Events
People and nature, thriving together
Photo ©Deborah Roberts
Our aim is to protect and enhance the local environment by working with communities to embrace sustainability and boost biodiversity. Our public events throughout the year reflect this aim, strengthening the connection between people and nature.
Don’t forget, if you’re a Friend of Stroud Valleys Project, you can enjoy an exclusive discount on selected events by entering your code at the checkout.
Find out more about becoming a Friend of Stroud Valleys Project here.
Archaeology Walk of the Heavens
In 2011, local archaeologist Neil Baker began conducting an extensive evaluation of the Heavens, through an independent initiative, the Heavens Archaeological Research Project (HARP). Neil knows this area of Stroud in a way few others do, and he enthusiastically shares his learning about the people who have lived here over the centuries during this lively fundraising walk.
Join Neil for a guided walk of the Heavens and discover the secrets of its hidden historical landscape. The walk will run for at least three and a half hours and the route is hilly, uneven and muddy in places, so stout footwear and a basic level of fitness are required.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a lead.
This is a joint fundraiser with Heavens Valley Community Benefit Society.
Stitch It!
If you’ve always wanted to be able to mend clothes but didn’t know where to start, this session is for you.
Master seamstress Clare Sheridan is well-known for her funky, quirky upcycled creations, and she’ll show you how to mend your clothes.
Bring your broken zips, your holey jumpers, your frayed shirts, and find out how to make them look completely different. Clare can also help you to use a sewing machine, sew on buttons, darn socks, and mend zips.
Bring your projects along to All Pulling Together in Stonehouse and let Stroud’s very own Esme get you stitching!
If you have a sewing machine, feel free to bring it. If you don’t have a machine, there will be some to borrow.
Stitch It! is part of the Stitch and Stir Roadshow, funded by Gloucestershire County Council’s Greener Gloucestershire fund.
There’s a £5 returnable deposit for the session.
Minibeasties: Frogs
Join Stroud Valleys Project for a look into the wonderful world of Frogs. Hop along to see us and learn about what they are up to in March.
We’ll be going for a walk to see if we can spot any frogspawn, having a go at craft activities and finishing up with a story.
Open to children between the ages of 2 and 4 years, along with a parent or carer.
This is a monthly group, so keep your eyes open for next month’s theme!
£3 per family group/household (up to 2 adults and 2 children). If cost is a barrier for you, please get in touch.
Stir It Up! (session 4)
Join us for the final session Stir It Up with Erin Baker of the Natural Cookery School, part of the Stitch and Stir Roadshow!
Erin will be showing you how to make the most out of seasonal produce and ingredients from your pantry. You’ll learn how to make easy, tasty dishes that are nutritious and delicious – with nothing thrown away.
After the session, you’ll come away with new skills and the ability to cook delicious and affordable seasonal meals that everyone will love.
This session takes place at GL11 in Cam and runs from 4.30pm until 6.30pm; you will be sent full location details on booking, as well as information about what to bring with you.
A creche is available for children aged up to 11; this must be booked in advance with the name and age of your child or children. To book in a child, please select an adult place and as many child places as you require.
The session is free thanks to funding from Gloucestershire County Council but there is a £5 returnable deposit and booking is essential. If the deposit is a barrier for you, please email us at kerri@stroudvalleysproject.org.
Archaeology Walk of the Heavens 14.3.26
In 2011, local archaeologist Neil Baker began conducting an extensive evaluation of the Heavens, through an independent initiative, the Heavens Archaeological Research Project (HARP). Neil knows this area of Stroud in a way few others do, and he enthusiastically shares his learning about the people who have lived here over the centuries during this lively fundraising walk.
Join Neil for a guided walk of the Heavens and discover the secrets of its hidden historical landscape. The walk will run for at least three and a half hours and the route is hilly, uneven and muddy in places, so stout footwear and a basic level of fitness are required.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a lead.
This is a joint fundraiser with Heavens Valley Community Benefit Society.
Big Spring Quiz
Celebrate the start of spring by joining us for a fun community quiz at Selsley Scout Hut!
Join Stroud’s quizzerati for a night that will banish the winter blues while testing your grey matter.
There will be questions to suit a range of ages and interests, as well as a raffle with some fantastic prizes.
We’ll also have a licensed bar so you can make a night of it.
All the money raised will go into working with people and communities across Stroud to protect and create habitats for nature.
£5 per head – booking in advance preferred but you can also pay on the door. Come with friends or family, or we can help solo quizzers to find team mates. We’ll email details upon booking.
Willow Bird Feeders - FULLY BOOKED
Join Stroud Valleys Project and expert willow weaver Norah Kennedy for this willow birdfeeder making workshop.
There will be a brief introduction to feeding birds in your garden, followed by the workshop.
This is a FREE event, but places are strictly limited, so booking is essential.
This event is suitable for children over 13; all under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.
This event is part of our Simple Switches project, which is supported by Stroud District Council.
Willow Bird Feeders
This event is fully booked.
Join Stroud Valleys Project and expert willow weaver Norah Kennedy for this willow birdfeeder making workshop.
There will be a brief introduction to feeding birds in your garden, followed by the workshop.
This is a FREE event, but places are limited, so booking is essential.
This event is suitable for children over 13; under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.
This event is part of our Simple Switches project, which is supported by Stroud District Council.
Seed Swap
Do you have any spare or unwanted seeds? Give them a good home through the Stroud Valleys Project’s seed swap/sale. Bring along any seeds that you have spare and exchange them for others. Both vegetable and flower varieties welcome.
Even if you don’t have any seeds to swap, you can still take some for a donation. It’s a great way to meet other gardeners and to share advice and knowledge.
This event is part of our Carers in Nature project, which is supported by the Gloucestershire County Council.
Stitch It!
Are you a Sewing Bee fan whose stitching has never really taken off? If you’ve always wanted to be able to mend or upcycle clothes but didn’t know where to start, this session is for you.
Local seamstress Clare Sheridan of Transition Stroud Textiles Group is known for her quirky creations, and she’ll show you how to mend your jumpers in a way that’s unique to you.
Bring your broken zips, your holey jumpers, your frayed shirts, and find out how to make them look completely different. Clare can also help you to use a sewing machine, sew on buttons, darn socks, and mend zips.
Bring your projects along to Two for Joy community café in Hardwicke Village Hall and let Stroud’s very own Esme get you stitching!
If you have a sewing machine, feel free to bring it: Clare can help you learn to use it.
Stitch It! is part of the Stitch and Stir Roadshow, funded by Gloucestershire County Council’s Greener Gloucestershire fund.
There’s a £5 returnable deposit for the session; full details will be emailed upon booking.
Archaeology Walk of the Heavens
In 2011, local archaeologist Neil Baker began conducting an extensive evaluation of the Heavens, through an independent initiative, the Heavens Archaeological Research Project (HARP). Neil knows this area of Stroud in a way few others do, and he enthusiastically shares his learning about the people who have lived here over the centuries during this lively fundraising walk.
Join Neil for a guided walk of the Heavens and discover the secrets of its hidden historical landscape. The walk will run for at least three and a half hours and the route is hilly, uneven and muddy in places, so stout footwear and a basic level of fitness are required.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a lead.
This is a joint fundraiser with Heavens Valley Community Benefit Society.
Stir It Up! (Session 3)
Join the Natural Cookery School’s Erin Baker for Stir It Up Session 3, part of the Stitch and Stir Roadshow!
Erin will be showing you how to make the most out of seasonal produce and ingredients from your pantry. You’ll learn how to make easy, tasty dishes that are nutritious and delicious – with nothing thrown away.
After the session, you’ll come away with new skills and the ability to cook delicious and affordable seasonal meals that everyone will love.
This session takes place in Nailsworth and runs from 6.30pm until 8.30pm; you will be sent full location details on booking, as well as information about what to bring with you.
The session is free thanks to funding from Gloucestershire County Council, but there is a returnable £5 deposit. Booking is essential.
This session is for over 16s; only one person per household, please.
If you can’t make this session, there is another at GL11 in March... watch this space!
Minibeasties
Join Stroud Valleys Project and Small World Adventures for a look into the wonderful world of Mammals. Join us to learn about what our furry friends are up to in February.
We’ll be going for a walk to see what animals we can spot, playing sensory games, having a go at craft activities and finishing up with a story.
Open to children between the ages of 2 and 4 years, who must be accompanied by an adult.
This is a monthly group, so keep your eyes open for next month’s theme!
£3 per family group/household (up to two adults and two children). If you’re experiencing financial difficulty and would struggle to pay, please get in touch with us.
Tree-Planting within Regenerative Land Management
As awareness increases about the impact of intensive farming on soil quality, flooding, biodiversity and ecosystems, farmers and others who manage large areas of land are turning to regenerative techniques.
This session for farmers and land managers will explore tree-planting within regenerative land management, and will include a tour of Hammonds Farm with Eric Walters of Good Small Farms, who will share learning about the benefits of planting trees. Ruth Powell from Stroud Valleys Project will also give input about how the charity is involved in ‘regen’ tree planting.
Thanks to Western Forest, who are funding the event so it is free to attend for farmers and others who manage large areas of land. Light refreshments are included. There is a back-up date of Friday 6 February in the event of bad weather.
Community Tree Planting at Limekiln Farm
Help us create a wildlife corridor of hedgerow!
Come along and help to plant new hedges at historic Limekiln Farm, which will contribute to increased biodiversity, creating wildlife corridors across previously open land, and helping to connect the Heavens Valley to Toadsmoor Valley.
This session of planting is all about creating new habitats for nature, so it’s perfect for people who want to make a real difference in our landscape and for our planet.
This is a free event, but booking a place really helps us get the best out of the session.
Carers in Nature at the Octagon
Are you an unpaid carer, looking after a friend or relative?
If so, join us for a Carers in Nature activity at the Octagon community centre in Paganhill, Stroud.
You can look forward to a calm, creative session, either on your own or with the person who you care for. We will enjoy nature, either in the garden or inside (depending on the weather) and do a simple gardening or nature-based craft activity on a table top.
We’ll provide help and guidance as appropriate, and you’ll have the opportunity to chat to fellow carers.
Archaeology Walk of the Heavens FULLY BOOKED
Only one place is available.
In 2011, local archaeologist Neil Baker began conducting an extensive evaluation of the Heavens, through an independent initiative, the Heavens Archaeological Research Project (HARP). Neil knows this area of Stroud in a way few others do, and he enthusiastically shares his learning about the people who have lived here over the centuries during this lively fundraising walk.
Join Neil for a guided walk of the Heavens and discover the secrets of its hidden historical landscape. The walk will run for at least three and a half hours and the route is hilly, uneven and muddy in places, so stout footwear and a basic level of fitness are required.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a lead.
This is a joint fundraiser with Heavens Valley Community Benefit Society.
January Mini Beasties
Join Stroud Valleys Project and Small World Adventures for a look into the wonderful world of Garden Birds!
At Mini Beasties, toddlers and preschoolers get to take a closer look at the wildlife all around us through in lively sessions including craft activities and stories.
Children between 2 and 4 years old are welcome, along with their adult.
Due to the temporary closure of the Museum in the Park, this month’s Mini Beasties will take place at the National Trust’s Tinkley Gate in Woodchester.
There is a £3 fee for parking (free for National Trust members). Refreshments will be provided for children, but grown-ups will need to purchase refreshments.
Each family group is £3 (this includes up to two parents/carers and two children). Please let us know if this cost is a barrier by emailing info@stroudvalleysproject.org.
Mini Beasties is a monthly group, so keep your eyes open for next month’s theme!
Stir It Up! (Session 2)
Join the Natural Cookery School’s Erin Baker for Stir It Up Session 2, part of the Stitch and Stir Roadshow!
Erin will be showing you how to make the most out of seasonal produce and ingredients from your pantry. You’ll learn how to make easy, tasty dishes that are nutritious and delicious – with nothing thrown away.
After the session, you’ll come away with new skills and the ability to cook delicious and affordable seasonal meals that everyone will love.
This session takes place at GL11 Community Hub in Dursley and runs from 4.30pm until 6.30pm; you will be sent full location details on booking, as well as information about what to bring with you.
A creche is available for children aged under 8 years old; this must be booked in advance with the name and age of your child or children.
The session is free thanks to funding from Gloucestershire County Council but booking is essential.
There is a £5 returnable deposit. If this is a barrier for you, please email us at kerri@stroudvalleysproject.org.
Carers in Nature at the Octagon
Are you an unpaid carer, looking after a friend or relative?
If so, join us for a Carers in Nature activity at the Octagon community centre in Paganhill, Stroud.
You can look forward to a calm, creative session, either on your own or with the person who you care for. We will enjoy nature, either in the garden or inside (depending on the weather) and do a simple gardening or nature-based craft activity on a table top.
We’ll provide help and guidance as appropriate, and you’ll have the opportunity to chat to fellow carers.
Archaeology Walk of the Heavens - FULLY BOOKED
THIS IS NOW FULLY BOOKED. OTHER DATES ARE AVAILABLE.
In 2011, local archaeologist Neil Baker began conducting an extensive evaluation of the Heavens, through an independent initiative, the Heavens Archaeological Research Project (HARP). Neil knows this area of Stroud in a way few others do, and he enthusiastically shares his learning about the people who have lived here over the centuries during this lively fundraising walk.
Join Neil for a guided walk of the Heavens and discover the secrets of its hidden historical landscape. The walk will run for at least three and a half hours and the route is hilly, uneven and muddy in places, so stout footwear and a basic level of fitness are required.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a lead.
This is a joint fundraiser with Heavens Valley CBS.
Archaeology Walk of the Heavens 27.12.25 - SOLD OUT
This session is fully booked. Other dates are available.
In 2011, local archaeologist Neil Baker began conducting an extensive evaluation of the Heavens, through an independent initiative called the Heavens Archaeological Research Project (HARP). Neil knows this area of Stroud in a way few others do, and he enthusiastically shares his learning about the people who have lived here over the centuries during this lively fundraising walk.
Join Neil for a guided walk of the Heavens and discover the secrets of its hidden historical landscape. The walk will run for at least three and a half hours and the route is hilly, uneven and muddy in places, so stout footwear and a basic level of fitness are required.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a lead.
This is a joint fundraiser with Heavens Valley CBS.
Archaeology Walk of the Heavens 20.12.25
Bookings for this event have now closed.
In 2011, local archaeologist Neil Baker began conducting an extensive evaluation of the Heavens, through an independent initiative called the Heavens Archaeological Research Project (HARP). Neil knows this area of Stroud in a way few others do, and he enthusiastically shares his learning about the people who have lived here over the centuries during this lively fundraising walk.
Join Neil for a guided walk of the Heavens and discover the secrets of its hidden historical landscape. The walk will run for at least three and a half hours and the route is hilly, uneven and muddy in places, so stout footwear and a basic level of fitness are required.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a lead.
This is a joint fundraiser with Heavens Valley CBS.
SVP Christmas Raffle
Raffle now closed.
Do something fabulous for people and for nature across Stroud District: buy a book of five Christmas Raffle tickets for £5!
This year, we have a simply dazzling selection of prizes from local businesses and from our eco shop suppliers, with more still to be confirmed.
Our top prizes this year are…
Four tickets for Westonbirt Arboretum
Family ticket to Painswick Rococo Garden
Willow weaving workshop for two with Norah Kennedy
Viking knife-making workshop from Soulful Iron
Other prizes include: Scenes Around Stroud calendar by Deb Roberts; pair of pillows from Humphries & Begg; £50 Lily & Me voucher; festive hamper from Midcounties Co-op; £30 voucher from the Home Remedy; a double eco duvet from Saymor Furnishings; £20 voucher from Leola; mocktails for two from Holy Water; umbrella from Stroud Brewery; pizza for two at the Prince Albert; £25 voucher from Vestry Café at Prema; an African Wild Dog (made from recycled materials) from Living Nature; £20 voucher from Fireside Bookshop; two sets of two litter pickers from Helping Hand Environmental; a £15 voucher from Thai 2 Go; two tickets for Wotton Electric Picture House; £25 of veg from Good Small Farms; Heritage playing cards; BAM socks; £20 voucher from Vital Seeds; a selection of goodies from Shared Earth; £40 voucher towards Meat-Free Mondays takeaway at the Natural Cookery School… and more to come!
Thanks to everyone who has kindly donated a prize to support our charity, the green spaces we protect for nature, and the people whose lives we change forever.
We’ll draw the lucky winners on Thursday 18 December.
Minibeasties: Christmas Wildlife
Join Stroud Valleys Project for a look into the wonderful world of Christmas wildlife!
At Minibeasties, toddlers and preschoolers take a closer look at the wildlife on our doorstep through fun craft activities and lively stories.
Open to children between the ages of 2 and 4 years, who must be accompanied by an adult.
This session is supported by Stroud District Council and the Museum in the Park.
Archaeology Walk of the Heavens 6.12.25
BOOKINGS CLOSED.
In 2011, local archaeologist Neil Baker began conducting an extensive evaluation of the Heavens, through an independent initiative called the Heavens Archaeological Research Project (HARP). Neil knows this area of Stroud in a way few others do, and he enthusiastically shares his learning about the people who have lived here over the centuries during this lively fundraising walk.
Join Neil for a guided walk of the Heavens and discover the secrets of its hidden historical landscape. The walk will run for at least three and a half hours and the route is hilly, uneven and muddy in places, so stout footwear and a basic level of fitness are required.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a lead.
This is a joint fundraiser with Heavens Valley CBS.
Carers in Nature Wreath Making Session
Are you a carer?
Join Stroud Valleys Project to make a seasonal wreath this Christmas!
Enjoy being creative with natural materials as you make a beautiful decoration to take home.
You can chat with other carer and, if you wish, you can also bring along the person you care for.
This session is free, but please book your place.
Archaeology Walk of the Heavens 30.11.25
DATE CHANGE FROM SATURDAY DUE TO WEATHER FORECAST.
In 2011, local archaeologist Neil Baker began conducting an extensive evaluation of the Heavens, through an independent initiative called the Heavens Archaeological Research Project (HARP). Neil knows this area of Stroud in a way few others do, and he enthusiastically shares his learning about the people who have lived here over the centuries during this lively fundraising walk.
Join Neil for a guided walk of the Heavens and discover the secrets of its hidden historical landscape. The walk will run for at least three and a half hours and the route is hilly, uneven and muddy in places, so stout footwear and a basic level of fitness are required.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a lead.
This is a joint fundraiser with Heavens Valley CBS.
Zoom in on Natural Wonders at the Festival of Wonder
Join the fantastic team from Stroud Valleys Project as you put Nature under the microscope to explore the small but mighty.
Using microscopes, lenses and our eyes, we will zoom in to some of the amazing detail of nature. By looking closely at leaves, fossils, insects, soil and more, we can appreciate some of the connections in the web of life that sustains us all.
We will explore outside and bring in some of these treasures to examine, and create a leaf-decorated pot with a hyacinth bulb for each participant to take home and grow indoors.
Please book your place through the Festival of Wonder website.
Archaeology Walk of the Heavens 22.11.25
In 2011, local archaeologist Neil Baker began conducting an extensive evaluation of the Heavens, through an independent initiative called the Heavens Archaeological Research Project (HARP). Neil knows this area of Stroud in a way few others do, and he enthusiastically shares his learning about the people who have lived here over the centuries during this lively fundraising walk.
Join Neil for a guided walk of the Heavens and discover the secrets of its hidden historical landscape. The walk will run for at least three and a half hours and the route is hilly, uneven and muddy in places, so stout footwear and a basic level of fitness are required.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a lead.
This is a joint fundraiser with Heavens Valley CBS.
Stir It Up! (session 1)
Join the Natural Cookery School’s Erin Baker for Stir It Up Session 1, part of the Stitch and Stir Roadshow!
Erin will be showing you how to make the most out of seasonal produce and ingredients from your pantry. You’ll learn how to make easy, tasty dishes that are nutritious and delicious – with nothing thrown away.
After the session, you’ll come away with new skills and the ability to cook delicious and affordable seasonal meals that everyone will love.
This first session takes place in Nailsworth and runs from 6.30pm until 8.30pm; you will be sent full location details on booking, as well as information about what to bring with you.
The session is free thanks to funding from Gloucestershire County Council, but there is a refundable £5 deposit. You will be emailed full details upon booking.
Woodchester Fungi Foray - Fully booked
VENUE CHANGE! Please see your emails. Join us for an autumn grassland and woodland fungi foray, in collaboration with the National Trust!
November is a great time to spot some of the weird and wonderful fungi that lurk among the leaves and wood, including colourful Waxcaps. Don your wellies or walking boots, get outside and enjoy a little time seeking out these fascinating treasures.
Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Stitch It! Session 1
Are you a Sewing Bee fan whose stitching has never really taken off? If you’ve always wanted to be able to mend clothes but didn’t know where to start, this session is for you.
Local seamstress Clare Sheridan is known for her quirky upcycled creations, and she’ll show you how to mend your jumpers in a way that’s unique to you.
Bring your broken zips, your holey jumpers, your frayed shirts, and find out how to make them look completely different. Clare can also help you to use a sewing machine, sew on buttons, darn socks, and mend zips.
Bring your projects along to All Pulling Together in Stonehouse and let Stroud’s very own Esme get you stitching!
If you have a sewing machine, feel free to bring it: Clare can help you learn to use it. If you don’t have a machine, there will be some to borrow.
Stitch It! is part of the Stitch and Stir Roadshow, funded by Gloucestershire County Council’s Greener Gloucestershire fund. More dates and locations to follow soon…
There’s a £5 returnable deposit for the session; full details will be emailed upon booking.
Minibeasties (November)
Join SVP’s group for toddlers and pre-schoolers as we take a closer look at the wildlife that shares our world. In this session, we’ll be finding out more about hibernation.
Open to children between the ages of 2 and 4 years, accompanied by an adult.
Minibeasties is supported by Stroud District Council and the Museum in the Park.
Archaeology Walk of the Heavens 8.11.25 - Bookings now closed
In 2011, local archaeologist Neil Baker began conducting an extensive evaluation of the Heavens, through an independent initiative called the Heavens Archaeological Research Project (HARP). Neil knows this area of Stroud in a way few others do, and he enthusiastically shares his learning about the people who have lived here over the centuries during this lively fundraising walk.
Join Neil for a guided walk of the Heavens and discover the secrets of its hidden historical landscape. The walk will run for at least three and a half hours and the route is hilly, uneven and muddy in places, so stout footwear and a basic level of fitness are required.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a lead.
This is a joint fundraiser with Heavens Valley CBS.
Story of the Blues
Please note: this event is on Sunday 2 November; an early poster said ‘Saturday 2 November’. Apologies for any confusion.
Bookings are now closed, but you can pay on the door. Please arrive before 7.30pm to minimise disruption to the show.
Join master guitarist Tim Hughes for a journey that ranges from the emergence of the blues from the US Deep South, through Chicago and blues in Britain in the 60s, right up to the to the modern day. Using vivid presentation and virtuoso performance, Tim will channel artists as diverse as Ma Rainey, Bessie Smith, Blind Blake, Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters, Elmore James, BB King, Ry Cooder and many others.
Tim uses traditional bottleneck and finger-picking guitar styles to perform numbers such as ‘Walking Blues’, ‘That’ll Never Happen No More’, ‘Red Rooster’, ‘Baby Please Don’t Go’ and ‘Paris Texas’.
This unique show will inspire a new understanding of how important the blues has been to the development of today’s styles of music; it’s a performance for anyone who loves music and its enduring link with social history.
Licensed bar.
Please wear blue if you’d like to!
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