The List

Winterbourne Medieval Barn

Winterbourne Medieval Barn, built in 1342 just before the Black Death swept across the country, is an extraordinary survivor of our medieval past. Major building works have recently been completed with support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and other generous donors, to revitalise the whole Barn complex into a community heritage site promoting the knowledge of medieval history, its architecture, agricultural landscape and people. Managed by a charitable Trust, the Barn is a multipurpose venue for a range of community activities, including music, theatre, craft and skills workshops, talks, and flagship events like the Medieval Fayre and Orchard Harvest Day. Check the website or Facebook for details of what's on. The Medieval Barn makes a beautiful setting for a wedding, celebration or film shoot. The West Barn's modernised and well equipped rooms can also be hired for meetings, conferences, talks, classes, etc. Contact the Trust for more information.

What's On @ Winterbourne Medieval Barn

Opera in The Barn: Madame Butterfly
We are delighted to welcome back Tessitoura Opera to entertain us with their touring production of Puccini's "Madam Butterfly" complete with live chamber orchestra accompaniment. Madame Butterfly, an opera by Giacomo Puccini, tells the tragic story of Cio-Cio San, a young Japanese geisha, and her ill-fated romance with American naval officer Pinkerton. Pinkerton marries Cio-Cio San in a traditional Japanese ceremony, viewing the union as temporary, while Cio-Cio-San believes it is genuine, forsaking her culture and family for love. Pinkerton leaves for America, promising to return, while Cio-Cio-San waits faithfully, raising their child. The story unfolds when years later, Pinkerton returns with his American wife. For musical fans, you may recognise this plot from Miss Saigon, which took it's inspiration from this heart-breaking opera. The opera is a poignant exploration of cultural clash, and the devastating consequences of betrayal, set against a richly emotional musical backdrop. This performance will be in English language. Tessitoura was founded in 2010 to share the joy and excitement of opera. The company soon became known for unique and intimate performances, accompanied by a chamber orchestra to create an authentic opera experience with a sense of connection between performers and audience. Parking is free and will be at The Barn (BS36 1SE). Space is limited so please follow the instructions from our parking stewards on arrival. There is plenty of bicycle parking and space for drop off / pick ups at The Barn if you are able to arrange this. Please do not park along church lane as this obstructs the road for other users and emergency vehicles. We have toilets on site, including a fully accessible toilet and baby changing facilities. The Barn Bar will also be open serving a small selection of drinks and snacks. Cash and card payments are accepted. Seating will be unreserved. If you need specific accessible seating or accessible parking then please [email protected] advance to arrange this. The primary purpose of this event is to raise money for WMBT and to support conservation, management, maintenance and improvement of the WMBT site. If you wish to avoid the online booking fee then please contact the office to arrange a time to come and book in person.
Shakespeare in The Barn: As You Like It
We are delighted to welcome The Festival Players back to Winterbourne Medieval Barn as they perform Shakespeare's As You Like It. As You Like It is probably Shakespeares most entrancing romantic comedy. Rosalind, the daughter of a displaced Duke, is banished from the court by her Fathers brother. Along with her cousin Celia, she escapes to the Forest of Arden and disguises herself as a man. She teases Orlando, a young man, who does not recognise her as the girl he loved at a distance. The pastoral world of the Forest is inhabited with a colourful array of folk, looking for love, and woven into this delightful tale, full of comedy and music. The Festival Players Theatre Company is a professional theatre company in their 39th year of touring, delivering the best in open-air Shakespeare, committed to presenting the very best in touring theatre. As in the Bards day, Festival Players International will be performing with an all-male company of skilled professional actors, and invite you to share in the fun of this amazing play. A Summer treat for the whole family. Parking for this event will be at The Barn. Full details will be sent in the pre-event email a few days before the event. Please email us at [email protected] with your registration number and specific requirements, if you need a wheelchair accessible parking space and any accessible seating for the show so that we can arrange this for you. Please do not park along church lane as this obstructs the road for other users and emergency vehicles. There is plenty of bicycle parking at The Barn for those arriving on two wheels and space for drop off / collection if you would like to arrange this. The Barns pop-up bar will be open for this event serving a small selection of drinks and snacks. Cash and card payments are accepted. The primary purpose of this event is to raise money for WMBT and to support conservation, management, maintenance and improvement of the WMBT site. If you wish to avoid the online booking fee then please contact the office to arrange a time to come and book in person.
Family Mosaic Workshop

Family Mosaic Workshop

18 Aug 2025 - 18 Aug 2025

Join us for a two hour mosaic workshop session, where you will learn the basics of mosaic and create your very own unique mosaic artwork. This session is suitable for adults and children (5 years +)/ young people to take part in together. Each ticket holder will create their own mosaic masterpiece. Participants will select and arrange tiles into their unique design before setting these in place with adhesive. Three Little Birds will bring a variety of mosaics and samples to serve as inspiration and guidance. You will have full access to a wide range of pre-cut tiles and any board or dish of your choosing. These include a range of fun wooden shaped boards or small terracotta trinket dishes. There should be enough time for grouting, but in any incidences that there is not, Three Little Birds will take the mosaics away to grout and seal in their workshop and return them to The Barn for later collection. Tea, coffee & squash on arrival are included in your ticket. Free parking is available at The Barn. The primary purpose of this event is to raise money for WMBT and to support conservation, management, maintenance and improvement of the WMBT site. If you wish to avoid the online booking fee then please contact the office to arrange a time to come and book in person.
Adults Mosaic Workshop

Adults Mosaic Workshop

18 Aug 2025 - 18 Aug 2025

Join us for a two and a half hour mosaic workshop session, where you will learn the basics of mosaic and create your very own unique mosaic artwork. Participants will select and arrange tiles into their unique design before setting these in place with adhesive. Three Little Birds will bring a variety of mosaics and samples to serve as inspiration and guidance. You will have full access to a wide range of ceramic and glass mosaic tiles, tile cutters and any board or dish of your choosing. These include a range of wooden shaped boards, terracotta dishes or mirrors. Three Little Birds will then take the mosaics away to grout and seal in their workshop and return them to The Barn for collection. This session is aimed at ages 16+ Tea & coffee on arrival are included in your ticket. Free parking is available at The Barn. The primary purpose of this event is to raise money for WMBT and to support conservation, management, maintenance and improvement of the WMBT site. If you wish to avoid the online booking fee then please contact the office to arrange a time to come and book in person.
Wine Tasting Evening - Chile & Argentina
We welcome Ian Redfearn back to guide us through the aromas and flavours of a range of summery white and red wines from the sun-kissed vineyards of Chile and Argentina in this informative but fun workshop. Over 18s only. With 25 years experience in the wine trade, Ian makes the ideal host for the evening. He will give some background information on each wine's individual appearance, aroma and flavour, and he will welcome questions and comments. Guaranteed to be a merry evening! Ian will have a small amount of the wines sampled to sell by the bottle on the evening should you wish to purchase any. Cash and card payments are accepted and a percentage of these sales is kindly being donated back to The Barn. Strictly over 18s only. Please drink responsibly. Parking for this event is at the Barn, BS36 1SE. There is plenty of bicycle parking available for those arriving on two wheels as well as space for drop off / pick up if you prefer to arrange this. For those who will be drinking there are plenty of taxi firms serving the area and limited buses to Winterbourne. The primary purpose of this event is to raise money for WMBT and to support conservation, management, maintenance and improvement of the WMBT site. If you wish to avoid the booking fee then please contact the office to arrange a time to come and book in person at The Barn.
Summer Barn Dance

Summer Barn Dance

18 Jul 2025 - 18 Jul 2025

A proper Barn Dance in a real Barn! Gloucestershire band Sargent’s Mess will provide the rousing tunes with Ann on accordion, Naomi on fiddle, and Nick on guitar. And our Caller Rob is in charge of proceedings, helping you turn the right way and do the right moves as you go along! Bar open from 6pm. You can bring food to eat in the grounds if you wish, but please note that only alcohol purchased at the Barn may be consumed on site. Dancing from 7 - 8.30pm, and then 9 - 10pm. Bar open all evening so you can flop down with a drink if you get too hot! So, get your dancing feet on, bring your friends, and enjoy a sociable Midsummer evening down at the Medieval Barn. Free on-site parking. Book online on Ticketsource direct or via the Barn website.
Bat Walk with drink & nibbles
Days out
Tours

Bat Walk with drink & nibbles

21 Aug 2025 - 21 Aug 2025

Join us for an evening guided walk (around 1.5 hrs) with naturalist Ed Drewitt followed by a drink and nibbles at the Barn. Dusk in late summer is a great time for looking for bats such as pipistrelles feeding along the local pathways and nature reserve. Ed will be on hand with a bat detector to 'hear' the bats echolocating. We'll also be listening for any birdsong in a dusk chorus and perhaps the hoot of a tawny owl as sunset approaches. Ed Drewitt is no stranger to wildlife and over the past 20 years has been showing people flora and fauna and helping them to spot and identify different species. Ed is a freelance naturalist and works across the west showing people wildlife. He is based in the Forest of Dean which he shares with wild board, deer and many different types of birds. What to bring: outdoor footwear, suitable outdoor clothing , binoculars (not essential as it will be dusk). You will set off from the Barn at 8pm for an hour and a half walk, followed by a drink from the bar and nibbles. The drink from the bar is your choice of a juice carton, tea, coffee, small glass of wine, beer or cider (alcoholic options are strictly for over 18s only). 20 per person, including a drink and nibbles. Please inform of any dietary requirements at the time of booking. Recommended for ages 12+ Please note parking for this event is at the Barn, BS36 1SE The primary purpose of this event is to raise money for WMBT and to support conservation, management, maintenance and improvement of the WMBT site. If you wish to avoid the online booking fee then please contact the office to arrange a time to come and book in person.
Walk on the Wild Side: Family bushcraft with Steve England
Join Steve England, outdoor educator, Horticulturist and Historian, on this family friendly guided walk around the barn site and local nature reserve to explore habitats, plants and trees and learn the fascinating facts & practical uses of them for food, medicine, bushcraft & fire! This walk will very much be determined by what is found along the way and so is likely to be different every time. Please make sure you dress sensibly in comfortable, suitable clothing and wear sturdy footwear. Please bring any snacks or drinks you need for the duration of the walk and ensure you are protected from the sun. Under 18s must remain accompanied by a responsible adult at all times during the walk. After approximately 2 hours out with Steve you will return to The Barn for tea, coffee & squash. The Barn will be open on arrival for use of the facilities and to check everyone in. Tickets are 26 for a 1 adult & 1 child. Additional child tickets are 13 each. Important ratios: maximum of 2 children to 1 adult. About your guide: "All my life I have loved the outdoors. Growing up in Bristol, my childhood was spent exploring the fields and woodlands of Stoke Park, fascinated by every tree, plant, bird & butterfly. I decided to continue my learning with the RHS, studying horticulture alongside teaching myself everything there was to know about the wildlife and history on my doorstep. I began teaching what I had learned over 10 years ago to friends, local people and my local community, and absolutely love sharing everything I know. Whether foraging foods, learning poisonous plants, lighting fires, recognising birds, identifying bats or looking back in time at the history of North Bristol, I come alive when in front of an audience and thrive on sharing my knowledge with others." Steve England Outdoor Learning provides outdoor adult education events, courses and workshops within North Bristol. Please note parking for this event will be on site at the Barn, BS36 1SE. The car park will be locked once the event has finished so please ensure your car is moved if you will be exploring the local area after your visit to The Barn. The primary purpose of this event is to raise money for WMBT and to support conservation, management, maintenance and improvement of the WMBT site. If you wish to avoid the online booking fee then please contact the office to arrange a time to come and book in person.
Family-fun Theatre: Cinderella

Family-fun Theatre: Cinderella

17 Aug 2025 - 17 Aug 2025

If you enjoy all the fun and audience participation of a pantomime then you will love IKP's unmistakable brand of "delightfully daft" family theatre! Fully inclusive and in a more relaxed setting than a traditional theatre, we are delighted to welcome back IKP for another adventure for the whole family to enjoy! From the company who brought you The Little Mermaid, Hercules, Beauty & the Beast and The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, the classic fairytale of magic, true love and custom-made shoes is brought to life in this brand new show for all ages. Embark on the most magical fairytale adventure as Cinderella comes to our beautiful main barn. Expect magic, madness and plenty of silliness in this brand new Summer show. Recommended age 5+ but all welcome. Parking is free and will be at The Barn (BS36 1SE). Space is limited so please follow the instructions from our parking stewards on arrival. There is plenty of bicycle parking and space for drop off / pick ups at The Barn if you are able to arrange this. Please do not park along church lane as this obstructs the road for other users and emergency vehicles. We have toilets on site, including a fully accessible toilet and baby changing facilities. The performance will take place within our main barn so there is no need to worry about wet weather. Seating will be provided. There will be designated spaces for guests who may find sitting still for a whole show challenging. There will be seating with more space to move around which is further away from the actors for those who may also need a sensory break. This can be accessed at any time during the show. Please let us know in advance if you need any specifically accessible seating or parking and we can discuss this with you. The Barn Bar will also be open serving a small selection of drinks and snacks. Cash and card payments are accepted. Each child's ticket includes a complimentary cup of squash. The primary purpose of this event is to raise money for WMBT and to support conservation, management, maintenance and improvement of the WMBT site. If you wish to avoid the online booking fee then please contact the office to arrange a time to come and book in person.
Fused Glass Lantern / Wave / Panel workshop
Join local glass artist, Rachael Durkan from The Glass Cabin for one of her popular fused glass workshops. In this session there is the choice of options: Lantern, Wave or Panel. Lantern - 68 You will have 2.5 hours to create two panels for your lantern, the door panel and one other panel of your choice. The panels are approximately 913 (door) and 10x14cm. You can choose from a selection of templates to help guide your design and then pick from an array of pre cut glass and glass accessories to create your lantern panels. Lantern is included in your ticket. Wave in a Frame - 55 In this brand new 2 hour workshop you will have the chance to create a stunning fused glass wave design to be placed in an 18cm shadow frame (white frame included in ticket). This workshop involves using mosaic cutters to nibble lots of small pieces of glass to create your mosaic style wave design. You can also use bubble paint to add extra detail to your wave. A very mindful, relaxing workshop. Your wave will be returned to you 2 weeks later in a lovely shadow box frame, which can be hung or, because of its depth, can stand freely. Panel - 48 With this option you have the choice of making a Bristol balloon, flower panel or freestyle hanging. You will have 2 hours to create your masterpiece, using a variety of pre-cut glass and glass accessories in an array of beautiful colours. There will be plenty of templates to choose from or you can create your own design. Both workshops are suitable for complete beginners as well as those whove caught the fused glass bug! Rachael will have lots of ideas to inspire you and is on hand with design advice throughout the workshop. Please select which option you would like at the time of booking. PLEASE NOTE Rachael will take your finished piece away to be fused in her kiln. It will be available for collection from the barn or Rachael directly a couple of weeks after the workshop. This workshop is suitable for age 16+ (under 18's must be accompanied by an adult) For safety reasons, please do not wear open toe shoes such as sandals or flip flops. Also a little reminder for people who wear glasses.... due to close up work, you may wish to bring along your spectacles! Parking for this event is at the Barn, BS36 1SE. Tea & coffee will be provided during the introduction and is included in your ticket price. Due to the nature of working with glass refreshments will not be permitted during the actual workshop. The primary purpose of this event is to raise money for WMBT and to support conservation, management, maintenance and improvement of the WMBT site. If you wish to avoid the online booking fee then please contact the office to arrange a time to come and book in person.
Cider Tasting Evening

Cider Tasting Evening

17 Oct 2025 - 17 Oct 2025

We welcome back David from Bushel+Peck to guide us through the aromas and flavours of a range of cider and perry in this informative but fun workshop. With many years experience in managing his own orchards and producing his own products our expert host will be able to tell you all about the ciders you are tasting and will welcome any questions; it is guaranteed to be a merry evening! David will have a small amount of their cider and perry to sell on the evening should you wish to purchase any. Cash and card payments are accepted and a percentage of these sales is kindly being donated back to The Barn. Strictly over 18s only. Please drink responsibly. Parking for this event is at the Barn, BS36 1SE. There is plenty of bicycle parking available for those arriving on two wheels as well as space for drop off / pick up if you prefer to arrange this. For those who will be drinking there are plenty of taxi firms serving the area and limited buses to Winterbourne. The primary purpose of this event is to raise money for WMBT and to support conservation, management, maintenance and improvement of the WMBT site. If you wish to avoid the booking fee then please contact the office to arrange a time to come and book in person at The Barn.
Pacoguitar: Music from the land of a thousand Rhythms
We are delighted to welcome local duo, Pacoguitar to The Barn for an evening of beautiful flamenco inspired music and dance. This multitalented and international prize winning duo break down musical barriers with an evening full of heartfelt songs and virtuosic dances from Franciscos native Colombia, Brazil and Venezuela. Francisco Correa - Guitar Emily Andrews - Voice and Flute About Francisco Wonderful, a truly remarkable performer Sean Rafferty- BBC Radio 3 About Emily: A multi-talented performer, with a rich mezzo voice and a great deal of dramatic presence Susan Elkin, Larks Reviews Parking for this event will be provided at The Barn. Parking is limited so please advise below if you need to book a space. If you need a specific parking space (eg. wheelchair accessible) or any accessible seating for the performance then please email [email protected] ASAP to book this. Please follow the instructions provided in the pre-event email (sent up to 24 hours before the event) and parking stewards on the day to ensure we can fit as many people as possible safely in the designated parking areas. Please do not park along church lane as this obstructs the road for other users and emergency vehicles. Please do not park anywhere other than designated Barn car parks for this event. We cannot control when other car parks are locked and may not be able to assist if you car is parked elsewhere. There is plenty of bicycle parking at The Barn for those arriving on two wheels and space for drop off / collection if you would like to arrange this. The Barns pop-up bar will be open for this event serving a small selection of drinks and snacks. Cash and card payments are accepted. The primary purpose of this event is to raise money for WMBT and to support conservation, management, maintenance and improvement of the WMBT site. If you wish to avoid the online booking fee then please contact the office to arrange a time to come and book in person.
Wine Tasting Evening:  Spain & Portugal
We welcome Ian Redfearn back to guide us through the aromas and flavours of a diverse range of 8 wines from Spain and Portugal. This will include some festive whites and reds as well as a warming ruby port. An informative and also fun event. With 25 years experience in the wine trade, Ian makes the ideal host for the evening. He will give some background information on each wine's individual appearance, aroma and flavour, and he will welcome questions and comments. Guaranteed to be a merry evening! Ian will have a small amount of the wines sampled to sell by the bottle on the evening should you wish to purchase any. Cash and card payments are accepted. Strictly over 18s only. Please drink responsibly. Parking for this event is at the Barn, BS36 1SE. There is plenty of bicycle parking available for those arriving on two wheels as well as space for drop off / pick up if you prefer to arrange this. For those who will be drinking there are plenty of taxi firms serving the area and limited buses to Winterbourne. The primary purpose of this event is to raise money for WMBT and to support conservation, management, maintenance and improvement of the WMBT site. If you wish to avoid the online booking fee then please contact the office to arrange a time to come and book in person.

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