September at The Elvetham

The weather is still very summery, but we all want to make the most of it before autumn comes around. With that in mind, here’s a look at some of what’s happening in the area this September.

If you love the architecture, history and grounds of The Elvetham, then we recommend a visit to The Vyne, 10 miles away at Sherborne St John. This majestic mansion house was once an important Tudor palace, with some illustrious connections, from Henry VIII to Jane Austen. It retains a pre-Reformation chapel with stained-glass windows, and is also noteworthy for its Oak Gallery and tapestry room. Outside, the gardens feature a 17th century summerhouse, walled garden, and a 600 year old oak tree. The estate also boasts meadows and woods making it a wonderful space for relaxation, maybe even a picnic. The house is open daily until 3pm, though access and opening hours change from 29th October. Well worth a visit for adults and kids alike, you can find more information on this fantastic National Trust property HERE

Another fabulous local gem is Ascot. Known globally as one of the finest horse racing courses in the world, Ascot is just 16 miles from us here at The Elvetham. What’s more, it’s not just about the horses. This September, Fresh Art Fair returns, with a vast array of global artists displaying their work. Original prints, paintings, sculpture, glass and ceramics all vie for your attention, and it’s a great event to visit whether you are considering buying or just want to take it all in. Tickets are free, and there’s even a private view reception with wine. The fair runs from the 21st to 24th of September and you can obtain your free tickets HERE

For a more traditional Ascot experience, we recommend looking ahead to Autumn Racing Weekend on the 6th and 7th of October. Combining top horse racing action with a beer festival, it’s a unique event. As one of the largest beer festivals in the South East, racegoers can enjoy the opportunity to sample over 160 different beers, lagers, real ales, ciders and perries. This traditional style CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) beer festival has something for everyone. Give it a flutter and get your tickets HERE

Keeping even closer to home, West Green House is a mere 3 miles away, and has a great calendar of events year round. Famous for its exceptional gardens, and for hosting some fabulous opera, we say it’s a must see if you want to explore nearby. This September the grounds will host a Classic and Super Car Show, taking place on Sunday 24th September. This popular annual show welcomes classic car enthusiasts to bring their loved and treasured cars to display in the parkland in front of West Green House. Music is on hand with a lunchtime concert, and there is plenty of opportunity to stroll around the gardens as well as viewing the mix of high performance luxury Super Cars and Classics on display. It is a great family day out, with a ‘Best in Show’ prize, and a vote for the most popular classic car. Book ahead and enjoy a visit to West Green House HERE

We look forward to sharing more ideas next month, and should you need any help with things to do during your stay at The Elvetham, please don’t hesitate to ask.