Things to Do During Halloween Half Term

The spookiest of half terms is nearly upon us again; kids excited, parents not quite so much! But hey, as well as Halloween, here’s what family fun and activities we’ve found locally to pass the time, save on Haribo and prevent wine 0’clock overloading…..

There’s a list of pumpkin patches at the end! What more do you want?!

Have a fangtastic ๐ŸŽƒ fortnight, and oh, and come back to spook this list again soon, as I’m sure more will be added!

Wed 15th

Okay, let’s kick off early, Wednesday 15th, school gates still open, but St Thomasโ€™ Church Trowbridge has a Brownie Trail session from 6:45, find the link below…..


Rag and Bone Arts CICs recurring event in Chippenham for ages 12+.
You can do art and design or acting improvisation, delivered in 10 week blocks. Taught by professional actor Rebecca Osborne, learn how to think on your feet, respond and listen and make up scenes using just your brilliant mind and spontaneous ideas.


Pete Firman: Tricks & Giggles @ The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon

With over 4.5 million social media followers and countless TV appearances under his belt, Pete Firman is the UK’s top comic magician. Join him for an evening of ‘Tricks & Giggles’, as Pete brings his trademark blend of magic and comedy from the small screen to stages around the UK with this brand-new show. Expect impossible feats, sleight of hand and big laughs from one of magic’s most exciting performers! As seen on Amazon’s Good Omens, ITV1’s Tonight at the London Palladium and The Next Great Magician, BBC1’s The John Bishop Show and The Sarah Millican Television Programme. He’s probably also popped up on your social media feeds with his mind-boggling and regularly viral magic videos. Age restriction: 11+.


Fri 17th

Rock the Tots: Spooky Fun@ The Rondo Theatre, Bath

Steph & Craig Mitchell presents a spooky and ghouly edition of their Gigs for little onesโ€ฆ and their grown-ups!

Weโ€™re edging closer to Halloween, and Steph & Craig are back with all things spooky and ghouly! Donโ€™t worry โ€“ nothing too scary for the babies and Littlesโ€ฆ or grown-ups for that matter! But there will be some seasonal bangers โ€“ think Monster Mash, Ghostbusters and The Cranberries to name a few.

Get into the mood and come in spooky fancy dress. Who ya gonna call? Rock The Tots!

Sessions are approximately 1 hour long, without an interval.
Suitable for children aged 0-6, and their adults. Under 1s go free!


Journey to the Centre of the Earth @ Pound Arts, Corsham

Standard: ยฃ15

Lamphouse Theatre presents โ€ฆ Journey to the Centre of the Earth!

Take a break Rick Wakeman, back to your trailer Brendan Fraser, watch and learn Jules Verne, Lamphouse are going on a journey all the way to the centre of the Earth! Two intrepid explorers, one impossible mission (featuring at least one joke about a big hole), and no special effects budget whatsoever. What could possibly go wrong?

From the makers of War of the Worlds (On a Budget) and Frankenstein (On a Budget) this new comedy take on Jules Verneโ€™s classic novel will be one epic night out, full of belly laughs, brand new music and really impressive* dinosaurs.

Featuring Tom Fox and Becky Owen-Fisher, the familiar faces behind the On a Budget series, Journey to the Centre of the Earth will be another fan favourite. Expect silly jokes, catchy tunes, ridiculous costumes and lots and lots of cardboard.

*not actually that impressive

Suitable for 10+


Sat 18th

Devizes Halloween Bingo

Come along to the 1st Devizes Halloween Bingo for an afternoon full of treats and spooky fun at 1st Devizes scout hall 29 Southbroom Rd Devizes SN10 5AD. Eyes down 4pmโ€“6pm. Bingo games for everyone. Fancy dress โ€“ come in your best Halloween costume! Prizes & goodie bags. Yummy food and refreshments. Raffle with lots of surprises. The perfect way to enjoy Halloween with the whole family!


It’s Trowbridge Carnival, see the link below for details!


Brick Creative Club with Trowbridge Library

A recurring feature for Trowbridge Library, for all those little builders.


Sun 19th

Storytime: The Dinosaur That Pooped A Monster!

Join Waterstones, 29 Borough Parade, Chippenham SN15 3WL for their Sunday afternoon storytime where they will be reading the slimy ‘The Dinosaur That Pooped A Monster’ by Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter. All are welcome.


Mon 20th

Rock the Tots: Spooky Fun @ Pound Arts, Corsham

Steph & Craig Mitchell presents a spooky and ghouly edition of their Gigs for little onesโ€ฆ and their grown-ups!

Weโ€™re edging closer to Halloween, and Steph & Craig are back with all things spooky and ghouly! Donโ€™t worry โ€“ nothing too scary for the babies and Littlesโ€ฆ or grown-ups for that matter! But there will be some seasonal bangers โ€“ think Monster Mash, Ghostbusters and The Cranberries to name a few.

Get into the mood and come in spooky fancy dress. Who ya gonna call? Rock The Tots!

Sessions are approximately 1 hour long, without an interval.
Suitable for children aged 0-6, and their adults. Under 1s go free!


Tues 21st

Online 1 Year GCSE Food and Nutrition Courses


Know Your Chalk Horse!

Our friendly historian Brian Edwards has a talk on white horses in Pewsey. I’m not sure how family-friendly this will be, but budding historians might find it of interest.


(-25th) Blood Brothers@ The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon

Running until Saturday 25th. Written by Willy Russell, the legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences. Few musicals have received quite such acclaim as the multi-award winning Blood Brothers. The production ran for more than 10,000 performances in Londonโ€™s West End, one of only five musicals ever to achieve that milestone. It has been affectionately christened the โ€˜Standing Ovation Musicalโ€™, as inevitably it โ€œbrings the audience cheering to its feet and roaring its approvalโ€ (The Daily Mail). The superb score includes Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me Itโ€™s Not True. Age Guidance: 12+


Wed 22nd

(-25th Oct) SIX: Teen Edition@ The Rondo Theatre, Bath

Wed 22 โ€“ Sat 25 Oct โ€ข 3pm & 7:30pm โ€ข Admission ยฃ15 โ€ข Community Theatre

By Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss
Presented by Merriman Productions

His-storyโ€™s about to get overthrownโ€ฆ again! Back by popular demand, Merriman Productions present SIX: TEEN EDITION; a full-length adaptation of Toby Marlow and Lucy Mossโ€™ international phenomenon SIX, modified for performance by teen actors for family audiences.

Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived. From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the mic to remix five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a euphoric celebration of 21st-century girl power! This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over.


Thurs 23rd

Kidโ€™s Spooky Half Term Art Club @ Wiltshire Scrapstore, Lacock

All children must be accompanied by one adult per child. If you have multiple adults coming (parents/grandparents), we kindly ask that they wait in the cafรฉ for the workshop to finish.

Numbers are limited. Booking is essential and due to limited spaces please book early to avoid disappointment. Sessions are ยฃ9.50 per child. Refreshments will be available from our coffee shop to purchase. Our age recommendation for our Art Clubs is 3-11.


Fri 24th

Lunchbox Buddy is back in Devizes!


Devizes Ghost Walks โ€“ October 2025

I’m not sure how child-friendly John’s famous ghost walks are, bit if you dare!!


Kidโ€™s Spooky Half Term Art Club @ Wiltshire Scrapstore, Lacock

All children must be accompanied by one adult per child. If you have multiple adults coming (parents/grandparents), we kindly ask that they wait in the cafรฉ for the workshop to finish.

Numbers are limited. Booking is essential and due to limited spaces please book early to avoid disappointment. Sessions are ยฃ9.50 per child. Refreshments will be available from our coffee shop to purchase. Our age recommendation for our Art Clubs is 3-11.


North Bradley Pumpkin Trail 2025


Sat 25th

Autumn in the Park @ Hillworth Park, Devizes

Our awesome Parks and Open Spaces crew is rolling out their tractors, electric vehicles, and cool machinery for you to explore โ€“ talk about a joyride!

This year, weโ€™re joined by Arty Kids Pottery Painting, Crazy Cheeks face painting and Chloeโ€™s Mobile Farm. And donโ€™t forget to flex those brain muscles with our Halloween themed word search โ€“ go on a letter hunt around the park and see if you can conjure up the spooky words!

๐Ÿ‘ป Dress to impress in your Halloween finest! The Deputy Mayor will be on the lookout for the best costumes at 1:30pm right outside the Cafรฉ โ€“ and there are prizes up for grabs in these categories:

Ages 6 and under

Ages 7-12

Ages 13+ (adults, unleash your inner ghoul!) ๐ŸงŸโ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ•ท

Come for the fun, stay for the spooky vibes โ€“ see you in the park!


Woodbridge Inn Halloween Fest, North Newnton

This October half term, The Woodbridge Inn is bringing the community together for a spooktacular celebrationโ€”and everyoneโ€™s invited!

๐Ÿ“ Dates:
๐Ÿ—“๏ธ Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th October
๐Ÿ—“๏ธ Thursday 30th & Friday 31st October
โฐ Fest opens at 12PM | Fun until 6PM

โœจ Whatโ€™s waiting for you:
๐ŸŽƒ Pumpkin Picking
๐Ÿ›๏ธ Craft & Produce Market โ€“ handmade gifts, bakes, jams, plants, sweets & more
๐Ÿฐ Sweet & Cake Stalls
๐ŸŽจ Arts & Crafts Activities
๐Ÿ‘ป Face Painting & Hair Braiding
๐ŸŒญ Burgers, Hot Dogs & Autumn Eats
๐Ÿ”ฎ Fun Tarot Readings
๐ŸŽถ Live Music & Autumn Vibes
๐Ÿบ Beer, Wine & Seasonal Sips from the Bar

Whether youโ€™re here to shop, snack, sip, or simply soak up the spooky atmosphere, this is a celebration for all ages. Weโ€™re proud to support local businesses and bring our community together for a few days of festive fun.


The Parade Cinema Marlborough Family Halloween Trail ๐ŸŽƒ

Our annual halloween trail makes it’s return on Saturday 25th October at The Parade Cinema Marlborough!

Each ticket purchase for Corpse Bride or Hotel Transylvania on the 25th October gives a child a free spot on our yearly Halloween Trail around Marlborough, open from 11am to 2:30pm. We expect the trail to take around 45 minutes to complete, so last entry for the trail will be 1:45pm.

Book your tickets now… if your dare! www.theparadecinema.com ๐Ÿ“ž 01672 646232 (Between 10am & 7pm)


Longleat Ghost Tours

This October Half Term, Ghost Tours are making a spooky return during Longleat’s Great British Autumn event. Longleat House was built between 1567 โ€“ 1580, and it is believed to still have people who featured in its history making their presence felt. Discover the supernatural stories as expert guides reveal the tale of Lady Louisa Carteret, known as the Grey Lady, who is said to still walk the corridors searching for her lover.

 https://www.longleat.co.uk/events/ghost-tours


Trowbridge Musical Theatre presents Robin Hood โ€“ A Pantomime Adventure!




Kidsโ€™ Halloween Spooktacular @ Broadtown Brewery – Hop Chapel and Hop Gardens, Lydiard Tregoze

Bring the kids along to The Hop Chapel on Saturday 25th October from 1 – 3pm as we transform The Old Brewhouse into The Old BOO-house!!

๐ŸŽƒ We’ll have two whole hours full of Halloween fun, with pumpkin carving, ghoulish games and more (all treats no tricks, we promise – we don’t want to scare your little ones!)

๐Ÿ‘ป We’ll have a prizes up for grabs for the best pumpkin design, best pumpkin carving and the best dressed, so don’t forget your costumes!

https://allevents.in/lydiard-tregoze/kids%E2%80%99-halloween-spooktacular/200028572175743


The Three Little Vikings @ Salisbury Arts Centre

Presented by Wrongsemble. Salisbury Arts Centre. Tickets from ยฃ12 (ยฃ10 for children) Family show suitable for children 3-9 years olds.


October half term bug trail at Dyrham Park

from 25th Oct to 2nd Nov 2025, get out into the great outdoors this October half term for an insect-themed trail around the 270 acres of parkland. ยฃ2.50 per trail (normal admissions apply). Booking not required. Running 10am to 4pm, with last entry at 3pm.


Sun 26th


Mon 27th

Half Term Chocolate Experience@ Hollychocs, Poulshot, Devizes

Autumn Half Term Chocolate Experience at Hollychocs
A cosy, hands-on chocolate-making adventure for grown-ups and children aged 5 & up to enjoy together

Looking for a fun and creative way to spend time with your child or grandchild this October? Our Autumn Half Term Chocolate Experience is the perfect school holiday activityโ€”designed for adults and children aged 5 & up to enjoy side-by-side.

Hosted by The Southwestโ€™s Chocolate Champion, Holly Garner, this joyful and cosy experience is all about making sweet memories together as the autumn chill sets in.

๐Ÿซ Start with a hot chocolate treat
Warm up with a choice from our Ultimate Hot Chocolate Menuโ€”featuring 12 indulgent flavours to begin your chocolate-filled day.

๐ŸŒ Discover where chocolate comes from
Taste raw cocoa beans, sample our signature blends, and learn how chocolate is madeโ€”plus how we support small, ethical cocoa farms around the world.

๐Ÿ‘‰๐ŸปMake & decorate your own chocolates
Roll up your sleeves and create your own delicious chocolate treats to take home (if they donโ€™t get eaten first!).

๐ŸŽ Enjoy a special shopping discount
Take home even more chocolatey joy with an exclusive Hollychocs discount on the day.


Rowdey Cow Halloween Festivities

Perfect for parents, grandparents and carers looking for something memorable to do with their children this autumn. Whether itโ€™s bonding time, a school holiday treat or a special birthday surpriseโ€”this is time well (and sweetly) spent.

Join us at the Rowdey Cow for our halloween festivities ๐Ÿ•ธ๐ŸŽƒ

Pick a pumpkin from its patch & come in to carve your spooky artwork!

๐ŸŽƒ27th – 31st October

๐ŸŽƒ9.30am – 11am

๐ŸŽƒยฃ5 per pumpkin

***No need to book


The Farm Cookery School Halloween Holiday Club


Arty Pants in Sutton Veny


Lights Up, Sounds Down Days at the REME Museum

Join us for a more relaxed visit at the REME Museum during this special opening outside of our regular hours.

We have designed these โ€˜Lights Up, Sounds Downโ€™ days to reduce sensory input for individuals who would prefer a quieter experience. These sessions are primarily for, though not limited to, anyone who has sensory processing disorder; autism; social, emotional or mental health needs; dementia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or any other sensory needs.

During these days we will have:

Lights On โ€“ our overhead gallery lighting will be turned on, without spotlights, to create a brighter environment in which to explore.
Sounds Down โ€“ we will reduce sound effects throughout the museum as much as possible by turning off most โ€˜surround soundโ€™ interactives and reducing volumes.
Sensory maps โ€“ we have marked out any areas around the museum where you may find louder interactives or visual effects that we cannot turn off. This means you can choose your own route and avoid any areas as you wish.

If you would like to bring any sensory items (including but not limited to ear defenders, magnifying glass, book, squeezy toy) that will help you or your loved one to enjoy their experience better, please feel free to do so, just make sure you hold onto it and take it home with you!


Wonder Gigs: Bigger Kids @ Pound Arts, Corsham

Child: ยฃ6 Adult: ยฃ6 Under 1s: FREE

Join Filskit Theatre for an uplifting and relaxing hour with a talented live musician playing beautiful acoustic versions of well-known folk, jazz and pop songs. Enjoyable for both big and small ears alike thereโ€™ll be beautiful, atmospheric sensory visuals perfect for even the youngest audience members. And, as itโ€™s halt term, bigger kids are welcome too so bring them along for this hour of fun and sensory play for the whole family.


Tues 28th

October Holiday Activities @ Wiltshire Museum Devizes

October Holiday Activities Lecture Hall  28th October 2025 10:30 am – 12:00 pm  10:30 am – 12:00 pmCome along to our spooky Halloween activities for ages 3 to 11: pebble skulls spooky ghosts paper pumpkins and puppetsโ€ฆ

 Book OnlineOctober Holiday Activities Lecture Hall  28th October 2025 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm  1:30 pm – 3:00 pmCome along to our spooky Halloween activities for ages 3 to 11: pebble skulls spooky ghosts paper pumpkins and puppets.


Art Workshop in Rowde

On Tuesday morning, the 28th of October, from 9am to 12 noon, an Art Workshop takes place, at The Mind Tree Cafe in Rowde. It’s creative fun with collage and mixed media, hosted by Nancy Rose. It’s ยฃ30 for the session, and you must book in advance by emailing nancyrosehats@yahoo.com


This October Half Term, join us at the REME Museum for spooktacular STEM and crafts activities for all the family to enjoy.

https://www.rememuseum.org.uk/

โ€˜Rocket Poweredโ€™ โ€“ Tuesday 28 October
Drop-in, Education Suite

Design and launch your own bottle rocket or air powered car, using the same principles of engineering in rocket science! Led by our Education Officer, Andrew.

Miniature Assault Course โ€“ Every day 28-31 October
Drop-in, outdoors

Take on our miniature army-style assault course! Race your way across the course or take your time and enjoy the challenge! Please note: This activity is weather dependent.


Princess Pirate @ Pound Arts, Corsham

Adult: ยฃ10 Child: ยฃ10 Under 2s: FREE

Pirate Princess is a heartwarming story of hope against adversity told with physical theatre, clowning and circus. This brand new solo show by circus performer and professional idiot Gemma Bond tells the tale of poor shipwrecked Princess Poppy. Can she overcome a big dress, extreme weather and the ultimate test of strength to see her way to safety?

Inspired by strong and inventive women of history, Poppy must transform physically and mentally if she is to have any hope of rescuing herself from eternity on an island in the ocean. The show encourages all to reuse, repurpose and recycle as Poppy reinvents her outfit and her mindset to overcome her predicament.

A visual feast of colourful costume and a unique crowโ€™s nest on a pole prop, this is a fun filled show for children aged 5 to 11 and their families.

Wed 29th

October Holiday Activities @ Wiltshire Museum Devizes

Come along to our spooky Halloween activities for ages 3 to 11: pebble skulls spooky ghosts paper pumpkins and puppetsโ€ฆ


+11 Holiday Club @ The Farm Cookery School


Pumpkin Painting @ St Peter’s, Marlborough


Pumpkins in the Park, Warminster



This October Half Term, join us at the REME Museum for spooktacular STEM and crafts activities for all the family to enjoy.

https://www.rememuseum.org.uk/

LEGOยฎ Engineering โ€“ Wednesday 29 October
Pre-bookable sessions, Education Suite

Unleash your inner engineer and build a vehicle from LEGOยฎ that will actually drive! Recommended for ages 7 and above.


Thurs 30th

Kidโ€™s Spooky Half Term Art Club @ Wiltshire Scrapstore, Lacock

All children must be accompanied by one adult per child. If you have multiple adults coming (parents/grandparents), we kindly ask that they wait in the cafรฉ for the workshop to finish.

Numbers are limited. Booking is essential and due to limited spaces please book early to avoid disappointment. Sessions are ยฃ9.50 per child. Refreshments will be available from our coffee shop to purchase. Our age recommendation for our Art Clubs is 3-11.


The Sheep Ate Up The Fairies @ Trowbridge Museum

3 days of captivating talks, hands-on crafts & engaging activities start today!



This October Half Term, join us at the REME Museum for spooktacular STEM and crafts activities for all the family to enjoy.

https://www.rememuseum.org.uk/

Meccano Makes โ€“ Thursday 30 October
Drop-in, Education Suite

Get hands-on with Meccano construction sets to engineer your own vehicle, equipment and more! Recommended for ages 7 and above.


Fri 31st

Kenavon Venture (Halloween Children)

A one hour boat trip on Friday 31st October at 16:00 and 18:00 along the canal packed with fun and games for the children. Fancy dress welcome. 

Please Note:
Dogs are accepted at the discretion of the Skipper on the day who will check with other passengers first. Family tickets not available. 

Children must be accompanies by at least one adult.

Kenavon Venture is a wide beam boat, seating up to 38 passengers, operated by volunteers of the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust.
To book a private charter of this or any other trip, please send an enquiry via the main website.


Devizes Halloween Ghost Walk โ€“ October 2025


Cook Together with The Farm Cookery School


Halloween Disco at Trowbridge Civic Centre


This October Half Term, join us at the REME Museum for spooktacular STEM and crafts activities for all the family to enjoy.

https://www.rememuseum.org.uk/

โ€˜Build a Tankโ€™ Junk Modelling โ€“ Friday 31 October
Self-led, Creation Station

Come and create your own special REME-inspired vehicle to take away with you! Get creative and see what you can make from recycled materials. The only limit is your imagination!


Pumpkin Patches

Farmer Mark’s Pumpkin Patch

4.9(21) ยท Pumpkin patch


Marlborough”Lovely variety of pumpkins and gourds to pick, at very reasonable prices.”


Lotmead Pick Your Own

4.5(750) ยท Farm shop

Swindon

Closes soon โ‹… 5โ€ฏpm ยท 01793 790137″Great small farm, we picked a good piece of pumpkin for Halloween.”


Pumpkin picking patch

5.0(10) ยท Farm shop

Chippenham

Closed โ‹… Opens 8:30โ€ฏam Sat”We visited early this year and grabbed us a nice variety of pumpkins.”


A Parsons & Son Farming/Pumpkin Picking Patch

4.9(19) ยท Farm

Salisbury

Closed โ‹… Opens 9:30โ€ฏam Sat ยท 07887 642801″Great valve and a massive selection of top quality pumpkins


Easton Farm Pumpkin Patch

5.0(4) ยท Farm

Pewsey

Closed โ‹… Opens 10โ€ฏam Sat ยท 07964 860741″Farm beef also available to purchase.”


V & P Collins Farm Shop

4.5(170) ยท Farm shop

Chippenham

Closes soon โ‹… 5โ€ฏpm ยท 01380 850228″A great farm shop, they have a massive amount of pumpkins on off right now.”


Pomeroy Pumpkin Patch

5.0(6) ยท Pumpkin patch

Trowbridge

Closed โ‹… Opens 10โ€ฏam Sat”Bring wellies!!”


Roves Farm

4.5(1.1K) ยท Tourist attraction

Swindon

Closes soon โ‹… 5โ€ฏpm ยท 01793 763939″Entry fee was nearly &60 for 3 Adults and two toddlers.”


Allington Farm Shop

4.5(419) ยท Farm shop

Chippenham

Open โ‹… Closes 5:30โ€ฏpm ยท 01249 658112″The kids get so excited it helps getting them up and out early!”


Ansty Farm Shop

4.5(186) ยท ยฃ1โ€“10 ยท Coffee shop

Salisbury

Closed โ‹… Opens 10โ€ฏam Wed ยท 01747 829072″Fun place to go with super friendly staff, loved the pumpkin picking.”


Pound Farm

4.7(82) ยท Farm shop

Chippenham

Closed โ‹… Opens 10โ€ฏam Thu”My boys enjoyed picking out their own pumpkins.”


Bath Pumpkin Patch

4.4(63) ยท Farm

Bath

Closed โ‹… Opens 10โ€ฏam Wed”… recommended well organised friendly good quality pumpkins


Stourton Farm

4.4(7) ยท Farm

Trowbridge

01380 870484″Great excuse to pick up a dozen duck eggs.


Allington Farm

4.8(4) ยท Farm

Chippenham“Lush coffee and walnut cake!”


Pick of the Patch

5.0(7) ยท Pumpkin patch

Devizes

Temporarily closed ยท 07970 781828“A fabulous few hours picking pumpkins with kids.”


Various venues in/around D-Town โ€“ Saturday & Sunday 7/8th June 2025

Just How Big Is That Fringe? Or Two Go Myth-Busting

Andy Fawthrop

Weโ€™ve always held that D-Town is a great place to live, and one of the many reasons is that it punches well above its weight in terms of the arts and cultural events.ย  Just speaking to musicians and artists who visit the town for gigs and festivals, the feedback is always the same: theyโ€™re in awe of just how much weโ€™ve got going on here.….

Do we need to recite the list?  Oh go on then โ€“ two/ three Beer Festivals (DOCA Winter Ales, Seend, CAMRA DBF), an arts festival (DAF), a food and drink festival, Fulltone on The Green, our own theatre, two opera companies (WHO, DMT), Devizes to Westminster canoe race, Long Street Blues Club, the DOCA events (Street Festival, Colour Rush, Lantern Parade, Carnival, Picnic In The Park)โ€ฆ.I could (and usually do), go on.  Thereโ€™s pubs with regular live music (White Bear, Three Crowns, The Southgate), fairs and circuses on The Green, book clubs, sports clubsโ€ฆ(youโ€™re really going on a bit nowโ€ฆEd).

But somehow that old refrain of โ€œNothing Ever Happens In Devizesโ€ has been making a come-back of late on social media, yet it just ainโ€™t true.  But like all myths, it refuses to lie down and die.  Despite this revered organ (ooh, matron) laying out the many, many choices you might have every week, and bringing you previews and reviews of everything and anything arts-based that we can get our sticky little fingers on, some folks seem to persist in apparently finding โ€œnothingโ€ to do. So itโ€™s time to, yet again, challenge that myth and have another go at laying it to rest for once and for all.

Anywayโ€ฆ..at the moment of writing weโ€™re right in the middle of the Devizes Arts Festival fortnight, with plenty of variety to please all tastes.  But, admittedly, some of these events can command ticket prices that are unaffordable for some.  So, inspired somewhat by last weekendโ€™s wonderful free Rowdefest (thank you Darren!) and, admittedly, a bit of a โ€œrobust discussionโ€ in the pub, I decided to see just how much fun and entertainment you could enjoy over this weekend at next to no cost. Itโ€™s a challenge I decided to take on by getting off my luxury sofa, and propel myself out โ€œinto the fieldโ€ (as it were).

Armed with only a stout pair of walking boots, an inquisitive and open mind, and a supportive girlfriend, I headed out into the local area to see what I could actually come up with on Saturday and Sunday this weekend.  The results are below:

  • 1. Devizes Farmersโ€™ Market in The Market Place Bar (Saturday 9 am)
  • ยท What it was: monthly gathering of local suppliers
  • ยท What was it like?ย  Plenty of choice โ€“ venison, bread, honey, olives, cheese, bread & fruit, flowers and plants, fresh coffee, cider, cakes.ย  Plenty of good fresh stuff from suppliers within a 30 mile radius of D-Town.ย  Added to stalls in the Shambles, this is worth a half hour of anyoneโ€™s time, either for shopping or simply browsing.
  • ยท Cost: ยฃFREE
  • ยท Childrenโ€™s rating: 1/5, Adultsโ€™ rating: 4/5

  • 2. K&A Canal Walk towpath, any old time
  • ยท What it was: a c. 4 mile walk down the towpath from D-Town to Poulshot
  • ยท What was it like?ย  Lots of people out strolling or cycling, boats passing up and down the flight (an opportunity for some gomgoozling).ย  We also saw many species of birds, including four, yes four, different grey herons โ€“ such elegant birds.
  • ยท Cost: ยฃFREE
  • ยท Childrenโ€™s rating: 1/5, Adultsโ€™ rating: 5/5

  • 3. Poulshot Medicine in Nature Herbal Walk at Poulshot Village Hall (Saturday 10.30am โ€“ 12)
  • ยท What it was: a short walk led by Katherine Baldock & Simon Parkes (ecologist) around the village to explore the wild and naturalised medicinal plants growing thereabouts, and an opportunity to make some herbal vinegar after foraging the local hedgerows.
  • ยท What was it like?ย  Way too slow for me, it was part talk, part very gentle amble around the village green and woodland, part discovery of a number of wild plants.ย  We discussed culinary and medicinal uses. At least I found bits of Poulshot I didnโ€™t know about, including the pond, the specially-created woodland, and some country paths (useful for getting over to Whistley Road later on).
  • ยท Cost: ยฃ5/ person
  • ยท Childrenโ€™s rating: 0/5, Adultsโ€™ rating: 2/5

  • 4. Wiltshire Steam & Vintage Rally Lower Park Farm, Whistley Road (Saturday & Sunday 10 โ€“ 5)
  • ยท What it was:.ย  An event organised by WAPG (Wiltshire Agricultural Preservation Group), featuring static displays of steam traction engines, tractors, miniature steam engines, heavy horses, trade stalls, fairground, military vehicles, classic cars.
  • ยท What was it like? As it was chucking it down with rain as we arrived, the most welcome thing for the first half hour was the (well-stocked) beer tent.ย  I could have done without the loud piped music but, hey, it was dry and there was beer!ย  When the rain slowed down a bit we did the full circuit and there was plenty to see, the most impressive of which were the full-size old traction engines in steam (some also seen later driving through D-Town).ย  There were pop-up food outlets, fresh coffee, craft stalls and tents, a 1940s-themed tea and cakes tent, bouncy castle for the children etc.ย  The site was large with plenty of parking but, because of the rain, getting increasingly muddy.
  • ยท Cost: ยฃ10/ person + drinks
  • ยท Childrenโ€™s rating: 4/5, Adultsโ€™ rating: 4/5

  • 5. Pete Robson & J P Oldfield in The Bear, Cellar Bar (Saturday 8pm)
  • ยท What it was: foot-stomping blues from two solo performers
  • ยท What was it like?ย  Each performer used steel guitar and stomp box to deliver some hard-cutting blues.ย  CDs for sale. Not very well attended, which was a shame.ย  Perhaps it needed to be better advertised. For me Pete Robson was the better performer of the two, taking a slightly less hard-edge approach to his vocals, and mixing up the tempo, giving more light and shade to his set.ย  The cellar bar is an OK venue at best, being a rather odd shape, with very low ceiling and an only partially-stocked bar.ย  I suspect it needs to be used much more often if itโ€™s going flourish as a venue.
  • ยท Cost: ยฃFREE + drinks
  • ยท Adultsโ€™ rating: 3/5
  • ยท Note โ€“we could have also gone to see either Matchbox Mutiny/ Tom Harris in The Three Crowns or The Duskers in The Southgate (both FREE entry), but thereโ€™s only so many hours in the day!

  • 6. Crammer Watch Day on the Small Green Devizes (Sunday 11am onwards)
  • ยท What it was: a chance to meet those involved in celebrating and preserving the Crammer. RSPCA, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, Wessex Water, Friends of The Crammer, Lawrence Society of Artists, Sustainable Devizes + The Moonrakers Legend (performed at 12 noon and 1pm), photography competition, charity tombola
  • ยท What was it like?ย  We missed the Moonrakers performance, so as an experience I found it a bit thin on the ground.ย  There was little to see and do, unless you wanted to stand and chat to someone about the issues which the Crammer faces. Several stands were just offering information leaflets. Although a worthy attempt, for me personally it was just not very engaging.
  • ยท Cost: ยฃFREE
  • ยท Childrenโ€™s rating: 1/5, Adultsโ€™ rating: 1/5

  • 7. Lions on The Green on The Green (Sunday 10am -4pm)
  • ยท What it was: organised by Devizes Lions Club, a vehicle display (cars, bikes, scooters, military etc) and family fun day (lots of stalls, bar, food outlets)
  • ยท What was it like?ย  Covering the whole of the large Green, this was really excellently-well organised.ย  The central area was given over to the displays of antique, rare and sports cars.ย  Stalls had cakes, plants (from Plot 35), metal signs, honey etc.ย  There was a bouncy castle and fairground rides for children.ย  A licensed bar, coffee shop etc.ย  Lots to look at and plenty of photo opportunities. Fantasy Radio were broadcasting live from the site.
  • ยท Cost: ยฃFREE (donations to the Lions collecting buckets) + drinks
  • ยท Childrenโ€™s rating: 4/5, Adultsโ€™ rating: 5/5

  • 8. Devizes Arts Festival Free Fringe: Whiskey River (@ British Lion gardenย  Sunday 2 โ€“ 5pm)
  • ยท What it was: Roots Music From the Welsh frontier
  • ยท What was it like?ย  The trio Whiskey River played Americana, Cajun, Zydeco, Folk, Country, Blues and a smattering of Celtic music. Using guitar, fiddle, flute, harmonica, mandolin and concertina, these guys provided an excellent and enjoyable afternoon of music in the (occasional) sunshine.ย  The bar was open, and there was a BBQ going on throughout. People sitting out enjoying a drink, dogs, children, good music โ€“ perfect!
  • ยท Cost: ยฃFREE + (a large, undisclosed) drinks bill
  • ยท Childrenโ€™s rating: 3/5, Adultsโ€™ rating: 5/5

  • 9. Wood & Steel (@ The Southgate Inn Sunday 5-7pm)
  • ยท What it was: an acoustic duo playing blues, jazz and ragtime
  • ยท What was it like?ย  This duo were new to me, but I was very impressed by what I heard.ย  Two very good musicians, clearly comfortable in their own skin, played two excellent 50-minute sets and got a very well-deserved encore.ย  Lots of covers from many ages and genres, using dobro, guitar, upright bass and vocals.ย  Excellent musical accompaniment to a late, lazy Sunday afternoon. Great atmosphere too.
  • ยท Cost: ยฃFREE (donations to โ€œthe hatโ€) + more (undisclosed) drinks
  • ยท Adultsโ€™ rating: 5/5
  • ยท Note โ€“ we could also have gone to see Bodge It & Scarperย  at The White Bear (Sunday 5-7pm) playing acoustic music, but didnโ€™t hear about this until quite late.ย  Also canโ€™t be in two places at once.ย  This event was also FREE.ย ย 

In summary:

  • ยท Miles walked โ€“ about 10
  • ยท Bird species spotted โ€“ about 20, including swans, herons, jackdaws, mallard, moorhen, starlings, robins, great tits etc;
  • ยท Friends met – loads โ€“ far too many to mention!
  • ยท Total cost (for two) – ยฃ27.80 (of which ยฃ20 was for the steam fair) + the drinks (but letโ€™s not mention that bit!);
  • ยท Fun and entertainment had โ€“ loads and loads and loads;
  • ยท Well-being โ€“ absolutely knackered, but very happy.ย  Looking forward to next weekend!

Yes it all took a little bit of planning, but it wasnโ€™t that difficult really.  We walked to/ from most venues, so we got lots of other good D-Town stuff (Caen Hill locks, the towpath etc) and took only one short (cheap) bus ride when the heavens opened.  So there was plenty of exercise and fresh air to mitigate the various bits of eating and drinking.  Did I mention that the odd libation was partaken of?  And Iโ€™m not saying that EVERY weekend is quite this packed, but it certainly can be if you put your mind to it.  Bear in mind that thereโ€™s LOADS of other stuff going on โ€“ these were simply the things we happened to pick out.  There were choices โ€“ and we made them!

Nothing Ever Happens In Devizes???  Donโ€™t make me laugh.


Devizes Welcomes New Coffee Shop, Caffe Vialottie

Devizes welcomed a charming new coffee shop to The Market Place today, called Caffe Vialottie; I thought it best to drop by, poke my nose inโ€ฆ..

Caffe Vialottie takes over the listed number 35, where the cherished Times Square closed its doors for the final time in June 2024. The walls are adorned with some nice artwork, the colour theme altered to a dark green and cream, but the tried and tested layout remains much the same as Times Square. It was met with busy enthusiasm by customers, many I suspect devotees of the previous cafe happy to see it back in action. โ€œEveryone wants to try the new cafe,โ€ manager Chelsie Godden greeted me, between frantically serving customers, โ€œitโ€™s been busy, but nice!โ€

While Chelsie worked at Times Square previously, the owner was new to the area. He stressed the importance of creating an individual space, adamant copying the mainstream coffee shop chains wasnโ€™t on the agenda here, he said, โ€œI think weโ€™ve got something special here, something nice.โ€

If the word nice was coincidentally dropped twice, it certainly is that; nothing negative could be said about Caffe Vialottie. It seemed friendly, with a vibe to fit like a glove into Devizes. Yet with coffee being centre stage, tea and a good choice of soft drinks, thereโ€™s only toasties and a selection of cakes and Kettle crisps to wash down. It is, primarily, a โ€œlight lunchโ€ stop-off point, rather than attempting to be a restaurant, and despite the call not to replicate the major coffee shop chains, unfortunately we do have a lot of similar establishments already in Devizes.

But hey, it does what it says on the tin, hospitably, and is price-matched with the established competitors in town. While personally Iโ€™d like to see someone trying something different and off the wall, ideas like tapas and Caribbean themed cafes havenโ€™t been so successful in Devizes recently, as the tried and tested formula of tea, coffee and cake, seems to appease locals more. It is with that notion we wish Caffe Vialottie all the best of luck in these trying times, and hope future days will emulate the success of their opening day. Devizes can never have enough coffee it seems!


Trending…..

Rooks; New Single From M3G

Chippenham folk singer-songwriter, M3G (because she likes a backward โ€œEโ€) has a new single out tomorrow, Friday 19th December. Put your jingly bell cheesy tunesโ€ฆ

Keep reading

Avoiding the Drizzle: Devizine Online Christmas Market!

You should know me well enough by now to accept I donโ€™t beat about the bush; itโ€™s supermarkets and chain-storeโ€™s own silly fault for the rise in popularity of the Christmas Market, for lavishing their shelves with uninspiring commercialised, plastic rubbish!

There, there, got that off my chest! Now, Christmas Markets are popping up locally faster than Santa on Christmas Eve, but if you cannot make it to one, or simply prefer to shop in your jimmy-jams, hereโ€™s some ideas for Christmas presents weโ€™ve found which won’t break the bank, and support local craftersโ€ฆWelcome to the Devizine Online Christmas Market, jingle your bells!


DIY it, with Pins & Needles!

One affordable and genius idea springs to mind; do-it-yourself. For as well as personal and unique designs by owner Vixter Woolista, Pins & Needles in Snuff Street Devizes has all your knitting and crochet needs, and an online shop too, here. With a fabulous range of accessible crochet and knit kits, patterns and gorgeous hand-dyed yarns, Pins & Needles is a little shop with a big heart, and winner of the 2020 British Knitting Awards for best yarn shop in the south west.


Good Reads!

We donโ€™t get as many book reviews from local authors as weโ€™d like, but this year saw two great reads, which would make ideal presents for your book worm.

First up, Sorrel Pits published Broken Shadows, and this has to be my personal favourite novel Iโ€™ve ever had the pleasure of reviewing. A gripping thriller based locally, this really is a page-turner. Hereโ€™s the review, you can grab this from Devizes Books, or online here.

This year also saw local author Molly Andersonโ€™s Dadโ€™s New Dress, an emotional rollercoaster of searing honesty into family ties and commitment. Reviewed here, at Devizes Books and online here.


Polish up on your cooking!

Novel idea we hope your recipient wonโ€™t take the wrong way, cookery classes at The Farm Cookery School on Bromhamโ€™s Netherstreet! They have adult and childrenโ€™s courses available, and various Christmas meal related workshops too! Christmas baking masterclass anyone? Beats a can of Christmas Tinner!! Find them Here.


Chocolate, of course!

Hollychocs in Poulshout, award-winning chocolates; need I say more, other than you shop online for them, HERE.


Getting Crafty

Upstairs in The Healthy Life Company in the Little Brittox, Devizes, you will find the most fantastic display of Christmas gift ideas, many sourced locally. We reported on this last year, see here. Find them online here.


Bramblerose Designs is by local artist Ginnie Burns, stocking lots of Christmas gifts and cards, fantastic tie-dye T-shirts and prints of her colourful local landscapes. Find them HERE.


Cositas Bonitas in Albion Place on Sidmouth Street, Devizes has beautifully handmade crafts, like personalised baubles and cute drawstring Christmas sacks, knitted advent calendars, decorated jars and decorations. Find them on Facebook, here.


Merlin Glass Studio & Gift Shop in Woodborough Yard is run by crafter Louise Spink, has some great Christmas craft workshops, and sells beautiful decorations and glassware designs. How can you resist these little robin brooches? Awl! Find them Here.


Moonflower and Me has original hand illustrated artwork, handmade resin & clay Items and more fascinating gift ideas. Check out their magical mushroom terrarium baubles; gorgeous! Find them Here.


Over the Yarnarm is a small, unique business cruising the British waterways, bringing a touch of handmade warmth to every corner they visit. Operating from a cosy liveaboard narrowboat, sharing our passion for all things yarn. Find their Etsy shop here, be a star and grab yourself a knitted star!


Enter artist Matt Bakerโ€™s World of Thoodles. Donโ€™t know what a Thoodles is? Find stickers, prints, stationary and badges of these colourful kawaii fashioned monster characters here. We think they rock, and Iโ€™m 51 years young! Find Thoodles HERE.


And lest we forget the white bear at Christmas, Arthe! Lots of prints and some fantastic Christmas tees up for grabs, HERE! Find Arthe Christmas cards at Black Dog Coffee on Couch Lane.


That’s all folks! Well, there’s bound to be many more jumping the bandwagon once they see this, expecting me to do a thing called “editing,” I’ve heard it’s all the rage these days. Have a lovely Christmas everyone, here’s our Christmas card video message, filmed on location at DOCA Winter Festival, by Jess…..


Trending…

For Now, Anyway; Gus White’s Debut Album

Featured Image: Barbora Mrazkova My apologies, for Marlboroughโ€™s singer-songwriter Gus Whiteโ€™s debut album For Now, Anyway has been sitting on the backburner, and itโ€™s moreโ€ฆ

Butane Skies Not Releasing a Christmas Song!

No, I didnโ€™t imagine for a second they would, but upcoming Take the Stage winners, alt-rock emo four-piece, Butane Skies have released their second song,โ€ฆ

One Of Us; New Single From Lady Nade

Featured Image by Giulia Spadafora Ooo, a handclap uncomplicated chorus is the hook in Lady Ladeโ€™s latest offering of soulful pop. Itโ€™s timelessly cool andโ€ฆ

Large Unlicensed Music Event Alert!

On the first day of advent, a time of peace and joy to the world et al, Devizes Police report on a โ€œlarge unlicenced musicโ€ฆ

Winter Festival/Christmas/Whatever!

This is why I love you, my readers, see?! At the beginning of the week I put out an article highlighting DOCAโ€™s Winter Festival, andโ€ฆ

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