Celebrate the season at the Barn!
As the days grow shorter and the first signs of autumn arrive, we’re getting ready to celebrate the season at Winterbourne Medieval Barn.
On Sunday 11 October, Harvest Day returns to the Barn for a day of music, dancing, local food, independent makers and plenty of autumnal fun.
From Morris dancing and shanties to ferret racing, wandering minstrels and children’s entertainment, there will always be something happening throughout the day – with plenty of opportunities to browse, eat, drink and soak up the atmosphere along the way.
A celebration of harvest traditions
Harvest has long been an important part of life in rural communities. Before modern farming and supermarkets, bringing in the harvest was a crucial moment in the agricultural year – and one that was traditionally marked with music, dancing, feasting and celebrations.
We’re bringing a little of that spirit back to the Barn this October, with a modern celebration of the season in the beautiful surroundings of our 14th-century building.
Ferret racing is back!
Yes, you read that correctly.
The legendary ferret racing will be returning, with races taking place throughout the day.
There will be races at 11:30am, 1:00pm, 2:30pm and 3:30pm, so if you miss one, there will be plenty more opportunities to witness the chaos.
Please note: Bets can only be placed by people aged 18 and over.
Dance your way into autumn
We’re delighted to welcome Winterbourne Down Border Morris to Harvest Day.
Morris dancing has its roots in centuries-old English traditions, and seasonal celebrations have long been an important part of Morris culture. Our local Morris dancers will be performing during the day, bringing their distinctive style, music and energy to the Barn.
Shanties, minstrels and live music
The Frampton Shantymen will be bringing their rousing sea shanties to the Barn, while Bygonz will be wandering around the site throughout the day as our resident minstrels.
We’ll also be welcoming The Mighty Shinkickers, who will be performing live in the afternoon.
So, whether you fancy joining in with a chorus, tapping your feet to the music or simply enjoying a drink while listening, there’ll be a soundtrack to your Sunday.
Something for younger visitors
There’s plenty to keep our younger visitors entertained too.
Same Same But Different Theatre will be bringing their Chicken Charmer Farmers to the Barn from 11:30am–1:30pm, with wandering children’s entertainment around the site and they love to meet the our visitors!
And for quieter moments, Starlight Books will be holding a story time at 11:45am, and we have a small calm space available for those times when a quiet colouring session will fix everything.
Browse local makers and food producers
Harvest Day is also a chance to support some brilliant local independent businesses, makers and community organisations.
You’ll find a range of stalls around the Barn site, including:
- Aimee Winstone Designs
- Starlight Books
- Monijo Garnet Gifts
- Fused Glass
- Countrycraft
- Red Hound Bindery
- Homecrafthouse
- Flora Fauna Folk
- Avon Wildlife Trust
- Frome Valley Environmental Network and South Gloucestershire Community Energy Network
You can also find delicious things to eat when you get home:
- Jon Hurst’s Homemade Biltong
- Gill’s Jams & Chutneys
And of course, don’t forget to stop by the Barn Membership desk to find out more about supporting the Barn and becoming a member.
Eat, drink and enjoy the Barn
All that dancing, singing and ferret racing is bound to work up an appetite!
Our Barn Bar will be open throughout the day, with hot and cold refreshments available to enjoy as you explore the Barn and grounds.
And if you’re looking for something to eat, Old Sodbury Lamb will be serving up delicious lamb, including gluten-free options, and Sue’s Bakes and Cakes will have cupcakes, brownies and other tempting treats, including gluten-free and vegan options.
What’s happening when?
There’s always something happening throughout the day, but here’s a quick guide to the planned entertainment:
Please note that the programme may be subject to change, and timings may vary slightly on the day.
Join us for Harvest Day
Come and celebrate the changing season, support local makers and organisations, and enjoy a day of traditional entertainment and community spirit at one of South Gloucestershire’s most remarkable historic buildings.
To make attending as easy as possible, free parking will be available at Winterbourne Academy, with a complimentary shuttle bus running continuously between the car park and the Barn throughout the day. Bicycle parking and accessible parking options are also available.
Whether you’re fascinated by history, looking for a fun family adventure, keen to support local artisans, or simply searching for a memorable summer day out, Winterbourne Medieval Day offers something for everyone.
Join us for a celebration of history, community and medieval merriment at one of South Gloucestershire’s most remarkable historic landmarks.
Travelling to the event?
Here are some FAQs to help you plan your journey to Winterbourne Harvest Day:
Where can I park?
Winterbourne Academy’s main car park (Winterbourne High Street) – the free
shuttle service from The Academy to The Barn will run throughout the event on a continuous loop.
Do I need to book a parking space?
Only if you require accessible parking (i.e., for wheelchair access) then please advise this in the relevant section on your booking form.
Is the minibus wheelchair accessible?
Sadly, the minibuses cannot accommodate wheelchairs. You can book wheelchair accessible parking at the time of booking and a space will be available for you in our small on-site car park. Or you can arrange for drop off and collection at The Barn site if you prefer.
Can I fit my buggy on the minibus?
Fold up standard pushchairs will fit on the minibuses, but you may need to wait until there is one with appropriate space as the buses do not have boot space and all walkways and doors on the bus will need to be kept clear at all times. Our friendly parking volunteers and minibus drivers can advise you on this.
Is there anywhere I cannot park?
Please do not park along Church Lane as this is very narrow and must be kept clear for resident, emergency vehicle and the shuttle bus access.
What if I’m not driving?
We have bicycle parking at The Barn site.
There is space at The Barn site for drop off and collection or local buses run with a stop on Church Road (Parkside Avenue) just a few minute’s walk from Winterbourne Academy. You can then jump on the shuttle from there to The Barn site.
Although The Academy’s car park is large, if you come at a very busy time there is a chance it may be full. To help make sure we can welcome anyone who wants to come we encourage car sharing wherever possible to help us reduce the number of cars at this event and thank you for your support with this.
Other FAQs
What if I need to leave the site and come back?
Please speak to a volunteer on the front gate before you leave, who can issue you with a return pass (hand stamp).
Can I bring my dog?
We love well-behaved dogs on a lead. Dogs remain the responsibility of the owner within the grounds of the Barn. Please clean up after your dog.
Please note: Dog waste cannot be disposed of onsite, but there is a specific dog waste bin just outside of The Barn’s grounds on a public footpath. Please ask a member of the team on the gate to direct you, if needed.
What happens if I need first aid or my child gets lost?
For first aid and lost children please talk to a member of The Barn’s team. Look for the purple t-shirts and lanyards.
Important note
Photography and filming for use on social media will take place at this event. Please let the Event Manager know if you have any issues with this.