Britain's Finest - Events

As symbols of mystery, desire, danger and wealth, orchids have inspired countless works of art, literature, film and fashion. Their complexity, diversity and rarity have fascinated scientists and obsessed the rich.

In this Old Laboratory exhibition at RHS Garden Wisley, discover beautiful botanical artworks and rare books from the RHS collections, and find out how our different perceptions of orchids - as aphrodisiacs, carnivorous predators, and mass-market commodities - have evolved over time. Included in normal garden admission.

The Gidleigh Park Estate Team takes immense pride in their Kitchen Garden, while Executive Chef, Chris Eden, champions the use of all its produce.

Your day commences at 10.00am with a welcome coffee before embarking on a guided tour of the Kitchen Garden. Following this, savour a glass of wine and indulge in a delightful vegetarian three-course lunch crafted from the garden's fresh vegetables and herbs. Finally, conclude with coffee and petits fours to round off the experience.

Promising an hilarious line-up of seasoned comedians, our first comedy night will be held on April 18th, guided by the affable MC Jon Wagstaffe, a "simple country lad from Tewkesbury" who will set the stage for an unforgettable night.

Opening the show is none other than Nick Page, a Britain's Got Talent Finalist and English comedian of the year. Nick, a "former disgraced Daytime TV presenter", weaves tales that defy convention, offering a comedic experiencefree of gimmicks, PowerPoint, or props—just pure storytelling mastery that will have you doubled over with belly laughs. To close the night, brace yourself for the unique charm of Ignacio Lopez. With a fusion of Welsh and Spanish influences, Ignacio is a frequent headliner and MC in renowned comedy clubs, and his offbeat humor has gained nearly 40 million views across all social media channels.

Join us for an evening where laughter knows no bounds.

Colchester Zoo Summer Celebrations are set to be sizzling!

Keep the kids entertained this summer by visiting throughout the school holidays. 

You can also enjoy more for your money on 10th & 24th August 2024 with a later closing time!

Join us as we celebrate Father's Day, a time to honour and appreciate all dads. Indulge in a scrumptious four-course meal, each dish crafted to delight the taste buds.

As a token of our gratitude, every father will take home a special gift, marking this day as a cherished memory.

Round 1 of the FIA/FIM European Championships is one of Santa Pod's most prestigious Drag Race meetings. This hugely popular extravaganza features over 200 teams and 17 classes of cars and bikes including the sports F1 class – 11,000bhp Top Fuel Dragsters accelerating 0-100mph in less than 1 second, making this event unrivalled for both the quality and quantity of racing.

As well as the Drag Racing there's fun for all the family with a full line up of entertainment suitable for kids and adults alike, this is the ultimate family day out! Camping available onsite so come for the weekend.

New for 2024 - The Main Event will host a Live Music Stage with Bands playing after racing on Friday, Saturday & Sunday evenings! Day Tickets will be valid until midnight!

Held to promote seaweed for its immense health and nutritional benefits.  Quay kitchens will be serving a variety of dishes, and stalls will be selling a range of seaweed products and arts and crafts.  Plus live music, craft activities and workshops, talks and demonstrations and street entertainments.  Bring your own seaweed for advice from experts on its uses.

Gather your family for an unforgettable Father’s Day celebration and treat your taste buds to a culinary adventure with our exquisite Sunday Lunch menu, specially curated for the occasion.

We are delighted that Leeds based artist Rachel McNaughton will be kicking off our 2024 series of art exhibitions with her watercolours which are always well received by our visitors.

Her central focus is flowers and over the years she has moved away from botanical accuracy to a more expressive style.

The exhibition space is open during the regular garden opening times. It is free to visit the exhibition and tearoom, but there is a charge if you wish to explore the garden.

Dust off your dabber and get ready for ‘eyes down’ during our Comedy Bingo evening on Friday 3rd May, hosted by master comedian Brendan Riley.

Join us in the Grosvenor Suite for a night out including the classic favourite game, but not as you know it! The comedy stylings of Brendan Riley will bring the event to life for a night out with a difference including games and prizes to be won!

Your Comedy Bingo Night ticket includes a delicious 2-course buffet meal (served at 7:30pm), a night of hilarious bingo fun and a disco to follow for dancing the evening away.

Tickets | £36.00 per person

Full pre-payment required upon booking.

Please notify our team of any allergies or dietary requirements prior to your visit.

In honour of UN World Ocean Day and in partnership with Relais & Châteaux, Buckland Manor invites you to experience a thoughtfully curated four-course tasting menu that showcases sustainability.

The initiative aims to shine a spotlight on the invaluable gifts our oceans provide and the critical need for sustainable practices in utilising marine resources. Join us for a memorable lunch experience and delight your palate while discovering the significance of responsible fishing techniques and their impact on ocean conservation.

Meander through a carpet of bluebells in the ancient woodland at Gidleigh Park with our Estate Manager, Andrew Brimblecombe and Plantsman, Paul Grigg as your guides. With over 40 years of experience between them, they share their wealth of knowledge on the woodland, flora, and fauna along with a few handy gardening tips. The 107-acre estate is nestled in a valley within the natural beauty of Dartmoor and offers an abundance of different habitats.

Arrive from 10.00am for morning coffee before heading out at 10.30am for your walk. Return to a delicious three-course lunch with a glass of wine.