The Wilson Museum

Memory Lane CafÃ©
2026-03-05 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 8 January
Thursday 5 February
Thursday 5 March
Thursday 2 April
Thursday 7 May
Thursday 4 June
Thursday 2 July
Thursday 6 August
Thursday 3 September
Thursday 1 October
Thursday 5 November
Thursday 3 December

Ideas Assembly with Helena Doyle
2026-03-21 14:00 - 16:00 | The Wilson, The Wilson Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 13JT, United Kingdom
The Idea’s Assembly is a cross between a people’s assembly and a creative think tank. Combining group discussions with hands-on tasks this playful workshop is designed to get participants generating ideas together. Led by 2025 artist in residence at The Wilson, Helena Doyle. Find out more about Helena here.
This workshop will take place in The Foyle. It is a drop-in and is free to attend.

Where Next? Cheltenham Family Book Launch
2026-03-31 10:00 - 13:00
This Easter, we’re so excited to launch a brand-new children’s book celebrating Cheltenham!
Where Next? Cheltenham is a beautifully illustrated picture book that brings the town’s much-loved landmarks to life. From Pittville Park and Neptune’s Fountain to the Everyman Theatre, children will delight in spotting familiar places and saying, “œI’ve been there!”
Join us for a relaxed, family-friendly launch event at The Wilson Art Gallery, Cheltenham.
Drop in to buy a copy of the book, enjoy story time, colour-in Cheltenham-themed illustrations and take part in a fun pigeon hunt around the gallery!
No booking required ““ just drop in!
Perfect for children aged 2-8, and a lovely way to spend a spring morning together.

Make A Scene: Drop-In Family Workshop
2026-04-11 11:00 - 14:30
Make A Scene: Drop-In Family Workshop Inspired by Paula Rego
11am – 12.30pm
2pm – 3.30pm
FREE
Drop in and get creative with one of the Wilson’s artists in residence, Alice Biggadike, in this relaxed, family-friendly workshop inspired by the Paula Rego exhibition.
Choose a character to colour in or design your own, then create a scene for them using collage, colour and drawing. Think about where your character is, what’s happening around them, and how a single scene can capture a story.
This informal drop-in session is all about playing with illustration, characters and scenes. Suitable for children and families of all ages – no experience needed, just come along and create!
About Alice
Alice Biggadike is a multidisciplinary artist based in Cheltenham. She uses sculpture, painting and textiles to present a surreal interpretation of the world around her.

Sunrise Sessions
2026-05-05 07:30 - 08:30
Join award-winning portrait photographer and Artist-in-Residence at The Wilson, Steven Tatlow, for two free drop-in portrait sessions at Park Campus, Cheltenham.
Taking place on 28th April and 5th May, between 7:30 ““ 8:30am, these sessions will be capturing people in the soft, golden light of early morning. Open to everyone.
Bring along an object or item of clothing that holds meaning for you.
Spaces are limited, so email stevetatlow@outlook.com with your preferred date and time to book a slot.
PLEASE NOTE THIS EVENT IS AT UNIVERSITY OF GLOUCESTERSHIRE PARK CAMPUS GL50 2RH

Wilson Nights: The Encore
2026-05-06 18:00 - 21:00
The Wilson’s artist-led events, WILSON NIGHTS, on the first Wednesday of every month from 6pm til 9pm.
Music through the lens from 6.30-7.30pm
Experience a dynamic projection of local photographers capturing the Gloucestershire music scene – accompanied by a live DJ set from DJ JAKEY.
Live Music from Izzy Bayford and Matty Fulford from 7.30-9pm
Live performances from Izzy Bayford and Matty Fulford, bringing the energy of the local music scene into the space.
Running (Stitch) With It: Creative Sewing from 6-8.30pm in The Foyle
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.
Audio Postcards & Zine Pages from 6-8.30pm in the CafÃ©
Drop-In workshop with Meg Dunford co-founder of The Just in Case Zine Library.
Join artist Meg Dunford for a hands-on workshop where you’ll design your own zine page exploring creative barriers and ambitions. You’ll also have the chance to record an anonymous audio postcard “” becoming part of a collective artwork.
Plus: browse the Just in Case Zine Library.
No experience needed. All materials provided.
Meg Dunford is a Gloucester-based community artist with over 15 years of experience in creative wellbeing and community practice. Working across the South West, Meg brings a warm, inclusive approach rooted in meeting people exactly where they are – nurturing creative confidence, fostering connection, and opening doors to creativity for everyone.
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
2026-05-07 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 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.

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

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.

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!

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

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

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

Memory Lane Cafe
2026-11-05 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 5 November
Thursday 3 December

Memory Lane Cafe
2026-12-03 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.
