2015 in Somerset: Dates for your calendar
As a Somerset home improvement company committed to serving the local community, we’re proud to promote a range of events that our great county has to offer. Here’s our pick of the best.
East Somerset Railway Steam Gala, 28th-29th March
Once part of the famous ‘Strawberry Line’ that ran from Shepton Mallet, through Cheddar and Yatton, to Clevedon, the East Somerset Railway in Cranmore is a preserved heritage railway that runs steam trains along it’s gorgeous 2 mile stretch of line. From the 28th-29th of March, the railway holds one of its ever popular steam galas. There’ll be a host of vintage steam vehicles on show as well as a range of engines in steam. Perfect if you have a train-obsessed toddler!
Westonzoyland Pumping Station In Steam Day, 5th-6th April
Built in 1830, the Grade II listed Westonzoyland Pumping Station houses Somerset’s first steam-powered land drainage machine: a unique 1861 Easton Amos engine. Capable of pumping 100 tons of water a minute, this magnificent machine is only in steam during certain periods of the year and is a sight to behold. Other exhibits at the pumping station include a waterwheel, a forge and a 2’ narrow gauge railway. This is a great day out if you’re interested in Somerset’s industrial heritage.
Bath and West Agricultural Show, 27th-30th May
The highlight of the year for many Somerset citizens, the Bath and West Agricultural Show is incredibly popular show with both farmers and the general public. Founded in 1777 with the aim of promoting agriculture and trade, the Bath and West has steadily evolved into the West of England’s primary festival celebrating rural life.
With a wide range of products on display and for sale, ranging from tractors and livestock to local produce, the Bath and West truly has something from everyone.
Glastonbury Festival, 24th-28th June
The UK’s most popular music festival, Glastonbury Festival brings a host of acclaimed musicians and music-fans to a collection of muddy fields just outside of Glastonbury in the village of Pilton. Now in its 45th year, the festival instantly sold out when tickets went on sale last October. The only headlining act to be announced so far is rapper, Kayne West, who’s currently proving a controversial choice amongst fans.
Pretty Muddy, Race for Life Bristol, 4th July
The Pretty Muddy Race for Life in Bristol is a 5K obstacle course designed to show cancer that ‘hell hath no fury like a woman in pink’. Organised and run by Cancer Research UK, the Pretty Muddy Race for Life is open to any woman over the age of 13. It’s a heartwarming way to remember the memory of a loved one and raise money in the process, places are still available if you’d like to join in.
Dig for Victory Show, 13th-14th June
The Dig for Victory Show is a 1940’s themed festival that’s held at the North Somerset Showground near Bristol. A family-orientated weekend, the event is run entirely by volunteers through a not-for-profit organisation and raises money for various local charities. With restored wartime vehicles, reenactors, traditional craft demonstrations, vintage clothing stalls and veterans sharing their stories, this event is perfect if you want to bring history alive. Book your tickets here.
Business Leader Awards, September
Run by the region’s biggest business magazine, Business Leader, the Business Leader Awards ceremony in September celebrates the best and brightest achievements in local business across the South West region over the last year. With an exquisite three course dinner, a range of high profile sponsors, and a special celebrity guest, the ever popular event looks set to dazzle audiences further this year.
RHL Weston super Mare Beach Race, 9th-11th October
Entering its 33rd year of running in 2015, the RHL bike race in Weston has been a popular date in the calendar of extreme sports lovers across the region. The biggest off-road race in the country, the RHL Weston super Mare Beach Race sees the beach transformed into a daunting race course, complete with sand-hills and obstacles.
Bridgwater Carnival, 7th November
One of the world’s biggest illuminated carnivals, Bridgwater Carnival started life in 1605 as a celebration of the failure of the Gunpowder Plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament. Originally a large bonfire held on the Cornhill in the centre of the high street, with the renowned Bridgwater ‘squibs’ (handheld fireworks!), the event evolved steadily over the years into an annual procession and became more elaborate.
Now one of Somerset’s most popular events, Bridgwater Carnival consists of floats up to 30 metres long, decorated with dancers and lightbulbs. Local clubs compete to win prizes for the best display. A must watch for any one who loves Somerset culture.
Wells Cathedral Carol Service, December
Held in the breath-taking surroundings of the Grade 1 listed Wells Cathedral, the annual carol service is a favourite with citizens across the region. Celebrating the story of the nativity and the religious festival of Christmas, the Wells Cathedral Carol Service is one of the best in the region and a must for your festive diary.
Majestic: Somerset home improvements, for Somerset people
Majestic have been improving homes across Weston, Cheddar and Bridgwater with our high quality windows and doors for over 15 years. For more information about any of our products or services, please give us a call on 01934 741 294 or send us an email.
