South Gloucestershire Council

Published: 11/09/2013

The event is one of hundreds of opportunities to discover something new in South Gloucestershire taking place during the festival which runs from 12 September to 1 November.

Other events during the first week of the festival include an open day at the 168 year-old St Saviour’s Church in Coalpit Heath on Friday 13 September, a chance to explore historic hidden gardens at Dyrham Park on Saturday 14 September, and a rare opportunity to visit the Oldwood Pits coal mine on Sunday 15 September.

Cllr Claire Young, Chair of South Gloucestershire Council’s Communities Committee, said: “Now in its second year, the Discover festival offers a unique opportunity for residents to find out what makes South Gloucestershire a great place to live and work. Bringing together many successful celebrations in the district, the programme caters for all ages and tastes – including events, talks, walks and workshops celebrating local heritage, food, nature, arts and also special events for the over 50s.”

The first week alone sees over 40 events and activities throughout South Gloucestershire including:

Bat walk

Golden Valley, Wick

Thursday 12 Sept, 7.30pm to 9.30pm

Join Avon Bat Group for a twilight stroll in search of bats. Bat detectors are provided, but visitors are advised to wear warm clothes and boots and bring a torch. Meet at Wick Village car park.

St Saviour’s Church heritage open day

St Saviour’s Church, Beesmoor Road, Coalpit Heath

Friday 13 September, 11am to 1pm

Open day at the 168 year-old church which was built by the famous architect William Butterfield, with lots to see plus various items of historical interest on display.

Winterbourne heritage open day

Winterbourne Medieval Barn and St Michael’s Church, Church Lane, Winterbourne

Saturday 14 September, 10am to 5pm

Explore the heritage of Winterbourne including the parish church of St Michael, built in the 12th century, and the Medieval Barn.

Remains of the glorious past

Dyrham Park, Dyrham

Saturday 14 September, 3pm to 4pm

Discover the former terraces of Mr Blathwayt’s garden and explore an area that is normally closed to the public. Meet at the Orangery at 3pm. Stout shoes are advisable as there is uneven ground and steep slopes, which is not suitable for wheelchairs or buggies. To book call 01225 892374 (Mon-Fri: 10am-5pm).

Oldwood Pits coal mine heritage open day

Oldwood Pits, Tanhouse Lane, Rangeworthy

Sunday 15 September, 11am to 3.30pm

A rare opportunity to take a tour of the Oldwood Pits coal mine and see the drift mine entrance and shaft top.

Inglestone and Hawkesbury Common guided walk

Lower Woods Car Park at the Lodge, Inglestone Common

Monday 16 September, 10am to 12pm

A short guided walk over Inglestone and Hawkesbury common to explore the stunning woodland and grassland. The two mile walk is likely to be muddy and uneven so suitable footwear is advised.

Woodland Craft

Grimsbury Farm, Main Farmhouse, Grimsbury Road, Kingswood

Tuesday 17 September, 10am to 12pm

Craft session using different woodland materials to create art from nature. To book call 01454 866145.

Open tower

St Barnabas Church, Warmley

Wednesday 18 September, 7.30 to 9pm

Bell ringers at St Barnabas Church invite visitors to find out more about the art of church bell ringing and have a go themselves. Participants will need to be able to climb a stone stairway up to the ringing chamber.

Most events are free, but some require pre-booking. To find out more or to book a place for an event, pick up a brochure from your local library or visit www.southglos.gov.uk/discover