From an evening sound bath among artwork inspired by the ancient landscape to a family wildlife trail for half term, there is plenty happening at Avebury this October.
The National Trust has a varied programme planned at the Wiltshire World Heritage Site over the coming weeks, with events taking place in and around Avebury Manor and its gardens.
There is also still time to catch the sculpture exhibition currently dotted throughout the Manor Garden – but visitors only have until Sunday, 18 October before it comes to an end.
Slow things down with an evening of sound and nature
For something rather different, Ancient Pathways: The Living Landscape takes place on Wednesday, 14 October from 5.45pm until 8pm.
The evening has been designed as an opportunity to experience Avebury at a much slower pace, combining sound, colour, nature and the surroundings of the ancient landscape.
Visitors will begin with an immersive sound installation before taking a contemplative evening walk through Avebury Manor Garden.
There will then be a gentle guided meditation followed by an hour-long immersive sound journey and gong bath, surrounded by Ancient Pathways, an exhibition of paintings inspired by Avebury.
Those attending don’t need any previous experience of meditation or sound baths.
Tickets cost £35 per person and advance booking is essential.
Last chance to see Avebury’s sculpture exhibition
October also brings the final opportunity to explore this year’s sculpture exhibition at Avebury Manor Garden.
The exhibition remains open daily from 10am until 5pm through to Sunday, 18 October.
Sculptures have been positioned throughout the garden, allowing visitors to discover the pieces as they make their way through its different areas rather than seeing them within a traditional gallery setting.
More than 20 artists are represented in this year’s exhibition, which marks its tenth anniversary at Avebury.
Several artists have returned for the anniversary exhibition, while others are displaying their work at Avebury for the first time.
The exhibition is included with normal admission to the Manor Garden, with garden entry free for National Trust members.
Half-term fun with the Autumn Animals Trail
Families looking for something to do during October half term can also take part in Avebury’s Autumn Animals Trail.
Running from Thursday, 22 October until Sunday, 1 November, the trail invites children to hunt for creatures hidden around the different ‘rooms’ of Avebury Manor Garden while picking up wildlife facts along the way.
There is also a chance for youngsters to get creative and make their own wildlife mask to take home.
The trail runs between 10am and 5pm and is free with normal garden admission. There is no need to book in advance.
Admission to the garden is free for National Trust members and children aged under five.
With the events ranging from a quiet evening of meditation and sound to sculpture and family activities, October offers several very different reasons to make the short journey to Avebury.
Further details, booking information and the latest event information can be found through the National Trust’s Avebury events page.
