Spring is springing at GWR Park

GWR Park will come alive with a celebration of spring on Sunday 28 April from 11am to 3pm as part of the Blossom Festival.

Hosted by South Swindon Parish Council, this free family-friendly event promises a delightful day of musical performances, guided heritage tours, traditional games, nature-themed arts and crafts, and a unique community mural project.

Cllr Rosie Leather said: "With the park in full bloom, it's the perfect time to gather as a community and experience the rich history, nature and talents of our local artists and performers.”

Music will fill the air, with performances from the talented young musicians of the Swindon Music Service. Visitors can explore GWR Park's past through guided heritage tours and traditional Victorian games hosted by the Mechanics' Institute Trust.

For those with an artistic side, local artists' groups Artsite and The Post-Modern will lead a one-of-a-kind 'paint-by-numbers' community mural project. 

Attendees of all ages can pick up a brush and help transform the substation on the western side of the park into a colourful work of public art. The mural will feature depictions of GWR Park’s rich heritage and include the word 'welcome' in many of the different languages spoken across Swindon.

The substation, owned by Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) was an ageing building that had been identified for repair. SSEN acted on this to restore the building back to its original, sound state over the winter, setting the stage for this public art initiative.

Nature-themed arts and crafts will also keep children engaged and creative throughout the day.

In addition to the activities, festivalgoers can purchase food and drink from on-site vendors. Well-behaved dogs on leads are also welcome to join in the spring celebration at GWR Park.

Further information can be found at www.southswindon-pc.gov.uk/blossom-24/ and more information about the Parish Council and its initiatives can be found at www.southswindon-pc.gov.uk