Things to Do in April

Here are some things happening in April in the local area. Coronavirus restrictions and conditions may still apply - please check before you book. If you want to let us know about any future event or activity please email: meldrethmatters@hotmail.com.

From Friday 1st April to Monday 29th August Hockney’s Eye Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1RB and Heong Gallery, Downing College, Regent Street CB2 1DQ

Explore how one of the most influential artists of our time, David Hockney, sees the world through both traditional and cutting-edge ways of making art, including the use of cameras, digital drawing and the iPad. Free entry. For opening times see: www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk.

Saturday 2nd to Saturday 9th April 2022, 10.00am to 4.00pm Cambridge Drawing Society Art Exhibition Pitt Building, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1RP (opposite Fitzbillies)

Don’t miss the Society’s 140th Spring Exhibition with a wide range of original paintings, drawings, prints and sculptures. Most artworks are for sale. See www.cambridgedrawingsociety.org for further details.

Saturday 2nd April, 7.30pm Vaughan Williams’ Year in Saffron Walden St Mary’s Church, Church Path, Saffron Walden CB10 1JP

In his 150th anniversary year, the Granta Chorale, directed by Janet Wheeler, presents a concert of words and music, celebrating the life and music of one of Britain’s best-loved composers, who was stationed in Saffron Walden in 1915 as an ambulance wagon orderly. Tickets £15, under 25s £5. To book visit www.grantachorale.org.uk.

Wednesdays 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th April, 11.00am to 1.00pm Wimpole Wednesday Walks (continuing, check for later dates) Wimpole Hall, Arrington, Cambridgeshire SG8 0BW

Wimpole’s popular guided walks are back. Enjoy the estate from a different perspective, discovering the best bits of parkland and countryside with a different route each week. Usually 3 to 5 miles. Free with a suggested donation of £2. Normal admission charges apply for the venue. Meet at the turning circle outside The Stables.

Saturday 9th April, 9.00am to 11.30am Fowlmere Farmers’ Market Fowlmere Village Hall, Chrishall Road, Fowlmere SG8 7RY

Held on the second Saturday of every month and offering a large variety of food, craft and gifts, mostly locally-produced. A welcoming and relaxed market run entirely by volunteers in aid of continued improvements to the village hall. Free entry. Refreshments and a small seating area available.

Sunday 10th April, 1.00pm Plants, Discovery, Poetry Cambridge Botanical Garden, 1 Brookside, Cambridge CB2 1JE

In the setting of these lovely gardens come and listen to poetry readings on the subject of flowers, plants and the natural world. Then enjoy wandering around taking in the sights and smells of springtime. Event free, normal garden admission applies: www.botanic.cam.ac.uk.

Tuesday 19th April, 10.00am to 12.00noon Wandlebury Wildflowers in Spring Wandlebury, Ring, Gog Magog Hills, Cambridge CB22 3AE

Gentle guided walk led by knowledgeable warden. Learn how to identify Spring wild flowers, from their colour, form and habitat. No need to book. Free event, suggested donation £3. Meet at car park noticeboard.

Wednesday 20th to Sunday 24th April, various times and locations Cambridge Literary Spring Festival

Exciting programme of literary greats, thinkers, poets and leading figures from the world of music, environment, politics, science, fashion, art, cooking and gardening. Unmissable conversations held in stunning venues across Cambridge. To view full Festival line-up visit www.cambridgeliteraryfestival.com. Online ticket sale dates to be announced in April. NB Many events book up fast!

Sunday 24th April, 11.00am to 4.00pm Cambridge Bead Fair Harston Village Hall, 20 High Street, Harston CB22 7PX

Beads and pearls for the home jewellery maker. Many semi-precious and other stone beads including agates, crystal, amethyst, garnet and many more. Free admission, easy parking. See: www.mrbeadshop.com. Compiled by John Crawforth