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 | 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.

WILSON NIGHTS: Monty's Takeover
2026-08-05 18:00 - 21:00 | The Wilson, The Wilson Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 13JT, United Kingdom
WILSON NIGHTS: Monty’s Takeover
Wednesday 5 August | 6–9pm | FREE
Join us for an energetic evening celebrating skate culture, creativity and community as Friends of Montpellier Skatepark take over The Wilson with workshops, live music, streetwear, skating and plenty of fun.
Turntable Zoetrope Workshop (6–8pm)
Create your own looping animation with Artist in Residence Sarah Fox and watch it come to life using an analogue turntable and digital camera.
Hand drawn street wear designs with Zed (from 7pm)
Artist Zed in the Clouds will be selling original artwork and clothing while inviting you to design your own streetwear graphics inspired by his distinctive style. Your design could even influence the next Montpellier Skatepark merchandise.
Social Grooves Workshop (6–7pm)
Learn classic social dance moves with Your Next Move and City Skate UK. Start in trainers, then swap to skates if you’d like to roll into the moves.
Laughter Yoga
Join Vibrant Kate for a playful session exploring the joy of laughter. No yoga experience (or reason to laugh!) required – just come ready to join in.
Friends of Montpellier DJs (from 7pm)
Expect an evening soundtrack packed with great tunes as the DJs keep the party going.
Free entry (No booking required)

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.

We Are Creators Sessions
2026-08-19 18:00 - 21:00, 2026-09-16 18:00 - 21:00 | The Wilson, The Wilson Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 13JT, United Kingdom
We Are Creators Sessions bring together a growing community of makers, performers, musicians and creatives who meet monthly at The Wilson. Led by local artists and organisations, these monthly sessions offer welcoming spaces to learn new skills, meet like-minded people and explore your creativity together.
Community Theatre Group
The Foyle | 6–8pm
A free creative drama group for anyone aged 18+ with an interest in theatre, TV or film – whether on stage or behind the scenes. Explore performing, writing, improvisation, sound, film, design and more through regular practical workshops in a friendly, supportive environment.
There are no auditions, no pressure and no previous experience needed. The group develops creative projects together, from performances and podcasts to film, while offering opportunities to collaborate with professional practitioners along the way.
Who is it for? Anyone aged 18+ with a curious mind and an interest in creativity, whatever your experience.

ND Hub
The Courtyard | 6–8pm
A welcoming peer support group for neurodivergent adults, combining art, craft and conversation in a calm, inclusive environment. Led by ND Hub Gloucestershire, each session uses creativity to explore wellbeing, self-expression and connection in a relaxed, supportive space.
Who is it for? Neurodivergent adults looking to connect creatively with others.

Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra
Play Cafe | 6–8pm
An open community for musicians, sound-makers and performance artists of all backgrounds and experience levels. Led by award-winning musician Chris Cundy, the group explores improvisation through listening, collaboration and experimentation, creating original music together in a welcoming environment.
Who is it for? Anyone curious about improvisation, from complete beginners to experienced performers.

Cheltenham Craftivist Collective
The Lounge | 6.30–8.30pm
An inclusive group for anyone interested in craft, creativity and positive change. Bring your own project – or simply come along to be inspired – and enjoy an evening of making, sharing skills and connecting with others. The group also hosts occasional artist-led textile workshops and collaborative creative projects.
Who is it for? Everyone is welcome, whatever your experience.

Zesty Queer Life Drawing
Community Gallery | 7–9pm
A free, welcoming life drawing session celebrating creativity, queerness and self-expression. Hosted by artist Jussara Nazaré, each session combines life drawing with playful creative challenges, colourful costumes and conversations about art, culture and identity.
Who is it for? LGBTQ+ people and allies aged 18+, from complete beginners to experienced artists.

OFF GRID
Artist Studios | 6–8pm
OFF GRID is a free monthly creative club for young people aged 14–17, led by The Wilson’s Artists in Residence. Each session explores a different art form – from animation and photography to wood carving, drawing and performance – giving participants the chance to experiment, develop new skills and meet other young creatives in a relaxed, supportive environment.
Every workshop is designed and led by a different resident artist, offering a unique opportunity to experience a wide range of creative practices throughout the year.
Who is it for? Young people aged 14–17. No previous artistic experience is needed.
How to join
Our monthly We Are Creators Sessions are free and open to everyone – just drop in and get involved. Whether you’re coming on your own or with a friend, you’ll receive a warm welcome.
OFF GRID workshops for 14–17 year olds require advance booking due to limited places. You can book your place through each workshop’s individual event page.
If you have any questions, or would like to discuss access requirements before attending, please contact Oliver Tipper at oliver.tipper@cheltenhamtrust.org.uk.

Educators: working group invitation
2026-08-27 10:00 - 11:00
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.

Wilson Nights
2026-09-02 18:00 - 21:00
Join us for an evening of storytelling, creativity and shared histories as artists, writers and musicians explore the stories that shape our communities.
Stone Stories with Katie Mary (6–8pm | The Foyle)
Create your own story stone using images, symbols and memory with Artist in Residence Katie Mary. Inspired by everyday moments transformed into future mythology, you’ll add your own unique contribution to a growing collective archive. All materials provided.
Honeybourne Design Engine (6–8pm | The Courtyard)
Explore the hidden stories of Cheltenham with Neith Art & Sculpture. Respond to overlooked local histories and contribute ideas that will help shape a new series of public sculptures along the Honeybourne Line. Add your voice to a collaborative artwork celebrating the people and stories often left out of history.
An Evening with Jim O’Sullivan (8–9pm | The Lounge)
Local author Jim O’Sullivan reads from his novels before discussing the influence of social history on his writing. The evening concludes with a Q&A exploring the creative writing process and the growing impact of AI.
Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra (6–8pm | The Play Café)
Join award-winning musician Chris Cundy and Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra for an open session exploring spontaneous music-making through listening, collaboration and experimentation. Open to musicians, performers and curious beginners alike—no experience necessary.
Free entry • No booking required
Instagram copy:
WILSON NIGHTS: STORIES
An evening of mythology, local history, writing and improvised music at The Wilson.
Create your own Story Stone with Artist in Residence Katie Mary.
Help shape the Honeybourne Design Engine by uncovering Cheltenham’s hidden stories with Neith Art & Sculpture.
Hear local author Jim O’Sullivan read from his novels, followed by a Q&A on writing, social history and AI.
Join Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra for an open session of collaborative music-making – everyone is welcome.
📅 Wednesday 2 September
🕕 6–9pm
📍 The Wilson
🎟 FREE • No booking required
Come along, get involved and help tell the next chapter.

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.

OFF GRID - Hand Sewing Basics
2026-09-16 18:00 - 20:00
OFF GRID is a new series of free monthly workshops for young people who love art, creativity and trying new things. Each session introduces a different artistic practice – from animation and photography to drawing, performance, sewing and wood carving – led by a different resident artist from The Wilson.
Whether you’re already making work or just curious to explore something new, these small, hands-on workshops are designed to help you experiment, learn skills and meet other creative young people in a relaxed and supportive environment.
FREE
All sessions run 6 – 8pm at The Wilson
Limited to 10 places per session – booking essential!
To book: oliver.tipper@cheltenhamtrust.org.uk
16 September – Figuring It Out, Character Drawing Session with Alice Biggadike
Join Alice Biggadike as she guides you through an approach to creating curious creatures. Drawing from your imagination can be daunting, so Alice aims to break it down into simple steps in this session.
