The Wilson Museum

Coffee With a Curator
2026-06-03 13:30 - 14:30, 2026-07-01 13:30 - 14:30 (Europe/London)
First Wednesday of every month, 1.30pm â€“ 2pm
These informal sessions held in The Wilson cafÃ© lounge area at lunchtime on the first Wednesday of the month give you the chance to join one of our curators for a half hour chat as they introduce pieces from The Wilsonâ€™s extensive collections.
From pottery and works of art to items that reflect the social history of the Cheltenham area, youâ€™ll get to have a closer look at the objects as they are brought out of the archives.
There will be a different object every month. Book a place for Â£3, which will include a complimentary tea or coffee from the cafÃ©. For updates and more details of the objects and subjects for each monthly session, see our Facebook and Instagram

Wilson Nights: Threads
2026-06-03 18:00 - 21:00 | The Wilson, The Wilson Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 13JT, United Kingdom
The Wilsonâ€™s artist-led events, WILSON NIGHTS, on the first Wednesday of every month from 6pm til 9pm.
The Story of Seven Sisters from 8.30pm â€“ 9pm in The Foyle
A live philosophical performance by resident artist, Atul Bhunkal. Journey through seven unseen presences moving like colours within consciousness, unfolding meditative states through poetry, sound, silence, and metaphor. An immersive experience where mythology dissolves into dream, and perception becomes ritual beneath shifting landscapes of memory and light.
Running (Stitch) With It: Creative Sewing from 6-8.30pm in The Courtyard
Join Resident Artists Jennifer Hughes to use varied and vibrant fabric pieces to relax creatively through stitch.
Sitting among intriguing objects from the Wilson’s Handling Collection, we can respond to the qualities of the pieces and the conversations they inspire. Alternatively, allow the materials and the moment to lead your sewing.
We will be using simple running stitch and the activity is suitable for new or experienced sewers. All materials are provided and supportive guidance will be available.
Knit a Sweater from 6-8.30pm in the CafÃ©
DÇŽmÃ¡o yÄ« is a participatory workshop and live making session by artist Jing BAI.
Using aluminium wire in place of soft yarn, participants are invited to explore knitting, knotting and related textile techniques using unusual industrial materials. Throughout the evening, the space will function as both workshop and temporary studio – a place for making, conversation, experimentation and shared activity.
Visitors are welcome to observe, take part, contribute small fragments, or simply spend time in the space while the work continues to grow throughout the evening.
No experience needed. All materials provided.
Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra in Arts & Crafts from 6-8pm
Love experimenting with sound and music? Join this friendly group and dive into the world of improvised music. No instrument? No problem! There will be something for you to use, or bring your own. Open to all abilities, from beginners to professionals.
ðŸŽŸï¸ Entry and all performances are FREE – no need to book.
ðŸ¥³ We can’t wait for what is set to be a lively night at The Wilson!

Memory Lane
2026-06-04 10:30 - 12:00
Join our friendly social group for older people and anyone living with dementia.
Come to The Wilson for some creative activities, a relaxed chat, and a warm cuppa. Free tea and coffee are provided. Thereâ€™s no need to book, and carers are very welcome.
Sessions take place on the first Thursday of each month, from 10:30 – 12:00, on the following dates:
Thursday 4 June
Thursday 2 July
Thursday 6 August
Thursday 3 September
Thursday 1 October
Thursday 5 November
Thursday 3 December

Practical Fine Art for Adults: Introduction to Acrylic Painting
2026-06-05 13:30 - 2026-07-03 15:30
Join our Practical Fine Art for Beginners course and unlock your creativity!
Our lessons are tailored for those with little-to-no experience in art, but feel the desire to discover and create. At the end of the course, you will have honed your skills and gained confidence in your ability to produce your own artwork. Start your journey as an artist today.
Introduction to Acrylic Painting: Colour, Texture, and Expression
A practical course introducing the core techniques of acrylic painting. Students will learn
how to use colour, layering, and texture to create expressive and visually dynamic paintings.
The course encourages experimentation with both realism and abstraction.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
â€¢ Understand acrylic painting materials and mixing techniques.
â€¢ Apply layering, glazing, and blending methods.
â€¢ Use colour theory to create harmony and contrast.
â€¢ Develop composition and visual balance in a painting.
â€¢ Complete an original acrylic artwork from concept to finish
About Kitty McLeod
The tutor, Kitty McLeod, of Promising Artists, trained at Ravensbourne University London and the University of Gloucestershire. She has been teaching art and creative workshops with children and adults of all ages nationally since 2010. She has experience in delivering fine art drawing & painting, illustration, printmaking, animation and life drawing classes. Kitty runs a small art school in Cheltenham and art courses for the National Trust.
Price is for a course of 5 sessions and includes all materials.
Dates 2026
Winter Term: 9 January â€“ 6 February
Winter/Spring: 27 February â€“ 27 March
Spring: 17 April â€“ 15 May
Summer: 5 June â€“ 3 July
Fridays, 1.30pm â€“ 3.30pm
Please note that once purchased, courses are strictly non-refundable and non-exchangeable under any circumstances.
Book Now

Practical Fine Art for Children: Introduction to Acrylic Painting
2026-06-06 10:00 - 2026-07-04 11:30
For keen young artists of all levels. The perfect complement to school art lessons, whether studying at primary or GCSE level. Practical, how-to skills: observational drawing techniques, multi-media exploration, adventures in colour and more. There is plenty of time for one-to-one support in these small groups too.
Introduction to Acrylic Painting: Colour, Texture, and Expression
A practical course introducing the core techniques of acrylic painting. Students will learn
how to use colour, layering, and texture to create expressive and visually dynamic paintings.
The course encourages experimentation with both realism and abstraction.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
â€¢ Understand acrylic painting materials and mixing techniques.
â€¢ Apply layering, glazing, and blending methods.
â€¢ Use colour theory to create harmony and contrast.
â€¢ Develop composition and visual balance in a painting.
â€¢ Complete an original acrylic artwork from concept to finish
About Kitty McLeod
Kitty McLeod trained at Ravensbourne University London and the University of Gloucestershire. She has been teaching art and creative workshops, organising events, parties, and face painting with children and adults of all ages nationally since 2010. She has experience in delivering fine art, illustration, printmaking, animation and life drawing classes. Kittyâ€™s students have won art scholarships to Cheltenham College, Rendcombe College and Kingâ€™s School.
Price is for a course of 5 sessions and includes all materials.
Dates 2026
Winter Term: 10 January â€“ 7 February
Winter/Spring: 28 February â€“ 28 March
Spring: 18 April â€“ 16 May
Summer: 6 June â€“ 4 July
Please note that once purchased, courses are strictly non-refundable and non-exchangeable under any circumstances.
Book Now

Home Educators Workshop: Cyanotypes and Antarctic Discoveries
2026-06-11 10:00 - 15:00
Home Educators Workshop: Cyanotypes and Antarctic Discoveries
Discover the beauty of botanical exploration at the Wilson Art Gallery & Museum in this hands-on cyanotype workshop for home-educating families!
We will take inspiration from the museumâ€™s herbarium collection (a herbarium is a scientific collection of preserved plant specimens that are dried, pressed, and mounted on paper, or preserved in other ways) and the Antarctic plant documentation made during Edward Wilsonâ€™s expeditions. Participants will then learn the fascinating history of cyanotype printing and this early photographic process.
Using natural forms pressed ourselves and inspired by the herbariums, everyone will create their own striking blue-and-white cyanotype prints to take home.
A creative blend of art, nature, and scientific curiosity for young explorers!
Accompanying adults do not require a ticket but please note this is not a drop off session and adults are encouraged to join in activities with their children.
10.30am to 12.30pm (4 to 9 year olds)
1.30pm to 3.30pm (9 to 14 year olds)
*You will notice an overlap in ages for the two sessions. As you know your child, please choose which session you think would be best for them.*
Book Now

Memory Lane Cafe
2026-07-02 10:30 - 12:00
Join our friendly social group for older people and anyone living with dementia.
Come to The Wilson for some creative activities, a relaxed chat, and a warm cuppa. Free tea and coffee are provided. Thereâ€™s no need to book, and carers are very welcome.
Sessions take place on the first Thursday of each month, from 10:30 – 12:00, on the following dates:
Thursday 2 July
Thursday 6 August
Thursday 3 September
Thursday 1 October
Thursday 5 November
Thursday 3 December

Curator Led Tour: The Art of Looking
2026-07-08 13:00 - 14:00
Curator-Led Tour: The Art of Looking
Join Senior Curator Layla Gatens for a guided tour of our latest exhibition, The Art of Looking: from Dutch Masters to Modern Britain. Discover how artists across centuries, from meticulous Dutch painters to modern British voices, have shaped the way we see the world, with expert insights into the works and ideas behind the exhibition.
Tour starts at 1pm, from the bottom of the staircase on the ground floor.
Book Now

Collar Creations: Inspired by the Masters
2026-07-11 10:30 - 14:00
Inspired by the rich details of the portraits in The Art of Looking, drop in to this free family workshop to imagine, and create your own wearable artwork!
Take a closer look at the textures, clothing and hidden stories within artworks in the exhibition and be inspired by the elaborate collars and fine details seen in portraits. Then, using simple materials, cut, fold and build your own paper collars inspired by what you see. This is your chance to experiment, play and see differently.
Drop in anytime, stay as long as you like!
Suitable for all ages. No booking required.

Be Brave Balloon: Author Book Reading
2026-07-21 11:00 - 12:00
Join us for a special childrenâ€™s book reading with Roxanne Darby, author of Be Brave Balloon! Be Brave Balloon is a cozy picture book adventure for helping little ones understand that sometimes itâ€™s okay to say goodbye. Perfect for ages 2-6. During this event Roxanne will read the book and lead a couple of interactive activities for little ones. Books will be available for purchase and signing!

Creative Explorers
2026-07-22 10:00 - 15:00, 2026-07-29 10:00 - 15:00, 2026-08-05 10:00 - 15:00, 2026-08-12 10:00 - 15:00, 2026-08-19 10:00 - 15:00
An artist led holiday club for 4-11 year olds who love to make, share and play. We will collaborate on engaging individual and group craft projects with a focus on nature, the world around us and free play to encourage creativity, language and expression within the arts.
This informal holiday workshop will be fun and light, providing your child with the chance to express themselves artistically while making new friends and learning new skills.
We will take a tour of the galleries, explore the works on display and (weather dependent) we will take a nature walk outside, so please supply a coat if you are happy for your child to join.
Please note:
â€¢ On sunny days we like to get outside! If you are not happy for your child to leave the building then please let us know on the morning of the session.
â€¢ Children aged 4 are only permitted to attend on a shorter day of 11-3 according to government safeguarding guidelines. If you book a 4-year-old on to any of our holiday club days you will not be allowed to drop them off before 11am.
â€¢ We may get messy! Please send your child in old clothes that you donâ€™t mind them making and playing in, as we do occasionally use materials that may be harder to wash out.
â€¢ Please pack your child a drinks bottle, so that they can help themselves through the day. Feel free to pack them a snack as well â€“ exploring can be hungry work!
â€¢ Children should bring a bag to help them carry home all their crafts and keep them safe through the day.
All children will now need a packed lunch, there is no longer the option to add it to your ticket booking. Please note nuts are not permitted in packed lunches due to allergies.
â€˜Artyâ€™ lunch boxes will be available to purchase from the cafÃ© on the day if you wish, with a 20% discount for Creative Explorers.
Please note this is a drop-off session.
The cost includes all materials.
Book Now

Memory lane Cafe
2026-08-06 10:30 - 12:00
Join our friendly social group for older people and anyone living with dementia.
Come to The Wilson for some creative activities, a relaxed chat, and a warm cuppa. Free tea and coffee are provided. Thereâ€™s no need to book, and carers are very welcome.
Sessions take place on the first Thursday of each month, from 10:30 – 12:00, on the following dates:
Thursday 6 August
Thursday 3 September
Thursday 1 October
Thursday 5 November
Thursday 3 December

Creative Explorers
2026-08-26 10:00 - 15:00
An artist led holiday club for 4-11 year olds who love to make, share and play. We will collaborate on engaging individual and group craft projects with a focus on nature, the world around us and free play to encourage creativity, language and expression within the arts.
This informal holiday workshop will be fun and light, providing your child with the chance to express themselves artistically while making new friends and learning new skills.
We will take a tour of the galleries, explore the works on display and (weather dependent) we will take a nature walk outside, so please supply a coat if you are happy for your child to join.
Please note:
â€¢ On sunny days we like to get outside! If you are not happy for your child to leave the building then please let us know on the morning of the session.
â€¢ Children aged 4 are only permitted to attend on a shorter day of 11-3 according to government safeguarding guidelines. If you book a 4-year-old on to any of our holiday club days you will not be allowed to drop them off before 11am.
â€¢ We may get messy! Please send your child in old clothes that you donâ€™t mind them making and playing in, as we do occasionally use materials that may be harder to wash out.
â€¢ Please pack your child a drinks bottle, so that they can help themselves through the day. Feel free to pack them a snack as well â€“ exploring can be hungry work!
â€¢ Children should bring a bag to help them carry home all their crafts and keep them safe through the day.
All children will now need a packed lunch, there is no longer the option to add it to your ticket booking. Please note nuts are not permitted in packed lunches due to allergies.
â€˜Artyâ€™ lunch boxes will be available to purchase from the cafÃ© on the day if you wish, with a 20% discount for Creative Explorers.
Please note this is a drop-off session.
The cost includes all materials.
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Book Now

Memory Lane Cafe
2026-09-03 10:30 - 12:00
Join our friendly social group for older people and anyone living with dementia.
Come to The Wilson for some creative activities, a relaxed chat, and a warm cuppa. Free tea and coffee are provided. Thereâ€™s no need to book, and carers are very welcome.
Sessions take place on the first Thursday of each month, from 10:30 – 12:00, on the following dates:
Thursday 3 September
Thursday 1 October
Thursday 5 November
Thursday 3 December

Practical Fine Art for Children: Autumn Term
2026-09-12 10:00 - 2026-10-10 11:30
Practical Fine Art for Children: Autumn Term
For keen young artists of all levels. The perfect complement to school art lessons, whether studying at primary or GCSE level. Practical, how-to skills: observational drawing techniques, multi-media exploration, adventures in colour and more. Plenty of time for one-to-one support in these small groups too.
About Kitty Bayliss
Kitty Bayliss trained at Ravensbourne University London and the University of Gloucestershire. She has been teaching art and creative workshops, organising events, parties, and face painting with children and adults of all ages nationally since 2010. She has experience in delivering fine art, illustration, printmaking, animation and life drawing classes. Kittyâ€™s students have won art scholarships to Cheltenham College, Rendcombe College and Kingâ€™s School.
Saturdays 10am â€“ 11.30am
Autumn Term Dates:
13 September
20 September
27 September
4 October
11 October
Â£120 for all sessions including materials
Book Now

Practical Fine Art Classes for Adults: Beginners Autumn Term
2026-09-12 13:30 - 2026-10-10 15:30
Join our Practical Fine Art for Beginners course and unlock your creativity!
Our lessons are tailored for those with little-to-no experience in art, but feel the desire to discover and create. At the end of the course, you will have honed your skills and gained confidence in your ability to produce your own artwork. Start your journey as an artist today.
About Kitty Bayliss
The tutor, Kitty Bayliss, of Promising Artists, trained at Ravensbourne University London and the University of Gloucestershire. She has been teaching art and creative workshops with children and adults of all ages nationally since 2010. She has experience in delivering fine art drawing & painting, illustration, printmaking, animation and life drawing classes. Kitty runs a small art school in Cheltenham and art courses for the National Trust.
Price is for a course of 5 sessions and includes all materials.
Autumn Term Dates:
12 September
19 Sep September
26 Sep September
3 October
10 October
Book Now

Memory Lane Cafe
2026-10-01 10:30 - 12:30
Join our friendly social group for older people and anyone living with dementia.
Come to The Wilson for some creative activities, a relaxed chat, and a warm cuppa. Free tea and coffee are provided. Thereâ€™s no need to book, and carers are very welcome.
Sessions take place on the first Thursday of each month, from 10:30 – 12:00, on the following dates:
Thursday 1 October
Thursday 5 November
Thursday 3 December

Memory Lane Cafe
2026-11-05 10:30 - 12:30
Join our friendly social group for older people and anyone living with dementia.
Come to The Wilson for some creative activities, a relaxed chat, and a warm cuppa. Free tea and coffee are provided. Thereâ€™s no need to book, and carers are very welcome.
Sessions take place on the first Thursday of each month, from 10:30 – 12:00, on the following dates:
Thursday 5 November
Thursday 3 December

Practical Fine Art for Children: Winter Term
2026-11-14 10:00 - 2026-12-12 11:30
Practical Fine Art for Children: Winter Term
For keen young artists of all levels. The perfect complement to school art lessons, whether studying at primary or GCSE level. Practical, how-to skills: observational drawing techniques, multi-media exploration, adventures in colour and more. Plenty of time for one-to-one support in these small groups too.
About Kitty Bayliss
Kitty Bayliss trained at Ravensbourne University London and the University of Gloucestershire. She has been teaching art and creative workshops, organising events, parties, and face painting with children and adults of all ages nationally since 2010. She has experience in delivering fine art, illustration, printmaking, animation and life drawing classes. Kittyâ€™s students have won art scholarships to Cheltenham College, Rendcombe College and Kingâ€™s School.
Saturdays 10am â€“ 11.30am
Winter Term Dates:
15 November
22 November
29 November
6 December
13 December
Â£120 for all sessions including materials
Book Now

Practical Fine Art Classes for Adults: Beginners Winter Term
2026-11-14 13:30 - 2026-12-12 15:30
Join our Practical Fine Art for Beginners course and unlock your creativity!
Our lessons are tailored for those with little-to-no experience in art, but feel the desire to discover and create. At the end of the course, you will have honed your skills and gained confidence in your ability to produce your own artwork. Start your journey as an artist today.
About Kitty Bayliss
The tutor, Kitty Bayliss, of Promising Artists, trained at Ravensbourne University London and the University of Gloucestershire. She has been teaching art and creative workshops with children and adults of all ages nationally since 2010. She has experience in delivering fine art drawing & painting, illustration, printmaking, animation and life drawing classes. Kitty runs a small art school in Cheltenham and art courses for the National Trust.
Price is for a course of 5 sessions and includes all materials.
Winter Term Dates:
14 November
21 November
28 November
5 December
12 December
Book Now

Christmas Coffee With a Curator
2026-12-02 13:30 - 14:30

Memory Lane Cafe
2026-12-03 10:30 - 12:30
Join our friendly social group for older people and anyone living with dementia.
Come to The Wilson for some creative activities, a relaxed chat, and a warm cuppa. Free tea and coffee are provided. Thereâ€™s no need to book, and carers are very welcome.
Sessions take place on the first Thursday of each month, from 10:30 – 12:00.
