raffle available. Tuesday 16 October www.pershoremidsummerbrass. Autumn Coach Tour org.uk Picking up at various points across the district Experience the beautiful autumnal scenes throughout the vale, complete with tour guide. www.dudleys-coaches.co.uk 01386 792206 Saturday 20 October – Sunday 4 November Halloween Howl All Things Wild Nature Centre, Honeybourne Come and have a spooktastically fun time here at All Things Wild this half term! Saturday 27 – www.allthingswild.co.uk Wednesday 31 October Spooky Root House Trail Spetchley Park Gardens Free admission for children (trail costs £1). Follow the spooky trail around the gardens and claim a yummy treat. www.spetchleygardens.co.uk

www.valeandspa.co.uk 27 NOVEMBER

Saturday 3 November Bonfire Night The Fleece Inn, Bretforton A bonfire, stationary engines and lanterns. A magical and more traditional way to celebrate Bonfire night. Free entry. www.thefleeceinn.co.uk Saturday 3 November Sunday 11 November Pershore Town Enlighten – Fireworks Display The War Memorial Lights King George’s Field The War Memorial, Pershore’s celebration of Bonfire night Abbey Park, Evesham with a free display. Gates open at Enlighten, Evesham’s creative lighting 5.30pm with fireworks at 7pm. trail. This is the launch of the new www.visitpershore.co.uk lights that will permanently illuminate Evesham’s war memorial. Monday 5 November www.enlightenevesham.co.uk Evesham Town Council’s Annual Bonfire and Fireworks Extravaganza Corporation Meadow Bonfire and fireworks event – lots of food stalls, children’s rides and pyrotechnic display to music! www.eveshamtowncouncil.gov.uk

Saturday 17 November Enlighten The Almonry Museum and the Bell Tower, Evesham The launch of the new permanent lights for the Bell Tower and a projection on to The Almonry museum. www.wychavon.gov.uk/ communitydevelopment Saturday 24 November Evesham Rowing Club Senior Head of River DECEMBER Evesham Rowing Club Processional timed rowing racing on the River Avon. Refreshments available. Saturday 17 November Free entry for spectators. Craft Fair www.erc.club Offenham village hall Browse local handmade artisan items for those unusual gifts and stocking Saturday 1 December fillers. Café by Friends of St Hampton Ferry Mary St Milburgh. Christmas Charity www.offenhamvillage.co.uk Fayre Saturday 24 November Traditional Christmas fun and games with a lights Droitwich Spa switch on at approximately Christmas Saturday 24 November 7pm. Event runs 6pm–8pm. Lights Switch On www.hamptonferry.co.uk Town centre Pershore Christmas Family entertainment and Lights Switch On festive fun getting ready St Andrews Gardens, for Christmas. Featuring Pershore Santa’s grotto, seasonal Fun event culminating markets, fun fair & switch in switching on of the on ceremony including Christmas lights. Father choirs and countdown. Christmas and his reindeer, www.visitdroitwichspa.com stalls and entertainment. www.visitpershore.co.uk Saturday 24 November Saturday 24 November – Evesham Christmas Monday 24 December Lights Switch On Market Place Elves Go Wild! Annual event featuring All Things Wild Nature Saturday 1 December entertainment, Santa, Centre, Honeybourne Smart Trees reindeer, switch on and Come and enjoy a magical Bishampton fireworks. Christmas experience, visit Smart Trees Christmas www.visitevesham.co.uk Santa in his grotto and see experience. what the elves have been www.smarttrees.co.uk up to! www.allthingswild.co.uk Friday 14 December Live Wire: Friday 30 November & Friday 7 December The AC/DC Show The Regal, Evesham Christmas Late Night Join the unique six-man Shopping in Broadway tribute to rock music’s Throughout the village greatest band, AC/DC, for Indulge in the village’s two hours of high voltage late night opening and rock ‘n’ roll. generous offering of unique www.theregal.ac gifts, with Christmas festivities. www.visit-broadway.co.uk www.valeandspa.co.uk 29 E X E P L O R

Markets Bands in the Park A series of Sunday afternoon concerts take place throughout the Summer Droitwich Spa: Lido Park Evesham: Abbey Park Pershore: Abbey Park These are largely organised by volunteers and provide free live music for all to enjoy. For more information please visit www.bandsinthepark.org.uk Worcestershire’s Vale and Spa prides itself on its local distinctiveness and this is Guided Walks never more evident than at Add extra interest to your visit one of the many markets throughout Worcestershire’s Vale & Spa that take place throughout by joining one of the guided walks in the District. These include Droitwich Spa, Evesham and Pershore seasonal, farmers and that take place throughout the year. For specialist markets and should not be missed! dates and further information please call the Tourist Information Centre in the For more information please town of your choice. visit www.valeandspa.co.uk

Tourist Information Centres

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 [email protected] Evesham: 01386 446944 [email protected] 01386 565373 Pershore: 01386 556591 [email protected] www.valeandspa.co.uk HOW TO FIND US

The convenient central position of Worcestershire’s Vale & Spa makes it the ideal destination for a relaxing break, easily accessible from anywhere in the country or indeed the world. The M5, M4, M42 and M50 motorways are right on the doorstep and there are mainline rail links from Paddington and . Overseas connections are catered for with ferry links all around the coast and at airports situated at Birmingham, East Midlands, Coventry, , Cardiff and Manchester as well as the terminals of Heathrow and Gatwick. If you are coming from overseas by car then Eurotunnel connects to our motorway network as soon as you reach our shores.

to Birmingham & NW M42 Bromsgrove 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 Pershore Honeybourne M5 OXFORD / River Avon Evesham LONDON A46 J.8 A44

M50 Broadway

Bredon to South Wales to OXFORD J.9

Cheltenham to Bristol & 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, Wychavon District Council are not liable for any errors or omissions. © 2018. 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. Hampton Ferry – Evesham’s Natural Beauty Spot –

• Holiday caravan park • Angling • Boat moorings • Licensed riverside restaurant • Ample car parking • Caravan rallies welcome • Cyclists, walkers and groups welcome • Coaches by appointment • Private parties and outside catering undertaken • Sunday Carvery • Large beer garden OPEN THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

Hampton Ferry Boat Lane, Evesham, Worcestershire T: 01386 45460 www.hamptonferry.com