20 minute read
ROUNDABOUT
Y our family what’s on when g u i d eRound About
We take great care to ensure all this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip... or promise!
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Continuing
Until October 21
Endangered Animals Event
Join in the fun at Exmoor Zoo.
Until October 27
Hidden Collection
Exhibition at Crewkerne Museum of items that are normally in storage, chosen by the Collection team and volunteers.
Until October 29
Myths and Monsters
Exhibition of children’s book illustrators in the Museum of Somerset in Taunton bringing together over 70 artworks by 17 of the most celebrated children’s book illustrators. Get ready to meet a motley crew of fantastic beasts, from the Gruffalo to the Iron Man, from fearsome dragons to monsters of the deep, and even monsters in underpants.
Until October 31
‘Wed in the Westcountry’
Wedding Dress exhibition in the house at Forde Abbey from 1940’s through to the present day. The exhibition explores how gown styles and materials have changed over the decades, including those borrowed and adapted in wartime. Each dress has a story to tell about the bride, time and place. From 12 to 3.30pm, closed Mondays and Saturdays.
Glorious Gardens
More than thirty stunning gardens across Somerset and Dorset are opening to visitors in aid of St Margaret’s Hospice Care. From charming courtyard and walled gardens to steep woodlands and country estates with beautiful views. Go to st-margarets-hospice. org.uk/glorious-gardens for details.
Heritage Day
Chard Museum is hoping the Chard community will help them select this year’s theme and pick something from the Town’s vast heritage. Spectacular light show ILLUMNATE comes to Hestercombe Gardens
October
Until November 12
The World of Martin Brown: Horrible Histories and other Dazzling Drawings
Discover an inspirational array of cartoons and art by the Horrible Histories illustrator Martin Brown in Weston Museum, Weston-super-Mare.
Until December 31
Hatching the Past: American Dinosaur Explorers
Take a rare and exciting look at the life of dinosaurs through their eggs, nests and embryos. This remarkable hands-on exhibition at the American Museum in Bath offers an astounding array of dinosaur eggs and nests collected from all over the globe, with a special focus on the importance of American fossil sites in our understanding of dinosaurs.
Until January 7
Horse Power: The Story of Horses in Rural Somerset
Exhibition in Somerset Rural Life Museum, Glastonbury featuring a rich display of paintings, photographs, museum objects and oral histories from the Somerset Voices archive to tell the story of how horses helped shape the rural landscape of the county. It will also consider the wider use of the horse at key moments in history, including during different conflicts. Includes a special Somerset Art Works co commission by metalworker Jacky Oliver (on display until 30 Oct.)
Tuesday 11 - Nov 10
Gaia
A touring artwork by UK artist Luke Jerram in Wells Cathedral. Measuring seven metres in diameter, it features 120dpi detailed NASA imagery of the Earth’s surface. The artwork provides the opportunity to see our planet on this scale, floating in three-dimensions. The artwork also acts as a mirror to major events in society. A specially made surround sound composition is played alongside the sculpture.
Saturday 15
Apple Day
Annual celebration with the Somerset Cider Brandy Company, Pass Vale Farm, Burrow Hill, Kingsbury Episcopi. With music, plays, food and drink from 12 to 5pm.
Apple Day
Watch or join in traditional apple pressing and take away juice, free if own apples and container provided. Free from 11.30am to 2.30pm outside Dunster Memorial Hall in High Street Dunster.
Saturday 15 & Sunday 16
Exhibition of Local History
Displays, Books and Information on Local History at the The History Hut, Netherham Farm, Low Ham, Langport, From 11am to 4pm, free entry, donations welcome.
Sunday 16
Giant Flea Market
Over 250 inside and outside stalls
Round About
at the Bath and West Showground selling a plethora of items. From 9.30am, adults £5, accompanying children free. Details on 01278 784912.
Wednesday 19 & Thursday 20
Wildlife at Night
Join the Exmoor ponies at the Pony Centre in discovering the Wildlife at Night on Exmoor. Family friendly event to inspire everyone to engage in their local wildlife. With the opportunity to interact with the ponies. From 5.30 to 7pm, must be booked.
Thursday 20 - Monday 24
Yeovil Literary Festival
An exciting programme of literature, comedy and arts events from well-known literary figures, comedians, celebrities and exciting new writers. Events take place at The Octagon Theatre, Westlands Entertainment Venue and Yeovil Library. Go to www.yeovilliteraryfestival.so.uk or call 01935 422884 for details.
Friday 21
Stars Over Somerset
A practical and informative astronomy evening for all ages at Ham Hill Country Park. The evening is led by experienced local astronomer and lecturer, Adrian Dening. Following an informative talk on general astronomy and observing tips, you will be venturing outside to conduct your own adventure into space. From 7 to 9pm, all children must be accompanied
Sunday 23
Open Cockpit Day
Visitors have the rare opportunity to access the cockpits of selected helicopters at the Helicopter Museum and have the controls explained by an experienced guide
Helicopter Air Experience Flight
Learn how a helicopter works as the pilot explains the controls whilst you look down on Weston-super-Mare from a thousand feet in the air. Both at the Helicopter Museum, Weston-super-Mare.
The Somerset Carnival season continues!
October
Friday 14 Wincanton (7.30pm) Saturday 15 Taunton (7pm) Saturday 15 Castle Cary (7pm) Saturday 22 Trowbridge (7pm) Saturday 29 Warminster (7pm)
November
Saturday 5 Bridgwater (6pm) * Monday 7 Burnham on Sea (7.30pm) * Friday 11 Western-super-Mare (7pm) * Saturday 12 North Pertherton (7pm) * Monday 14 Midsomer Norton (7.30) Wednesday 16 Shepton Mallett (7.30pm) * Friday 18 Wells (7pm) * Saturday 19 Glastonbury (7pm) *
* Part of the Somerset Guy Fawkes Carnival Circuit. More information on 01934 750833 or see www.somersetcarnivals.co.uk
Monday 24
Forest School
All the family can enjoy Forest School activities at the Avalon Marshes Centre, Shapwick Road, Westhay. With a walk down the Sweet Track to explore the woodland glade, hunt for bugs, get inspired by nature, build dens and have tea around the camp fire. From 1am to 4pm, £3. Must be booked on Julie.merrett@ naturalengland.org.uk or 01458 860120.
Wildlife at Night
As October 19 & 20.
Thursday 27
Street Entertainers
Gargoyle roving and human living “statues” in stone costumes will be out and about to delight and entertain you in Minehead.
Saturday 29 & Sunday 30
Pop-Up Art Gallery
The Great Bow Wharf, Bow Street, Langport will be opening a pop up gallery with a different theme, this month it is Colour. From 10am to 4pm, details on admin@greatbow. org.uk or 01458 254257.
Sunday 30
Autumn Market
’Not Just a Market’ in Shepton Mallett Market Place with over 35 stalls, free live music, DJ’s, street performances, themed attractions and Best Carved Pumpkin competition. From 10am to 3pm.
Open Cockpit Day As October 23.
November
Tuesday 1 - Wed 30
Quackers’ Family Nature Trail
Learn to tell your Pintail from your Shoveler. Join in an exciting adventure around RSPB Ham Wall as we see how many different ducks we can spot, whilst learning more about their different behaviours. For 3 to 11 year olds, packs £2.50, includes small prize, from the info point. From 10.30am to 3pm, no need to book.
Wednesday 2
Night at the Museum
Threshold.aero and the Fleet Air Arm Museum have teamed up in Hall One to showcase some of Europe’s largest Naval Aviation collection held at Yeovilton. It includes a number of aircrafts from the ‘Search and Rescue’ displays. From 5.30 to 8.30pm.
Wednesday 2 - Sunday 27
Remembrance
Visit the Fleet Air Arm Museum to remember those who have served and given their lives in service of the Royal Naval Air Service and Fleet Air Arm. In conjunction with Enjoy the light trails at:
November 25 - January 1 Curated trail at Stourhead featuring the stunning Christmas Cathedral, in which more than a thousand pea lights will be woven into the forest landscape. Marvel at the ‘Sea of Light’, neon stars wrapping trees and a brilliant super nova, providing plenty of selfie moments along the way. Go to christmasatstourhead.seetickets.com for tickets.
December 2 - 24 The grounds of Kingston Lacy will be transformed into a winter wonderland. The family friendly trail, featuring curated illuminations set to a soundtrack of Christmas music, will illuminate the beautiful garden. Go to christmasatkingstonlacy.seetickets.com for tickets.
Continued on page 8
WEST SOMERSET RAILWAY SANTA EXPRESS
The festive magic returns for Christmas 2022 aboard the WSR Santa Express. Santa’s gifts are now made from 100% recycled materials.
Selected dates in November and December £25 per person (Under 1s £15)
CAFE AND SHOP AVAILABLE ON THE DAY APPEARANCES FROM BRUNEL BEAGLE BISHOPS lYDEARD TO WILLITON RETURN
www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk
Photograph - Aaron Manley
01643 704996
Round About
the Fleet Air Arm Memorial Church, discover more about some of the personnel commemorated within the church grounds, contextualising them within the museum before visiting the church and cemetery itself. Go to www.fleetairarmmc.org for details.
Saturday 5
Craft Fair
A ‘Support the Hall’ Event at the David Hall South Petherton. Go and buy beautiful things created by local craft makers. Free entry from 9.30am to 12.30pm.
Saturday 5 - January 8
The Festival of Light
Selected dates. Featuring over 800 custom-designed, hand-painted lanterns at Longleat.
Sunday 6
Magpie Market
A market for vintage and contemporary gifts, jewellery and homemade crafts and produce. From 10am to 3pm in the Cheese and Grain, Frome.
Friday 11& Saturday 12
Exhibition of Local History
As October 15 & 16.
Friday 11 - Sunday 13
Antique & Collectors Fair
Unique finds, retro collectables and a vast variety of vintage items at the Bath and West Showground.
Firework Displays
November
Friday 4
Downend Round Table Fireworks
There will be an array of spectacles taking place throughout the night in King George V Playing Fields, Westerleigh Road, Bristol. There will be two firework displays (including a children’s display that is quieter and deliberately more about the visual effects), an impressive bonfire, music and a full bar.
Wizards & Witches Fireworks
Grab your broomsticks, dust off your pointy hat and cloak and join in this family event at Bath Racecourse. Starts at 5pm with entertainment for all ages throughout the evening. With face painting and a fun fair to enjoy as well as food and drink. The 15 minute firework fiesta will start at 7.30pm, funfair goes on until 9pm. Details online or 01225 424609.
Friday 4 & Saturday 5
Fireworks to Music
Avon Valley Adventure and
Saturday 12
Langport Vintage Market
An eclectic market offering a range of vintage traders selling homewares, clothing, jewellery & collectables in Langport Town Centre. From 10am to 4pm.
Saturday 12 - January 3
Bath on Ice at Royal Victoria Park
Experience a hidden winter wonderland in the centre of Bath with 1000 square metres of black ice. With music to set the wintry scene, a cozy bar area and seasonal drinks. Next door Glow Golf, the adventure golf course, will be decked out with a fairy light installation.
Rural Living Show
Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 November
Showcase of the best artisans and producers the South West have to offer at King’s Hall School, Kingston Road, Taunton. With a huge selection of the finest designers, makers and crafts people in the region and a food hall. It will beraising vital funds for their charity partner - The Children’s Hospice Southwest. Open for 10am to 5pm, Saturday and 4pm Sunday. £4.50, children free. Go to rurallivingshow.co.uk to book, tickets also available on the day.
2 for 1 entry offer for Primary Times Readers
Rural Living Show / 26 & 27 November 2022 King’s Hall School, Taunton
This voucher entitles the bearer to 2 for 1 entry.
1 free entry granted per paying customer when presenting this voucher from Primary Times Somerset Magazine. Tickets usually priced at £4.50 Wildlife Park have teamed up with Aardvark FX, world-class pyrotechnics and special effects friends for a jaw dropping spectacular. From 5 to 9pm, fireworks at approximately 7pm. Must be booked in advance.
Saturday 5
Fireworks Display
This is a bonfire event for the whole family at Weston-superMare Cricket Club, Devonshire Park Ground, Devonshire Road.
Saturday 12
Fireworks Extravaganza
Go to Puxton Park, Cowslip Lane, Hewish for rides, attractions, Hog Roast and BBQ and a magical fireworks display full of show-stopping bangs, pops, sparklers, whizzlers, swirls, and all sorts of fireworks creating a kaleidoscope of colours across the Somerset sky. £10 each or 4 for £36, under 2s free.
Sunday 6
Seafront Fireworks
Free display on the Esplanade Burnham-on-Sea. Starts at 6.30pm on the jetty.
Friday 18
Fireworks at Sea
Go to the Grand Pier, Westonsuper-Mare for a special fireworks party and be entertained by the spectacular pyrotechnics over the sea. The best views will be from the Grand Pier itself, and entry is strictly ticket only. Each ticket includes unlimited rides for the evening. Tickets £12.50, £18.95; VIP £34.95, £84.95. Doors open at 6.30pm, show starts at approximately 8pm. Details on 01934 620238.
Tuesday 15 - January 2
Get Your Skates On
A first-of-its kind ice rink will be at Clarks Village Shopping Centre offering guests a truly magical skating experience. The under cover ice rink features real ice will be in the grounds of the historic Alfred Gillett Trust and will provide skaters with a captivating festive atmosphere. Visitors are advised to pre-book their 45-minute sessions, skate hire is included.
Friday 18
Christmas Lights Night
The Ilminster Christmas lights will be switched on, the cafe, gallery and craft shop of the Meeting House Arts Centre will be open from 6 to 9pm with music and songs from the Ilminster Ukeleel Band.
Stars Over Somerset
As October 21.
Friday 18 & Saturday 19
Winterlights
The magic begins at Bishops Lydeard Station. A seat aboard an illuminated train awaits, ready to take you on an unforgettable winter journey. Travel along West Somerset Railway’s enchanted track, through woodlands and countryside transformed for the season. Spectacular lineside displays will shine and glow and an encapsulating tale will unfold along the way to Crowcombe Heathfield, where you will gaze in wonderment through the carriage windows at a famous station steeped in festive spirit. It’s then back to Bishops Lydeard in your cosy carriage. At 5 and 7pm.
Friday 18 - Sunday 20
Christmas Market
The market at Hestercombe will be full of stallholders offering all sorts of festive wares. From 9am to 5pm.
Saturday 19
Christmas Craft Fair and Open Day
A great opportunity to visit The Princess Theatre in Burnham on Sea and see what happens there along with a bit of Christmas shopping. Sample some of the regular activities, have a look backstage or buy some Christmas gifts from local producers. Free entry from 10am to 4pm.
Forest School As October 24.
Saturday 19 - December 4
Festive Opening
Weekends only. Go to the Green Room at Exmoor Pony Centre for festivities, mince pies and a chance to meet the ponies. There will also be the chance to do some Christmas shopping. From 11am to 3pm.
Sunday 20
Horological Institute (BHI) in the Holiday Inn, Deane Gate Avenue, Taunton. With up to 45 stalls selling clocks, watches, parts new & old, books, spares and other horological items. From 9am to 2.30pm, £3.
Thursday 24 - Dec 11
Thursdays to Sundays December 15 - 30
Everyday
ILLUMINATE
Hestercombe Gardens will be lit up with 3D lattice stars, floodlights, spotlights, festoons and colour. LLUMINATE will transport you on a magical journey of colour and light to bring an extra level of wonder to the trails. The natural features and views of the Landscape Garden come to life at night, with the spotlights and coloured paths drawing you up towards the Great Cascade and beyond, towards Sibyl’s Temple and back down past the Pear Pond and into the Formal Garden. Must be booked online.
Thursday 24 - Dec 11
Bath Christmas Market
See more than 170 twinkling chalets spread out across Bath’s picturesque Georgian streets selling a range of seasonal gifts, food and drink. Many local makers and designers will be showcasing their artisan gifts.
Continued on page 10 21 Oct – 6 Nov 2022
Book now: Wildplace.org.uk
Registered charity no. 1104986
20% offfor kidsin costume
Round About
Friday 25 & Saturday 26
Winterlights
As November 18 & 19.
Friday 25 - January 1
Christmas at Stourhead
More than a million lights and seasonal sounds fill the air at Stourhead with festive fun. With glittering tunnels of light, dancing lakeside reflections and trees drenched in jewel-like colour set to a soundtrack of festive favourites. Discover the sparkling Cathedral of light, glowing fields of flowers and trees drenched in jewel-like colour among other installations. Must be booked, advanced tickets from £21.50, children £15, family £71.
Saturday 26
eat:Taunton
Celebrating Taunton and Somerset with local food and drink, entertainment and more in Hammet and East Streets. Free from 10am to 4pm.
Pop-Up Art Gallery
As 29 & 30 October, but on the theme of Animals.
Christmas Light Switch on & Lantern Parade
Frome’s annual Christmas celebration in the town centre features a lantern procession, carols, Father Christmas and his grotto, festive food stalls and the Christmas lights switch-on. There will be many opportunities for gift shopping with the Christmas Extravaganza market at the Cheese and Grain; Christmas Charity Fair and the Christmas Farmers Market.
Street Entertainers
Mirror suits x 2 will be out and about to delight and entertain you in Minehead.
Festive Artisan Market
Get your skates on at Clarks Village Ice Rink from 15 November - 2 January.
Take an opportunity to support local and handmade at The Arc in Winchester. Free entry and festive treats will be available from the café.
Saturday 26 & Sunday 27
Santa Specials
Father Christmas will be visiting Midsomer Norton Station. On arrival Grown Ups will be served refreshments including mulled wine or hot chocolate and mince pies from the platform which they can then take onto the train. During the Train Ride Santa’s Helpers will distribute a goody bag containing festive treats and a drink from the Buffet Trolley. On Arrival back into the Midsomer North Pole platform Children will be invited to visit Father Christmas in his Train Carriage Grotto and receive a wrapped gift. The Station Shop and Emporium will be open to help you find those last minute gift ideas. The Railway
Festive Weekend
As November 19 & 20.
Exmoor Christmas Fair
A showcase for local craftsmen and women with a eclectic array of seasonal gifts, food, drinks and unusual items not found in High Street shops. Free from 12 pm Saturday; 10am Sunday in Porlock Village Hall.
Christmas at Crealy
Join in the festive celebrations at Crealy. Journey through Santa’s magical maze to meet Santa, featuring festive surprises for the whole family along the way. Then you can enjoy the Elves & The Toymaker Ice Show; Sounds Of The Wilderness: Sooty’s Christmas show; Immersive Christmas Adventure; decorate a tasty treat with Mary in her Christmas Bakery; pick up a free present from Santa’s Toy Show and Post your letter to Santa this Christmas and watch as the Elves stamp it, sort it and send it on it’s way to the North Pole. Must be booked online in advance.
Saturday 26 - Dec 22
Christmas Elf Trail
Visit the festive trail at Palette and Pasture, Pyle Farm, Trudoxhill and see what all the mischievous Elves are up to. See how many elves you
can count – there are lots of mischievous Elves - and stop off for the children to make Reindeer food ready for Christmas Eve. Write and Post your Letter to Santa in the Special Santa Letter Box and plant a Candy Cane (a little secret help from a grown-up required). The Trail includes a Farm Style Nativity Scene with real cows, sheep, pigs and goats. There will be Tractor Tyre Snowman, the Smelliest Christmas Pudding you have ever seen and more. Adult ticket £3.75; children £14.
Saturday 26 - January 1
Festive Ice Skating
Avon Valley Adventure & Wildlife Park have 500 square meters of glittering real ice waiting. From 11am to 8pm.
Sunday 27
Victorian Fayre
’Not Just a Market’ in Shepton Mallett Market Place with over 35 stalls, free live music, DJ’s, street performances, themed attractions and Victorian Fancy Dress competition. From 10am to 3pm.
Stars of Time Film & Comic Con
See fantastic guests from TV and the Movies, Cosplay, Competitions, Traders Hall with 1000’s of Gifts and Collectables, Costumed Characters from Star Wars, Marvel, Doctor Who, Set Displays and much more in The Tropicana, Weston-super-Mare. From 10am to 4.30pm.
December
Friday 2 & Saturday 3
Winterlights
As November 18 & 19.
Friday 2 - Sunday 4
Christmas Tree Festival
From 10am to 5pm at St. Decuman’s Church, Watchet.
Friday 2 - Dec 31
Christmas Nights Light Trail
Follow and interact with Avon Valley Adventure & Wildlife Park’s light trail, which uses the venue’s lake and trees to create a spectacular backdrop. With stunning light installations and play areas creatively lit up and festive discos in the playbarn. The Polar Express Miniature Steam Train is ready to take you on a festive ride, but look out as you may bump into the Grinch, who is trying to ruin Christmas again. Christmas comes to Crealy.
Saturday 3
Christmas Event
There will be a Christmas marketplace with local businesses; refreshment stalls games, and a roaming Santa in Street High Street, Farm Road and Leigh Road. From 11am to 4pm.
Christmas Fair
A variety of stalls and refreshments from 10am to 4pm in Allerford & Selworthy Community Hall,
Christmas Market
Over 20 stallholders will be selling their products in Weston Museum, Weston-super-Mare in aid of the supporting charity – The Friends of Weston Museum. There will also be an appearance from our Santa Claus. He will be visiting between 10:30am and 12:30pm and 1:30pm and 3:30pm for photos and a Christmas natter. Free, does not include a present.
Saturday 3 & Sunday 4
Santa Specials
As November 26 & 27.
Santa Express
Step aboard West Somerset Railway’s festively decorated heritage carriages and take a wonderful journey through West Somerset’s winter woodlands. Santa’s presents and refreshments will be waiting at your table and he’ll be along for the ride to ensure you have received them. Tickets £25, under 1s £15.
Christmas at Crealy
As November 26 & 27.
Sunday 4
Toy & Train Collectors Fair
Over 300 stalls at the Bath and West Showground. From 10.30am to 2.30pm, tickets from £4.
Christmas Fun Day
Go to the Helicopter Museum in Weston-super-Mare and see Santa arrive by helicopter, then meet him and his elves in his special Helicopter Grotto and sit in his famous sleigh. There will also be a chance to meet Beauty and the Beast and friends; Winter Wonderland display; lie music; Winter Weather Flight Simulator, open cockpit, charity stalls and seasonal fayre. From 2pm, advanced booking recommended.
Street Entertainers
A Penny Farthing balloon modeller will be out and about to delight and entertain you in Minehead.
For a free listing of your event — let us know the details by 11 November.
