What’s On

2022 FIXTURES

13/01 NEW YEAR MEETING 11/02 THE WINTER MEETING 13/03 SUNDAY RACEDAY 09/04 GRAND NATIONAL CELEBRATION 14/05 FAMILY FUNDAY 24/05 THE SPRING MEETING 29/07 LADIES DAY 15/08 FAMILY FUN EVENING 23/08 THE SUMMER MEETING 28/09 THE CLYWD SPECIAL RIDING CENTRE CHARITY DAY 25/10 HALLOWEEN DAY 09/11 EARLY NOVEMBER MEETING 26/11 LATE NOVEMBER MEETING 09/12 CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

TICKETS & HOSPITALITY NOW ON SALE AT BANGORONDEERACES.CO.UK

Glamour and the Grump

David Essex, 16th September

Catch one of only 18 dates by this multi-talented artist, performing his hits and new music. 7.30pm. From £35.50.

Jack Dee: Off The Telly, 17th

September “In these uncertain times people need hope – a ray of sunshine to brighten their day. And that’s very much where I come in.” 8pm. Tickets £26.

RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Series 3 Tour, 21st September

Expect a dazzling extravaganza featuring Kitty Scott-Claus, Krystal Versace, Vanity Milan, Ella Vaday and more! 8pm. From £38.

Strictly Ballroom – The Musical,

24th-29th October Directed

DID YOU KNOW? Strictly Ballroom is part of a trilogy including Romeo + Juliet and Moulin Rouge

by Craig Revel Horwood and starring Strictly’s Kevin Clifton and champion Maisie Smith, enjoy all the drama, comedy and fabulous routines of Baz Luhrmann’s awardwinning film. 7.30pm. Tickets from £27.

venuecymru.co.uk

Firing the imagination

DID YOU KNOW? An inspirational spot, Hawarden was the home of PM William Gladstone

Think bonfires, apples, lingering wood smoke, foraging, talk, ideas and giant feasts – think Camp Good Life, from 16th-18th September on the Hawarden Estate, near Buckley. There’ll be music with indie headliners, a speakers’ line-up curated by Caught by the River, late-night DJs, craft workshops, celebrity chefs, wild swimming and more.

Join the last hurrah of the summer. Weekend ticket with camping £230, day ticket from £49, family tickets available. See thegoodlifesociety.co.uk

Gathering the light

Catch three varied exhibitions running until 25th September at Ruthin Craft Centre.

In ‘Harvest: Fruit Gathering’, Neil Wilkin and Rachael Woodman harness the unique optical and physical qualities of glass. ‘Interrupted Views’ by Jennie Moncur offers abstract, colourful and beautifully finished tapestries, while the life-size mosaics of Cleo Mussi’s ‘Herbal’ are created from reclaimed ceramic tableware, reflecting the patterns and glazes from the last 200 years of the British industry. Tuesday–Sunday 10am-5.30pm. Free. ruthincraftcentre.org.uk

Live at Neuadd Ogwen

Jah Wobble & the Invaders of the Heart, 17th September

The ex-Public Image bassist has been likened to “an oldfashioned band leader, barking out instructions within a cavernous, space-echoey dub mix” (Guardian). 7.30pm. Tickets £16.

Mawr y Rhai Bychain, 7th-

9th October. A weekend of top-class Celtic indie music, featuring Breabach, Cerys Hafana, Dafydd Iwan, Talisk and Yws Gwynedd. 7-11pm. From £15. neuaddogwen.com

Mists and mellow fruitfulness

Autumn is bountiful at Chirk Castle, so why not try their day course on Wild Food, Foraging and Wilderness Cookery on 24th or 25th September? Join an expert and explore the world of edible plants, fungi and wild game (9.30am-4.30pm, £60). The Autumn Foraging Walk on 8th October offers a hunt for the best wild foods plus cookery tips (10am-1pm, £30). Identifying Trees in Autumn on 9th October looks at leaves, nuts, seeds and fruit, with a bit of woodland folklore thrown in! (10am-3.30pm, £40). woodlandclassroom.com

Music and mystery at eatr Clwyd

DID YOU KNOW? There’s an 8.30am performance of ‘Strange Creatures’ for early risers. Great idea!

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

1ST-10TH SEPTEMBER

•1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd September,

Male Voice Choir Concerts, St John’s Methodist Church,

Llandudno Enjoy the soaring sounds of Wales with songs performed in English and Welsh. 8.15pm. From £7.

The Famous Five, 23rd September – 15th October

Based on Enid Blyton’s books, this heart-warming new musical finds the gang on a daring mission with the future of the planet at stake. Various times. Tickets from £10.

Strange Creatures, 8th-9th

October This magical musical adventure explores childhood and belonging, with singing, drumming and games. 8.30am, 10.30am, 1.30am (40mins, suggested ages 4-7). Tickets £8.

The Mirror Crack’d, 17th-22nd

October Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple returns to unravel another murderous web of lies, danger and tragedy. 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets from £10.

The Lavender Hill Mob,

25th-29th October. The men who broke the bank and lost the cargo are back, in a new adaptation of the classic Ealing comedy. Miles Jupp and Justin Edwards star. 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets from £10.

theatrclwyd.com

Mayhem in Wrexham

Chirk Castle has some epic events in September! On 3rd & 4th witness a re-enactment of the Battle of Crogen, one of Wales’ most iconic conflicts, between the forces of Henry II and the Welsh Princes. Visit both encampments, engage with the warriors and get an insight into early medieval life. Normal admission applies.

Movie lovers will enjoy outdoor cinema on 9th-11th September with a choice of three films. Details at nationaltrust.org.uk

Autumn in the Valley

There’s a chance to inspect tiny woodland creatures at the Creepy Crawly Show at Greenfield Valley on 29th October. It runs from 11am-3pm, with outdoor shows at noon and 1.30pm. Earlier in the month you can discover a wonderful variety of trees on the ranger-led Tree Tour on 15th October.

greenfieldvalley.com

New perceptions

‘Searching Perceptions’ is one of two new exhibitions at the Royal Cambrian Academy, Conwy. Painter-printmaker David Bower’s show runs from 10th September to 15th October, together with ‘Aberystwyth 3’ –a selection of three pictures each from 20 Aberystwyth artists, representing morning, afternoon and night. Tuesday to Saturday, 11am-5pm. Free. rcaconwy.org

David Bower

Foodie cruise

Visit Llangollen Wharf on Sundays in September and October to enjoy an Afternoon Tea with Prosecco whilst cruising along the Llangollen Canal. Board at the Wharf at noon, returning at 4pm. Tickets £29.95. Or how about a Real Ale/ Wine trip with a deli grazing platter on 8th or 22nd October? To book call 01978 860 702 or visit

horsedrawnboats.co.uk

•3rd September, Llandudno

Goldwing Light Parade, North

Shore Promenade 150-plus Honda Goldwing bikes will parade on the prom from 10am4pm and tour the town centre from 8-8.45pm showing o their fantastic light displays. Free to spectators.

•From 5th

September, Monday Night is Music Night, St John’s Methodist Church, Llandudno

Every Monday in September the Harmony Singers present popular classical music, showtunes and modern melodies. 8pm. £7.

•6th, 13th & 20th September,

The Magic of Musicals,

Llandudno Town Hall Llandudno Musical Productions, the town’s longest-running musical group, perform classic songs from the musicals. 7.30pm. Tickets £8.

•10th September, Anglesey

Abseil, Holyhead Breakwater

Country Park Take the plunge for St David’s Hospice by daring this 120ft drop! Perfect for individuals looking for a challenge or as a team social with friends or colleagues. Registration is £29, plus raise a minimum of £100 sponsorship.

rills at Rhyl Pavilion

John Owen-Jones, 7th

September John is best known for his performances as Jean Valjean in Les Misérables and the Phantom in Phantom of the Opera. Catch his new Music of the Night tour. 8pm. Tickets from £29.50.

Twopence To Cross The Mersey, 14th-17th September

Adapted from Helen Forrester’s autobiography, this drama set in the Great Depression tells the story of a penniless family relocated to Liverpool. 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets from £17.

Sleeping Beauty, 5th October

Experience this traditional fairytale ballet with stunning choreography, sumptuous costumes and wonderful sets, all set to Tchaikovsky’s sublime score.7.30pm. Tickets from £23.

10cc in Concert, 8th October

One of the most inventive and influential bands in pop present an inspirational live show, performing their hits and a surprise or two. 7.30pm. Tickets from £37, from

rhylpavilion. co.uk

DID YOU KNOW? John was in an episode of The Bill in 2001, as a character called Steven Barnes

Deep in the Fforest

Thrillseekers are in for a fright as Snowdonia’s biggest scare-fest returns to Zip World Fforest from 25th-31st October. Runaway clowns will be on the loose as visitors make it through the Cursed Coaster and treetop Nets. The 100ft Nightfall is available as an upgrade. Night passes cost £25. Not suitable for under-9s zipworld.co.uk

A weekend feast

Wrexham Feast will transform the town centre into a foodie frenzy on 24th-25th September. Enjoy a packed weekend sampling international street food and clever cocktails, and browsing the artisan makers, bakers and craft stalls. Skills demos start from 11am each day or sign up for Cookery School. ere’ll be a vintage fairground and live music at the Bandstand. 10am-5pm. Tickets from £4.75 (under-16s free). wrexhamfeast.com

Talking books

Lively literary discussion is guaranteed at the tenth Gladfest on 9th-10th September. Victoria Gosling will talk about her debut Before the Ruins, which explores games people play. Bestseller Natasha Pulley discusses her alternative future novel The Half Life of Valery K. My Past is a Foreign Country by Zeba Talkhani reflects on her experiences growing up in Saudi Arabia, and Francesca Haig’s The Cookbook of Common Prayer explores food, grief and hope. £10 a session. Programme at

gladstoneslibrary.org

Art on Anglesey

Promising young talent is on display as the 2021 cohort of Criw Celf show their work at Oriel Môn, Anglesey until 2nd October. Bill Swann and Meic Watts’ ‘A Flight of Thoughts’, until 6th November, is an exploration in glass and stone, kiln and carving, while ‘A Life in the Country’ charts the lives of Cornelyn’s Massey sisters via their botanical art. TuesdaySunday 10am-5pm. Free but please book. orielmon.org

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

10TH-17TH SEPTEMBER

•10th & 11th September,

Owain Glyndwr Day, Harlech

Castle Celebrate one of Wales’ mightiest heroes at the scene of his triumph, with the help of the Ardudwy Knights. 11am-4pm. Standard admission applies.

•11th September &

9th October, Mold

Artisan Market This vibrant market will be fi lled with plants, produce and gifts featuring local and regional artisans. 11am-4pm. Free.

•16th September, Scott

Quinnell – The Lion Speaks Tonight, Theatr Clwyd, Mold

Rugby legend Scott bares all in hilarious tales about his colourful life. His son Steele will perform musical hits. 7.45pm. From £25.

•16th September, Coastal

Wildlife Walk, Cemlyn,

Anglesey Join North Wales Wildlife Trust in spotting wild fl owers, birds, seals and porpoises around the nature reserve, part of the Wales Coast Path. 11am-2pm. £2.

•17th

September, Dark Sky Night, Plas Llanfair, Llanfair yn Neubwll, Anglesey

Bring your own telescope and binoculars and learn about the night sky. A mobile observatory will also be visiting. 5-11.30pm. Details from 07399 036063.

•17th September, Crochet for

Beginners, Abakhan, Mostyn

Learn how to hold the hook and yarn and create basic stitches to make a granny square. 10.30am-2.30pm. £30.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

17TH-25TH SEPTEMBER

•17th September, Denbigh Beer Festival Expect around 35 beers and numerous ciders sourced from micro-breweries in North Wales and Chester. Details at visitdenbigh.co.uk

Into the wild

There’s always something new to learn about the fascinating world around us, and a day with North Wales Wildlife Trust is a fabulous place to start:

Trees and Flower ID for Beginners,

7th September Don’t know your ragwort from your hogweed? Learn how to recognise trees and flowers at Cors Goch, Anglesey. 1-4pm. £3.

DID YOU KNOW? Beetles use their hind wings for fl ying: the front pair act as protective wing-cases

September Understand how these little creatures rule the world! Local artist Honor Pedican will be creating a piece of environmental art. 11am-3pm. Free.

•17th September

& 15th October, Colwyn Bay Artisan

Market Discover unique arts and crafts by local makers: there’ll be artisan gifts and goodies and food trucks serving cuisine from around the world. 10am4pm. Free entry.

•18th September, North Wales

Classic Car Show, Bodrhyddan

Hall, near Rhyl 600-plus vintage, classic and modern vehicles on display, plus autojumble, kids entertainment and food. 10am-4pm. From £3.20.

•21st September-1st October,

Mamma Mia! Venue Cymru,

Llandudno Have the time of your life and enjoy the world’s sunniest smash-hit musical. 7.30pm. From £20.

•22nd September, Tim Peake:

My Journey to Space, Venue

Cymru, Llandudno A thrilling account, with breathtaking photos and never-before-seen footage. 7.30pm. From £28.

•24th-25th September, Meet

the Household, Plas Mawr,

Conwy Learn more about Tudor life and join in with the dancing and games. 11am-4pm. Standard admission applies.

Discover our Woodlands: Hedgerows, 10th

September Foraging, bird-box building and guided walks at ancient Graig Wyllt. 10am-4pm. Free.

The Art of Bug Hunting… for Grownups! 17th Bird Watching at The Spinnies, 27th October

Join local experts to spot the wide variety of birds in this wonderful little reserve. 10am-1pm. Free.

northwaleswildlifetrust.org.uk

Riding for all

Enjoy the thrill of live jump-racing whilst supporting a great local cause, at Bangor-on-Dee’s Charity Day on 28th September. Clwyd Special Riding Centre offers a variety of experiences for people with additional needs, including riding, carriage driving, equestrian vaulting, equine learning and therapy. The event starts at 11.30am, advance tickets for the day cost from £7.

Expect thrills of a different kind at Halloween Day on 25th October, when there’ll be special activities and plenty of surprises alongside the racing! bangorondeeraces.co.uk

Railway history in action

The Ffestiniog Railway has been operating passenger trains since 1865 and has been run by the same company, making it the oldest independent railway company in the world. Join the celebrations at their Bygones Weekend on 7th-9th October. There’ll be special vintage trains running from Porthmadog to Beddgelert, Blaenau Ffestiniog and Tan y Bwlch throughout the weekend. Details at festrail.co.uk

e game’s on

If you enjoy country pursuits then the GWCT Welsh Game Fair is for you. Hosted by the Vaynol Estate, near Bangor on 9th-11th September, there’ll be fishing, clay shooting, gundogs, game cookery, falconry, horses and hounds, as well as rural crafts and plenty of fabulous food and drink. Enjoy displays, live debates and family entertainment, all with a countryside theme. 9am-5.30pm. Tickets from £15 (child £6).

welshgamefair.org

Feeling fruity?

Celebrating the only Welsh plum grown in the Vale of Clwyd, the Denbigh Plum Feast returns to the Town Hall on 1st October. Along with guest chef Geoff Cegin Caribi, there’ll be food and drink stalls, crafts, gifts and barbecue demonstrations – with the emphasis on this unique plum! 10am-4pm. Entry and car parking free.

visitdenbigh.co.uk

Many happy festival returns

North Wales International Music Festival celebrates its 50th anniversary from 17th September to 1st October, in the superb acoustic of St Asaph Cathedral. The BBC National Orchestra of Wales opens the festivities with a Celtic-themed programme that includes Weber’s ‘Oberon Overture, the first piece played at the festival’s launch in 1972.

Other highlights include multi-award-winning Welsh folk band Calan (18th) with a set that includes clog dancing and Welsh bagpipes; Ensemble Cymru with a programme of chamber music (23rd, am) and “the world’s most extraordinary Baroque quartet”, Red Priest, with their rock-chamber approach to early music (23rd, pm). Then there’s a world premier of Gelert, a community opera based around the Welsh legend (24th), and a performance by the international Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers (30th), whose sharp synchronisation and high energy cannot be missed! NEW Sinfonia, the National Youth Chamber Choir and baritone Emyr Lloyd Jones perform Celtic songs and a new commission by Jon Guy to close the festival on 1st October.

Free events throughout the fortnight encourage youngsters to enjoy classical music as well as comedy theatre. For a full programme and to book, see nwimf.com

DID YOU KNOW? Mugenkyo means ‘limitless reverberation’ – fi nd out when you see the Taiko Drummers!

Kristina Banholzer

Workshops at Bodnant

On 10th September join a pastel workshop with Paul Pigram to produce an atmospheric landscape using your own photo. Jennifer Rye teaches abstract landscape acrylics on 17th September. Andrew Jenkin leads an autumn woodland workshop on 1st October, using loose washes to spectacular effect, and there’s a linocut workshop with Ann Lewis on 15th October. bodnantart.com

Trains take the strain

Return to the halcyon days of the railway at Llangollen Railway’s Diesel Weekend on 3rd-4th September. A busy timetable features interesting workings and stock in use – hopefully including the popular brake van. ere’s more vintage diesel at the Heritage Railcar Weekend on 8th-9th October. en brace yourselves for a dark ride through the Dee Valley on the Halloween Train on 29th October. llangollen-railway.co.uk

Visitors from home and abroad

October brings two exciting classical music concerts to Rhyl Town Hall, hosted by Rhyl Music Club.

5th October, Callum McLachlan Trio from Salzburg, featuring Isobel Warmelink (violin) and Madeleine Doucot (cello). All have active international careers and their programme includes Beethoven, Rachmaninov and Brahms.

19th October, Lara

Melda A chance to hear the wonderful BBC Young Musician 2010 live! A natural storyteller on piano, Lara plays works by Chopin and Ginastera.

Concerts start 7.30pm, tickets £15. rhylmusic.com

Animal magic

Have a fun Halloween at Greenacres animal park. Little ones can play all day on the fairground rides, then hop on board a spook-tacular tractor ride round the fields. A treasure hunt will end in a sweet treat, and there’s creepy cookie decorating too. All the usual activities will be open. Book via

greenacresanimalpark.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

25TH SEPT - 8TH OCT

•Until 25th September,

‘Temporary Atlas: Mapping the Self in the Art of Today’,

Mostyn, Llandudno A selection of works exploring alternative cartography, the traditional science of drawing maps. Tues–Sun, 10.30am-5pm. Free.

•25th September & 30th

October, Ruthin Artisan Market,

Ruthin Gaol Hosting up to 70 local food, drink and crafts stalls, you’re bound to fi nd something you love. 10am-4pm. Free entry.

•29th September-

1st October, Dream Academy, Ucheldre Centre, Holyhead

Robert escapes into a fantasy world where his teachers are celebrities and fairytale characters. 7.30pm. From £4.

•1st October, Barn Dance in

a Brewery, Snowdon Craft Beer Brewery, Colwyn Bay

A fun night of dancing and foot-stomping to the music of Tympathology, with a hog roast. 7-11pm. £18.

•7th October, An Evening

with Liverpool Legends,

Venue Cymru, Llandudno Phil Thompson, Sammy Lee and Bruce Grobbelaar talk about their careers. 7.30pm. From £38. •8th October, Calling Planet Earth, The Stiwt, Wrexham A New Romantic symphony to that great musical era – the electrifying ’80s. 7.30pm. £23.50.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

14TH-22ND OCTOBER

•14th & 15th October, Horse

Country, Theatr Clwyd, Mold

An anarchic two-man comedy – think Waiting for Godot but with more chaos. “Tarantino by way of Beckett”. 7.45pm. From £10.

Variety at Theatr Colwyn

The Houghton Weavers,

24th September There’ll be old favourites such as ‘The Blackpool Belle’, ‘Matchstalk Men’ and ‘Wild Rover’, new songs and funny stories galore! 7.30pm. Tickets from £20.50. for an evening of family-friendly fun. the purr-fect way to introduce youngsters to opera, complete with a matchmaking cat, slow-witted ogre and a very happy ending. 7.30pm. Tickets from £9.50.

Justin Moorhouse: Stretch & Think, 7th October

Justin is back with a new show, a new suit and saucy fun and laughter. 8pm. Tickets £16.50.

Puss in Boots, 21st October Join Mid Wales Opera The Invisible Man, 27th October This re-telling of Wells’ classic tale is packed with comedy, song and illusions – and plenty of audience involvement. 7pm. Tickets from £13.50. theatrcolwyn.co.uk

•15th-16th October, Mona

Antique Home & Vintage Fair,

Anglesey Showground Plenty to browse, with two halls of up to 250 stands, plus up to 100 outdoors. Saturday 8.30am5pm (£10, or £5 for afternoon), Sunday 10am-5pm (£5).

•15th October,

Llangollen Food

Festival Building on last year’s successful ‘bitesized’ event, there’s a meatier portion for 2022! llangollen foodfestival.com

•16th October, Fungus Foray, Erddig Country Park, Wrexham Hosted by North Wales Wildlife

Trust, hunt for the many species of fungi found here. 11am-3pm. Free.

•21st October, The Madchester

Experience, Tŷ Pawb, Wrexham

A trip back to the ’90s with all the attitude and baggy fashion to boot! Music, fi lm and fashion combine to take you on a nostalgic journey. 7.30pm. £12.

•22nd October, Music for

Peace and Passion, St Asaph

Cathedral The Vale of Clwyd

Singers with Liverpool Mozart Players will perform works by Vaughan Williams, Handel, Bruckner and Harris. 7.30pm. £14.

Welsh National Opera at Venue Cymru

La Bohème, 12th & 13th October Puccini’s opera paints a vivid portrait of bohemian life in Paris at the turn of the 19th century: a tale of love, loss, rebellion and freedom.

The Makropulos Affair, 14th October Janáček´s dramatic score explores the mystery of a 300-yearold diva and her quest for eternal youth. Migrations, 15th October Parallel storylines chart the highs and lows of migration: from bird flight to experiences of NHS doctors from India. A cast of 100 includes a gospel choir, Bollywood dancers and a children’s chorus.

All performances begin at 7.15pm. Tickets from £22, book at venuecymru.co.uk

A very friendly festival

Real ale lovers will flock to Llanbedr Beer Festival, near Harlech on 9th-10th September to sample locally brewed pints and Welsh ciders. There’s live entertainment from the Ardudwy Male Voice Choir, TV star the Welsh Whisperer, Martyn Rowlands and rock band Session. It’s in aid of local good causes and takes place in the grounds of Ty Mawr Hotel from midday. Tickets from £3.

llanbedrbeerfestival.co.uk

Atten-tion!,

Experience Britain’s newest military extravaganza – the North Wales Military Music Pageant at Yale College, Wrexham on 22nd October. This family spectacular takes you through each decade of Her Majesty’s reign, featuring the Regimental Band of The Royal Welsh, the Military Wives Choir and Ellesmere Port Sea Cadet Band, to name a few. It runs from 6.30-10.30pm, tickets from £20, in support of veterans.

britishinternationaltattoo.com

Nowhere sweeter

Have a sweet tooth? Make a bee-line for Conwy Honey Fair on 13th September, where local beekeepers expect to sell over a tonne of honey by lunchtime! The Fair dates back more than 700 years to the reign of Edward 1st, when local beekeepers were given the right to sell honey within the walls of the town. There’ll be lots of local produce plus a farmers’ market. Open from 9am-4pm, admission free.

conwybeekeepers.org.uk

Doors wide open

Wonderful, unusual and beautiful buildings will be open free of charge this September as part of the national Open Doors scheme. From Anglesey to the Borders, take your pick from tiny churches to grand stately homes and castles.

Highlights on the Shire patch include Bodnant Gardens near Conwy on 10th-11th September (9.30am-5pm); Ruthin Castle on 10th-11th (10am-4pm); Wrexham’s Chirk Castle and Erddig on 17th (10am-5pm); St Tudclud’s Church, Penmachno on 17th (10am-4pm, including craft demonstrations, local history talks and a guided walk; RSPB Conwy Nature Reserve on 17th-18th (9am-5pm); Plas Newydd on Anglesey on 24th-25th (10.30am4pm) and Harlech Castle also on 24th-25th (11am-4pm, including free tours). cadw.gov.wales

DID YOU KNOW? Harlech Castle was built in just six years, by 546 labourers and 227 masons

Autumn at Pontio

Catrin Finch and Seckou Keita, 14th October This awardwinning musical partnership combines Wales and Senegal, harp and kora, the classical and traditional. 7.30pm. Tickets from £18.

Little Red Riding Hood, 22nd October A family show that will take you down the path into the snowy wild wood where you’ll hear catchy songs on the wind and spot hilarious puppets between the trees. 11.30am & 2.30pm. Tickets from £6.50. pontio.co.uk

All aboard the ghost train!

Hop aboard Bala Lake Railway on 28th

and 29th October

and take a spooky trip down the line as far as the train can go, before disaster strikes and the crew are forced to turn back… Beware as the train stops at the little-used Flag Halt… You’re welcome to dress up. Tickets £9, child £3, advance booking at bala-lake-railway.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

22ND-30TH OCTOBER

•22nd October, Ned Boulting –

Retour de Ned, Theatr Colwyn

The cycling commentator hands out his entertaining, thoroughly unreliable advice on How To Win The Tour de France. Or if not, then at least How To Watch It On The Telly! 7.30pm. £26.50.

•27th October-

2nd November, Halloween Hunt, Llanberis Lake

Railway Enjoy mischief and thrills. Will you ride the Padarn Lake Ghost Train to fi nd ghosts and send them all away? Prices and timetable at lake-railway.co.uk

•27th

October, Doing Whodunnit, Rhyl Little Theatre

The Golden Age Theatre Experience Company presents a comedy murder-mystery evening with whacky characters and lots of laughs. 7.30pm. From £10.

Mountains and myths at Galeri Caernarfon

Adrian Hayes: To the Ends of the Earth, 23rd September

The former Gurkha talks about Nepal, his success in summitting K2 and the challenges of his three polar expeditions. 7.30pm. Tickets from £15.

Phil Okwedy: The Gods are All

Here, 27th October Inspired by the letters of his Nigerian father and his mother in Wales, this one-man performance blends myth, song and African legends. 7.30pm. Tickets from £8.

Leo Houlding: Closer to the

Edge, 28th October Leo recounts his audacious ascent of Mount Roraima, the South American plateau that inspired The Lost World. 7.30pm. Tickets from £14.

galericaernarfon.com

Cooking up a storm

The popular Kids’ Cookery School and Food Science Lab are back at Mold Food & Drink Festival on 17th-18th September. Indulge in the best regional produce and international street food, enjoy craft displays – Flint Beekeepers will show you how to roll a beeswax candle – and live music from brass band and choir to acoustic and indie. Prices vary, see

moldfoodfestival.co.uk

•29th October, Discover

our Woodlands: Coed

Cilygroeslwyd, Ruthin Join North Wales Wildlife Trust to discover a huge variety of seasonal fungi at this gem of a reserve. 10.30am-2.30pm. Donations appreciated.

•29th October, BUSO, Neuadd

Pritchard-Jones, Newborough,

Anglesey Bangor University Symphony Orchestra performs Mendelssohn, Grace Williams and Vaughan Williams. 7.30pm. From £5.

•30th October, Kiri Pritchard-

McLean: Home Truths, Theatr Clwyd, Mold

Anglesey’s own comedian jokes about skinny jeans, learning Welsh and rescue chickens! 7.45pm. £15.

A song and dance at Aberystwyth Arts

John Owen Jones, 8th September e West End and Broadway star is best known for his performances as Jean Valjean in Les Misérables and as the Phantom in Phantom of the Opera. Enjoy his new Music of the Night tour! 8pm. Tickets from £27.50. Alice, 5th & 6th October Choreographer Jasmin Vardimon re-imagines Alice in Wonderland, promising a sensory feast. 7.30pm. From £10.

DID YOU KNOW? Choreographer Jasmin worked on Paloma Faith’s ‘Loyal‘ video

Ed Gamble – Electric, 2nd October Catch the comedy superstar, co-host of hit podcast O Menu, new judge on Great British Menu and Taskmaster champion! 7.30pm. £20. Soweto Gospel Choir – Freedom, 21st October Hailing from the home of Nelson Mandela, the choir continues to inspire audiences with a powerful blend of African gospel, freedom songs and international hits. 7.30pm. From £20. aberystwythartscentre.co.uk

BACK TO NATURE

Visit the Centre for Alternative Technology in Machynlleth on 10th September or 8th October for a Gardening for Nature day, packed full of know-how to help wildlife thrive in your garden. If DIY’s more your thing, Fixing Your Damp House on 1st & 2nd October shares advice on how to make your home more habitable, cheaper to run and more eco-friendly. e Viking art of Shrink Pot Carving (7th October) will give you the skills to begin a new hobby. See cat.org.uk

MORE THAN JUST SHEEP!

Ever wanted to knit like a Viking or learn about herbal medicine? en Llandovery Sheep Festival on 17th-18th September has a workshop for you! With the theme of ‘Welsh Myths and Legends’, this is a celebration of all things rural, with sheepdog trials, a dog show, live music, guest speakers, cookery demos and even a bucking sheep challenge! ere’ll be oodles of artisan craft and food stalls. Entry is free (fee for workshops). llandoverysheepfestival.co.uk

LET’S GO TO THE SHOW

With its roots rmly embedded in farming, Kington Show on 10th September provides a fantastic day out. Along with equine, livestock and horticultural competitions, there’ll be lively entertainmentfrom the Squibb Freestyle Stunt Team, the Wye Valley Axemen, a dog show, exotic animals, sheep shearing, ferrets, birds of prey and vintage cars. 9am-6pm. From £12.50 (10-17s from £5). kingtonshow.co.uk

A TASTE OF WALES

Experience fabulous Welsh food at the Mid Wales Autumn Fayre on 29th-30th October at the Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells. e event o ers tasty treats from over 70 artisan food and drink producers from across Wales, as well as cookery demonstrations from great Welsh chefs, and a pop-up restaurant and cocktail bar. Over 40 Welsh arts and craft vendors will be selling local products, and there’ll be choirs and displays of trucks, cars and motorcycles. Open 10am-5pm. Tickets from £6 (under-12s free). mwaf.wales

YOU’RE HAVING A LAUGH!

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

2ND-4TH SEPTEMBER

•2nd, 16th & 30th September

and 14th & 28th October,

Aberystwyth Sunset Walk Meet at the bandstand just before dusk to walk a 1.5-mile route along the promenade and enjoy the magical sunset. 5pm. Free.

Aberystwyth Comedy Festival, taking place from 30th September to 2nd October, is establishing itself as a quality xture on the comedy calendar. is year’s programme includes big-name stars such as Ed Gamble, Rosie Jones, Angela Barnes, Jessica Fostekew, Kiri Pritchard-McLean, David O’Doherty, James Acaster, Mark Watson and many more. ere’ll be performances for kids, a set in Welsh by Tudur Owen and a play written and performed by Molly Naylor. With around 40 shows in venues across Aberystwyth, you can watch as much or as little as you wish. ere’s plenty going on in town too, where you can soak up the atmosphere. abercomedyfest.co.uk

FOLK BY THE LAKE

VISITORS FROM NEAR AND FAR

Llanwddyn Weekend of Folk & Acoustic Music is a little fest with a big heart! On 2nd-3rd September the banks of Lake Vyrnwy will host folk faves including Martyn Joseph , Jez Lowe and Honey and the Bear, together with singarounds, a craft fair and a ceilidh. Tickets £3.

llanwddynevents.co.uk

•3rd September, Strictly

Sherlock, Dragon Theatre, Barmouth

Jonathan Goodwin’s one-man show brings the great detective to life, recreating some of his most ba ing and spectacular cases. 7pm. £15.

•3rd September, Llanfair Caereinion Show, Lanerfyl A traditional rural show with equine displays, sheep shearing, a dog show and the Flyin Ryan motorcycle stunt show. There’ll be rural crafts, stalls and children’s entertainment. Tickets from £8 (5-15s £4).

Mellow autumn walking

Enjoy the Ceredigion countryside by joining the Llandysul and Pont-Tyweli Walking Weekend from 23rd-25th September. e guided walks tour delightful villages, the Tei River and winding eld and woodland paths. Most are easy to moderate, with some hill climbs, and there is a barbecue and bingo on the 24th. Walks are £4 if prebooked, and £5 on the day. Details at

llandysul-ponttyweli.co.uk/walking-weekend

Blast through the blisters

Work those legs at the Mid-Wales Four-Day Walking Festival on 21st-24th September in Llanwrtyd Wells. Choose from 12 or 20-mile waymarked routes over mountains and moors, and shorter guided walks. Nightly entertainment culminates in the Blister Ball on Saturday! £10 per day (£5 per day for guided walks). Details at green-

events.co.uk

PUSS IN BOOTS

Montsalvatge’s version of the familiar tale of the wealth-seeking cat who secures a kingdom for his young master is a great way to introduce youngsters to opera. Catch Mid Wales Opera at Gregynog Hall (14th October), Criccieth (20th) and Presteigne (28th). midwalesopera.co.uk

•3rd & 4th September,

International Antique Home & Vintage Fair of Wales, Royal Welsh Showground, Builth

Wells Set across two exhibition halls with up to 1,000 stands, this is one of the largest antique fairs in the country, promising a great day out. Saturday 8.30am- 5pm, £10 (£5 after 2.30pm). Sunday 10am-5pm, £5.

•From 4th September, Silent

Space Sundays, Cae Hir

Gardens, near Lampeter ‘Silent Space' is a movement sweeping the gardening world. When entering the Wild Garden Silent Space simply switch o your mobile phone and let nature do the talking. 10am-5pm. £6 (child £2, under-2s free).

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

4TH-18TH SEPTEMBER

•4th September & 2nd October,

Open Days, Rhiw Valley Light

Railway, near Welshpool Catch the last opportunities this year to visit and travel on this private 15inch gauge railway, running alongside the River Rhiw through farm and woodland. 10.30am-4.30pm. From £4.

•10th

September, Pendyrus Male Choir, Mwldan, Cardigan

Formed in 1924 in Tylorstown in the Rhondda Fach, the choir has over 80 members and has sung around the world to great acclaim. 7.30pm. £15.

•11th September, Open Doors – Llanfyllin Workhouse Free entry to one of the best preserved Victorian workhouses in Britain. There’ll be a Food Fair showcasing the best Welsh food and street food – as well as authentic workhouse gruel. Enjoy live music, open studios, history displays and guided tours. 10am-5pm.

WALES BY HIKING BOOT

Enjoy guided walks around the Mawddach Estuary and southern Snowdonia with Barmouth Walking Festival from 17th to 26th September. ere are walks for all abilities, from easy rambles to full-day, high-level hikes, all in some of the nest walking countryside in Wales. Highlights include: Dolgellau to Barmouth; A Celtic Rain Forest Trail and Talk; Cader Idris; Exploring Sacred Spaces; In the Paw Prints of the Pine Martens, and the Barmouth Historical Trail. Walks can be booked from £8.50 (£10 on the day), registration is at the Dragon eatre. barmouthwalkingfestival.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW? John Ruskin declared Dolgellau to Barmouth “one of the fi nest walks in Britain”

VARIETY AT MWLDAN

Ralph McTell, 3rd October Ralph will perform songs from his long career, in addition to showcasing some of his most recent work. 7.30pm. Tickets £24.

Beauty and the Beast, 19th October Join Ballet eatre UK for one of the most enchanting love stories set to a timeless classical score. 7.30pm. From £10.

e Invisible Man, 21st October A comic take on Wells’ classic, set in Wales in 1933 where strange things begin to happen! 7.30pm. From £12. mwldan.co.uk

EAT TO THE BEAT

Entry is free to Newton Food Festival on 3rd-4th September. Featuring food and drink from around the world, as well as the best regional produce, the festival at Town Hall Gardens will o er family entertainment all weekend, including kids’ activities, live music, tastings and local chefs in action. 10am.

newtownfoodfestival.org

•Until 17th September, Terence

Lambert: Nature is in the Detail, MOMA, Machynlleth

Terence is a renowned wildlife painter – catch this exhibition of his pencil drawings, ink and mixed media paintings. Wed & Fri 10am-4pm, Tue, Thu & Sat 10am-1pm. Free entry.

•18th September, Newton

Faulkner, Pavilion Mid Wales,

Llandrindod Wells Infl uenced by the stasis of the pandemic, Newton performs a strippedback acoustic set featuring songs from his Feels Like Home tour. 8pm. From £27.50

Half-term Halloween fun

ere’s ghoulish fun for all the family at the Silver Mountain Experience from 23rd-31st October. Follow the Witches’ Potion Trail and learn about Welsh history, myth and legend – with a few spooky surprises thrown in. Pumpkin carving is available for £3. Tickets from £15.95 (£11.95 child) include a tour. silver-

mountainexperience.co.uk

Open air and an open door…

Enjoy September evenings outdoors at the movies, in the stunning grounds of Powis Castle. Watch the feel-good Mamma Mia! on 2nd (with ’70s and ’80s hits before the lm), e Greatest Showman Sing-A-Long on 3rd and Elvis (12A) on 4th. Gates open at 7pm and the lms start shortly after sunset. Tickets from £14.50 (under-12s £9.50) via

adventurecinema.co.uk

Plus, you can enjoy free entry to the castle and gardens from 10am-5pm on 17th September as part of the Open Doors scheme. cadw.gov.wales

GET IN THE MOOD

It’s time to pack up your troubles in your old kit bag and head for Welshpool 1940s Weekend on 23rd-25th September – a light-hearted look at life in a small rural town in wartime. Be captivated by re-enactors and entertainers in period costume, including Johnny Victory presenting An Evening of Fish ‘n’ Chips and Knees Up Mother Brown! ere’ll be harmony singers, dancers, Glenn Miller tributes, a George Formby impersonator and Builth Male Voice Choir. You even have your hair styled by a vintage hairdresser! On Saturday there’s a midday parade through the town. welshpool1940sweekend.co.uk

Terror Mountain near Aberystwyth is Wales’ premier Halloween experience, a unique event that plunges visitors into live-action horror attractions: investigating a Victorian mine, witchcraft, the paranormal, cracking a bloodthirsty murder case – plus a brand-new surprise. No admittance to under-12s; under-15s must be accompanied by an adult. Advanced booking essential, prices from £25.

terrormountain.co.uk

DON'T FORGET… Glenn Miller’s favourite lyric: “It Don’t Mean A Thing If It Ain’t Got That Swing!”

JOURNEY INTO THE PAST

Calling all railway enthusiasts! Talyllyn Railway is running a special Pioneers Train on 8th and 15th September! Learn how dedicated people discovered and saved a little railway lost in time. e tour takes in the engine works at Pendre. Tickets £39.50 (child £15). talyllyn.co.uk

Music and laughter at Wyeside Arts

Shazia Mirza - Coconut, 21st

October Nominated in Channel 4’s National Comedy Awards, Shazia presents a hilarious and unique take on the issues of our time. 8pm. Tickets from £14.

VRï, 29th October ree Welshmen harness the raw energy of the ddle, the nesse of the violin and the hedonism of a pub session! 7.30pm. Tickets from £14. wyeside.co.uk

PADDINGTON RIDES THE RAILS AT WELSHPOOL & LLANFAIR

He’s met the Queen – now you can meet Paddington Bear at Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway on 24th and 25th September! Earlier in the month, the Gala Weekend on 2nd-4th September is a chance to celebrate all things transport. ere’ll be visiting locomotives, steam traction engines, vintage cars, vintage Routemaster bus trips, a 7¼-inch gauge railway at Llanfair and even a y-past on Saturday. e Beer Festival on 14th16th October promises great ales, steam trains and an allround top day out. wllr.org.uk

Enter if you dare

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

7TH-23RD OCTOBER

•7th-9th October, The Eye

International Photography Festival, Aberystwyth Arts

Centre Speakers include a diverse mix of international talent working in di erent genres. On Saturday there's a screening of Gilad Baram’s documentary Koudelka Shooting Holy Land. Weekend pass £60 (students £35).

•8th

October, Matthew Frederick - The Belated Fragments Tour, National Library of

Wales, Aberystwyth Matthew fuses a love of classic singersongwriters with more recent infl uences to create a distinctive blend of acoustic pop, indie folk and blues with a touch of Cymrucana. 7pm. £8.

•Until 15th

October, ‘Go Home Polish’, Amgueddfa Ceredigion Museum, Aberystwyth

An exhibition of photos by Polish-born Welsh resident, artist Michal Iwanowski after he saw ‘Go home Polish’ scrawled on a wall in Cardi . 10am-5pm, closed Sunday. Free entry.

•15th & 16th October,

Barmouth Beach Race (Moto X)

Motorcycles and quad bikes will race on a specially prepared circuit on Barmouth’s extensive sands. View the action free from the safety of the promenade.

•23rd October, Milkshake! Live, Aberystwyth Arts Centre This brand-new show has plenty of laughs and audience interaction to get everyone up on their feet! Noon & 3.30pm. £17 (child .£15.50, family of four £56).

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

1ST-8TH SEPTEMBER

•1st-24th September, A

Spectacle of Sport, Nantwich

Museum Whether you are a liftime fan or a sporting sceptic, you’ll love this grandstand journey through the local sports stories and objects that have made headlines (often international) over the past 150 years. Tuesdays–Saturdays 10.30am-4.30pm. Free.

•Until 2nd

October, The BFG in Pictures, Grosvenor Museum,

Chester A fascinating exhibition of some of Quentin Blake’s early and unknown illustrations for Roald Dahl’s The BFG. Tuesdays–Saturdays 10.30am-5pm. Free.

•1st September-17th October,

In Flux: Salt and Glass in the North-West, Lion Salt Works,

Northwich A new exhibition that explores how Cheshire salt was one of the catalysts for the region’s hugely successful glass industry. 10.30am-5pm, closed Monday. £6.60 (child £4.20).

•7th & 21st September,

Social Kayaking, Dee River

Kayaking, Chester Experience the beautiful city of Chester from a whole new perspective, and make new friends along the way! Meet at Sandy Lane Boat Parking. 6pm. £22.

•8th September, Ian McNabb

– Utopian Tour, Alexander’s Live,

Chester Catch The Icicle Works’ frontman in his awesome solo show. 9pm. £16.50.

The wonder of words

Chester’s Literature Festival, an annual celebration of the written word, will ll Storyhouse with two weeks of unmissable performances, events and conversation from 10th-25th November. Special guests include writers, poets, actors and broadcasters, with the full line-up to be revealed.Con rmed so far are: Patrick Gale: Mother’s Boy, 15th November (£13.50); Joanne Harris: #Storytime, 19th November (£16.50); An Afternoon with David Harewood, 20th November (£27.50); Lemn Sissay: My Name

is Why, 24th November

(£27.50) and Kit De Waal, 25th November (£13.50).

Storyhouse is also hosting a series of writers’ workshops and panel events where you can learn from storytellers, consider key questions around creating different genres of literature and develop your own skills in the process.

Times and prices of all events vary, but book well in advance at storyhouse.com/literature

CALLING ALL FOODIES

Don’t miss the Great British Food Festival at Arley Hall on 24th-25th September with its dazzling range of stalls, live music, competitions and entertainment. GBFF o ers a chance for special time together enjoying chef demos, live music, a cake-o , foraging walks, BBQ stage, street food, artisan marketers and a mini-zoo. It’s open 10am-5pm, prices from £14.50 (child £6.50). See greatbritishfoodfestival.com

Half-term Halloween

Gather your little monsters for a ghoulishly good day out at Beeston Castle this half term,

22nd-30th

October. Follow the trail to solve creepy clues and gather round to listen to spooky stories. e castle is open 10am-5pm, and tickets are £6 for children, £10 for adults if booked online.

english-heritage.org.uk

Spook-tacular Bolesworth

e Halloween adventure gets underway on 8th October when the eerie Bolesworth maze opens. Discover its secrets – just don’t get lost! In partnership with Picking Patch, the pumpkin elds will be open over the rst two weekends in October, then daily from 21st-30th October. e week ends with a bang as reworks light up the Cheshire sky on 30th October. See bolesworth.com

Keep bouncing!

DID YOU KNOW?

e Bouncing Boggles Bonanza at At BeWILDerwood the entry price is based on height. BeWILDerwood runs until 25th Under 92cm and September. Hear Swampy’s big you’re free! adventure – the story the fantastical park is based on. Visit the Big Hat craft tent, the face-painting pavilion, Twiggles Treetop Trail and enjoy activities and storytimes. A fantastical day out! Open 10am-5pm most weekends, but check before travelling. See cheshire.bewilderwood.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

9TH-11TH SEPTEMBER

DID YOU KNOW?

For tickets call 01244 500 959 or see chester cathedral.com/ events Wonders at the Cathedral

©TPOTY 2022

Chester Cathedral hosts an amazing programme of events all year round. Here’s just a selection…

Addleshaw Tower Open Day, 10th September

Especially for Heritage Open Days, a rare chance to see inside the tower – the rst detached belltower built for an English cathedral since the 15th century – and meet the bell ringers. 10.30am-3pm.

Bowie by Candlelight, 30th September A night of anthems featuring ‘David Live’ – the David Bowie Tribute Show. 8pm. Tickets from £20.50.

Travel Photographer of the Year, 2nd-27th

October Selected winning images from across the globe here in Chester, the only opportunity to view in the UK outside of London! Entry by donation.

Heritage Discovery Day, 22nd October Medieval treasures, family activities, academic lectures, ‘medieval’ food and drink, heritage skills, a sensory tour and more! 10am-8pm. Entry by donation.

River Dee, Mountain High

Enjoy ‘Miracles and Wonders on the Dee’ as Chester Boat pays tribute to the Motor City and the best dance music ever made. 1st October is the date for a night of ‘Supreme’ entertainment – signed, sealed, delivered. Tickets are £34.50 when booked online at

chesterboat.co.uk

Planning ahead for Christmas? Advance tickets are now available for party events and tend to sell out by the end of October, so book soon!

PARTY LIKE A KING

Join in with the celebration of a brilliant racing season at the nale of Chester Racecourse’s 2022 programme on 24th September. ere are seven races on the schedule for what’s sure to be an unforgettable day of racing and fun, starting at 11.30am. Check out chester-races.com for enclosure tickets and hospitality packages.

•9th September,

The Pudding Club, Cuddington & Sandiway

Village Hall This free social run by Pregnancy, Baby & You, Cheshire is a new network of local antenatal and postnatal professionals, and welcomes pregnant women and new parents, their partners and babies. 11am-12.30pm, Free.

Dancing shoes on…

Dance for Home Education is o ering a new session for ages 7-12, Step Into Dance. Get creative with new skills from Cheshire Dance, learn new styles and choreography. Mondays 10am at e Boat Shed community hub, Ellesmere Port. £5. Call 01606 861770.

•9th September, The Tom

Petty Legacy, The Live Rooms,

Chester A full two-hour show celebrating the US songwriting icon, performed by experienced musicians who really capture the energy and excitement of their hero. 7pm. £13.20.

•10th & 11th September, Soviet

Threat, Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker, Nantwich

In this living history weekend, the museum takes a step back in time to what life was like either side of the Berlin Wall during the Cold War. 10am. £13 (child £9).

Crewe Lyceum presents…

Women in Rock, 25th September A spectacular journey through ve decades. 7.30pm. Tickets £27.

•11th

September, Ben Ottewell, The Hive,

Winsford Live music from the lead singer of indie rock band Gomez. 5pm. £15.

•11th September, Cheshire

Half Marathon, Siddington,

Macclesfi eld Starting and fi nishing outside stunning Capesthorne Hall, the fl at route is on closed rural roads. Entry is £28.

Silver & Gold, 8th September A powerful moral drama, based on RL Stevenson’s classic maritime adventure Treasure Island. 8pm. Tickets £16.50.

Swan Lake, 24th October Featuring ballet’s most breathtaking choreography set to Tchaikovsky’s sublime music. 7.30pm. £32. crewelyceum.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

15TH SEPT - 1ST OCT

•15th-18th September,

LeMieux National Dressage Championships, Somerford

Park, Congleton A highlight of the calendar for any countryside enthusiast, showcasing the best of equestrian dressage at all levels of the sport. 8am-6pm. From £20.

•17th & 18th September,

Murgatroyd's Brine Pumps Open Days, Murgatroyd's Brine

Works, Middlewich Discover this unique heritage site, recently restored, and explore the history of salt making in Cheshire, and the life and work of local engineer George Murgatroyd. Open midday-4pm. Free entry.

•20th September, Micro-

Volunteering Opportunity: Wildlife Recording Day,

Chester Zoo Estate Help with observing, identifying and recording wildlife. 9.45am-3pm. Free but register on Eventbrite.

Playing at the Port

ere’s top entertainment in store at Ellesmere Port Civic Hall. Book tickets at brioleisure.org Laughlines – a loving parody of the BBC’s ’Allo ’Allo! 7.30pm. £39.

Walk Like a Man, 23rd September Celebrating the 60th anniversary of e Four Seasons, this is the only group to win the National Tribute Awards two years running. 7.30pm. Tickets £23.

Rene and Edith’s Le Comedy Dinner Show, 30th September Another ‘Sitcom Experience’ from

Jive Talkin’ perform e Bee Gees,

7th October e only Bee Gees tribute to have performed with the originals! 7.30pm, £21.

Manford’s Comedy Club, 21st October A strong line-up includes Dave Twentyman, Brennan Reece, Steve Gribbin and Alex Stringer. 8pm, £10.

Go wild for wildlife

If you work with elders, teens or toddlers – or any age group in between – Chester Zoo would love you to join their free Wildlife Champions course. Whatever your knowledge of wildlife, all you need is a green space and people to engage. ere are four workshops, running on ursdays at 10am3pm on 1st, 8th, 15th & 22nd September, led by experts from Chester Zoo. Over four sessions, they’ll give you the know-how and resources to run inspiring activities with your group that are great for wildlife! Book now at chesterzoo.org

AUTUMN GLORY

e glorious Cholmondeley Castle Gardens will be open from 10am on 27th October, for you to discover the romantic temple and folly water gardens, arboretum and Tower Hill, and wander the lakeside nature trail around Deer Park Mere. Tickets are £8.50 (£4 child).

For an additional £12.50 you can join an afternoon of autumn fun in the cafe, including a pumpkin hunt and crafting autumn collages. To book, visit cholmondeleycastle.com

•1st October, Carriage Shed Makers’ Market, Chester The place to fi nd foodie delights, artisan wares, handmade jewellery and so much more. 10am-4pm.

•1st October, Antiques &

Salvage Market, Cheshire

Showground, Knutsford An exciting day for all those who love a rummage for antiques and architectural salvage, with around 200 excellent dealers. 8.30am-3pm. £6. Free parking!

Drop me o in Harlem!

Taking you back to the golden age of jazz, e Easy Rollers are a roaring seven-piece jazz band performing hits from the speakeasy bars of the Prohibition era. Join them on 8th October for an evening of jumpin’ and jivin’ at Clonter Opera eatre in Congleton. Tickets £20. clonter.org

Making tracks

Where e Trains Would Run is an illustrated walk through Congleton, using images of the town taken over the past 100 years to show how the main streets have developed to meet the changing social and economic needs of its inhabitants. Ian Doughty will lead the walk on 2nd October – meet him at Congleton Museum at 2pm. Adults £4, children £1. Details at congletonmuseum.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

4TH-13TH OCTOBER

Make time for Tatton Park

Autumn Deer Ruts, 12th & 18th October

Join the rangers for a guided walk to catch one of nature’s true spectacles. is is the time of year when male deer compete for females, resulting in much posturing and bellowing. 4-6pm. Over-8s only. £15. Book at tattonpark.org.uk

e Segway Experience Explore the grounds on an exhilarating 30 or 60-minute ride on one of these innovative vehicles. From £25 via segwayevents.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW? Male fallow deer shed their antlers in October and grow them again by February.

UK Bungee, 29th & 30th October Will you dare try this 300ft bungee – the highest regular jump in the UK – which takes place over Tatton’s vast and picturesque lake? Tickets are £120 per person, the screams are free! Book at ukbungee.co.uk

GET DOWN AND DIRTY!

e muddiest challenge of the Tough Mudder series is at Cholmondeley Castle Gardens on 10th September. With runs for all ages, you can opt for a 5k, 10k or 15k or enter the little ones in the one-mile Lidl Mudder.

Ready to push yourself to the limit? Take part in Europe’s Toughest Mudder right through the night – 12 hours of extreme teamwork, stamina and grit. Entry from £79, spectators £10. toughmudder.co.uk

Dunham Massey has one of the nest collections of ancient trees in England. A walk through the park on their Ancient Tree Trail takes you through layers of history going back 1,000 years. It’s also rich in wildlife and home to 150 fallow deer. Call 0161 941 1025 for visitor information.

LIGHTS FANTASTIC Now that’s champion!

•4th October,

Social Media Course, Wheelock Business Hub, Middlewich

In this full-day course you'll be guided through how to formulate an e ective strategy for your socials and learn the best tips, tricks and tools to make it as easy as possible. 10am-4pm. £149.

•6th October, Leading Ladies

Club, Love Lane Kitchen,

Nantwich If you are a businesswoman who enjoys connecting, supporting and empowering other women in a relaxed setting, you won't want to miss this event! 6.45-9.30pm, £17.50.

•7th October, The Madchester

Experience, The Hive, Winsford

Bringing you all the classic hits from one of the UK's most infl uential cities! 8pm. £7.

DID YOU

KNOW?

Allow around an hour and a half to walk the 1 mile route. There’s lots to see! Experience the glories of autumn as you’ve never seen them before, lit by canopies of fairy lights, tunnels of dancing Borealis-style lasers and interactive features. e Magical Woodland trail can be looped as many times as you wish, with plenty of opportunities to refuel and warm up with tasty snacks and hot drinks. It’s open 7th-31st October and tickets are £19.95 (child £15.50, under-2s free). magicalwoodland.com At up to 17 hands high, Shire horses are among the biggest in the world. At Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre, near Tarporley you can get a taste of caring for these gentle creatures and preparing them for the showring. Visitor experiences cost from £50. cotebrook.digitickets.co.uk.

Age and beauty

•8th October, Brewbarn

Sessions, Waverton, Chester

An afternoon of beer, food, music and laughs at Spitting Feathers HQ. Discover how they do it on a brewery tour, and sample a range of beer styles and fl avours – all included in the price. Plus great food from the farm (usually a hog roast) and entertainment from live bands and singers. 2pm-6pm. £30.

•13th October, BuzzKocks –

A Tribute to The Buzzcocks,

Alexander’s Live, Chester The UK’s number one Buzzcocks tribute band recreate songs from the band’s golden era. What’s more, they hail from yer actual Manchester! 8pm. £11.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

16TH-29TH OCTOBER

•16th October,

Autumnal Colours, Adlington Hall, Macclesfi eld

With a wide variety of trees, bushes and plants, the grounds are a must-see at this time of year. 2-5pm. Adults £6, students and children free.

•19th October, NetWalk

Delamere, Delamere Forest

Business networking in the great outdoors! Introduce yourself and your business to the group, then at several stops along the way partner up with someone for dedicated 1-2-1 discussions whilst you walk. 11am. Free.

Lyrics come to life

Words & Music brings a superb line-up to the beautiful town of Nantwich. Details and booking at

wordsandmusicfestival.com Rich Hall, 15th October

Don’t miss this special appearance from a brilliant stand-up and writer. 12.30pm. £20.

Beverley Craven & Judie Tzuke, 13th October

Two of the UK’s foremost singer-songwriters, backed by a string quartet. 7pm. Tickets £30. Ian McCulloch, 15th October Spine-tingling stu from Echo & e Bunnymen star. 7.30pm. £20.

Space, 14th October Witty and unpredictable, Space hold a special place in our hearts. 7.30pm. £18. Kathryn Williams, 12th October e songwriter’s songwriter has a loyal fan-base. 7.30pm. £15.

•22nd October, Stanley Palace Ghost Hunt, Chester Brave Chester's most haunted home! Tickets include ghost tour, ghost hunt, soup, snacks and hot drinks. 7.30pm-2am (Sunday morning). £45.

•From 27th October, Mid-

Cheshire Woodland Wellbeing, Marbury Park, Northwich

During this sixsession Wellbeing with Nature you'll explore local green space, manage a wildfl ower meadow, orchard and food-growing spaces, and build dead hedges. Transport is provided from Winsford and Northwich. 10am-3pm. Free but booking is essential.

•29th October, Day of the

Dead, Rudheath Social Club,

Northwich An evening of music and fun based around the Mexican celebration of Día de los Muertos, with live music from Harley'n'Dutch and friends. 7.30pm. £10.

Village of variety

Stand-up comedy, classical music, reggae, theatre, folk, jazz, poetry, painting and craft are just some of the wide spectrum of arts on o er at Goosfest, taking place in Goostrey from 7th-16th October. e festival takes place at a range of venues around the village and features both professional and amateur acts. Times and ticket prices vary, and some events are free. For details see goosfest.com

Streaming now

‘Gathering Downstream’ is a specially commissioned installation by artist Jen Southern at Quarry Bank. e piece, created with the help of machine-learning technology, takes the form of ve lms that are embedded in a river-like installation inside the historic cotton mill. e exhibition is free, but normal admission charges to the mill apply (opening times 10.30am-5pm).

quarrybank@nationaltrust.org.uk

IT’S YOUR ROUND!

Now in its 28th year, Northwich Beer Festival’s popularity is down to three main factors: the beer, the bands and now the gin! Taking place on 16th &

17th September

at Northwich Memorial Court, you can choose from evening sessions (£10)or quieter afternoons (£5). Organised by Rotary in Northwich, updates are available on Facebook.

ROARING FOR MORE

Travel back in time to the roaring ’20s with Razzle Dazzle – a Musical Murder Mystery Dining Experience. On 21st October, Northwich Memorial Court transforms itself to the Vaudeville eatre in downtown Chicago. Enjoy a delicious three-course meal whilst the cast present a highly interactive show, hosted by sensational nightclub singer Miss ermal Kelly. 7.30pm. Tickets cost £39. To book, call 01606 261100 or email

NorthwichMC@ brioleisure.org

All’s well in Heswall

One of the jewels in the crown of the Wirral Peninsula, Heswall attracts the rich and famous, and affluent families looking for a smart neighbourhood and great connections

DID YOU KNOW? The music video for Coldplay’s ‘Life in Technicolor II’ was shot at Heswall fete

St Peter’s tower is as old as it gets here

On the edge of the Wirral Peninsula, Heswall is popular with commuters and families, being just 20 minutes’ drive from both Liverpool and Chester and surrounded by countryside. It can declare itself proudly part of Cheshire or Merseyside, depending on who you ask, and is home to a population of around 16,500 – if you include the outlying areas of Gayton and Barnston.

It’s a very desirable town and location, sitting on the eastern side of the Dee estuary, with views across the river to North Wales and stunning sunsets to enjoy from the shore. From one of its higher points, you can see the towers of Liverpool’s cathedrals on the horizon. The modern town centre is separated by a winding downhill road from the old village where red sandstone is the order of the day. Here, all routes lead to the shoreline, where you can join the famous Wirral Way walking and cycling route.

The coast itself is usually bereft of water, although the marshland attracts rare and endangered birds, and enough channels fill on the tide to launch the occasional boat. Like much of the Wirral, Heswall claims plenty of Viking links and was originally recorded in the Domesday Book as ‘Eswelle’. It was a tiny hamlet for many centuries, counting a mere 168 residents even in 1801. Over the next 40 years this only crept up to 398, but eventually the place experienced a welldeserved boom. Wealthy merchants from Liverpool decided it was a great place to live, especially once two rail stations appeared that allowed them to commute or to reach onward connections into North Wales. One has since closed, but the survivor still serves the area well and enables a direct journey to Chester.

Built to last

Heswall’s oldest structure is the tower of St Peter’s parish church, but this is still only about 500 years old as the building suffered more than its share of misfortune. The present church dates from 1879 and is the third to have been built on the site. Its predecessor was destroyed by a violent thunderstorm in 1875 that also claimed the lives of the organist and bellows boy.

The remains of Gayton’s windmill, which stopped operating in 1860 and is now a private home, can be seen on the main road, and several handsome houses and sandstone buildings still grace the town. A more recent loss was The Royal Liverpool Children’s Hospital, which originally opened here in 1909. It occupied a nine-acre site and had a clock tower and grounds with views over the estuary. However, it closed in 1985 and, despite campaigns, was demolished to make way for a Tesco superstore. The commerce this attracts keeps other businesses thriving, and Heswall has a selection of independent and chain outlets as well as an impressive array of pubs, restaurants and bars.

Famous faces

An affluent area, Heswall was once listed as the seventh richest neighbourhood in the UK. Paul McCartney bought his dad a house here; Ian Botham and radio presenter John Peel are among its famous sons. It’s popular with musicians and footballers, including John Barnes, who still resides in the village.

With historic spots, beautiful views, bustling shops and brilliant schools it is easy to see why those who can afford to tend to stick around in this sought-after suburb.

It’s a green and pleasant place to live

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

Heswall Dales

Open parkland and a Site of Special Scientific Interest wirral.gov.uk/leisure-parks-and-events/ parks-and-open-spaces/heswall-dales

The Dungeon

Another SSSI – historic sandstone cave and waterfall Wirral Way, Heswall CH60 6SG

DID YOU KNOW? Howard had an incredible 15 top 40 hit singles in the 1980s and early ’90s

BLOOMING BRILLIANT ENTERTAINMENT

e Floral Pavilion in New Brighton genuinely has something for everyone! Book tickets at

oralpavilion.com

Twopence to Cross the Mersey, 6th-11th September

is stunning drama based on Helen Forrester’s autobiography is set in the 1930s, in the midst of the Great Depression. Times vary. From £26.25.

A Beautiful Noise, 25th September Fisher Stevens and a full band perform the music of Neil Diamond. 7.30pm. Tickets £26.75. Ray Quinn, 8th October Celebrating the fabulous music and incredible story of the Rat Pack. 7.30pm. £26.75.

Hal Cruttenden – It’s Best You Hear It From Me,

21st October Hal’s single again, but instead of getting the therapy he clearly needs, he’s made a show about it! 7.30pm. £21.75.

Howard Jones, 30th October In this acoustic show Howard presents a fresh take on the hits and recollections from his career. 7.30pm. From £29.25.

ART FOR ART’S SAKE

e Wirral Arts Festival is an annual two-week celebration of music, plays, crafts, paintings, dancing and anything else you can class as art! From 1st-15th October you can enjoy highquality live entertainment and artwork in venues across the Wirral. Join in with workshops and make new friends. Times and venues to be announced, keep an eye on wirralartsfestival.co.uk

Keep it in the family

It’s Halloween, time for trick or treat and all things spooky, and the Addams Family are back! Morticia and Gomez are preparing for the annual gathering of family members – alive and dead. Join them plus Uncle Fester, Lurch, Wednesday and Pugsley on a journey through the twists and turns of love, family and friendship. Hilarious and heart-warming, this musical comedy is at Port Sunlight from 27th-29th October. Tickets £20. gladstonetheatre.org.uk

Tubular Bells strikes gold

Tubular Bells, one of the iconic works of the 20th century and the highest selling instrumental album of all time, is approaching its 50th anniversary. On 22nd September e Light cinema is showing a lm of an epic new stage production, recorded at the Royal Festival Hall. 8pm. Tickets £13.95 (child £11.45). newbrighton.lightcinemas.co.uk

Capturing nature

Join one of the UK’s leading botanical illustrators Simon Williams for a two-day workshop painting ora and fauna in gouache or watercolour, on 12th-13th October, , at the Hulme Room in Ness Botanical Gardens. e course is suitable for all abilities, and you are welcome to join for one or both days. Each day costs £121 and there are discounts for members. For details email info@ info@

eldbreaksart.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

7TH-25TH SEPTEMBER

•7th September, Netwalking

wiht Netork She, Eastham

Country Park Netwalking combines networking, walking, being outdoors and plenty of laughs in one event. 10am. Free.

•8th September,

Lucy Worsley, Birkenhead School

An evening with the Queen of History as she delves into the life of the Queen of Crime, Agatha Christie. 7pm. £25, includes book.

•7th, 21st September & 5th,

19th October, The Original Panama Jazz Band, The Irby Club, 15 Thingwall Road, Irby

Dance and listen to the best live Dixieland/Chicago-style jazz every fi rst and third Wednesday, often with surprise guests. Free.

•18th September, Classic Car

Rally, Goredale Garden Centre,

Burton Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just love a vintage display, this is an event you don’t want to miss! 11am.

•22nd September,

‘Beyond 66.5 Degrees North – Arctic Norway’, St Bridget’s Church Centre, West Kirby

An illustrated talk by award-winning Richard Steel for Wirral Bird Club, taking a summer journey from the pine grosbeak of Lapland’s forests to the fascinating ru lek on the tundra. 7.30pm. £4.

•22nd September, Wirral &

Chester Business Fair, New Brighton Floral Pavilion

Support day featuring 40-50 exhibitors, a networking session, business workshops, advice clinics and more. 10.30am. Free.

•25th September, L’Orchestra

dell’Arte, United Reformed

Church, Heswall The wonderful ‘American’ string quartet by Dvorak and Mozart’s quartet K157. 3pm. £6.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

1ST-30TH OCTOBER

1st-30th October, Family Fright Festival, Church Farm,

Thurstaston Lots of fun activities, friendly animals and awesome views for you to see. 10am-5pm. Tickets from £5.

Pete Carr

9th October, Art Poetry Tour, Lady Lever Art Gallery, Port

Sunlight Join local poets from the Wirral Poetry Festival to hear poems inspired by the works of art within the gallery. 2pm. Free.

15th October, Jerome Hill & Shawn Cartier, Future Yard, Birkenhead

Two legends of the UK dance scene, joined by local spinners All Trades, Cersy and Luna thee Frenchie. 10pm. Tickets from £10.

16th October, Antiques Fair, Hulme Hall, Port Sunlight

Long-established antiques and collectors’ fair in this beautiful Victorian hall. Over 60 tables of desirable items. 9.30am.

•27nd October, ‘Around the

World in 80 Birds’, St Bridget’s Church Centre, West Kirby

Chris Galvin shares two decades of travel with a telephoto lens at Wirral Bird Club. 7.30pm. £4.

28th October, Burn – Deep Purple Tribute, Heswall Hall

Over two hours of searing rock, from ‘Highway Star’, ‘Space Truckin’’, ‘Woman from Tokyo’ to MkIII classics like ‘Stormbringer’ and, of course, ‘Burn’. 8pm. £17.

GO WEST

September An exciting new collaboration from two of folk’s nest voices. 7.30pm. Tickets £14.

Snake Davis, 14th October One of the world’s most respected and in-demand sax players, Snake and his band will be playing sax classics, plus solos including ‘Search For e Hero’. 7.30pm. £20.

DID YOU KNOW? Snake has played with James Brown, Paul McCartney and Tina Turner.

Kiki Dee and Carmelo Luggeri – e Long

Road Home Tour, 17th September For almost two decades, the duo have been touring their spellbinding acoustic live show. 7.30pm. Tickets £24.

Paul Walker and Karen Pfei er, 23rd September

Self-penned and imaginatively arranged songs, with guitar, woodwind and percussion. 7.30pm. £10.

Miranda Sykes and Hannah Martin, 25th

Autumn Wine Festival, 29th October Dove and Olive bring you a selection of 30-40 of their favourite wines in this informal tasting. 6pm. £10.

westkirbyartscentre.org.uk

STAND BY YOUR BEDS

e Prenton Park sleep-out returns on 23rd September. Leave the comfort of your bed and raise funds for the homelessness and housing charity Shelter. It’s just £10 to register (over-18s) and you’re asked to raise at least £100 in sponsorship. Can’t make it to the ground? Pitch a tent or make a den in your living room – registration is free, just raise £40. Details at tranmererovers.co.uk

Race to the finish

Into the woods…

e Chronicles of Atom & Luna is Murray Lachlan Young’s epic tale for families. Our heroes must seek out the mysterious Old Mother Redbeard to save their larger-than-life childminder I y Sney. To do so they will journey deep into a magical forest on a life-changing adventure. Showing from 19th to 23rd October, at various times. Tickets from £5, visit theatreporto.org It’s a special year for Wallasey Motor Club, marking 40 years of its Cataclean Promenade Stages Rally. Taking place on 9th-10th September, two stages will run on the Friday night, the second oodlit, followed by up to 10 stages on Saturday, on King’s Parade, New Brighton. e service area is hosting a Rally Village with fun for all the family. Tickets are £10 (per vehicle) or £15 for two days. wallaseymc.com

A di erent perspective

Experience the world from new angles at Birkenhead Park from 19th-25th September. An exhibition at the Visitor Centre showcases art, craft and pottery by members of Wirral Society of the Blind and Partially Sighted, demonstrating how the world is seen from the perspective of sight loss. Open 9.30am4.30pm, entry free. wirralsociety.org.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

1ST-10TH SEPTEMBER

•1st September, The Blackheart Orchestra, Hermon Arts Centre,

Oswestry Billed as the smallest orchestra in the world – two people, 13 instruments – the duo draw on their background in folk, rock, electronica and classical. £15. 8pm.

•3rd September, Astronomy Day, Whittington Castle, near Oswestry

Various local astronomy groups will be in residence at the castle, talking all things space and demonstrating the equipment used in viewing and photographing the night sky. Talks will happen throughout the day. 10am-4pm.

•8th-10th September, Bridgnorth Beer Festival, Severn Valley Railway

Over three days, the Severn Valley Railway Station will host up to 50 real ales, ciders and perries for the free Bridgnorth Beer Festival. Times vary.

•10th September, Water’s Edge Fest, Chetwynd Deer

Park, Newport The second date of the Water’s Edge Fest, featuring no less than nine hours of live music, pop-up food and drink vendors, face painting and festival glitter, all in a tranquil setting by the water. Tickets must be bought in advance. £24.95 (£14.95 child). 11am.

•10th September, Oakengates Carnival,

Telford A traditional procession will move through the streets, including carnival fl oats vintage cars and tractors, and street performers. This will be followed by a free family fun day at Hartshill Park. 11am.

DID YOU KNOW? A single barn owl family can eat 3,000 rodents in four months!

Celebrating the countryside

Country pursuits enthusiasts will be entertained at the Weston Park Country Fair on 17th- 18th September. Whether you enjoy competitive gun dog and clay shooting events, fishing or displays of falconry, there will be lots of first-class performances, as well as live music, rural crafts and antiques, and a food festival area. Family entertainment is offered all day in the main arena, including jousting, motocross stunts and the Red Devils display team. Have-a-go activities are also on offer. Dogs welcome, and parking is free. Save money by buying tickets online in advance: day tickets are £20 for adults, £6 for children online, weekend tickets are also available. westonparkcountryfair.com

All about wellness

Runner and TV personality Nell McAndrew will be on hand with professional advice at the brand-new Wellbeing Festival, taking place on 3rd September in Quarry Park, Shrewsbury. Comprising wellbeing, fitness, nutrition and kids health, along with a yoga and mindfulness zone, there’s opportunities for everyone – from bootcamp to sound healing, chair exercise and kids’ dance fitness. You can indulge in a spot of retail therapy in the shopping village too. Admission is £12.50, under-15s free with a paying adult. wellbeingfestival.co.uk

Enjoy a spooky safari

West Midlands Safari Park is hosting its Spooky Spectacular from 23rd-30th October. e park will be decorated for Halloween, an impressive pumpkin patch will be open and pumpkin-scarecrow ‘Patch’ will be greeting and entertaining guests. Open hours have been extended during half term so visitors can experience the dinosaurs and theme park rides in the dark. Adult £25, child £20, all theme park rides charged additionally. wmsp.co.uk

Steam ahead at Blists Hill

Blists Hill Victorian Town will be filled with the evocative smells of hot oil and steam for the second of its steam weekends on 3rd-4th September. Admire the mighty machines in the world they originally inhabited. There will be visiting engines of different scales and makes, including four full size. Regular admission fees apply (£21.50, £14 child), with the option to purchase a passport ticket allowing unlimited access to all the museums in the group for one year. ironbridge.org.uk

Love is all around

The smooth tones of Marti Pellow are instantly recognisable, inseparable from one of the smashhit movie soundtracks of the ’90s. In this intimate evening in The Place Theatre on 30th September he shares his story, wrapped in songs you know and songs you’ll get to know. Tickets start from £31.50, and meet and greet options are available. theplacetelford.com

That’s entertainment

The autumn programme at Theatre Severn is packed with music, comedy, theatre and interest. Here’s our top picks:

22nd September, Adrian Hayes – To the Ends of the Earth Adrian Hayes – To the Ends of the Earth

Record-breaking adventurer and former Gurkha officer, Record-breaking adventurer and former Gurkha officer, Hayes takes you through jungles, deserts and ice-caps, Hayes takes you through jungles, deserts and ice-caps, sharing lessons learnt along the way. 7pm. Tickets £19.50.

28th September, Newton Faulkner – Feels Like Home.Feels Like Home.

The top singer-songwriter performs acoustic versions of The top singer-songwriter performs acoustic versions of his best-known songs. 8pm. Tickets from £29.50. his best-known songs. 8pm. Tickets from £29.50.

13th October. Ed Gamble Award-winning Award-winning comedian who co-hosts hit podcast Off Menu Off Menu with James Acaster, extends his Electric show to show to to to Shrewsbury. 7.30pm. £22. theatresevern.co.uk theatresevern.co.uk

A movie at Attingham

Adventure Cinema brings four blockbuster movies to Attingham Park from 2nd4th September. Pack a picnic and bring chairs, beanbags, blankets – whatever you need to get comfy. Most screenings begin after sunset, but there’s an afternoon showing of Encanto on the 3rd. Tickets £14.50 (under-12s £9.50).

nationaltrust.org.uk

Shrewsbury Proms

Music lovers can enjoy the magic of Elgar, Tchaikovsky and Beethoven as the late summer sun sets over the West Mid Showground on 10th September. Expect all the classics from ‘Last Night of the Proms’ performed by Shropshire-born opera singer Holly Teague and the 40-piece Midlands Proms Orchestra. e performance begins at 7pm. Tickets start from £20 for early-bird bookings, with accompanied under-12s free (strictly up to three children per adult). westmidshowground.co.uk

Walk this way

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

13TH-24TH SEPTEMBER

•13th September, Fungi Foray, Lightmoor Nature Reserve

Join Shropshire Wildlife Trust for a peek into the amazing world of fungi. Please bring a packed lunch and dress suitably for the weather. 10.30am. Free, but advanced booking required.

•17th & 18th September, Oswestry Antique & Collectors Fair, Oswestry Showground

A mixture of indoor and outdoor stalls selling antiques, vintage, collectibles, architectural salvage, mid-century and simply decorative items. Opens 8.30am. Free parking, free entry for under-16s, adults £3.50.

•23rd September, An Evening with Raynor Winn, The Holroyd Theatre,

Oswestry Hosted by Bookabookshop, Sunday Times best-selling author Raynor Winn introduces her new book Landlines, which details her and husband Moth’s walk along the 200-mile Cape Wrath Trail. 7.30pm. Tickets £8, or £20 to include a signed copy.

•23rd September, Parallel Mothers (cert 15), The Hive, Shrewsbury

Shrewsbury Film Society presents the latest release from Spanish director Pedro Almodovar, Madres Parallelas, starring Penelope Cruz, one of several world cinema features showing during autumn and winter. Films from Italy and Mexico follow in October. 8pm. Tickets £6.

Enjoy walking our beautiful county from 17th-25th September as part of the Shropshire Way Walking Festival. Groups across the county will be organising and leading walks that include a section of the Shropshire Way main route. The festival has been extended following high demand, and details of all walks can be found at

shropshireway.org.uk

SUGAR, SPICE, ALL THINGS NICE

Market Drayton is the home of gingerbread, with a culinary history extending back over 200 years, so treats are guaranteed at the Ginger and Spice Festival on 24th September. Follow the heritage trail and sample tasters along the way, help judge the best-dressed gingerbread contest, and visit the spice exchange and artisan street market. ere’s a food theatre and eclectic mix of fringe events. e fun takes place between 10am and 5pm and it’s free. gingerandspicefest.co.uk

•24th September, Fizzgigs 10th Anniversary Ceilidh,

Criftins Village Hall Ellesmere Community Arts group Fizzgigs are celebrating their 10th anniversary with a night of dancing and music from the Fizzjigs band, and surprise interval entertainment. 7.30pm. Pay on the door £5.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

24TH SEPT - 1ST OCT

•24th September, Newport

Food Frenzy Expect more than 50 artisan food and drink producers from across the West Midlands, with many local eateries hosting their own events. There will be Newport’s own ‘bake o ’, plus musical entertainment. 10am-4.30pm.

•25th September, Wem 10K

Starting and fi nishing at Thomas Adams School, the fast-paced route passes through the town and into countryside. Alongside the standard race there will also be an elite race and children’s 1k. All fi nishers will receive medals. 10am. Standard entry including T-shirt £23.

•25th September, Autumn Apple Day, Shropshire Hills Discovery

Centre Take a tour of the orchards at Onny Meadows, get help with apple identifi cation and watch apple pressing and jellymaking demonstrations. There will be a chance to sample the delights, along with apple craft activities. 11am.

•1st October, Aviation Photography Workshop, RAF

Cosford Museum This full-day workshop, suitable for all levels, includes professional tuition, and access to the Cold War hangar after hours to put your new skills into practice. 11am. £75 including lunch and parking, booking essential.(Please note cameras are not provided.)

•1st October, Sherry and Tapas Masterclass, Shrewsbury

Wine School Pay your respects to International Sherry Week with this two-hour tasting at the Lion Hotel. You will get to sample six sherries, accompanied by delicious tapas. 7pm. £40, booking essential.

A whole lot of heritage

Heritage Open Days take place around the country over ten days from 9th-18th September. This annual festival of culture and history offers a chance to visit new places, many not normally open to the public. Among the locations in Shropshire taking part is Shrewsbury Drapers Hall, which has an open day on 9th September.

The hall dates back to 1575, and has been the headquarters of the Shrewsbury Drapers for over 400 years. It will be open to view, and visitors can also take part in the Drapers Trail around the town. All Heritage Open Day events are free of charge. heritageopendays.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW? The hall cost just under £10 to build, less than a pair of cotton pillow cases today!

Garden call for artists PUMPKIN-TASTIC

e Dorothy Clive Garden, near Market Drayton, is inviting artists to spend a day sketching, painting or taking photographs in these glorious surroundings. Between 19th and 23rd September the usual entry fee will be reduced for artists, and tables set up in the Bryan Mayer Pavillion for use as a work base. A sink will also be available. Groups and individuals are welcome but please book ahead. Cost £8 per artist. dorothyclivegarden.co.uk

First Family of folk

For more than 50 years Martin Carthy has been one of folk music’s greatest innovators, and on 21st October he and his twice Mercury Prize nominated daughter Eliza Carthy make their first appearance at St Mary’s Church in Shrewsbury. Martin is a legendary ballad singer and guitarist who has influenced generations of artists, while Eliza is a multiple-award winner at the BBC Radio Two Folk Awards. The show starts at 8pm and tickets are £18 from ticketsource.co.uk

FUN AT PARK HALL

Join in with Halloween activities at Park Hall Farm, Oswestry, from 14th-16th October and 21st October-3rd November. As well as Pumpkin Alley, e Witches’ Cavern, e Little Scare House and singing pumpkins, there’s a daily fancy-dress competition, so dig out your best costumes. Every paying child receives a pumpkin to carve, to take home at the end of the day. Entry to the farm is £11.95 per person, pre-bookable online, with a £1 supplement for the Halloween event. parkhallfarm.co.uk

Run the best of Shrewsbury

Shrewsbury Half Marathon on 9th October offers the best of the town’s scenic surroundings. The race sets off from West Mid Showground, proceeding along the river and through the Quarry, taking in some of the town’s most historic sites, before heading back through the Shropshire countryside. Road closures will be in place, and finishers will receive a T-shirt or can opt to commemorate the event by having five trees planted. Entry costs £32. ukrunchat.co.uk

Keeping cataract surgery quick and easy in North Wales

with Newmedica Shrewsbury

If you’re unlucky enough to have been diagnosed with a cataract, you’ll know it can have a major impact on your ability to live your life as you want to, from enjoy sooner. There are a number of reasons why some patients choose to go private. It might be that the treatment they need isn’t available on the NHS, they’d driving to enjoying your favourite hobbies – and the chances are you might face a bit of a wait to have it treated. Cataracts happen when the lens inside your eye develops cloudy patches. Over time, these generally grow, leading to misty vision, blurring “Being able to help them is a real honour and can eventually result in loss of sight for us” altogether. If you’re unlucky enough to have been diagnosed with a cataract, you’ll know it can have a major impact on your ability to live your life as you want to, from driving to meet friends, to enjoying your favourite hobbies – and the chances are you might face a bit of a wait to have it treated. Newmedica Shrewsbury, based on Anchorage Avenue on the Shrewsbury Business Park, offers patients across North Wales, a safe, fast and effective cataract surgery option within weeks of being referred by your optician or GP, meaning you can get back to doing the things you like to have more options on their treatment plans, or they’re after more flexibility around their appointment and treatment types. The independent eye health clinic and surgical centre treats private patients from just £2,295 per eye, depending on your choice of lenses, and accepts patients with private medical insurance from Aviva, Allianz, AXA PPP, Bupa, Saga and Vitality, amongst others. The team also offers YAG laser treatment, which is used to treat cloudy vision after cataract surgery, and aftercare. Operational director and partner Cinty Yarnell says: “We’ve had terrific feedback from our patients since we opened. We know that, for the patients we support, their loss of vision is having a massive impact on their ability to enjoy their lives, so being able to help them is a real honour for us. Why not get in touch and find out how we can help you.”

To find out more, visit www.newmedica.co.uk/clinics/shrewsbury, email shrewsbury@newmedica.co.uk, or call 01743 292392.

Head in the clouds

DID YOU KNOW? Kate was the fi rst woman to reach No.1 with a selfwritten song

Kate Bush’s 1985 hit ‘Running Up That Hill’ hit the top of the charts again earlier this year, thanks to the Netflix hit show Stranger Things. New fans of her music – and original followers too – will enjoy the enigmatic star’s most authentic tribute act, Cloudbusting, at Festival Drayton Centre on 9th September. The two-hour professional production includes all the hits, from ‘Hounds of Love’ to ‘Babooshka’, and several members of the group – musicians Del and Preston and dancer Stewart – worked with Kate back in the day. 7.30pm. Tickets £20. festivaldraytoncentre.com

IT’S FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD

Indulge in your favourites or try something new as over 100 food and drink producers converge in the grounds of Ludlow Castle on 9th-11th September for Ludlow Food Festival. As well as the showcase of products from Ludlow and the Welsh Marches, a line-up of chefs, food writers and authors are ready to entertain and inspire. Day tickets cost £13.50, and multi-day tickets are also available. ludlowfoodfestival.co.uk

Art around the Gorge

A wide range of local artists are exhibiting their work from 1st-11th September as part of the Secret Severn Art Trail. e main show is at Jack eld Tile Museum, with other open studios within walking distance. It’s a great opportunity to meet the artists, see them work, and even add a piece to your collection. See secretsevern.co.uk

Make the most of Michelmas

Traditionally, Michelmas Fair was held at the end of the harvest season, and Bishop’s Castle Michelmas Fair continues to thrive, taking place this year on 17th September, with a wide range of entertainment for everyone, beginning at midday. Alongside street traders, you can expect music, displays, exhibits, two vehicle parades and a lantern procession at dusk. michelmasfair.org.uk

A must for model enthusiasts

Expect awardwinning O-gauge displays at the Autumn Model Railway Weekend on 24th-25th September at Severn Valley Railway. e Engine House at Highley will be full of modellers from all over the UK, working exclusively in O gauge. Access to the exhibits of dioramas and technology as well as trade stands is available via the railway, with a busy timetable in operation to allow visitors easy access. svr.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

1ST-5TH OCTOBER

•1st-2nd October, Bonsai Live, Telford International

Centre Overfl owing with inspiration, this is the UK’s largest bonsai event, featuring the best traders and exhibitors selling trees, tools, pots, soils and every manner of bonsairelated goods. 10am. £15.

•1st October, Hadrian’s Wall

Challenge for Climbing Out If you recall last year’s Snowdonia Challenge to raise money for this valuable charity, you may like to try one of their four Northumberland routes for 2022. Climbing Out funds places on outdoor activity programmes, aimed at rebuilding confi dence and motivation after life-changing injury, illness or trauma. Find out more at climbingout.org.uk or email admin@climbingout.org.uk

•2nd October, Dudmaston

Hall Autumn Fair For this Made in Shropshire artisan market, traders are carefully selected to ensure quality and no duplication, and include food and drink, arts and gifts stalls. 10.30am-4.30pm. Admission to the hall is £13.20, with free entry to the market.

•3rd October, Shrewsbury Ghost Cruise, Sabrina Boat

Available on selected dates throughout October, board the Sabrina for an evening river cruise and be regaled with Shrewsbury’s spooky history. Strictly advanced booking only. May not be suitable for young children. 7pm. £12 (child £6.50).

•5th October, Ludlow Races

It’s Ludlow Brewery Day at the racecourse. Enjoy some early autumn racing at the most family-friendly course around. Several Ludlow beers will be on sale, and entry including a pint is £16. Gates open at midday.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

6TH-29TH OCTOBER

•6th October,

Shropshire Music Awards, The Place, Telford

Shining a light on local talent in a range of genres and styles. 6pm. £12.

•21st October, Massaoke Sing the Musicals, The Buttermarket,

Shrewsbury The ultimate fun night out. Sing along with a live band to all your favourites, then party into the early hours with an ’80s retro disco. 7pm. £18.

•22nd-30th October, Halloween at Stokesay Castle, Craven

Arms Gather your little monsters for a ghoulishly good day out. Follow the trail to solve creepy clues, then gather to hear spooky stories. 10am-5pm. Adults £11.20, children £6.60.

•26th-27th October, Ghost

Walk, Bridgnorth A guided tour through ancient alleyways to discover how ten ghosts met their grisly ends. Starts 7pm at Town Hall, ends at the Theatre with a 30-minute stage show. Booking essential. £12 (£6 child).

•28th-30th October, Market Drayton Arts Festival

Showcasing local talent, the festival provides a range of interactive events at venues including Festival Drayton Centre, St Mary’s Church, the library and more. Many are free, and the full programme will be published in early September.

•29th October, Spooky Marathon, Burroughs Bank,

Telford Places are limited for this fright night run. Choose either a full or half marathon, run in fancy dress with your head torch and enjoy post-race refreshments around the bonfi re. Race entry £35.

Cheers to Oktoberfest

DID YOU KNOW? Oktoberfest began as a wedding party for Prince Ludwig. The ultimate stag do?

One of the biggest nights out of the year, Shropshire Oktoberfest takes place in Quarry Park, Shrewsbury on 30th September and 1st October. The original Oktoberfest is an important part of Bavarian culture, and has been held in the German city of Munich since 1810. The Shropshire festival will be filled with independent brewers, distillers and local drinks producers, serving up ale, lager, cider, perry, wine, gin, rum, fizz and cocktails. Vorsprung Durch Oompah will be entertaining on the music stage to give that Oktoberfest feel, or you can dance to your own tune – literally – at the silent disco. Tickets are £25, with some online discounts available and VIP options. Sorry no dogs allowed. shropshireoktoberfest.co.uk

Come into the garden

Oteley Garden, on the Mere in Ellesmere, was one of the original members of the National Garden Scheme when it launched in 1927. The ten acres are home to a fantastic array of trees and shrubs and extensive lawns, and incorporate features from the original house. Open days take place in conjunction with a local market, and the next is 8th October (10am-5pm). Entry to the garden is £6, under-16s free. oteley.com

Sip in style

The finest bars and bartenders in Shrewsbury are coming together from 3rd-11th September for Shrewsbury Cocktail Week. Enjoy classic cocktails along with some new creations, and even a mocktail, all made with quality ingredients. The programme for the week includes cocktail classes, tasting menus, parties and special offers, all with the ethos of drinking better not more. Entry by wristband, £8. shrewsburycocktailweek.com

Art matters

Whitchurch Blackberry Fair fuses art and sustainability, bringing the community together through positive energy. is chilled-out free festival takes place on 1st October, and as well as some interesting markets and kids activities, o ers a massive range of arts entertainment including street artists, poetry slams, sea shanty singers, concert pianists, fashion shows and story-telling. More information about the programme and locations can be found at

blackberryfair.co.uk

Become a coracle champion

Seize your place in the record books as part of the Macmillan Coracle World Championships, taking place on 16th September at Pengwern Boat Club in Shrewsbury. Up to 48 teams of four will take part in the race, mostly in fancy dress. It’s a chance to get involved in a great day on the water, or just enjoy the atmosphere. Team entry is £300, with additional fundraising welcome. coracleworldchampionship.co.uk