Cheltenham Food + Drink Week, Cheltenham, 16 – 22 September

The tastiest week of the year takes place in Cheltenham this month, celebrating the town’s incredible chefs, restaurants, bars and cafés. Cheltenham Food + Drink Week is seven days of unmissable masterclasses, special menus with money off dining and drinks (whoop!) and free live entertainment in venues throughout the town centre. Some of the highlights for 2024? Don’t miss An Evening with Cheltenham’s Culinary Stars (16 Sept), Cheltenham Chilli Fiesta (21 Sept), Cocktail Making Masterclass at The Alchemist and Korean Night at Nagomi (18 Sept). Book your place now.

Cirencester History Festival, Cirencester, Sat 26 October – Sun 3 November

Mark your calendars and get ready to step back in time! The brand new Cirencester History Festival runs from 26 October to 3 November. This boutique festival features an exciting programme of local, national and global history including talks, crafting, workshops, cookery, storytelling, dressing up and some timely Halloween fun. Big hitter headline speakers already confirmed include Jonathan Dimbleby, Max Hastings, Charles Spencer, Natalie Haynes, Janina Ramirez and Marc Morris.

The festival also offers over 30 immersive, family-friendly activities, many of which are free. Highlights include: learn how to write your own historical novel at Waterstones; make a traditional pie with the Cotswold Cookery School; meet a Roman doctor from Chedworth Roman Villa; make a historical villain Halloween costume; make a clay gargoyle at the Corinium Museum; meet children’s authors at Octavia’s bookshop and much more.

Grab your tickets when they go sale on 6 September.

Cornbury Horse Trials, Cotswolds

Giddy up, the Cornbury House Horse Trials is taking place from 11-15 Sept on one of the Cotswolds’ loveliest estates. Head to this family friendly event to see equestrian stars compete in five days of dressage, cross-country and showjumping. You’ll be well fed and watered too: it’s hosting an Endless Lunch in the marquee overlooking the main showjumping arena with rosé-maker Mirabeau (14-15 Sept). Seasonal lunch menu served with a glass or three of rosé? We’re jumping at this one.

Flora Fields, Webbs, Wychbold

New for 2024, Flora Fields is an unmissable family day out with 52 varieties of colourful dahlias ripe for PYO! Inspired by owner Louise Webbs’ daughter Flora, who when she was little loved gathering blooms to decorate the house. Fast forward a few years and you can enjoy the same experience on a much larger scale at this pick-your-own paradise, with cool add ons such as Prosecco Picnics. Go grab yourself some bunches at this lovely garden centre until mid October (first frost dependent). On every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am – 4:00pm daily ( 2-hours slots). Price: The Centrepiece £25 per person / Children’s Posy £12 / The Showstopper £80 per person / adult entry only £6 / child entry only 3 -16 yrs £3 / babes in arms free.

The Kodama, Forest of Dean

The KODAMA are back! This celebrated installation is back by popular demand at Puzzlewood, Forest of Dean. See these other-worldly sculptures, scattered all over the ancient woodland and inspired by Japanese folklore – with some surprises for people who got to visit the first time round. Installed and created by award-winning artist Ed Elliot there are over 100 Kodama — Japanese tree spirits that live in ancient forests — to see in the woodland, transforming Puzzlewood into an awe-inspiring scene that wouldn’t look out of place in a film set. See them before they go.

September Harvest Yoga & Brunch with Linda Adams, Nook on Five, Cheltenham, 22 September

Try this new class at Cheltenham’s first rooftop restaurant and combine it with a delicious brunch. This exclusive Harvest Yoga & Brunch event with renowned yoga instructor Linda Adams and Willy’s ACV begins with a rejuvenating yoga session amidst the serene backdrop of Cheltenham, followed by a brunch featuring local, artisanal produce. From 9am – 111am. Costs £35pp. Spaces are limited so book early.

Malvern Autumn Show, Fri 27 – Sun 29 September, Three Counties Ground, Malvern

Embrace your inner autumnal goddess at this seasonal spectacular. Back for a fantastic 3-day event, you’ll find gorgeous artisan stalls, lifestyle makers and designers, shopping, flowers, gardening, food and drink, entertainment and much more. See brilliant cooking demos from celebrity chefs and talks with Gardener’s World Arit Anderson, Nikki Chapman and many more. See my chat with guest speaker and GBBO’s Briony May Williams here – talking all about the show, and her foodie guilty pleasures.

Yoga, Wellness Garden & Pizza, Burleigh Court, Stroud 20 September

Unwind and recharge in Burleigh Court’s enchanting Wellness Garden. Join holistic event organiser Mark Sweeting from Cotswold Wellness Hub for an evening of wellness activities, capped off with delicious wood-fired sourdough pizza enjoyed around the glow of outdoor fires. It’s the ideal setting to relax, connect, and rejuvenate under the stars, costs £40. Or, book ahead for the Walk & Roast in Bibury on 6 October, costs £22.50. PLUS – have fun and do good at the same, watching Mark do a wing walk to raise money for the Sunflowers charity followed by a super fun skittles night.

Cheltenham Heritage Open Days, 6 – 15 September

Every September thousands of places you’d never normally see fling open their doors and let you in to ogle! It’s your chance to see hidden places and explore your area’s fascinating history and culture – all of which are FREE to explore. See what’s on, from rarely opened buildings which you can explore either on your own or on an organised tour, to guided walks, talks and exhibitions. Events are all free, but some events can be pre-booked.

Black is the Colour of my Voice, Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 29 September

In celebration of Black History Month this October, the Everyman Theatre Cheltenham is proud to present a powerful lineup of productions that honour Black stories, voices, and history. I’m pleased to share with you our latest press release, which details the exciting performances coming to the stage, including productions inspired by the life of Nina Simone, the inspirational journey of Floella Benjamin, and the remarkable story of Walter Tull.

Q The Music: James Bond Concert, Cheltenham, 7 September

The world’s most critically acclaimed James Bond concert is coming to Cheltenham Town Hall and is set to be an adrenaline-fueled evening, hosted by Miss Monepenny herself – Bliss, Caroline Bliss. With stunning vocals and amazing music, this famous dedicated James Bond band is the world’s first JB tribute group. Expect all the legendary Bond songs, such as Goldfinger, Diamonds Are Forever and Live and Let Die.

Free! Celebrate Gustav Holst’s 150th birthday, Cheltenham, 21 September

Join the Cheltenham crowd for The Holst 150 Birthday Party in Imperial Gardens. Enjoy diverse performances on the Mars Stage from 1-6 pm, featuring Cheltenham Silver Band, Cheltenham Philharmonic, and Nethra Academy of Indian Dance. Explore the Make, Create area from 2-5 pm with art and craft workshops and a multi-sensory technology experience zone inspired by Holst. Bring a picnic or grab food nearby and enjoy the party! It’s a free event as part of the Holst 150 celebrations.

Harvest Wreath Workshop, Slimbridge, Sat 14 September

Are you ready to add a touch of autumn magic to your home? Welcome it in at WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre at this Harvest Wreath-Making Workshop led by talented local floristry artist, Jess Spill. Costs: £60, including a £5 refreshments voucher.

Cheltenham International Film Festival, Cheltenham, 13 – 22 September

The awesome CIFF celebrates its 6th anniversary in 2024 bringing the best of world cinema through films that question, inspire, entertain. See what’s on, from documentaries that raise issues and inform through to thrilling and thoughtful film shorts.

Boating, SUP and kayaking at Blenheim Palace, until 8 September

Cast off in one of the rowing boats, kayaks or paddle boards at Blenheim, just over the border – new for 2024. Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled day with your little pirates or a a peaceful picnic day. As you set off from the historic Boat House, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Palace, the Grand Bridge, and the Gardens like never before. See iconic landmarks from a new perspective!

Sunday Lunch with Close Up Magic, Kings Head Hotel, Cirencester, 1st Sunday of every month

Elevate your Sunday lunch with this popular magic show. Taking place on the first Sunday of each month at the Kings Head Hotel in the centre of Cirencester, be entertained by acclaimed close-up magician and local favourite, Alex Robertson. Booking ahead is highly recommended, but simply settle in, order some food and while your meal is being cooked let Alex entertain you with some incredible tricks!

Vegan Market, Cirencester, Sun 22 September

This is the place to go for vegan, planet-and-body loving goodies you will struggle to find anywhere else. From organic plant-based food to organic skincare and gifts. It’s free to enter too. Love vegan? Go to Ciren’s pretty central square where it all takes place from 10am to 3pm.

Painswick Feast, Painswick, Sun 22 September

Don’t miss this fantastic and totally free family day on 22 September. Held in the heart of pretty Painswick village from 11am – 5pm, it’s the traditional apple squishing feast, but you’ll find plenty more to do from live music and games to traditional Puppy Dog, the famous dog show or just plonk yourself on a straw bale with a pint of cider.

ABBA Revival, Ingleside House, Cirencester, 26 & 27 September

Back by popular demand, the award-winning ABBA Tribute Band ‘Revival’ is back at Ingleside. Having been voted as the UK’s Official No. 1 ABBA tribute act, the show includes faithful choreography, spectacular and authentic costumes, stunning production and, most importantly, bangers! Featuring hits such as ‘Waterloo’, ‘Dancing Queen’, ‘Mamma Mia’, ‘Take A Chance On Me’ and many, many more, you will be in for a nostalgic night you’ll never forget.

Avalon, Giffords Circus, Stratton Meadows, Cirencester, 6 – 16 September

giffords circus — Credit: Giffords Circus / Instagram

Gifford’s 2024 show rolls into Cirencester for their latest brilliant show. Starring an amazingly talented cast of performers, it’s a day or evening of mind-blowing stunts, laughter and music. Catch it in Cirencester on Gloucester Road at Stratton Meadows this month.

Wild Food Foraging & Lunch, Burleigh Court Hotel, 27 September

Join this morning of exploration and venture out into the lush countryside to forage for wild ingredients with Rob, an experienced Cotswold forager. Learn about the various wild mushrooms, berries, fragrant herbs and edible flowers then Head Chef Shaun and his talented team will create a mouthwatering lunch that celebrates the beauty and flavours of the Golden Valley. Costs £49.

Lion Ridge, West Midland Safari Park, Bewdley

Visit this fantastic Safari Park and see the walkthrough attraction, Lion Ridge. See lions on foot for the first time in the Safari Park’s history. Get up close with the bachelor pride as well as taking part in a whole host of lion-themed conservation activities. On this multi-sensory, live trail families will go on an adventure to see if they can find the new lions, hosted by Eddie the Explorer. Ticket price includes all the other attractions too, from Tiger Tropics to Penguin Cove, plus do the Scratchcard Trail for the chance to win a VIP Lion Feeding Experience.

Dinosaurs on the doorstep, The Commandery, Worcester, until 8 Sept

This summer, come face to face with the dinosaurs that used to roam the UK, from harmless herbivores to terrifying tyrannosaurs at Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum. See giant dinosaur skeletons, touch bones and see fossils from 150 million years ago. Enjoy the dino discovery camp complete with shelter and campfire and get hands-on at the Dino Activity Station. Open Tues – Sat 10am – 4pm, Sun 10am – 3pm. The exhibition is free to visit and no booking is needed.

Book ahead now

She’s Electric, Ellenborough Park, Cheltenham, 12 October

She’s Electric is back! Returning to the stunning Ellenborough Park on Sat 12 October where it all began one year ago to help us all live our best stylish and sustainable lives! Join She’s Electric and host Jo Elvin for a good time in great company.

Discover beautiful lifestyle brands, hear from inspiring women with incredible stories, find out from experts how you can save time and money whilst creating a positive impact, and take your pick from the VW electric range for an electrifying drive experience.Bring your friends, meet like minded women, enjoy a spot of shopping and recharge with complimentary refreshments.

Use code MUDDYGLOS at checkout to get your FREE tickets today. Hurry, they won’t last long! Book your place here. Sign up for the She’s Electric newsletter here, to stay connected to this community of switched-on women, get stylish and sustainable living tips, info on the latest tech, exclusive offers and free tickets to future events like this one!

Cheltenham Literature Festival, Cheltenham, 4 to 13 October

The Times and Sunday Times Cheltenham Literature Festival 2024 is back with a stellar line-up this year. See 500+ events encompassing art and design, classic literature, current affairs, faith and philosophy, fiction, poetry and spoken word, history, memoir, food and drink and more. Get some hot new reads on your bedside table into the bargain.

Doggy Swim, Cheltenham Lido, Cheltenham, 12, 13, 19, 20 October

Never been to the annual Sandford Park Lido dog swim? It’s an experience not to be missed and very popular so book ahead! Jump into the water with your best buddy at this super fun event which marks the end of the lido season. Tickets cost £14 and you’ll get an hour having a brilliant time in the pool with your pooch. Book ahead it’s a popular one.

What’s On September: 24 Brilliant new things to do

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