Harlech

A castle, a college and a steep climb

The small but beautifully formed community of Harlech is the location of many ancient legends and has been the inspiration for music and art throughout the centuries

DID YOU KNOW? The military march “Men Of Harlech” was first published in 1794

The beautiful, sandy Harlech Beach

Harlech in Gwynedd is small and easily overlooked by passersby, but those who do stop at the seaside resort are delighted with what they find. The town sits deep in the Snowdonia National Park, nestled in Tremadog Bay with a stunning beach backed by sand dunes and the Royal St David’s Golf Club, and the Rhinogydd mountain range rising to the east.

The town itself sits half a mile from the sea and its population of around 2,000 people is split between the low and high towns, which are linked by a steep hill. The name Harlech is thought to derive from the combination of two Welsh words: hardd (fair or fine) and llech (slate or rock).

Bloody battlegrounds

Harlech’s most famous son is Owain Glyndwr, leader of the Welsh Rebellion and the last Welshman to claim the title Prince of Wales, who was born here in 1359. Its most famous site is Harlech Castle, built by Edward I in the 1280s during his invasion of Wales, and the scene of many a tussle over the centuries. It captured by Glyndwr at one point, later becoming a Tudor stronghold in the 1480s, and still stands proud today. Indeed, it’s one of Cadw’s most popular attractions and a designated World Heritage Site. The castle was completed from ground to battlements in just seven years under the guidance of gifted architect Master James of St George. It has a classic walls-within-walls design and makes the most of its natural defences. Even when completely cut off during the rebellion of Madog ap Llywelyn in 1294, the castle held out thanks to the “Way from the Sea”. This path of 108 steps up the rock face allowed the besieged defenders to be fed and watered by ship. Harlech Castle is easier to conquer today – a floating footbridge allows you to enter the castle as Master James intended.

Seat of learning

The town has a primary and a secondary school, and until recently was home to Wales’s only long-term adult residential college, Coleg Harlech, also known as the “college of second chances”. This is now part of Adult Learning Wales and the site also incorporates Theatr Ardudwy, which stages a varied selection of plays, music and films throughout the year.

Other attractions nearby include the wreck of a US aircraft that is sometimes visible among the sands. The aircraft came down in September 1942 and is known as the Maid of Harlech. It spends most of its time below the seabed just off the coast, but when the conditions are just right it can be spotted – the last sighting was in 2014.

Another popular part of town with tourists is Ffordd Pen Llech, once named in Guinness World Records as the steepest street in the world. It has since lost its title to a street in New Zealand, based on a different way of measuring the gradient, but the calf-aching climb is still worth a visit to admire.

The ghostly wreck, the Maid of Harlech

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

Theatr Ardudwy

St David’s Hill, Harlech LL46 2PU

Harlech Castle

Harlech LL46 2YH cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/ harlech-castle

Ffordd Pen Llech Harlech LL46 2YL

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

6TH-21ST SEPTEMBER

•6th

September, An Evening with Ruth Jones, The Manor Hotel, Crickhowell

The cocreator of Gavin & Stacey and author of the bestselling Never Greener talks about her new novel, Us Three. 7.30pm. From £20 including a signed book. www.eventbrite.co.uk

•8th

September, The Elan & The Wye Walk, Pont ar Elan car park, Elan

Valley Join Chris from Powys Ramblers on a 6.5-mile walk encompassing rough ground, with excellent views of Craig Goch Reservoir and the Elan and Wye Valleys. 11am. Free. www.elanvalley.org.uk

•9th September, Found

Poetry & Text Art: Collage & Creative Writing Workshop, Ca Clywedog, Llanidloes

Artist and writer Emily Meredith helps you to create collaged poems and artworks from books, magazines and found art materials. 11am-4pm. £35. www.radiatearts.co.uk

•11th-12th

September, Introduction To Bees & Beekeeping, Centre for Alternative Technology, Machynlleth

Delve into the practicals of equipment, set-up, maintenance and sympathetic bee-handling skills as well as the life cycle of bees and how honey and beeswax are processed. £240. www.cat.org.uk

•11th-12th

September, Loco No4 “Edward Thomas” 100-Year Celebration

Gala, Talyllyn Railway Enjoy a weekend of steam action, including the Corris loco 7. www.talyllyn.co.uk

•14th & 21st September,

Dam Open Day, Elan Valley

Venture into Pen y Garreg Dam and up to the central tower. £5 adults, £1 children. 10am4pm. www.elanvalley.org.uk

Laugh out loud at the Aberystwyth Comedy Festival

The Aberystwyth Comedy Festival, which takes place from 1st to 3rd October, is an up-andcoming event that’s establishing its reputation as a high-quality fixture on the comedy calendar.

This year’s programme includes a number of big-name stars, including Flo and Joan, Joe Lycett, Loyiso Gola, Lou Sanders, Mike Wozniak, Bridget Christie, Stephen Bailey, Richard Stott, Sophie Duker, Sunil Patel, Sara Barron, Olga Koch and many, many more!

The festival consists of numerous shows that take place in various venues across the town, allowing you to watch as much or as little as you wish over the weekend. There will be plenty going on in the town too, so come along, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the talents of some of Britain’s funniest people.

For ticket information and the full programme, visit abercomedyfest.co.uk.

Into the Elan Valley

Get your walking boots for a series of walks designed to help you discover the beautiful Elan Valley Estate from 4th to 8th September.

The five-day festival includes a range of walks that cater for all interests and abilities, including a six-mile walk to the quartz crystal standing stone at Pen Maen-wern, an 11-mile walk in the upper Elan Valley and an energetic nine-mile circular hill walk.

All walks are free but must be booked. www.elanvalley.org.uk

Stunning swimming

Enjoy beautiful, challenging and friendly tidal estuary swimming in Aberdyfi on 25th and 26th September.

Swimmers can choose to Beat the Tide in a scenic 4km swim, tackle the 8km Tafol Tumble or take on The Dovey, a 13km swim all the way up to the tidal limit of the Dovey Estuary.

All swims start at the beach.

www.aberdoveyswim.co.uk

Wyeside Arts Centre

The Rheingans Sisters, 15th

October Playful, powerful and richly connecting music that is wholly contemporary while deeply anchored in folk traditions. 7.30pm. Tickets £14.

Jamie Smith’s Mabon: Taith “The Last Huzzah”,

24th October Mabon are going out on a high with a fantastic farewell tour showcasing their Celtic folk expertise and stagecraft. 7.30pm. Tickets £16. www.wyeside.co.uk

Take on the trek

Take on a TrekFest challenge in the Brecon Beacons on 18th September – simply choose a distance and charity and make every step count!

There are 25km and 50km routes, and whether you walk, jog or run you’ll be challenging yourself in one of the UK’s most beautiful national parks. Entrants can sign up solo or as a team, and choose to raise money for any charity that’s close to their hearts. For more information, visit www.trekfest.org.uk.

A triathlon with a difference

Not many triathlons include a leg by canoe, but that’s exactly what you can expect from the Montgomery Canal Triathlon, which returns on 4th September.

Competitors will cycle 11.5 miles, canoe 5.5 miles and finish the final 9.5 mile section on foot. You can attempt one or two sections or, if you’re brave, tackle all three! The event supports the restoration of the Montgomery canal. Email triathlon@ themontgomerycanal.org.uk.

See Classic Lorries in Barmouth

Barmouth’s main car park will host hundreds of rare and vintage lorries at the Heart of Wales Lorry Rally on 11th September. Classic vehicles of all ages and models will be driven in convoy through the heart of Wales, stopping in Barmouth for a few hours along the way, giving visitors plenty of time to see them up close. For more information, including timings, visit www. whatsonbarmouth.co.uk.

DID YOU KNOW? Puss In Boots was fi rst published in Italian in the 1550s

Be inspired by Aberystwyth Arts Centre

Ben Fogle: Tales From The Wilderness, 1st September

Ben shares his stories of the wilderness, from crossing Antarctica to conquering Everest. 8pm. Tickets £26.50

Puss In Boots, 26th September

Would you trust a talking cat? You never know – he might turn you from a pauper to a prince, just like the hero of this story. 2pm & 4.30pm. Tickets from £12.50.

Marisha Wallace: Tomorrow,

30th September One of the West End and Broadway’s leading ladies effortlessly infuses jazz, gospel and R&B with a healthy dose of soul. 7.30pm. Tickets £28.

Nick Butter: A New World

First, 21st October Hear Nick’s fascinating tales of running a marathon in every country in the world. 8pm. Tickets from £14.

Speirs & Boden, 26th

October English folk’s bestloved duo are back together. 8pm. Tickets from £10. www.

aberystwythartscentre.co.uk

A TASTE OF THE BEST

Sample something delicious at the Abergavenny Food Festival on 18th and 19th September.

The festival enjoys an exceptional reputation as a place for chefs, food businesses, journalists, farmers and food producers to come together, and delivers delicious opportunities for people from all walks of life. Enjoy an impressive programme of events including product tastings, kids’ activities, masterclasses, cookery lessons and topical debates. This year’s festival welcomes Matt Tebbutt and Olly Smith from BBC’s Saturday Kitchen.

Stroller wristbands, which give you access to the whole festival, cost £10 per day. Under-16s go free. www.abergavennyfoodfestival.com

Spooky surprises underground

Visit the Silver Mountain Experience in Ponterwyd, Aberystwyth, from 23rd to 31st October for some ghoulish fun for all the family. With a whole host of activities fit for monsters big and small, this is one Halloween party everyone can enjoy! For more details, visit www.silvermountainexperience.co.uk.

Brecon Baroque Festival

Join Rachel Podger for four days of outstanding baroque music from the world’s leading performers in their field at

Brecon Baroque Festival from 22nd to 25th October. For further programme information and tickets visit

www.breconbaroquefestival.com.

Take a big hike for cancer

Cancer Research’s 24.9-mile Big Hike Brecon Beacons takes place on 11th September. Entry costs £25, including a T-shirt and a finisher’s medal, with a suggested fundraising target of £300. www.cancerresearchuk.org

Get walking in Montgomery

The Montgomery Walking Festival takes place on 2nd and 3rd October, offering a variety of walks including the Offa’s Dyke Circular, the 13-mile Lonely Church walk and the 18-mile Challenge Walk. All walks, led by experienced knowledgeable guides, are free but booking is essential. For more, visit www.montgomerywalkingfestival.co.uk.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

16TH-19TH SEPTEMBER

•16th September, Night Hike, Pen y Fan Join TrigPoint Adventures and climb up to Corn Du to watch the sun set, then head across to Pen y Fan to enjoy the exceptional views the dark sky reserve can provide. 7pm-midnight. £38. www.trigpointadventures.co.uk

•17th September,

Make An Appliqué Purse, Make It In Wales, Stiwdio 3,

Cardigan Spend a day with textile artist Harriett Chapman and create a unique metalframed purse. 10am-4pm. £68 including materials. www.makeitinwales.co.uk

•18th September, Wild

Weaving, Nant-y-Bedd

Garden, Abergavenny Learn the basic principles of hand weaving using a portable loom. Participants will take part in each aspect of the weaving process, from warp design and loom threading to the weaving itself. 10am-3.30pm. £60 including all materials, lunch, tea and cake. www.nantybedd.com

•18th

September, Cwm Mynach: In the Pawprints Of Pine Martens, The Dragon

Theatre, Barmouth Join the Woodland Trust and Vincent Wildlife Trust volunteer Matthew Davies to discover the secrets of this secluded valley and learn about its past and future. The 8-9km walk begins from the theatre at 9.30am. £8. www. barmouthwalkingfestival.co.uk

•19th September, One-

Day Pilgrimage to Strata Florida, Pontrhydfendigaid

A contemplative fi ve-mile walk along logging roads and through farmlands and ancient forest to the 12thcentury Cistercian abbey. There will be plenty of time to explore the ruins. £25. www.guidedpilgrimage.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

23RD SEPTEMBER3RD OCTOBER

•23rd September, Abstract

Nature: Botanical Painting Workshop, Ca Clywedog,

Llanidloes Create colourful abstract artworks using acrylic paints in this intuitive and playful workshop, suitable for all abilities. 11am-4pm. £35. www.radiatearts.co.uk

Fresh sounds at The Globe, Hay-on-Wye

Crinkle Cuts, 18th September A blast of tantric funk, smooth reggae and new-wave Latin ska. 8pm. Tickets £8 in advance/£10 on the door.

Jo Carley & The Old Dry Skulls, 25th September A combination of 1930s voodoo sounds, vaudeville, blues, skiffle, early ska and old-timey country and folk. 8pm. Tickets £7 in advance/£9 on the door.

Mischa & His Merry Men, 9th October A dynamic and inspiring collective of musicians with a fusion of folk, blues, rock, reggae, funk and ska. 8pm. Tickets £8 in advance/£10 on the door.

Mark Harrison Band, 23rd October Widely considered one of the most original artists in the UK. 8pm. Tickets £6 in advance/£8 on the door.

Mr Tea and the Minions, 30th October Raucous ska folk blended with full-fat Balkan beats and a squeeze of tangy dub. 8pm. Tickets £8 in advance/£10 on the door. www.globeathay.org

Theatre at the Willow Globe

•24th September, The

Hawkmen, The Pavilion,

Llandrindod Wells Described as “upbeat” and “extremely danceable”, The Hawkmen draw from an array of infl uences such as rhythm’n’blues, soul, and rock’n’roll, which they bring together in a classic, rootsy hybrid. 8pm. £9. www.pavilionmidwales.org.uk

•24th September,

An Evening with Rick Stein, The Manor Hotel,

Crickhowell The chef, restaurateur and television presenter discusses his new book, Rick Stein At Home. 7.30pm. £26 including a copy of the book. www.eventbrite.co.uk

Stargazing in Staylittle

Marvel at the majesty of the night sky in a special stargazing weekend in Staylittle, Powys, from 1st to 3rd October. The event, organized by Dark Sky Wales, offers two days of astronomical tuition and observation, and is aimed at all levels of experience with the aim of getting you more accustomed to the night sky and taking your own images.

Accommodation comprises six deluxe wigwam cabins sleeping up to four adults or a family of five, all with excellent facilities. The course costs from £479. www.darkskywalestrainingservices.co.uk See live theatre come to life at The Willow Globe, a scaled down, living version of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, based in Llandrindod Wells. Romeo & Juliet is on 4th September, adapted and directed by Kirsty Bushell and performed by second-year students from The Fontainebleau School of Acting. On 11th September, see The School Of Night – stories and interludes inspired by suggestions from the audience. www.shakespearelink.org.uk

•25th

September, Welshpool Blitz Ball, Welshpool Town Hall

Step back in time and enjoy a 1940s-style dance at this special evening featuring Ashby Little Big Band. Bop and jive the on a large sprung dance fl oor and get refreshed at the licensed bar. Due to ration restrictions please bring your own supper! 7.30pm. £12. www.jumblebee. co.uk/welshpoolblitzball

•1st-3rd October, Walking &

Waterfalls Weekend, Brecon

Beacons Wallow in the splendid views from Pen y Fan, wander among the waterfalls and relax in the peaceful surroundings of the beautiful, converted Coed Owen bunkhouse while mingling with a great bunch of people. £139, including two nights’ accommodation. www.largeoutdoors.com

Run the distance Race For Life

Beacons To The Blacks takes place on 18th September with four distances to choose from: a 50-mile ultra, a marathon, a half marathon and a 12km race.

The ultra and marathon races both start at Gilestone Farm in the Brecon Beacons and finish deep in the heart of the Black Mountains, while the half marathon and 12km race start at Perth y Pia in Llanbedr.

Entry costs from £30 to £80 depending on the distance and all runners receive a bespoke medal, gift and refreshments.

www.limitlesstrails.co.uk

Join Cancer Research UK’s Race For Life and help raise money for research into all 200 types of cancer while challenging yourself to run 3km, 5km or 10km.

The Aberystwyth Race For Life takes place on 19th September and entrants can walk, jog or run their chosen distance. Entry costs £14.99 for adults and £10 for children. To find out more, visit raceforlife. cancerresearchuk.org.

Steaming ahead

Experience the railway as it was over 150 years ago at Talyllyn Railway this September, with a trip on an original passenger train dating from the 1860s.

The train leaves Tywyn Wharf at 11am and will stop for lunch, photographs, forest walks and more before returning to Tywyn at 3.55pm, when you’ll be served a cream tea and taken on a guided tour of the Narrow Gauge Railway Museum.

Trains run on 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th September and tickets cost £39.50 for adults and £15 for children. www.talyllyn.co.uk

Mid Wales Opera gets back to life on the road

Mid Wales Opera’s SmallStages productions return this autumn, bringing professional performances to community venues and theatres across Wales and the borders. And where better to start than with one a celebration of one of opera’s most loved composers, and two of his best loved works?

MWO’s Puccini In Paris season starts with Il tabarro (The Cloak) as the centrepiece of the SmallStages autumn tour followed in spring 2022 by a fully staged production of La bohème in partnership with Ensemble Cymru.

The cast includes talented Welsh performers including soprano Elin Pritchard and tenor Robyn Lyn Evans, Stephanie Windsor Lewis, Huw Ynyr and Emyr Wyn Jones, as well as baritone Philip Smith.

Selected dates across the area include 1st October at Theatr Brycheiniog in Brecon, 2nd October at SpArC Theatre in Bishop’s Castle, 8th October

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

8TH-30TH OCTOBER

at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama in Cardiff, 9th October at Neuadd Dyfi in Aberdovey, 12th October at Congress Theatre in Cwmbran, 14th October at Pontio Arts Centre in Bangor, 27th October at Aberystwyth Arts Centre and 29th October at St Andrews Church in Presteigne.

Full details of the tour can be found at MWO’s website www.midwalesopera.co.uk. Check with individual venues for prices and ticket details.

•8th October, Introduction

To Bushcraft, Nannerth Fawr,

Rhayader Learn knife-handling skills, light a fi re using several methods, make rustic bread and discover shelter-building techniques. £65 adults, £40 under-18s. www.eventbrite.co.uk

•8th October,

Gathering In: Autumnal Mandala Day Retreat, Denmark Farm Conservation Centre, Lampeter

A nourishing day retreat o ering deep thanks for the gifts of our lives at this autumnal time of Gathering In. 10am-4pm. £55. www.denmarkfarm.org.uk

CINEMA UNDER THE STARS

Enjoy a night of movie magic at the magnificent Powis Castle as Adventure Cinema brings two firm favourites to the big screen: The Lion King on 11th September and Bohemian Rhapsody on 12th September.

Bring a blanket or camping chair, pack up a picnic, and enjoy great films on a giant cinema screen under the stars.

www.adventurecinema.co.uk

A festival for the feet

Enjoy spectacular walking near Llanwrtyd Wells at the Mid Wales Walking Festival from 15th to 18th September, with waymarked routes of 12 or 20 miles and guided walks of five and eight miles.

Way-marked walks costs £10 per day or £35 for all four days; guided walks cost £5 per day. www.green-events.co.uk

Garden for wildlife

Explore wildlife gardening with the experts from the Centre for Alternative Technology in Machynlleth at a Gardening for Nature Experience Day on 4th September. Learn all about plants that encourage wildlife and biodiversity, get expert advice about natural pest control and growing food for birds. The course costs £60 for adults (£50 for members) and £30 for under-16s. www.cat.org.uk

Pavilion Llandrindod Wells

Jo Whiley’s 90s Anthems, 16th October

Bringing you all the best tracks from music’s greatest decade: think Blur,

Oasis, Fatboy Slim, Primal Scream,

The Verve, The Prodigy and a whole lot more. Undoubtedly the biggest night out you’ll have all year. 8pm. Tickets £25.18.

Scouting For Girls,

22nd October The indiepop three-piece are back on tour with a joyous album of 80s covers alongside some incredible new tracks, and an optimism that 2021 can be everything that 2020 was not! 8pm. Tickets £32. www.pavilionmidwales.org.uk

Get creative in Cardigan

Cardigan’s Stiwdio 3 has a huge variety of craft workshops available this autumn.

Workshops available over the coming months include Porcelain Cups with Alanda Gunn-Wilson on 11th September, Macrame Wall Hanging with Alice Thomas on 24th September, Upholster A Milking Stool with Mick Sheridan on 8th October and Make A Wax Jacket with Angela Pitcher Dowdell on

15th and 16th

October. For a full diary of classes and prices, visit

www.makeitin

wales.co.uk.

•9th October, Moth Night

Experience, Centre for Alternative Technology,

Machynlleth CAT’s visitor centre and woodland are home to an amazing number of species of moth and there are several active bat roosts close by too. 8pm-midnight. £15 adults, £5 under-16s. www.cat.org.uk

•12th October, Group

Stargazing, Brecon Beacons

Astronomers will guide you around the night sky from constellations to nebulae, learning the mythology and science of astronomy. 8pm10pm. £20. www.darksky walestrainingservices.co.uk

•16th October,

Climb Pen y Fan, Brecon Beacons

Experience the beauty of this spectacular mountain under the leadership of a fully qualifi ed guide. £30. www.outdooramore.co.uk

•30th October, Needle

Felt a Black Cat, Make It In Wales, Stiwdio 3, Cardigan

A fun workshop with artist/ maker Ruth Packham. Suitable for beginners but not children. 10am-2pm. £79. www.makeitinwales.co.uk

Live theatre at Crewe Lyceum

Gyles Brandreth: Break A Leg, 18th September They say all political careers end in tears. In Brandreth’s case it’s tears of laughter as the ex-MP, actor, author, One Show reporter and Countdown star is back with his new show celebrating all things theatrical. Gyles delivers a dazzling evening of wit, wisdom, high drama, low comedy and hilarious name-dropping. 7.30pm. Tickets £24.

DID YOU KNOW?

Gyles Brandreth founded the Teddy Bear Museum in North Yorkshire

Swan Lake, 20th October After sell-out performances of The Nutcracker in 2019, Russian National Ballet returns to the UK with the most famous ballet of all time. Swan Lake is one of Tchaikovsky’s best works, featuring some of ballet’s most memorable music and breathtaking dance. 7.30pm. Tickets £32. www.crewelyceum.co.uk

Alexander’s Live

Comedians from the UK and beyond perform at Alexander’s in Chester on Fridays. Four hand-picked comedians will give you an uproarious night out at a reasonable price. There are also exclusive food and drink offers.

If you prefer live music, fantastic bands are playing the venue during September and October. Doors open 7pm. Admission £13.20. www.alexanderslive.com

Movie nights go nuclear

Travel into Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker, Nantwich, on 10th September for a screening of When The Wind Blows, the film that taught a generation the truth about nuclear war. Tickets cost £15 and include a Protect & Survive badge, a fallout-free drink and reduced entry to the museum.

On 31st October you can watch a horror film in the haunted cinema, with spooky drinks and snacks, a fancydress competition and a candlelit ghost tour of the bunker. Tickets £23. Over18s only. www.hackgreen.co.uk

Fun times at Arley Hall

The Great British Food Festival, 25th & 26th

September A weekend of gastronomic delights. 10am to 5pm. Tickets from £10.80 adults, £4.50 children.

Mushroom Walk, 9th &

23rd October See and hear about the diverse array of mushrooms at Arley. 11am and 2pm. Tickets £9.

Halloween at Arley, 25th

to 31st October Spooky half-term fun. See www. arleyhallandgardens.com.

Underwater adventures at Blue Planet Aquarium

Blue Planet Aquarium in Chester is home to more than 100 living displays, as well as one of Europe’s largest collections of sharks. The aquarium offers plenty of marine life to marvel at and is open daily from 10am to 5pm and tickets cost £20.45 for 13 years and over and £14.50 for under-13s.

www.blueplanetaquarium.com

Autumn capers at Capesthorne Hall

Cheshire Half Marathon, 12th September

Start and finish outside the hall and run around the local flat and rural closed roads. The perfect opportunity for runners of all abilities. 8am to 4pm. Entry £32.

Wedding Fair, 26th September There will be huge sail-cloth tents, chill-out areas, street-food vendors, live bands and more than 70 luxury wedding suppliers who are able to make all your wedding planning ideas a reality. Open from 11am to 3pm. Free entry for you and your bridal party. For the latest updates, visit www.capesthorne.com.

LIVE ACTS AT THE BRINDLEY THEATRE

The Secret Lives Of Henry & Alice, 15th-

19th September For Henry Smith – actor, comedian, raconteur, sporting hero, business tycoon, secret agent, casanova and acting President of the United States – life was rarely dull. For Alice Smith, housewife, life was rarely anything else. 7.30pm. Tickets £12.

Jason Manford: Like Me – Work in Progress,

16th September It’s been a busy few years for Jason since his last smash-hit show but fans will be glad to know this acclaimed comedian hasn’t changed a bit. Shows at 6pm and 9pm. Tickets from £22. www.

thebrindley. org.uk

Events with a view at Cholmondeley Castle

Saturday Club, 4th September On the first Satruday of the month at Cholmondeley Castle and Gardens, you can cycle, jog or walk a 3km circuit, take part in yoga and enjoy wild swimming in the freshwater lake. Paddleboards are welcome too. Open 9am to 1pm, with lakeside yoga taking place at 9.30am and 10.30am. Advance booking is required. Tickets costs £20 per car or £8 per single entry (underfours free). www.cholmondeleycastle.com

Tough Mudder North West, 4th & 5th

September A 10- to 14-mile obstacle course designed by Special Forces to test competitors’ all-round stamina and mental grit. A shorter 5km route and children’s 1km route are also available. The gardens will be closed to the public during the event. Various start times between 9am and 4pm. Tough Mudder tickets cost from £77 for adults or £10 for children and spectators. To sign up, visit www.toughmudder.co.uk.

Luxury spa and resort

Unwind in style this autumn at Carden Park’s luxury spa near Chester, with an exclusive spa garden and Bollinger champagne bar. The golf and leisure club is also open alongside the hotel and restaurants.For anyone planning a wedding, the impressive country estate makes the ideal venue. Prices for spa breaks and activities vary. For more information, including prices and booking, visit www.cardenpark.co.uk.

FAMILY WILDLIFE WALK

Join staff from Cheshire Wildlife Trust at Bickley Hall Farm near Malpas on 2nd and 3rd September for a guided walk, pond dipping and minibeast hunt. The two-hour tours will begin at 10am and 1pm. Free entry. www.

cheshirewildlife trust.org.uk

Cheshire Motor Show

On 19th September you can expect to see 250 vehicles – including vintage and modern classic cars, motorcycles and special interest vehicles – at Frodsham Community Centre. There will be a barbecue and bar, plus live entertainment, children’s rides and stalls. Open 10am to 4pm. Entry £4 adults, children free. www.cheshiremotorshow.co.uk

Set sail and party the night away

ChesterBoat Party Nights Afloat set sail every Saturday. Choose your theme and sail back in time through your favourite eras in music from the 1970s and Motown to the 1990s and Mamma Mia. Cruises depart at 7.30pm and return at 10.30pm. Tickets cost £33.50 and include a glass of wine, a barbecue-style buffet supper and a disco. Fancy dress welcome. www.chesterboat.co.uk

Roman tours of Chester

Allow a Roman soldier to guide you on a journey through Chester’s heritage and gain a unique insight into life as it was in Roman Britain. See sights ranging from the amphitheatre to remains hidden away in the basements of the high street shops. Tours take place throughout the day, lasting approximately 90 minutes. Over-12s £8, children £4, under-fives free. www.romantoursuk.com

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

5TH SEPTEMBER-8TH OCTOBER

•5th, 11th & 12th September,

Gin Cruise, Danny Cruises,

Chester An ideal introduction for anyone keen to learn more about gin, its history and its diversity, this cruise includes a talk from an expert that will send you away with fresh knowledge and interest about the juniper-infused drink. You can also ask any questions about gin’s rich and wild past. Cruises run from 2pm. £35. www.thedanny.co.uk

•19th September, Delamere Forest Run, Northwich Join a new running series across the nation’s forests. Whether you are a 5km or a 10km runner, choose your challenge and enjoy a run in some beautiful surroundings. Starts 9am. 5km £20 (over-12s only), 10k £22.50 (over-16s only). www.forestryengland.uk

•25th September, Big

Green Festival, Grosvenor

Park, Chester Guided walks, talks, fi lm screenings, litter picks, community greening, workshops and a fantastic Great Big Green Week Festival on the Saturday. Free. Check Facebook for timings.

•Until 29th September, Rode

Hall Gardens, Scholar Green

The gardens and courtyard kitchen are open at Rode Hall on Wednesdays. There is also a farmers’ market, which takes place on the fi rst Saturday of the month (pictured above). 11am-4pm. Adults £5.50, children £2, under-fi ves free. www.rodehall.co.uk

•8th October, Jon Courtenay:

What’s It All About?, Ellesmere

Port Civic Hall Comedian and musician Jon Courtenay was the fi rst ever Golden Buzzer act to win Britain’s Got Talent. You’ll roar with laughter, maybe shed a few tears and defi nitely be inspired by his music and the hilarious tales of his family, relationships and life on tour. 7.30pm. From £16. www.ticketsource. co.uk/brioentertainment

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER

•Until 5th December, Curated

Closet Bridal, Lion Salt Works,

Northwich A fresh look at bridal dresses through the decades using stunning photographs of some of the Grosvenor Museum’s historic wedding dresses collection. Tues, Wed, Thur & Sat, 10.30am-1.30pm & 2pm–5pm. Adults £6.60, children £4.20. lionsaltworks. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Laughter and stories at Parr Hall

John Bishop, 5th September John has achieved huge success with his comedy, entertainment and documentary shows on the BBC and ITV and his eighth stand-up show is shaping up to be his best yet. 8pm. Tickets £37.75.

Fireman Sam Live, 26th September Come along to Pontypandy and watch the adventures unfold with Sam, Penny, Elvis, Station Officer Steele and Norman in an action-packed show. 10.30am and 1pm. Tickets from £15.50.

An Evening with Sir Michael Parkinson, 18th

October Celebrate the life and career of a man who has interviewed over 2,000 of the most important figures of the 20th and 21st centuries. Sir Michael will be in conversation with his son Mike, and showing highlights from the archive. 7.30pm. Tickets from £27.50. parrhall.culture

warrington.org

•Until 5th December, Curated

Closet Fashion, Grosvenor

Museum, Chester A fun fashion catwalk with an array of 20th-century clothes, jewellery and accessories from the museum’s collection of over 3,000 items. Tues-Sat, 10.30am-5pm. Free, donations welcome. grosvenormuseum. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

•Abbeywood Estate, Delamere Abbeywood has lots to o er including six acres of informal and formal gardens. Children can enjoy the 2km wildlife walk, incorporating 27 acres of mature and newly planted woodland. There is also a garden café and an outdoor children’s play area. Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm. Adults £6, concessions £5, children free. www.abbeywoodestate.co.uk

•Anderton Boat Lift, Northwich The grounds and takeaway are now open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 4pm at the Anderton Boat Lift, known as one of the “Seven Wonders of the Waterways”. Together with its visitor centre, co ee shop, new play area, this is an unmissable place to visit in Cheshire. Parking costs from £2 for three hours. www.canalrivertrust.org.uk

Conservation course at Chester Zoo

Children aged 12 to 15 can learn how technology is being used for conservation every Saturday from

25th September to 9th October

at Chester Zoo. It’s an amazing insight into conservation and research, and experts will be on hand to demonstrate the tools used across the globe. Tickets cost £36. www.chesterzoo.org

Fun at Gulliver’s Warrington

Superhero Summer Finale, 4th & 5th

September Shows, entertainment and fancy dress. Tickets £24, under-90cm free.

Fright Fiesta,

23rd-31st October Bursting with colour, costumes and music. Tickets £21, under90cm free. www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk

See BeWILDerwood in a new light

BeWILDerwood’s most fantastical event of the year, the Glorious Glowing Lantern Parade, takes place this October half-term. Travel through a magical light extravaganza and watch the story unfold as you walk down mysterious paths. Make marvellous memories as a family, and don’t worry if you aren’t the bravest Boggle – it’s spooky not scary!

Start your adventure at dusk and craft your own Boggle Bindle Lantern to help the Boggles light up the woods at Hazel’s Hideaway. Don’t be afraid to dress up as a nice witch, BeWILDerBat, Creepy Crawly or even a Crocklebog!

Tickets must be booked in advance. Visit cheshire.bewilderwood.co.uk for full details.

Woodland wonders

Visit an interactive outdoor lighting and audio display at Magical Woodland, Blakemere Village from 9th October to 7th November. You’ll see dazzling lights and hear intriguing sounds in the depths of 15 acres of Cheshire woodland. e 90-minute experience has stunning e ects with performance art and hands-on elements. Time slots are available from 6pm. Adults £19.95, children £15.50, families £60, under-twos free.

www.magical woodland.com

REACH FOR THE STARS

Visitors at Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre can view the Astronomy Photographer of the Year exhibition until

30th October.

A selection of winning entries is displayed along the Exhibition Pathway, allowing visitors to explore inspirational astrophotography outdoors. Advance booking required. Adults £8.50, children £6.50, families from £20. www.jodrellbank.net

Christmas Party Nights Afloat

Now available to book for December

Two-hour Iron Bridge Cruises

Sailing on selected dates

Half-hour City Cruises

Sailing every day

Boat & Bus Tours

Combine and save

Private Hire

Booking for 2022

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER

Free science for all

DID YOU KNOW? You can make your own soap at Catalyst on the Heritage Open Days!

Entry to Catalyst Science Discovery Centre in Widnes is free of charge on 11th, 12th, 18th and 19th September as part of the national Heritage Open Days. Visitors can explore the ground floor interactive gallery, Birth of an Industry Gallery, the Baker Gallery, the Archive Room and the Observatory Gallery, where you can make use of the interactive tablets to discover more about the heritage of the area. Open 10am to 5pm. www.catalyst.org.uk

CANAL HISTORY

At the National Waterways Museum in Ellesmere Port you can enjoy the peacefulness of the canal, absorb the history from the Grade II listed buildings and learn about the lives and work of the canal people. The museum is open 10am to 4pm, Thursday to Sunday, and refreshments are available. Adults £9.75, children £6.

www.canalriver trust.org.uk

Rock out at Northwich Memorial Court

One Night of Adele Live, 8th October

Christina Rogers brings you a tribute to the star like no other performing hits including “Hello” and “Rolling In The Deep”. 7.30pm. From £19.

Hi-on Maiden with Sack Sabbath, 29th October

The most popular tribute to the mighty Iron Maiden. 7.30pm. Tickets £14.50. ticketsource.

co.uk/brioentertainment

Live entertainment at its best

You’ll find amazing tribute bands at The Live Rooms in Chester. Catch The Killaz UK on 3rd September, AKA Noel Gallagher on 10th September, Definitely Oasis on 9th October and BURN – A Tribute to Deep Purple on 22nd October.

Open 7pm to 11pm with tickets from £8.

www.theliverooms.com

Superbikes at Oulton Park

You can expect to see plenty of drama at the Bennetts British Superbike Championship at Oulton Park on 24th to 26th September.

Watch the title challengers right in the heart of the action. Reigning champion Josh Brookes will hope to be in the title ght as a hungry chasing pack attempts to steal his crown.

Gates open at 8.30am Friday, 8am Saturday and 7am Sunday. Tickets from £14.

www.oulton park.co.uk

Raise a glass for charity

More than 50 beers, 20 ciders, gin and prosecco will be on offer at the Northwich Beer Festival on 17th and 18th September, which in 2019 raised over £10,000 for local charities. There will be live music on both evenings and gates open at 6pm on Friday and noon on Saturday. Tickets from £4, over-18s only. www.northwichbeerfestival.co.uk

•Beeston Castle, Tarporley The grounds, castle and roundhouse at the magnifi cent Beeston Castle are now open. Measures are still in place to keep everyone safe, and you will need to book your visit in advance. 10am-5pm. Adults £9, children £5.40, families from £14.40. www.english-heritage.org.uk

•Brewhouse & Kitchen, Chester Join a beer tasting, a gin tasting or a beer and food matching masterclass at this popular Chester venue. From £25. www. brewhouseandkitchen.com

•Dunham Massey, Altrincham You’ll fi nd a garden for all seasons at the National Trust property, as well as an ancient deer park and a house fi lled with treasures and stories. 9am5pm. Adults £8, children £4, families £20. www.nationaltrust. org.uk/dunham-massey

•Ice Cream

Farm, Tattenhall

There is more than ice cream at this family day out. From Strawberry Falls Adventure Golf, Daisy’s Garden, Rocky Road and Silvercone racing track to Mini Scoop, Mini Tractors and Gemstone Cove. 9am-5pm. Entry £1, must be pre-booked. Additional charges apply for some attractions. www.theicecreamfarm.co.uk

•Little Moreton Hall, Congleton Visit this iconic Tudor manor house that will take your breath away with its wonky angles and quirky character. Built to impress by craftsmen’s hands more than 500 years ago. 11am-5pm. Adults £8, children £4, families £20. www.nationaltrust.org. uk/little-moreton-hall

•Lyme Park, Stockport The car park, parkland and garden are open. To avoid disappointment please book in advance, especially at busier times. 9am-4.30pm. Adults £8, children £4, families £20. www. nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER

•Manley Mere, Frodsham Follow the woodland adventure trail or have a wet, wild and fun day out with the Wipeoutstyle water park assault course. Open-water swimming, water sports, fi shing and kayak hire are also available. 10am-5pm. Trail tickets £12, under-fours free, aquapark £20 (over-sevens only). www.manleymere.co.uk

•Nantwich Museum This quirky gallery has a programme of temporary exhibitions throughout the year for visitors to enjoy. 10.30am-4.30pm. Free. www.nantwichmuseum.org.uk

•Quarry Bank, Wilmslow The gardens, estate, mill, apprentice house, restaurant, café and shops are all open. On weekdays you don’t need to pre-book but at busier times, such as weekends and school holidays, it is recommended. 10.30am5pm. Adults £15, children £7.50. www.nationaltrust. org.uk/quarry-bank

•Stretton Water Mill, Malpas Step back in time to visit an historic working corn mill in beautiful rural Cheshire. Open weekends 1pm-5pm. Adults £3.50, children £1.80, admission includes a guided tour of the mill. strettonwatermill. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

•Tabley House Collection, Knutsford See the wonderful historic splendour of Tabley House State Rooms. Admire the extraordinary art collection and furniture, and hear about the intriguing history of the Leicester family. ThursSun, 1pm-5pm. Adults £7, children and students £3. www.tableyhouse.co.uk Blood Brothers, 28th September-2nd October 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. The superb score includes “Bright New Day”, “Marilyn Monroe” and the emotionally charged hit “Tell Me It’s Not True”. 7.30pm. Tickets from £20.50.

Mark Thomas: 50 Things About Us, 29th October

Mark uses his trademark style of storytelling, stand–up, subversion and well-researched material

Live events at Storyhouse DID YOU to find out how the hell we ended up here. 8pm. Tickets from £14. KNOW? Blood Brothers is the third longestrunning musical Luisa Omielan: God Is A in West End Woman, 31st October Luisa history has created a unique genre of comedy that’s a heart-wrenching journey – part rave and part rally. Her shows are uplifting, thought-provoking and damn funny. 8pm. Tickets from £16.50. www.storyhouse.com

Back a winner at Chester Races

Autumn Festival, 10th-11th September A day of top-class racing as the Stand Cup takes centre stage.

Cheshire Day, 25th September The penultimate fixture of the season – a day to dress up!

Season Finale, 2nd October Toast the end of the racing season. www.chester-races.com

TATTON PARK EVENTS

Run Through 10k, 11th September & 9th October A fast, undulating, road-closed 10km race. Starts before the park opens, giving runners the chance to charge down the trafficfree and scenic Knutsford Drive. 9am to 11am. Entry £21.

Dogfest, 25th & 26th September Join a community of dog lovers as they celebrate our best friends and treat them to a day out that’s all about them. 9.30am to 5pm. Tickets from £17.50 adults, £10.50 children. www.tattonpark.org.uk

Chester Little Theatre returns

Watch Sue Townsend’s comedy Bazaar & Rummage at Chester Little Theatre from 9th to 16th October, which follows three severely agoraphobic women as they leave their homes for the first time in years to go to a jumble sale. Tickets £10. Show times vary. www.

chesterlittletheatre.co.uk

Locomotives in the cathedral

A model railway event chugs into Chester Cathedral until 3rd September. Created by railway enthusiast Pete Waterman, the event presents a bespoke model railway that demonstrates the West Coast Mainline. Open 10am to 4pm. Donations welcome. chestercathedral.com

Be spooked by Chester’s ghosts

Let Chester’s tour guides take you on a night-time journey every Thursday, Friday and Saturday to visit the eerie haunts of the city’s mysterious and murky past.

Tours leave the town hall at 7.30pm and last 90 minutes. Tickets £10. www.

chesterghost tour.co.uk

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