Learn, Create and be Entertained with The Guildford Institute’s New Events Programme

Published on: 2 Feb, 2026
Updated on: 2 Feb, 2026

The Guildford Institute’s April to September 2026 programme is packed full with 140 activities including courses, talks, music nights, visits, film screenings and more.

There are more than 100 courses, ranging from art history and visual arts to languages and music appreciation.

The April to September 2026 brochure of events at the Guildford Institute is now available in print and online.

Learn something new with 21 fascinating afternoon talks, explore new places with three coach visits and be entertained with nine exciting event.

Welcome the arrival of spring with a flower arranging workshop with Cynthia Bromwich, who chairs the Guildford Flower Club, and craft two beautiful spring bouquets to take home.

Wine tasting returns led by Charlie Goblet D’Alviella, with over 25 years’ experience. Enjoy sampling wonderful wines handpicked for summer and as autumn approaches, discover how cheese and wine creates the perfect pairing.

There are also gentle yoga class for beginners.

Paint your own pottery with Carol Clutton from Popolo Ceramico, perfect for all ages.

Experiment with unique materials at two abstract art workshops with Aska Gough, to create a geode masterpiece using crystals, minerals and more, or make your very own mixed media and resin coasters.

For those who prefer more traditional art forms, enjoy a relaxing afternoon at a still life drawing workshop with Kate Alger.

Its intimate music lounge will host regular weekend performances.

Catch Polly Morris, a whirlwind of entertainment who performs laugh-out-loud funny and parody songs but also heart-breakingly poignant songs.

Barb Jungr, one of the most extraordinary British performers of her generation, will sing songs by Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen, accompanied by Simon Wallace.

The Guildford Institute’s music events are sponsored by Andertons Music.

Step back in time with Guildford rock ‘n’ roll music legends Mick Douglas and John Kelly, along with fellow musician and local history expert David Rose, for another concert of classic songs from the 1950s and 60s.

Join Jane Glennie, actress and historian, for an entertaining afternoon at her ‘tea party’, as she humorously addresses etiquette during the end of rationing in 1953.

Pilita Bryant’s illustration Garden Jewels is the artwork on the cover of the Guildford Institute’s April to September 2026 brochure.

Locally-based abstract artist Pilita Bryant is the Guildford Institute’s brochure cover artist with her stunning work Garden Jewels.

Inspired by her emotional response to the world, Pilita’s intuitive work blurs the boundaries between abstraction and realism.

The manger of the Guildford Institute, Amy Rice, said: “If you haven’t visited our welcoming community hub, now is the perfect time.

“Our new programme is full of variety, with shorter and longer activities available, taking place during the day, evening and weekends. Feel inspired to try something new and meet other like-minded people.”

The programme is sponsored by Experience Guildford and runs from April 7 to September 30.

Advance booking for all paid activities is essential.

Click here to view the April to September programme online.

Or pick up a copy from the Guildford Institutein Ward Street.