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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Swindon Heritage Preservation
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260611T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260611T203000
DTSTAMP:20260216T093632Z
CREATED:20260128T121215Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260216T093632Z
UID:7735-1781206200-1781209800@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:'The Missing Pieces Project' by Gareth Powell
DESCRIPTION:Gareth Powell from Historic England talks about The Missing Pieces Project. All over England are places with stories to tell: from buildings to battlefields\, some on your doorstep\, others just a day trip away. Their stories are still being written\, and they won’t be complete until you share your side. \nThe Missing Pieces Project invites you to share your pictures and stories of the unique\, significant and memorable places on the National Heritage List for England (otherwise known as ‘the List’). The List is a register of all nationally protected historic buildings and sites across England. \n\nWhy not join us June 11th 2026 at 7:30 PM at the Bakers’ Café? \nCost\nSwindon Heritage Preservation (SHP) Full Members – FREE Entry \nGuests – £5.00 Entry \nMembership\nBecoming a SHP Full Member gives you full FREE access to our series of talks\, along with many other benefits. Full Membership only costs £12 per year! You can learn more about Membership here (https://mechanics-trust.org.uk/membership/). \nGetting to Emlyn Square\nBakers’ Café is at 16 Emlyn Square (SN1 5BN) at the heart of Swindon’s Railway Village. You can view the location on Google Maps here. \nIt is easily accessible by train and bus\, with the Central Bus Station just a short walk away. There are several car parks available around the Railway Village. We recommend Bristol Street Car Park for it’s proximity to Emlyn Square.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/the-missing-pieces-project-by-gareth-powell/
LOCATION:The Bakers’\, 16 Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, Wiltshire\, SN1 5BN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:MemberFREE,Railway200,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/fc139511-b600-4734-b780-9ce893d3621c.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260521T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260521T203000
DTSTAMP:20260216T093530Z
CREATED:20260126T180304Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260216T093530Z
UID:7702-1779391800-1779395400@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:Growing Up and Working in a Railway Town | SHP Talk by Colin Parsons
DESCRIPTION:Growing Up and Working in a Railway Town\nSwindon Heritage Preservation invites you to an engaging illustrated talk titled Growing Up and Working in a Railway Town\, presented by Colin Parsons. This event explores Swindon’s railway heritage through personal experience\, memory\, and local history. As a result\, it offers a unique insight into how the railways shaped both a town and the lives of those who grew up within it. \nA Personal Story of Railway Life\nColin’s talk focuses on his own connection to Swindon and the lasting influence of the railways on his life. Born and raised in a town defined by the Great Western Railway works\, Colin reflects on what it truly meant to grow up in a railway community. \nAs he famously puts it: \n\n“It has been said that people born within the sound of Bow Bells are true Cockneys. Well\, along with my twin brother Derek\, I was born within the sound of the factory hooter so I am a true Swindonian.” \n\nThrough stories like this\, the talk brings to life the everyday sounds\, routines\, and experiences that shaped generations of Swindonians. \nWhy This Talk Is Worth Attending\nRather than focusing only on dates and facts\, Growing Up and Working in a Railway Town places people at the centre of Swindon’s history. Therefore\, it will appeal to anyone interested in social history\, railway heritage\, and personal memories of life around the works. It is equally suitable for long-time residents\, heritage supporters\, and those new to Swindon’s story. \nEvent Details\nDate: Thursday 21 May 2026Time: 7:30 PMVenue: Bakers’ Café\, 16 Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BN \nBakers’ Café is located in the heart of Swindon’s historic Railway Village. It is easily accessible by train and bus\, with the Central Bus Station only a short walk away. In addition\, several car parks are nearby\, including Bristol Street Car Park\, which we recommend for convenience. \nCost and Membership\n\n\nSHP Full Members: FREE entry \n\n\nGuests: £5.00 entry \n\n\nBecoming a Swindon Heritage Preservation Full Member gives you free access to this and many other talks throughout the year. Full membership costs just £12 per year and includes additional benefits. \nJoin us for an evening of memories\, history\, and local pride. Book your place for Growing Up and Working in a Railway Town today.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/growing-up-and-working-in-a-railway-town/
LOCATION:The Bakers’\, 16 Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, Wiltshire\, SN1 5BN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:MemberFREE,Railway200,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/5842565818_364700c754_b-e1769450559572.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260312T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260312T203000
DTSTAMP:20260216T093032Z
CREATED:20260126T154219Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260216T093032Z
UID:7693-1773343800-1773347400@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:New Swindon and the GWR | SHP Talk by Peter Timms
DESCRIPTION:New Swindon and the GWR\nSwindon Heritage Preservation is delighted to welcome historian and author Peter Timms for a talk titled New Swindon and the GWR. This event is based on Peter’s latest publication\, which offers a detailed and comprehensive history of Swindon’s railway town. As a result\, the talk provides a valuable opportunity to explore the development of New Swindon through the lens of the Great Western Railway. \nA Talk Based on New Research\nDuring the evening\, Peter will discuss the research behind New Swindon and the GWR and explain why this history is significant. Much has been written about Swindon before. However\, this work brings together the development of the town\, the railway works\, and the community in a single\, connected narrative. \nThe talk explores how the Great Western Railway shaped daily life in New Swindon. It also considers the relationship between the company and its workforce. Therefore\, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how the railway influenced housing\, employment\, and social life in the town. \nMeet the Author and Book Signing\nPeter will be signing copies of New Swindon and the GWR on the night. This makes the event especially appealing for readers\, collectors\, and local history enthusiasts. In addition\, copies of the book can be purchased in advance from the Swindon Heritage Preservation online store\, ensuring availability on the evening. \nWhy You Should Attend\nThis talk will appeal to anyone interested in Swindon’s history\, railway heritage\, and community life. It is suitable for long-time residents\, heritage supporters\, researchers\, and those discovering Swindon’s story for the first time. The presentation offers both historical insight and personal engagement with the author’s work. \nEvent Details\nDate: Thursday 12 March 2026Time: 7:30 PMVenue: Bakers’ Café\, 16 Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BN \nBakers’ Café is located in the heart of Swindon’s historic Railway Village. It is easily accessible by train and bus\, with the Central Bus Station just a short walk away. In addition\, several car parks are available nearby. We recommend Bristol Street Car Park due to its close proximity. \nCost and Membership\n\n\nSHP Full Members: FREE entry \n\n\nGuests: £5.00 entry \n\n\nBecoming a Swindon Heritage Preservation Full Member gives you free access to this and many other talks throughout the year. Full membership costs just £12 per year and includes additional benefits. \nJoin us for an informative and engaging evening. Book your place for New Swindon and the GWR today.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/new-swindon-and-the-gwr-talk/
LOCATION:The Bakers’\, 16 Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, Wiltshire\, SN1 5BN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:MemberFREE,Railway200,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/New-Swindon-and-the-GWR-e1769510434403.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251016T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251016T203000
DTSTAMP:20250901T072854Z
CREATED:20250901T072728Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250901T072854Z
UID:5959-1760643000-1760646600@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:'Swindon Works at War' by Jack Hayward
DESCRIPTION:It is 80 years since the end of WW2\, and 40 years since the closure of Swindon Railway Works. \nThe Works contribution as a war factory was colossal\, its achievements little recognised. \nWith the two defining factors of WW1 and WW2 leaving their indelible marks in the minds of Swindon Railway workers\, what was it like working during the Blackout? \nWhat role did women play in Swindon Works\, and why was it not a prime target for the German Luftwaffe’s heavy bombers? \nJoin us 7:30 PM Thursday 16th October at the Central Community Centre (SN1 5BP) for ‘Swindon Works at War’ by Jack Hayward. \nCost\nSwindon Heritage Preservation (SHP) Full Members – FREE Entry \nGuests – £5.00 Entry \nMembership\nBecoming a SHP Full Member gives you full FREE access to our series of talks\, along with many other benefits. Full Membership only costs £12 per year! You can learn more about Membership here (https://mechanics-trust.org.uk/membership/). \nGetting to Emlyn Square\nCentral Community Centre is in Emlyn Square (SN1 5BP) at the heart of Swindon’s Railway Village. You can view the location on Google Maps here. \nIt is easily accessible by train and bus\, with the Central Bus Station just a short walk away. There are several car parks available around the Railway Village. We recommend Bristol Street Car Park for it’s proximity to Emlyn Square.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/swindon-works-at-war-by-jack-hayward/
LOCATION:Central Community Centre\, SN1 5BG\, Central Community Centre\, Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BG\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,MemberFREE,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Swindon-Works-at-War.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250410T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250410T193000
DTSTAMP:20250310T105030Z
CREATED:20250210T115933Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250310T105030Z
UID:4447-1744308000-1744313400@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:'Why are we nostalgic about railways?' by Philip Garrahan
DESCRIPTION:Philip Garrahan will contrast Swindon’s reputation for railway engineering with its important social history. It was once a complete company town\, when the outside observer could be forgiven for thinking the GWR and Swindon were the same.   \nThe new town was built on a greenfield site with innovations in its Railway Village\, Medical Social Fund\, Mechanics’ Institute\, Art School and much more. Our modern nostalgia about railways may overlook how distinctive Swindon was in the age of steam. It’s now time to reset the balance. \nPhilip Garrahan is a retired university lecturer and is the editor of ‘Made in Swindon: a social history 1840s-1940s’\, to be published this year. \n  \nSwindon Heritage Preservation (SHP) Full Members – FREE Entry \nGuests – £3.00 Entry \n  \nBecoming a SHP Full Member gives you full FREE access to our series of talks for Railway 200\, along with many other benefits. Full Membership only costs £12 per year! You can learn more about Membership here (https://mechanics-trust.org.uk/membership/). \n  \nPhoto Credits: The GWR Railway Village – Martin Parry
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/why-are-we-nostalgic-about-railways-by-philip-garrahan/
LOCATION:Central Community Centre\, SN1 5BG\, Central Community Centre\, Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BG\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,MemberFREE,Railway200,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Railway-village.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250402T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250402T170000
DTSTAMP:20250317T024127Z
CREATED:20250317T024127Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250317T024127Z
UID:4743-1743598800-1743613200@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:Swindon Heritage Hub in Emlyn Square
DESCRIPTION:Welcome to Swindon Heritage Hub in Emlyn Square\, the heart of Swindon’s historic Railway Village. We open the cosy Bakers for tours\, talks and other activities. You can browse our archive\, carry out research or have good chat with like-minded people over cake and a cuppa. \nWe welcome you to get stuck into a variety of activities and projects\, or ask us about the regeneration work taking place across Swindon. Our Heritage Hub comes alive on Wednesdays\, as this is usually when we have large numbers of our friendly team around. Come say hi!  \nWe are open every Wednesday from 1pm for: \nFree Guided Tours of Swindon Railway Village and its House Caught in Time.  \nRailway Village Guided Walking Tours – 1:30pm – Book Here \nRailway Village Museum Tour – 3pm – Book Here \nWe usually close around 5pm. Can’t make it in the daytime? Evening Tours can be arranged\, please email museum@mechanics-trust.org.uk \nAll are welcome. Free Entry. Refreshments will be available for a small donation. Tours must be booked in advance to avoid disappointment.  \nDonations \nIf you can donate\, we would really appreciate it. You can do so here. Thank you! \nAccessibility\nA portable wheelchair ramp is available for access to the Bakers. Our tours follow designated pedestrian routes around the Village. However\, as Swindon Railway Village is a conservation area\, not all pavements and alleyways are fully accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Please let us know if you have any special requirements or limited mobility so we can prepare for your visit\, make necessary adjustments and ensure that you can get the most of your time with us. Email: info@mechanics-trust.org.uk \nTransport and Parking\nBy public transport:\nSwindon Railway Village is easily reachable by train or bus\, and we are only a short walking distance from the Central Bus Station. \nBy car:\nThere are a number of Car Parks conveniently located around the Railway Village\, but we recommend using  Bristol Street Car Park. \nOther things to do: \nWhile visiting the Swindon Heritage Hub in Emlyn Square\, why not check out the Works heritage Trail while you are here? The Works Heritage Trail guides you around Swindon’s beautifully preserved Railway Village\, through the Tunnel and around the former GWR Works – the original industrial heart of Swindon. \nWant to see other events or learn more about Swindon’s history? Have a look at the Swindon Heritage Preservation Events page. \n  \n 
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/swindon-heritage-hub-in-emlyn-square/
LOCATION:The Bakers’\, 16 Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, Wiltshire\, SN1 5BN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,MemberFREE,Museum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Bakers-scaled-e1742179079257.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Railway Village Museum":MAILTO:museum@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250402T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250402T120000
DTSTAMP:20250317T025955Z
CREATED:20250317T025840Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250317T025955Z
UID:4746-1743588000-1743595200@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:Community Coffee Mornings at the Bakers: Swindon Railway Village
DESCRIPTION:The Bakers Community Cafe is free and open to all Swindon residents on Wednesday mornings. You can get involved in activities and games\, or simply drop by for coffee\, cake and a catch up. You can also meet various teams from Swindon Borough Council\, such as housing\, planning and regeneration. \nWe can’t wait to see you for our Railway Village Community Coffee Mornings! \nPLEASE NOTE: We are open on the FIRST\, THIRD AND LAST Wednesday of the Month. \nWe will be closed on the second Wednesday of each month. \nOn the last Wednesday of every month\, we are joined by Swindon Borough Council’s Housing team. Please come along and say hi; bring any questions to the team. No appointment necessary. \n \n\nDonations \nWe rely heavily on donations to be able to deliver free events. If you can donate\, we would really appreciate it. You can do so here. Thank you! \nAccessibility\nA portable wheelchair ramp is available for access to the Bakers.  \nTransport and Parking\nBy public transport:\nSwindon Railway Village is easily reachable by train or bus\, and we are only a short walking distance from the Central Bus Station. \nBy car:\nThere are a number of Car Parks conveniently located around the Railway Village\, but we recommend using  Bristol Street Car Park. \nOther things to do: \nWhy not stick around for our Heritage Hub? Every Wednesday from 1pm at the Bakers for Tours\, Talks and other activities.  \nWhile visiting the Swindon Railway Village Community Coffee Mornings\, why not check out the Works heritage Trail while you are here? The Works Heritage Trail guides you around Swindon’s beautifully preserved Railway Village\, through the Tunnel and around the former GWR Works – the original industrial heart of Swindon. \nWant to see other events or learn more about Swindon’s history? Have a look at the Swindon Heritage Preservation Events page. \n  \n 
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/community-coffee-mornings/
LOCATION:The Bakers’\, 16 Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, Wiltshire\, SN1 5BN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Community,MemberFREE
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/IMG_0191-1-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Central Community Centre":MAILTO:bookings@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250317T133000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250317T143000
DTSTAMP:20250317T022431Z
CREATED:20250317T021843Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250317T022431Z
UID:4732-1742218200-1742221800@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:Swindon Railway Village Guided Walking Tour
DESCRIPTION:Railway Village Walking Tour  \nDiscover Swindon’s historic Railway Village guided by a local historian. \nDetails \nTour Meeting Location: Bakers\nTour Duration: Approx. 1hr\nTour Cost: FREE (Donations Welcome)\nBooking: Booking is essential for this walking tour to avoid disappointment. \nRailway Village Walking Tour takes place every Wednesday at 1:30pm from April to September. \nDonations \nWe rely heavily on donations to be able to deliver free events and open our museum. If you can donate\, we would really appreciate it. You can do so by adding a £5 donation ticket (Please ensure you also book a free ticket). Alternatively\, you can donate a different amount here. \nThank you! \nAccessibility\nA portable wheelchair ramp is available for access to the Bakers. Our tours follow designated pedestrian routes around the Village. However\, as Swindon Railway Village is a conservation area\, not all pavements and alleyways are fully accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Please let us know if you have any special requirements or limited mobility so we can prepare for your visit\, make necessary adjustments and ensure that you can get the most of your time with us. Email: info@mechanics-trust.org.uk \nTransport and Parking\nBy public transport:\nSwindon Railway Village is easily reachable by train or bus\, and we are only a short walking distance from the Central Bus Station. \nBy car:\nThere are a number of Car Parks conveniently located around the Railway Village\, but we recommend using  Bristol Street Car Park. \nOther things to do: \nWhy not check out the Works heritage Trail while you are here? The Works Heritage Trail guides you around Swindon’s beautifully preserved Railway Village\, through the Tunnel and around the former GWR Works – the original industrial heart of Swindon. \nWant to see other events or learn more about Swindon’s history? Have a look at the Swindon Heritage Preservation Events page. \n  \n 
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/swindon-railway-village-guided-walking-tour/
LOCATION:The Bakers’\, 16 Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, Wiltshire\, SN1 5BN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,MemberFREE,Museum,Railway200,Walking Tours
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Walking-Tours-scaled-e1724069368753.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Railway Village Museum":MAILTO:museum@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250316T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250316T130000
DTSTAMP:20250213T114036Z
CREATED:20250213T102232Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250213T114036Z
UID:4549-1742119200-1742130000@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:Cricketers Tours and Open Doors: National Lottery Open Week
DESCRIPTION:The forthcoming Cricketers tour and open doors event is part of National Lottery open week\, offering a rare opportunity. It’s your chance to see some of the work of Swindon Heritage Preservation. \nOn this tour you can step inside the beloved Cricketers building for an exclusive peek at the restoration work undertaken by us for the community.  The Cricketers Tour and Open Doors will guide you through the history of the building\, its current condition and the work taking place to restore it for community use. \n \nLearn how\, for 100 years\, this former public house was once a thriving community hub in the heart of Swindon’s town centre. Help us to build a picture of the role this building is going to play for future generations. And for the development of the WORKS area and the Mechanics’ Institute. \n \nThe National Lottery \nNational Lottery Open Week\nIt’s a simple concept. Anyone visiting\, showing a National Lottery ticket\, Instant Win Game\, or scratchcard (physical or digital) is able to take up a special offer. \nThe National Lottery has funded a variety of our community and heritage projects in the past. We want to be ultra clear that it’s the support of National Lottery players who help fantastic projects and organisations to continue to make a difference to people and communities. So National Lottery Open Week is the perfect way to say #ThanksToYou. \nWhere and when\n\nLocation: Meet at the Cricketers at your booked time\nTime: Slots between 10am and 1pm\nDate: Sunday 16th March\nParking available at Bristol Street\n\nSafety information\n\nWe’ll provide visitors with a safety briefing at the beginning of each tour.\nYou WILL have to wear personal protective equipment such as a Hi-Visibility Vest.\nWe advise visitors to wear sensible footwear\, which are flat and fully enclosed\, along with long sleeved clothing. So no Jimmy Choos!\nIf you’re sensitive to dust and smells then consider that this tour isn’t suitable for you.\n\nAccessibility\nThe tour requires visitors to be able to navigate tight corridors\, walk on uneven flooring and climb stairs. If you’re not able to do this\, but would like to attend\, please get in touch with us so we can try to make arrangements to accommodate your visit. info@mechanics-trust.org.uk. \n\nThe Cricketers Swindon in the GWR railway village
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/cricketers-tours/
LOCATION:The Cricketers’\, 14 Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, Wiltshire\, SN1 5BN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,MemberFREE,Railway200
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/CRKS.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250206T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250206T193000
DTSTAMP:20241230T161735Z
CREATED:20240819T082646Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241230T161735Z
UID:3293-1738864800-1738870200@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:The Great Wall of Swindon - by Jack Hayward
DESCRIPTION:Where is the Great Wall of Swindon and why was it built?\nHave you ever wondered why this wall exists? \n\n\nThe Great Wall of Swindon flows like a river of masonry from west to east. It begins as a trickle from Rodbourne Road with a low wall of pennant stone. It reaches its full height at Bristol Street and continues towards the train station. – Jack S. Hayward \nJack Hayward has compiled his research on Swindon’s “Great Wall” which runs directly through Swindon’s Railway Conservation Area.Join us for an evening of wonder\, as Jack talks us along the history of the wall\, and the changes to the buildings around it over time.\nFree Entry for Members\n£3 for non-members \nPhoto Credits: Jack S. Hayward
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/the-great-wall-of-swindon-by-jack-hayward/
LOCATION:Central Community Centre\, SN1 5BG\, Central Community Centre\, Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BG\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,MemberFREE,Railway200,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/35.-The-Wall-15-Sheppard-St-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241130T110000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241130T150000
DTSTAMP:20241021T143256Z
CREATED:20240813T092041Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241021T143256Z
UID:3269-1732964400-1732978800@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:Christmas in the Railway Village
DESCRIPTION:Kick off your festive season with Christmas in the Railway Village. Santa will be paying a special visit for one day only\, and there will be plenty of games\, stalls and other activities for the whole family to enjoy. \nChildren will get the chance to have a chat with Santa about how Christmas has changed in Swindon. There are a range of free games\, craft workshops and other activities for the whole family to enjoy while you wait for Santa. \nWhat you can expect:\n– Visit Santa in his Victorian parlour at the Railway Village Museum\, 34 Faringdon Road\n– Browse the stalls and games at the Central Community Centre\n– Create your own Winter Wreath at our workshop in the Central Community Centre\n– Enjoy a slice of homemade cake\, a mince pie\, hot drinks and other refreshments at the Community Centre \nHow much will it cost and how can I book?\nEntry is FREE for the Event so you can browse the stalls\, play the games and enjoy a hot cup of tea and a mince pie for a small donation. \n– Tickets to see Santa are £3.50 each and include a small gift. You can book your meeting with Santa here\n– The Winter Wreath making workshop is £20 per wreath\, and you can book here. \nOther things to do…\nAre the Virtual trails going to be available?\nYes! The family friendly walking trails are available for free\, 24/7. There is no need to book and you can access them here: \nTheWORKS Heritage Trail \nTheWORKS Children’s Story Trail \nHow to get here:\nFor those traveling by car\, parking is available at Bristol Street Car Park. However\, we encourage using public transport to make your journey even easier. Plan your bus route in advance to make the most of your day at this festive event. Plan your bus journey here
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/christmas-in-the-railway-village/
LOCATION:Central Community Centre\, SN1 5BG\, Central Community Centre\, Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BG\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Community,Heritage,MemberFREE,Museum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024-Christmas-in-the-Railway-Village-Video.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241109
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241110
DTSTAMP:20240924T225620Z
CREATED:20240813T092833Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240924T225620Z
UID:3273-1731110400-1731196799@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:Annual General Meeting 2024: Swindon Heritage Preservation
DESCRIPTION:You are warmly invited to our 2024 AGM\, with additional speakers\, tours and exhibitions. \nFollowing a very positive meeting in 2023\, this year’s AGM is set to cover even more as we share our strategy for the future and an overview of our work from the previous year. You can also expect updates on the Mechanics’ Institution\, Health Hydro and Cricketers\, as well as an overview of the recently completed Heritage Action Zone project. \nCricketers Restoration Tours\nWe have arranged an exclusive tour of the Cricketers\, highlighting our progress and sharing the work we are doing to restore this important building in Emlyn Square. We can’t wait to show our members how much their contributions have enabled the conservation of Swindon’s built heritage. \nThere is one tour before the meeting at 11am\, and another tour after the meeting at 2pm. Tours are limited\, so please book your space below to avoid disappointment. \nAdditional things to do…\nIf you are planning to make the trip to the Railway Village\, why not join us in the Bakers for a drink and homemade cake? This is a good opportunity to meet the team and wider community; we would really like to catch up with new and familiar faces. \nWe will open the Bakers from 10:30am up until around 3pm – when the final tour has finished. (Please note we will close during the meeting\, but you are welcome to take your refreshments with you to the Cultural Heritage Institute in the Carriageworks. \nSteam: The New Wonder\nWhile you are in the Bakers\, be sure to take a look inside the Snug which is currently home to Steam: The New Wonder\, an exhibition on the growth of the railway through Richard Jefferies’ eyes. This exhibition was curated by the Richard Jefferies Museum\, and has found a new temporary home with us in Emlyn Square. \nWorks Heritage Trail \nWe would highly recommend you check out the new WORKS Heritage Trail\, developed through the Heritage Action Zone project\, funded by Historic England and supported by partner organisations including Swindon Heritage Preservation. You can pick up a map from the Bakers on the day\, and browse the additional content on your phone. \nPlease RSVP below\, book onto a tour\, and consider joining Swindon Heritage Preservation as a member for as little as £1 per year. More information on membership can be found here. Please note\, only members will be able to vote during the AGM. \nWe look forward to sharing our work with you\, and to hear your views on Swindon’s Heritage. To be added to the formal invite list\, please contact info@mechanics-trust.org.uk. \n  \nTransport and Parking \nBy public transport: Swindon Railway Village is easily reachable by train or bus\, and we are only a short walking distance from the Central Bus Station. \nBy car:  There are a number of Car Parks conveniently located around the Railway Village\, but we recommend using  Bristol Street Car Park.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/agm-2024-swindon-heritage-preservation/
LOCATION:Cultural Heritage Institute\, Station Industrial Estate\, Shed 11\, London St\,\, Swindon\, SN1 5DE\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,MemberFREE,Talks,Walking Tours
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/399092645_3700287966963917_5212913308207442260_n-2.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241028
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241031
DTSTAMP:20240925T212027Z
CREATED:20240925T211426Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240925T212027Z
UID:3571-1730073600-1730332799@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:Meet Mrs Smith at the Railway Village Museum
DESCRIPTION:Meet Mrs Smith as she offers a tour of her Victorian Cottage at the Railway Village Museum. \nActor and history addict Louise Jordan guides you through her cottage in this exclusive tour. Discover life in Swindon for a 1901 family\, from a housewife who shares her busy routine while her husband is at work and the children are at school. \nVisitors are invited to converse with Mrs Smith throughout the performance\, and may even get called upon to help with some of the washing! \nDetails and Booking \nMeet Mrs Smith is part of Prime Theatre’s ‘History Alive’ project\, funded by the GWR Community Foundation. \nOpen to all\, there are 4 tours taking place over 2 days of the October half term; lasting approx 30-40 minutes each. \nMonday 28 12.30pm\nMonday 28 Oct 2.30pm \n\n\n\n\n\nWednesday 30 Oct 9.30am\nWednesday 30 Oct 11am\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPlease book your tickets here\, or for any other enquiries\, please contact Prime Theatre. \nFacilities \nPlease note there are no toilet facilities on site. \nAccessibility \nWheelchair ramps are available and the ground floor of the cottage is accessible. Space in the cottage is limited and the stairs are steep so please take care. \nTransport and Parking \nBy public transport:\nSwindon Railway Village is easily reachable by train or bus\, and we are only a short walking distance from the Central Bus Station. \nBy car:\nThere are a number of Car Parks conveniently located around the Railway Village\, but we recommend using  Bristol Street Car Park. \nMore information about the Railway Village Museum can be found here.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/meet-mrs-smith/
LOCATION:Railway Village Museum\, 34 Faringdon Road\, Swindon\, Wiltshire\, SN1 5BJ\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,MemberFREE,Museum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/IMG_7641-1-scaled-e1727298850503.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Prime Theatre":MAILTO:info@primetheatre.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240907T163000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240907T173000
DTSTAMP:20240902T200621Z
CREATED:20240819T084017Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240902T200621Z
UID:3297-1725726600-1725730200@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:Connecting the Pubs in Emlyn Square by John Stooke
DESCRIPTION:Revisiting some of the alehouses that loomed large in the lives of the GWR community \nWith the coming of the railway to Swindon in 1841\, the locomotive repair Works and all that was to follow from 1843\, there came an unprecedented explosion of the working population. “New Swindon” was first centred on GWR’s “factory village” but accommodation could not keep pace with demand\, many speculative estates of terraced houses started to spring up close-by. The burgeoning\, heavily worked population needed places to drink – let off steam if you will! \nJoin us for a talk by John Stooke\, Author of Last Orders. Last Orders is the result of four years of meticulous research by John – and hours spent writing in The Blunsdon Arms. Well it would have to be a pub where John worked wouldn’t it? \nThis event is being hosted by Swindon Heritage Preservation with support of the Royal Agricultural University at the Cultural Heritage Institute. \nPlease enter Via the main entrance in Bristol Street Car Park\, Doors Open at 16:20.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/connecting-the-pubs-in-emlyn-square-by-john-stooke/
LOCATION:Cultural Heritage Institute\, Station Industrial Estate\, Shed 11\, London St\,\, Swindon\, SN1 5DE\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,MemberFREE,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Gluepot-scaled-e1724057016853.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240907T153000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240907T163000
DTSTAMP:20240819T120112Z
CREATED:20240819T115123Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240819T120112Z
UID:3350-1725723000-1725726600@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:Pub Walk and Talk -  Heritage Open Days 2024
DESCRIPTION:Connecting the pubs in Emlyn Square \n\nJoin us for a guided tour of the Bakers and Cricketers in Emlyn Square the heart of Swindon’s historic Railway Village. \nWith the coming of the railway to Swindon in 1841 the locomotive repair Works and all that was to follow from 1843 there came an unprecedented explosion of the working population. “New Swindon” was first centred on GWR’s “factory village” but accommodation could not keep pace with demand many speculative estates of terraced houses started to spring up close-by. The burgeoning heavily worked population needed places to drink – let off steam if you will! \nThe Cricketers Tour will guide you through the history of the building its current condition and the work taking place by Swindon Heritage Preservation to restore it for community use. Learn how for 100 years this former public house was once a thriving community hub in the heart of Swindon’s town centre. \nThe walk continues to the Bakers a former Brew-house Bakery and Pub currently operating as a community space with a unique cafe layout. Learn more about its past present and future before heading to the FREE talk by John Stooke Author of ‘Last Orders’.  More info here (Booking for the talk is not required – Please book the talk separately to avoid disappointment). \n\nSafety information\n\nWe’ll provide visitors with a safety briefing at the beginning of each tour.\nYou WILL have to wear personal protective equipment such as a Hi-Visibility Vest.\nWe advise visitors to wear sensible footwear\, which are flat and fully enclosed\, along with long sleeved clothing. So no Jimmy Choos!\nIf you’re sensitive to dust and smells then consider that this tour isn’t suitable for you.\n\nAccessibility\nThe tour requires visitors to be able to navigate tight corridors\, walk on uneven flooring and climb stairs. If you’re not able to do this\, but would like to attend\, please get in touch with us so we can try to make arrangements to accommodate your visit. info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/pub-walk-and-talk-heritage-open-days-2024/
LOCATION:The Cricketers’\, 14 Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, Wiltshire\, SN1 5BN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,MemberFREE,Walking Tours
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Cricketers-JAN-24-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240907T123000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240907T133000
DTSTAMP:20240819T121840Z
CREATED:20240819T115417Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240819T121840Z
UID:3355-1725712200-1725715800@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:Pub Walk and Talk -  Heritage Open Days 2024
DESCRIPTION:Connecting the pubs in Emlyn Square \n\nJoin us for a guided tour of the Bakers and Cricketers in Emlyn Square the heart of Swindon’s historic Railway Village. \nWith the coming of the railway to Swindon in 1841 the locomotive repair Works and all that was to follow from 1843 there came an unprecedented explosion of the working population. “New Swindon” was first centred on GWR’s “factory village” but accommodation could not keep pace with demand many speculative estates of terraced houses started to spring up close-by. The burgeoning heavily worked population needed places to drink – let off steam if you will! \nThe Cricketers Tour will guide you through the history of the building its current condition and the work taking place by Swindon Heritage Preservation to restore it for community use. Learn how for 100 years this former public house was once a thriving community hub in the heart of Swindon’s town centre. \nThe walk continues to the Bakers a former Brew-house Bakery and Pub currently operating as a community space with a unique cafe layout. Learn more about its past present and future before heading to the FREE talk by John Stooke Author of ‘Last Orders’.  More info here (Booking for the talk is not required – Please book the talk separately to avoid disappointment). \n\nSafety information\n\nWe’ll provide visitors with a safety briefing at the beginning of each tour.\nYou WILL have to wear personal protective equipment such as a Hi-Visibility Vest.\nWe advise visitors to wear sensible footwear\, which are flat and fully enclosed\, along with long sleeved clothing. So no Jimmy Choos!\nIf you’re sensitive to dust and smells then consider that this tour isn’t suitable for you.\n\nAccessibility\nThe tour requires visitors to be able to navigate tight corridors\, walk on uneven flooring and climb stairs. If you’re not able to do this\, but would like to attend\, please get in touch with us so we can try to make arrangements to accommodate your visit. info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/pub-walk-and-talk-heritage-open-days-2024-2/
LOCATION:The Cricketers’\, 14 Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, Wiltshire\, SN1 5BN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,MemberFREE,Walking Tours
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Cricketers-JAN-24-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR