Britain's Finest - Events

Experience the essence of summer with our exquisite afternoon tea, set against a backdrop of sunlit gardens and countryside charm. Indulge in a delightful selection of seasonal finger sandwiches, fresh fruit scones paired with clotted cream and preserves, and a medley of summer-inspired cakes. Join us for a taste of the season's finest amidst the warmth of our charming estate.

Come to RHS Garden Wisley early to take advantage of the light for stunning images of the garden through the spring and summer. The garden opens from 8am on various dates. Normal garden admission applies.

In May the garden is full of colour and wildlife. This is your opportunity to visit as part of the National Garden Scheme. Entry fees and 10% of plant sales are donated to the NGS. Pre-booking is NOT required.

The National Garden Scheme is a registered charity which opens gardens of quality, character and interest to the public. Since 1927 they have raised funds to support nursing and caring charities, and over £25 million in the last 10 years.

Enjoy wandering through the different parts of the garden and gain inspiration for your own garden. Many of the plants you will see are available to buy in our  plant nursery and we can help you choose the right plant for your garden. The tearoom will be open with proceeds going to the local chur

This is probably the most popular course we run here. The May course is sold out so this course is your final oppourtunity to create your own wire hen with Chris Moss.

Wire sculptor, Chris Moss, will be leading this day long course and will expertly guide you through making your own wire hen. It is a perfect step-up for people who have made smaller wire sculptures on the half-day workshops and now wish to make something more challenging, but also suitable for beginners

All materials are provided. Please bring a packed lunch.

Join us as we welcome back renowned local band The Big Beat for an evening of live music.

Enjoy a night of live music from house favourites The Big Beat, as they perform a selection of popular classics and up-tempo contemporary hits from 7pm! You can also look forward to a delicious two-course meal (served from 7:30pm) and disco to round off the evening.

Tickets | £37.00 per person

TERMS & CONDITIONS 

Full pre-payment required upon booking.

Pre-order required. Please notify our team of any allergies or dietary requirements prior to your visit.

Join Colchester Zoo as they celebrate their charity, Colchester Zoological Society and the vital conservation work that they undertake in the UK and worldwide.

From meeting members of the Animal Care Team, to learning how to be a ranger on UmPhafa Private Nature Reserve, there will be lots of chances to find out about their work.

They will also be hosting their very own Conservation Festival on 29th May where you'll be able to find out more about conservation efforts around the world and in the UK.

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.

Join us for a delightful Family Afternoon Tea with kickstart the summer with a burst of excitement.

Join us for a thrilling Circus Workshop hosted by the talented local performer, Rob Horsman, and don't miss the entertaining sheepdog and duck herding demonstration by David Seamark. Participate in the excitement every hour between 12.00pm and 4.00pm. It's a unique blend of circus charm and adorable duck herding that promises a day filled with fun and unforgettable memories.

After the activities, make your way to your reserved table and enjoy a sumptuous afternoon tea with your family.

Stillingfleet Lodge's annual wildlife day will be on the 30th June 2024, part of National Insect Week. Local wildlife charities join us to make this a day packed  with activities and information about the wildlife across Yorkshire. Activities include pond-dipping, bird-ringing and owl- pellet dissection plus a chance to meet bats and reptiles - there is always something for the whole family.

Another opportunity to learn how to make a wire blackbird sculpture under the expert guidance of Chris Moss. At the end of this half-day course you will have your own wire blackbird to take home.

These sculptures will be made from galvanised wire, so they will be able to be kept outside without going rusty. Materials and tools will be supplied. Please wear practical clothes (no delicate textiles).

The day will be full of fun for all ages and packed with a programme of all sorts of activities, entertainment, and games throughout the day.  Watch the exciting Clovelly Cup yacht race across the bay, starting at 12pm. It is an amazing sight to see the yachts surrounding the harbour and setting off to race across the bay.  Throughout the day there will be live music, Higher being Circus street entertainment, activities and games for the whole family. This includes a workshop with Washhouse Studio and Punch & Judy, plus face paintings and a variety of stalls selling food and event-themed arts & crafts.
 

Free entry for under 16s who come in maritime-themed fancy dress costumes!

Celebrate Father's Day at Gidleigh Park and join us for an unforgettable experience—an indulgent A la Carte lunch that promises culinary delights amidst the beauty of nature. As an extra touch, every dad will receive a thoughtful gift, making this day a memorable for all.