Arts and Culture

Wells

Cedars Hall, Wells, for excellent music.

Wells Film Centre, small scale and friendly, providing a welcome contrast to massive multiplexes.

Wells Comedy Festival, Late May, international artists.

Wells Food Festival, Mid October, Fantastic variety of stalls.

Wells Festival of Literature, Late October.

Royal Bath and West Show near Shepton Mallet, May/June.

Glastonbury Festival, Late June.

Somerset Art week offers studio visits and an opportunity to buy original pieces. September.

Chew Valley Art Trail is another open studio weekend event locally, usually second weekend in October.

Somerset Carnivals are a truly unique Somerset tradition. Don’t miss a bonkers evening of floats with tons of action and music - Starting first Saturday of November.

Bath

For information about Bath’s International Music, Fringe, Beer, and Christmas festivals see Visit Bath (great free party and fireworks on the night before the Music Festival opens).

Theatre Royal has a varied theatre programme throughout the year. Next door is The Ustinov Studio, a small performance space with some interesting productions and The Egg, for younger audiences. Bath Christmas Market is supercharged shopping with Glűhwein, December.

Bristol

Lively city life is around The Centre and the harbour. Lots of bars, restaurants and live music. Concerts and theatre at Bristol Old Vic, Bristol Hippodrome, and Bristol Beacon. Bristol Harbour Festival, July, is a great free event and there are many more festivals in Bristol. The International Balloon Fiesta takes off on Clifton Downs, August. More info about Bristol at Visit Bristol.