A rainy local street scene with umbrellas, warm lights, and cosy indoor plans

Top Picks

Rainy Day Picks This Weekend

11–12 July Near Shilton

Not every listing gets a golden ticket

We check the usual frankly silly number of local websites, then look for events that feel rainy-day friendly: cinemas, theatres, talks, workshops, galleries, concerts, cosy venues, and anything less likely to involve standing in a muddy field making brave weather noises.

Happening Saturday 11 July to Sunday 12 July.
Picked for Shilton, not somewhere halfway across the county.
Only Local Gems and Curated venues make the cut, because standards are still a thing.
Listings with proper descriptions get bumped up the list. Three words and a shrug will not do.

Our 10 picks near Shilton

Pointing: Theory & Practice – Two-Day Course1

Pointing: Theory & Practice – Two-Day Course

at Wheelwright's Bookshop

A two day course, covering all elements of lime pointing, ideal for anyone looking to learn about the use of lime; whether you’re a listed building owner, an architect, surveyor, or a builder who has not worked with lime previously. Course information: · You’ll learn the history and tradition of this craft, balancing theory and practical examples with demonstrations. · Uncover an in-depth knowledge of the lime cycle; from calcining to matured lime putty, manufacturing, conservation ethics and principles – plus on site practical examples. · We’ll address all aspects of proper lime pointing/repointing practice, from correct raking out & preparation, mortar choices and applications, to after care and finishing techniques. · You’ll also get the chance to do conservation repointing on a listed structure/building. On the second day of the course, we’ll produce a “Hot Lime” mortar used on site. Other useful information: · Tea, coffee and biscuits will be provided free of charge · Lunch will pm. · An option to purchase tool bundle will be offered booking *The tool bundle is not compulsory you’re welcome to bring your own tools and PPE .However, you will need these items to effectively participate in this course. Tool bundle includes: · A stone pick (for raking out) · A plastic hawk and selection of pointing tools · Waterproof site gloves · Safety glasses · Sturdy site bucket · Sponge · Simple spray bottle · All other materials are included in course price

9.5 milesSat 11 Jul10:00
Local gemSee the details→
Workshops & Classes

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Witney Carnival8Free! (worth double-checking)

Witney Carnival

at The Witney & District Museum

We’re excited to be back at Witney Cranival this July to bring a little bit of the museum to you. We’ll have: Handling objects for you to discover Badge making for you to have a go at Information on the museum and how to get involved in the museum If you’re looking for somewhere to cool off in the heat of the day the museum is open 10am-4pm and you’re welcome to pop in and uncover some of Witney’s past for yourself. It’s free to enter although donations are always welcome.

5.7 milesSat 11 Jul
CuratedSee the details→
Festivals & Events
RPA - Golden Ticket9

RPA - Golden Ticket

at Wyvern Theatre

This show is ideal for those young people who want to really shine and have their own moment on stage and also for those young people who would love to perform but just feel really nervous and anxious. We perform in an informal, gentle, nurturing and supportive environment with our usual rule, you don’t have to perform if you don’t want to. Some of our previous performers' parents said, "Mila has had a go at the golden ticket show twice and she really enjoyed it. It was a great first experience on the stage, super supportive and encouraging. No one was forced to do anything they didn’t want to, and it was a really nice informal with no pressure. The perfect size stage too". "Clara absolutely loves doing the golden ticket show. She’s done it twice and each time she’s had such a confidence boost after performing in a supportive and non pressured environment. Since the last one she hasn’t stopped talking about what song she wants to sing next time (it changes every time she hears a song she likes )"

16.5 milesSun 12 Jul
Local gemSee the details→
Community
RPA - Golden Ticket10

RPA - Golden Ticket

at Swindon Arts Centre

This show is ideal for those young people who want to really shine and have their own moment on stage and also for those young people who would love to perform but just feel really nervous and anxious. We perform in an informal, gentle, nurturing and supportive environment with our usual rule, you don’t have to perform if you don’t want to. Some of our previous performers' parents said, "Mila has had a go at the golden ticket show twice and she really enjoyed it. It was a great first experience on the stage, super supportive and encouraging. No one was forced to do anything they didn’t want to, and it was a really nice informal with no pressure. The perfect size stage too". "Clara absolutely loves doing the golden ticket show. She’s done it twice and each time she’s had such a confidence boost after performing in a supportive and non pressured environment. Since the last one she hasn’t stopped talking about what song she wants to sing next time (it changes every time she hears a song she likes )"

16.9 milesSun 12 Jul
Local gemSee the details→
Community

More Top Picks

Keep the good ideas rolling

If this page has done the trick, there is more where that came from.

Round-upFamilies This WeekendTen family-friendly picks with proper details, decent venues, and no mystery listings that leave you guessing.Round-upFree Things This WeekendA smarter list of local free picks for the weekend, chosen for quality, clarity, and the sort of detail that saves a wasted journey.All PicksBack to Top PicksSee all our curated round-ups in one place.