The Riverhouse Barn Arts Centre in Walton-on-Thames is inviting residents to enjoy a variety of cultural activities as part of its spring programme. The venue, which is operated by Riverhouse Barn Ltd, a limited company wholly owned by the Walton-on-Thames Community Arts Trust, is highlighting a mix of literary events, heritage talks, and regular community arts gatherings in the coming months.
Located on Manor Road, the centre is housed in a restored 18th-century barn. It has been a hub for the community since it opened as a non-profit venue in 1989. The building itself is owned by the local trust, with Elmbridge Borough Council supporting the facility through a lease agreement.
A central feature of the upcoming calendar is the Royston Pike Lecture Series. These talks, which cover topics such as local history, heritage, science, and culture, are organised in partnership with the borough council. Councillor Simon Waugh, who serves as the Deputy Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture and Commercial Strategy, has expressed his support for the series, which aims to bring educational talks to the local area. Tickets for these lectures are priced at £4 each, or £10 for a season ticket covering three sessions.
For those with a focus on writing, the centre continues its tradition of celebrating literature. This follows the success of the Elmbridge Literary Competition, which marked its 20th anniversary in 2025 and draws participants from across the globe. Visitors can also engage with the arts through regular poetry sessions held at the centre, alongside various poetry writing workshops.
Beyond literature and history, the venue maintains a full schedule of events for all ages. The programme includes live theatre, music performances featuring jazz and folk, film screenings, comedy, and cabaret. Residents can also attend art exhibitions or participate in various arts classes held throughout the year.
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