The Wilson Museum

Memory Lane
2026-05-07 10:30 - 12:00 (Europe/London)
Join our friendly social group for older people and anyone living with dementia.
Come to The Wilson for some creative activities, a relaxed chat, and a warm cuppa. Free tea and coffee are provided. There’s no need to book, and carers are very welcome.
Sessions take place on the first Thursday of each month, from 10:30 – 12:00, on the following dates:
Thursday 7 May
Thursday 4 June
Thursday 2 July
Thursday 6 August
Thursday 3 September
Thursday 1 October
Thursday 5 November
Thursday 3 December

Wilson Nights: Threads
2026-06-03 18:00 - 21:00 | The Wilson, The Wilson Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 13JT, United Kingdom
The Wilson’s artist-led events, WILSON NIGHTS, on the first Wednesday of every month from 6pm til 9pm.
The Story of Seven Sisters from 8.30pm ““ 9pm in The Foyle
A live philosophical performance by resident artist, Atul Bhunkal. Journey through seven unseen presences moving like colours within consciousness, unfolding meditative states through poetry, sound, silence, and metaphor. An immersive experience where mythology dissolves into dream, and perception becomes ritual beneath shifting landscapes of memory and light.
Running (Stitch) With It: Creative Sewing from 6-8.30pm in The Courtyard
Join Resident Artists Jennifer Hughes to use varied and vibrant fabric pieces to relax creatively through stitch.
Sitting among intriguing objects from the Wilson’s Handling Collection, we can respond to the qualities of the pieces and the conversations they inspire. Alternatively, allow the materials and the moment to lead your sewing.
We will be using simple running stitch and the activity is suitable for new or experienced sewers. All materials are provided and supportive guidance will be available.
Knit a Sweater from 6-8.30pm in the CafÃ©
DÇŽmÃ¡o yÄ« is a participatory workshop and live making session by artist Jing BAI.
Using aluminium wire in place of soft yarn, participants are invited to explore knitting, knotting and related textile techniques using unusual industrial materials. Throughout the evening, the space will function as both workshop and temporary studio – a place for making, conversation, experimentation and shared activity.
Visitors are welcome to observe, take part, contribute small fragments, or simply spend time in the space while the work continues to grow throughout the evening.
No experience needed. All materials provided.
Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra in Arts & Crafts from 6-8pm
Love experimenting with sound and music? Join this friendly group and dive into the world of improvised music. No instrument? No problem! There will be something for you to use, or bring your own. Open to all abilities, from beginners to professionals.
ðŸŽŸï¸ Entry and all performances are FREE – no need to book.
ðŸ¥³ We can’t wait for what is set to be a lively night at The Wilson!

Memory Lane
2026-06-04 10:30 - 12:00
Join our friendly social group for older people and anyone living with dementia.
Come to The Wilson for some creative activities, a relaxed chat, and a warm cuppa. Free tea and coffee are provided. There’s no need to book, and carers are very welcome.
Sessions take place on the first Thursday of each month, from 10:30 – 12:00, on the following dates:
Thursday 4 June
Thursday 2 July
Thursday 6 August
Thursday 3 September
Thursday 1 October
Thursday 5 November
Thursday 3 December

OFF GRID
2026-06-17 18:00 - 20:00
OFF GRID is a free, informal art group for young people aged 14–17 who want to get creative, try new things, and explore their own ideas. Whether you’re already passionate about art or just curious to experiment, OFF GRID offers a relaxed space to make, create, and connect with other young artists—no experience needed.
Sarah Fox
Stop Motion Animation with Sarah Fox
A 2-hour collaborative animation workshop where you will learn to animate to sound and build a short experimental animation to match. Using everyday objects we will use stop-motion apps to bring sound to life, frame by frame. No experience necessary.
Limited to 10 places per session – booking essential!
To book: oliver.tipper@cheltenhamtrust.org.uk
Please note: a parental permission form must be completed to attend.

Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra
2026-07-01 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-07-15 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-08-05 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-08-19 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-09-02 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-09-16 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-10-07 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-10-21 18:00 - 20:00 and 1 more date | The Wilson, The Wilson Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 13JT, United Kingdom
Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra
Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra is a community group enabling musicians and performance artists from a range of different backgrounds. The group was established to explore a collaborative space for improvisation and is open to anyone regardless of their ability or education. The group is led by award winning musician Chris Cundy with regular live performances taking place at Cheltenham Festivals.

These workshops explore exercises in creating surprise and spontaneity, conducting with visual pathways into communal music-making, exploring deep listening, and embracing new ways of performing music in public spaces.
Free on every first and third Wednesday of the month, 6-8PM.

Wilson Nights - FIRST TABLE
2026-07-01 18:00 - 21:00 | The Wilson, The Wilson Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 13JT, United Kingdom
WILSON NIGHTS: FIRST TABLE
1 July 2026 | 6–9pm | Free Entry
Join us for a special edition of WILSON NIGHTS celebrating artists and makers taking their first steps into selling their work.
FIRST TABLE is a new makers market created for underrepresented and first-time artists who may not usually see themselves represented at traditional arts and crafts markets. Browse original artwork, handmade objects, zines, prints, jewellery, textiles and more while meeting the people behind the work.
Alongside the market, join artist Steven Tatlow for Soulscapes, a free drop-in zine-making workshop using thermal printers. Experiment with image, text and storytelling to create your own unique publication.
We’ll also be hosting Open Decks (Vinyl Only) throughout the evening. Bring along a favourite record and claim a 30-minute slot to share your sounds with the room. Participants receive a free drink.
Whether you’re looking to discover new artists, make something creative, or simply spend an evening soaking up the atmosphere, FIRST TABLE offers a welcoming space to explore creativity and community.
🎟 Free entry📍 The Wilson, Cheltenham🕕 6–9pm

Memory Lane Cafe
2026-07-02 10:30 - 12:00
Join our friendly social group for older people and anyone living with dementia.
Come to The Wilson for some creative activities, a relaxed chat, and a warm cuppa. Free tea and coffee are provided. There’s no need to book, and carers are very welcome.
Sessions take place on the first Thursday of each month, from 10:30 – 12:00, on the following dates:
Thursday 2 July
Thursday 6 August
Thursday 3 September
Thursday 1 October
Thursday 5 November
Thursday 3 December

Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra @ Cheltenham Music Festival
2026-07-04 12:00 - 13:00 | The Wilson, The Wilson Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 13JT, United Kingdom
Join Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra for their first ever appearance at Cheltenham Music Festival. The orchestra will perform original pieces led by various soloists and players in the group including:
Microtonal Studies (for Strings and Orchestra)
Eccentric Conduction Piece
Sine Waves and Shepard Tones
Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra
Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra is a community group enabling musicians and performance artists from a range of different backgrounds. The group was established to explore a collaborative space for improvisation and is open to anyone regardless of their ability or education. The group is led by award winning musician Chris Cundy with regular live performances taking place at Cheltenham Festivals.

Art Meditation & Inner Peace
2026-07-08 18:00 - 19:30, 2026-08-12 18:00 - 19:30 | The Wilson, The Wilson Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 13JT, United Kingdom
Art Meditation & Inner Peace
Join resident artist Albert Chung for a guided meditation experience inspired by artworks from the exhibition, The Art of Looking.
Using selected works from the exhibition as a focus for reflection, Albert will lead participants through a gentle meditation designed to encourage calm, presence, and deeper connection. The session will also incorporate the artist’s i Xing Energy of Light Pyramid as part of the experience.
Explore art beyond the visual and discover new ways of looking, feeling, and being. The session aims to support a sense of inner peace, joy, and wellbeing.
FREE to join. Booking advised.
Book here

Collar Creations: Inspired by the Masters
2026-07-11 10:30 - 14:00
Inspired by the rich details of the portraits in The Art of Looking, drop in to this free family workshop to imagine, and create your own wearable artwork!
Take a closer look at the textures, clothing and hidden stories within artworks in the exhibition and be inspired by the elaborate collars and fine details seen in portraits. Then, using simple materials, cut, fold and build your own paper collars inspired by what you see. This is your chance to experiment, play and see differently.
Drop in anytime, stay as long as you like!
Suitable for all ages. No booking required.

OFF GRID
2026-07-15 18:00 - 20:00
OFF GRID is a free, informal artist-led art group for young people aged 14–17 who want to get creative, try new things, and explore their own ideas. Whether you’re already passionate about art or just curious to experiment, OFF GRID offers a relaxed space to make, create, and connect with other young artists—no experience needed.
Steven Tatlow
Beginners’ Portrait Photography Workshop with Steven Tatlow
This session will introduce the basics of portrait photography, from coming up with ideas to using composition, colour, light, and expression to create striking portraits. Through hands-on practice and creative exercises, you’ll build confidence behind the camera and start developing your own style.
Limited to 10 places per session – booking essential!
To book: oliver.tipper@cheltenhamtrust.org.uk
Please note: a parental permission form must be completed to attend.

Beginners’ Portrait Photography with Steven Tatlow
2026-07-15 18:00 - 20:00 | The Wilson, The Wilson Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 13JT, United Kingdom
This session will introduce the basics of portrait photography, from coming up with ideas to using composition, colour, light, and expression to create striking portraits. Through hands-on practice and creative exercises, you’ll build confidence behind the camera and start developing your own style.
This series of sessions is part of the OFF GRID programme for 14 to 17s only.
Further info here.

Be Brave Balloon: Author Book Reading
2026-07-21 11:00 - 12:00
Join us for a special children’s book reading with Roxanne Darby, author of Be Brave Balloon! Be Brave Balloon is a cozy picture book adventure for helping little ones understand that sometimes it’s okay to say goodbye. Perfect for ages 2-6. During this event Roxanne will read the book and lead a couple of interactive activities for little ones. Books will be available for purchase and signing!

Promising Artists Showcase
2026-07-26 10:00 - 2026-08-02 17:00
The Cafe Courtyard Gallery
Promising Artists Art School presents a showcase of watercolour & drawing by our adult and child artists, celebrating creativity, confidence and the joy of learning and making art together.
This showcase features artwork created by students attending the Practical Fine Art courses for adults and children at the Wilson Museum. The exhibition highlights the diverse talents, individual artistic journeys, and growing skills developed through these engaging classes.
Upcoming courses
We have upcoming Practical Fine Art courses for adults and children. These include Introduction to Drawing and Introduction to Watercolour. Learn more and book your place here.

Memory lane Cafe
2026-08-06 10:30 - 12:00
Join our friendly social group for older people and anyone living with dementia.
Come to The Wilson for some creative activities, a relaxed chat, and a warm cuppa. Free tea and coffee are provided. There’s no need to book, and carers are very welcome.
Sessions take place on the first Thursday of each month, from 10:30 – 12:00, on the following dates:
Thursday 6 August
Thursday 3 September
Thursday 1 October
Thursday 5 November
Thursday 3 December

Educators: working group invitation
2026-08-07 10:00 - 11:30
Help Shape the Future of Education at The Wilson
As we prepare to open our exciting new museum galleries, we’re looking for educators to help shape the future of The Wilson’s education programme.
We’re inviting teachers and education professionals from across all key stages to join our Education Advisory Panel. Through a series of consultation sessions over the coming year, you’ll have the opportunity to share your ideas, provide feedback and help us develop inspiring learning experiences for children and young people across Gloucestershire.
We welcome participants from all types of educational settings. The more diverse the voices around the table, the stronger and more inclusive our programme will be.
Why get involved?

Help influence the future of learning at The Wilson.
Share your expertise with our museum learning team.
Network with educators from across Gloucestershire.
Gain an insight into how museums create engaging learning programmes, exhibitions and interpretation for schools and families.
Explore opportunities for your own professional development by broadening your understanding of museum education, object-based learning and cultural engagement.
Discover how museums can support curriculum delivery, creativity and cross-curricular learning.
Participation can contribute towards your continuing professional development (CPD), offering valuable experience of museum learning and the chance to develop new skills and perspectives beyond the classroom, with certification provided at the end of the process confirming participation.
Attend all sessions free of charge.
Be entered into a prize draw to win a free workshop for your educational setting.

Whether you’re looking to contribute your expertise, develop new partnerships, broaden your professional experience or are simply interested in how museums inspire learning beyond the classroom, we’d love to welcome you.
Our first session will take place online, with future meetings held in our newly opened museum galleries, giving participants the opportunity to see behind the scenes and experience our developing spaces first-hand.
If you’d like to play a part in shaping the next chapter of learning at The Wilson—and explore how working with museums can support your own professional practice—we’d love to hear from you.
Please email learning@cheltenhamtrust.org.uk to express your interest.

OFF GRID
2026-08-19 06:00 - 20:00
OFF GRID is a free, informal artist-led art group for young people aged 14–17 who want to get creative, try new things, and explore their own ideas. Whether you’re already passionate about art or just curious to experiment, OFF GRID offers a relaxed space to make, create, and connect with other young artists—no experience needed.
Limited to 10 places per session – booking essential!
To book: oliver.tipper@cheltenhamtrust.org.uk
Please note: a parental permission form must be completed to attend.
Guided Drawing Workshop with Atul Bhunkal
Join artist Atul Bhunkal, one of The Wilson’s 2026 Artists in Residence, for a creative guided drawing workshop.
This session is about experimenting, playing with ideas and using drawing as a way to notice, respond and make. You don’t need to be “good at drawing” — the focus is on trying things out and finding your own approach.
All materials provided.

Memory Lane Cafe
2026-09-03 10:30 - 12:00
Join our friendly social group for older people and anyone living with dementia.
Come to The Wilson for some creative activities, a relaxed chat, and a warm cuppa. Free tea and coffee are provided. There’s no need to book, and carers are very welcome.
Sessions take place on the first Thursday of each month, from 10:30 – 12:00, on the following dates:
Thursday 3 September
Thursday 1 October
Thursday 5 November
Thursday 3 December

Hand Sewing Basics: Applique with Alice Biggadike
2026-09-16 18:00 - 20:00 | The Wilson, The Wilson Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 13JT, United Kingdom
Make your own applique design on a square patch. This will be beginner friendly but can be made suitable for more advanced hand sewers if they are up for more challenging techniques.
This series of sessions is part of the OFF GRID programme for 14 to 17s only.
Further info here.

Memory Lane Cafe
2026-10-01 10:30 - 12:30
Join our friendly social group for older people and anyone living with dementia.
Come to The Wilson for some creative activities, a relaxed chat, and a warm cuppa. Free tea and coffee are provided. There’s no need to book, and carers are very welcome.
Sessions take place on the first Thursday of each month, from 10:30 – 12:00, on the following dates:
Thursday 1 October
Thursday 5 November
Thursday 3 December

Performance, Costume & Storytelling with Eddie Langham
2026-10-21 18:00 - 20:00 | The Wilson, The Wilson Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 13JT, United Kingdom
An interactive and collaborative creative workshop exploring identity, narrative, performance, and image-making through styling and costume. Participants will work together using garments, accessories, live models, and collaborative direction to create visually driven characters and stories that are captured through photography during the session.
This series of sessions is part of the OFF GRID programme for 14 to 17s only.
Further info here.
