Somer Valley Rediscovered

Tai Chi 8 Week Course
2026-01-27 10:00 - 11:15, 2026-02-03 10:00 - 11:15, 2026-02-10 10:00 - 11:15, 2026-02-24 10:00 - 11:15, 2026-03-03 10:00 - 11:15, 2026-03-10 10:00 - 11:15 (Europe/London) | Somer Centre, Gullock Tyning, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2UH, United Kingdom
A winter 8-week Tai Chi course for people interested in trying something new! Taking place at the Somer Centre in Midsomer Norton. This course is led by an experienced Tai Chi instructor, Bruce.
All abilities are welcome.
Bruce will be teaching the ‘Ba Men’ (which translates as 8 Gates). This is a short sequence of 8 moves which train the basic principles or energies of Tai Chi.
The moves of the Ba Men are fairly easy to learn – at the start, as one learns the movements the practice is gentle, opening the joints, building a more connected body etc but it can also be practised in a way that’s much harder and while one is still moving slowly it provides much more of a workout – so it can be tailored to the needs of those attending without the need to teach different things to different people.
We will be meeting at the Somer Centre, Gullock Tyning, Midsomer Norton, Radstock, BA3 2UH.
Please arrive in time for a prompt 10:00 am start.
This class is for adults only.
Class timings;
10:00am – 11:15am
Class dates;

Tuesday 13th January
Tuesday 20th January
Tuesday 27th January
Tuesday 3rd February
Tuesday 10th February
Tuesday 24th February
Tuesday 3rd March
Tuesday 10th March

Please book in advance for the course as spaces are limited. Booking will close on Monday 12th January.
Please contact Phoebe at somervalleyrediscovered@bathnes.gov.uk if you have any questions or accessibility needs.

Nature Craft Connection 6 Week Course
2026-01-29 10:00 - 12:30, 2026-02-05 10:00 - 12:30, 2026-02-12 10:00 - 12:30 | Swallow Community Cafe, Radstock, BA3 3QG, United Kingdom
A free 6-week course for adults of all ages to explore, reignite, and deepen connections to the living world and our relationship with it, and benefit from the support, health, and wellbeing found in this.
The course offers easy practices to engage with nature and to learn more about its plants, animals, and the land around us through natural land skills, crafting / creative activities, mindfulness, sharing inspirations, and wandering in nature. The creative practice will include a variety of nature crafts using materials such as willow, charcoal, wool, and wood.
You will be guided to be aware of the living world around us, and how it can support us. There will be a chance to check in where we will be able to share and hear from each other.
The course allows people to explore and experience nature according to their relationship with it, to learn and enjoy it in ways that naturally suit them best. There is no expectation to engage in these activities, you can see how you feel on the day.
The course dates are:

Thursday 8th January
Thursday 15th January
Thursday 22nd January
Thursday 29th January
Thursday 5th February
Thursday 12th February

There is a toilet and café on the site. We will be walking down Waterside Valley to set up camp chairs by the river and explore the surroundings. When cold we will have a fire to warm us and heat water for hot drinks. If the weather is wild we’ll use the church rooms for indoor crafting space.
We will meet at the St Nick’s Church Rooms / SWALLOW Community Café in Radstock at 10:00 am.
If you have any questions please contact EcoWild at +44 781 215 5659

Forest Bathing 4-Week Course
2026-01-30 11:30 - 13:30 | Withies Lane, Withies Lane, Midsomer Norton, Radstock BA3 2JH
Forest Bathing 4-Week Course
Join us for a rejuvenating Forest Bathing experience at the beautiful Silver Street Nature Reserve in Midsomer Norton. Over the course of four weeks, you’ll learn mindfulness techniques, breathing exercises, and gentle movement to help you unwind and recharge. No prior experience necessary, just bring an open mind and a willingness to learn.
What is Forest Bathing?
Forest bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku, isa Japanese practice that involves slowing down and immersing oneself in the forest atmosphere to promote relaxation and well-being. It encourages mindful observation of nature through all five senses and can help reduce stress, improve mood, and boost the immune system.
Maxine will be guiding this course.
Meeting: Entrance to the Midsomer Norton Cricket Club, Withies Lane, BA3 2JE
Course dates:

Friday 30th January
Friday 6th February
Friday 13th February
Friday 20th February

Timings: 11:30 – 13:30
Suitable for adults 18+ years of age.
Please book on ticket per person.

Midsomer Norton Wassail
2026-01-31 10:00 - 15:00 | The Market Square, The Island, Midsomer Norton, Radstock BA3 2HQ, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2HQ, United Kingdom
Midsomer Norton residents and visitors are being invited to join in the town’s annual wassail on Saturday January 31st, a traditional celebration to encourage ‘good spirits’ and bless apple orchards for a bountiful harvest.
The event starts at the new Market Square on The Island, followed by a procession to the Town Park to make a traditional toast and ‘wake up’ the apple trees for a good year ahead.
The wassail celebration is free to attend for everyone and is being run by Somer Valley Rediscovered, Bath & North East Somerset Council and Midsomer Norton Community Trust.
Free activities on offer include face painting and crafty family workshops at The Island from 10am-12pm. Costume such as ivy, green face paint, and colourful bohemian clothes is encouraged. People are also invited to bring along pots, pans, bells and whistles to make a hullabaloo and ward off evil spirits.
The official procession will begin at 12pm outside the Town Hall in the Market Square on The Island. Master of Ceremonies, Trevor Hughes, the Cam Valley Morris Men, and will lead the procession to the entrance of the Town Park.
The afternoon’s entertainment in the Midsomer Norton Town Park will include a folk play, Morris dancing, and the wassail ceremony. Cider and apple cake will be available.
Event Schedule
Family Crafting and Music 10:00 – 12:00, in the Market Square on The Island, BA3 2HQ

Morris Dancer Bell Pads making workshop
Crown making workshop
Face painting
Sing-A-Ling music Workshop
Live music

Wassail High Street Procession 12:00 – 12:30. Starting from the Market Square on The Island

Roaming musicians
Cam Valley Morris Men

Wassail Ceremony 12:30 – 15:00, in the Midsomer Norton Town Park and Somer Centre Garden, Gullock Tyning, BA3 2UH

Traditional Wassail ceremony
Traditional Wassail song
Morris dancing
Live Music from Ninotchka and Rivers of England
Willow Weaving crafting workshop
Hot food from Nomads BBQ
Complimentary cider or apple juice and apple cake

A Midsomer Norton Town Wassail Family and School Pack is available online for inspiration and information about crafting to decorate the high street.
The 2026 Wassail event is funded by West of England Combined Authority, Bath & North East Somerset Council and Midsomer Norton Community Trust.
This community event is free, open to everyone and suitable for all ages.

We encourage you to wrap up warm, wear suitable footwear, and bring pots, pans, bells and whistles to help our musicians make as much noise as possible! The procession route is flat and suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.

Mindfulness & Meditation with Nature Course
2026-02-02 12:30 - 14:45, 2026-02-09 12:30 - 14:45 | Hope House, Hope House Surgery, 10 Waterloo Rd, Radstock, BA3 3EP, United Kingdom
Free Mindfulness & Meditation Course to Boost Your Mental and Emotional Wellbeing
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or stuck in your thoughts? If you’re looking for simple, effective tools to help manage your mental and emotional wellbeing, this free 6-session course is for you.
In a relaxed and supportive environment, you’ll learn mindfulness and meditation techniques that can help you feel calmer, more focused, and in control. No prior experience with meditation is needed—this course is for absolute beginners and anyone looking to explore how mindfulness can improve their life.
What You’ll Learn:
– Mindfulness tools to help calm the mind and manage overwhelming thoughts
– Simple meditation techniques to reduce stress and improve emotional resilience
– How to notice and change unhelpful mental patterns and increase your sense of peace
– The powerful connection between mindfulness and being in nature for even greater wellbeing
Each session begins indoors with gentle mindfulness practices and then moves outside, where you’ll learn how to apply mindfulness in nature and experience the world in a new, more peaceful way.
Why Mindfulness?
Many of the challenges we face mentally and emotionally start in the mind. Mindfulness is a simple, effective way to train your mind, helping you gain a fresh perspective on your emotions and life. With just a few minutes of practice each day, mindfulness can bring more calm, clarity, and control to your life.
When we combine mindfulness with nature, the effects on our wellbeing are even stronger—helping you feel more grounded, present, and connected.
Who’s This For?
This course is designed for any adult looking to improve their mental and emotional health. Whether you’ve never tried mindfulness or meditation before, or you’ve been curious about it but felt unsure, you’ll find a supportive, non-judgmental space here to learn at your own pace.
You’ll be guided by Tom Veck, a trained mindfulness teacher with years of experience helping people from all walks of life experience the life-changing benefits of mindfulness. Tom’s friendly and approachable style will make you feel comfortable, no matter where you’re starting from.
Course dates:

Monday 5th January
Monday 12th January
Monday 19th January
Monday 26th January
Monday 2nd February
Monday 9th February

Ready to Take the First Step?
Join us for this free 6-week course and discover how mindfulness and meditation can help you feel more at ease, in control, and connected to yourself and the world around you. Spaces are limited, so sign up today!

Forest Bathing 4-Week Course
2026-02-06 11:30 - 13:30, 2026-02-13 11:30 - 13:30, 2026-02-20 11:30 - 13:30 | Withies Lane, Withies Lane, Midsomer Norton, Radstock BA3 2JH
Forest Bathing 4-Week Course
Join us for a rejuvenating Forest Bathing experience at the beautiful Silver Street Nature Reserve in Midsomer Norton. Over the course of four weeks, you’ll learn mindfulness techniques, breathing exercises, and gentle movement to help you unwind and recharge. No prior experience necessary, just bring an open mind and a willingness to learn.
What is Forest Bathing?
Forest bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku, isa Japanese practice that involves slowing down and immersing oneself in the forest atmosphere to promote relaxation and well-being. It encourages mindful observation of nature through all five senses and can help reduce stress, improve mood, and boost the immune system.
Maxine will be guiding this course.
Meeting: Entrance to the Midsomer Norton Cricket Club, Withies Lane, BA3 2JE
Course dates:

Friday 30th January
Friday 6th February
Friday 13th February
Friday 20th February

Timings: 11:30 – 11:30
Suitable for adults 18+ years of age.
Please book on ticket per person.

Mindfulness and Meditation Taster
2026-02-16 12:30 - 14:45 | Hope House, Hope House Surgery, 10 Waterloo Rd, Radstock, BA3 3EP, United Kingdom
Overview

A free Mindfulness & Meditation with Nature Taster to introduce simple, effective tools to help manage your mental and emotional wellbeing.

Free Mindfulness & Meditation with Nature Taster, to give you an insight into our 6-week course starting on Monday 23rd February.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or stuck in your thoughts?
If you’re looking for simple, effective tools to help manage your mental and emotional wellbeing, these sessions are for you.In a relaxed and supportive environment, you’ll learn mindfulness and meditation techniques that can help you feel calmer, more focused, and in control. No prior experience with meditation is needed—this course is for absolute beginners and anyone looking to explore how mindfulness can improve their life.
Taster Date: Monday 16th February
What You’ll Learn:

Mindfulness tools to help calm the mind and manage overwhelming thoughts
Simple meditation techniques to reduce stress and improve emotional resilience
How to notice and change unhelpful mental patterns and increase your sense of peace
The powerful connection between mindfulness and being in nature for even greater wellbeing

Each session begins indoors with gentle mindfulness practices and then moves outside, where you’ll learn how to apply mindfulness in nature and experience the world in a new, more peaceful way.
Why Mindfulness?
Many of the challenges we face mentally and emotionally start in the mind. Mindfulness is a simple, effective way to train your mind, helping you gain a fresh perspective on your emotions and life. With just a few minutes of practice each day, mindfulness can bring more calm, clarity, and control to your life.When we combine mindfulness with nature, the effects on our wellbeing are even stronger—helping you feel more grounded, present, and connected.
Who’s This For?
This course is designed for any adult looking to improve their mental and emotional health. Whether you’ve never tried mindfulness or meditation before, or you’ve been curious about it but felt unsure, you’ll find a supportive, non-judgmental space here to learn at your own pace.You’ll be guided by Tom Veck, a trained mindfulness teacher with years of experience helping people from all walks of life experience the life-changing benefits of mindfulness. Tom’s friendly and approachable style will make you feel comfortable, no matter where you’re starting from.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Join us for this free taster and discover how mindfulness and meditation can help you feel more at ease, in control, and connected to yourself and the world around you. Spaces are limited, so sign up today!

Mindfulness and Meditation Course
2026-02-23 12:30 - 14:45, 2026-03-02 12:30 - 14:45, 2026-03-09 12:30 - 14:45, 2026-03-16 12:30 - 14:45, 2026-03-23 12:30 - 14:45, 2026-03-30 12:30 - 14:45 | Hope House, Hope House Surgery, 10 Waterloo Rd, Radstock, BA3 3EP, United Kingdom
A free Mindfulness & Meditation with Nature Course to introduce simple, effective tools to help manage your mental and emotional wellbeing.

Free Mindfulness & Meditation Course to Boost Your Mental and Emotional Wellbeing
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or stuck in your thoughts?
If you’re looking for simple, effective tools to help manage your mental and emotional wellbeing, this free 6-session course is for you. In a relaxed and supportive environment, you’ll learn mindfulness and meditation techniques that can help you feel calmer, more focused, and in control. No prior experience with meditation is needed—this course is for absolute beginners and anyone looking to explore how mindfulness can improve their life.
Session timings:
12:30 – 14:45 pm
Course dates:

Monday 23rd February
Monday 2nd March
Monday 9th March
Monday 16th March
Monday 23rd March
Monday 30th March

What You’ll Learn:

Mindfulness tools to help calm the mind and manage overwhelming thoughts
Simple meditation techniques to reduce stress and improve emotional resilience
How to notice and change unhelpful mental patterns and increase your sense of peace
The powerful connection between mindfulness and being in nature for even greater wellbeing

Each session begins indoors with gentle mindfulness practices and then moves outside, where you’ll learn how to apply mindfulness in nature and experience the world in a new, more peaceful way.
Why Mindfulness?
Many of the challenges we face mentally and emotionally start in the mind. Mindfulness is a simple, effective way to train your mind, helping you gain a fresh perspective on your emotions and life. With just a few minutes of practice each day, mindfulness can bring more calm, clarity, and control to your life.When we combine mindfulness with nature, the effects on our wellbeing are even stronger—helping you feel more grounded, present, and connected.
Who’s This For?
This course is designed for any adult looking to improve their mental and emotional health. Whether you’ve never tried mindfulness or meditation before, or you’ve been curious about it but felt unsure, you’ll find a supportive, non-judgmental space here to learn at your own pace.You’ll be guided by Tom Veck, a trained mindfulness teacher with years of experience helping people from all walks of life experience the life-changing benefits of mindfulness. Tom’s friendly and approachable style will make you feel comfortable, no matter where you’re starting from.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Join us for this free 6-week course and discover how mindfulness and meditation can help you feel more at ease, in control, and connected to yourself and the world around you. Spaces are limited, so sign up today!
Contact us with any questions, email somervalleyrediscovered@bathnes.gov.uk

Nature Craft Connection 6 Week Course
2026-02-26 10:00 - 12:30, 2026-03-05 10:00 - 12:30, 2026-03-12 10:00 - 12:30, 2026-03-19 10:00 - 12:30, 2026-03-26 10:00 - 12:30, 2026-04-02 10:00 - 12:30 | Swallow Community Cafe, Radstock, BA3 3QG, United Kingdom
A free 6-week course for adults of all ages to explore, reignite, and deepen connections to the living world and our relationship with it, and benefit from the support, health, and wellbeing found in this.
The course offers easy practices to engage with nature and to learn more about its plants, animals, and the land around us through natural land skills, crafting / creative activities, mindfulness, sharing inspirations, and wandering in nature. The creative practice will include a variety of nature crafts using materials such as willow, charcoal, wool, and wood.
You will be guided to be aware of the living world around us, and how it can support us. There will be a chance to check in where we will be able to share and hear from each other.
The course allows people to explore and experience nature according to their relationship with it, to learn and enjoy it in ways that naturally suit them best. There is no expectation to engage in these activities, you can see how you feel on the day.
The course dates are:

Thursday 26th February
Thursday 5th March
Thursday 12th March
Thursday 19th March
Thursday 26th March
Thursday 2nd April

There is a toilet and café on the site. We will be walking down Waterside Valley to set up camp chairs by the river and explore the surroundings. When cold we will have a fire to warm us and heat water for hot drinks. If the weather is wild we’ll use the church rooms for indoor crafting space.
We will meet at the St Nick’s Church Rooms / SWALLOW Community Café in Radstock at 10:00 am.
If you have any questions please contact EcoWild at +44 781 215 5659

Spring Foraging in Waterside Valley
2026-04-08 13:00 - 15:00 | Swallow Community Cafe, Radstock, BA3 3QG, United Kingdom
Spring Foraging Walk
Join us for a fun and educational walk at Waterside Valley, Westfield. This event is perfect for beginners who want to learn more about foraging and edible plants in spring.
During the walk, our expert guide, Steve England, will teach you how to identify different types of plants and share fascinating facts about their unique characteristics. You’ll get the chance to explore the beautiful surroundings of Waterside Valley.
No prior knowledge is required, so whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a curious explorer, or simply looking for a unique experience, this event is for you. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with nature and deepen your understanding of the natural world!
This walk will be on a mix of gravel paths and grassed paths on some uneven ground.
Booking is essential as spaces are limited. Children aged 6+ are welcome but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Meeting outside Swallow’s Cafe, Radstock, we will be walking along Waterside Valley and into the Haydon Batch woodlands.
Parking is available at Church Street Car Park, please avoid parking at Swallow Community Cafe as spaces are limited for cafe users.
We will aim to return to Swallow’s Cafe for 15:00.
