8 new openings and events for groups this year and into 2027

1. Yangzho Scholars’ Garden, RHS Garden Bridgewater

A major new landmark for Greater Manchester, this stunning Chinese garden opened its doors on 25th September, following eight years of planning and construction. The UK’s first authentic and largest Chinese garden is home to four beautiful pavilions, each inspired by one of the traditional arts: music, chess, calligraphy and painting.

Designed to change with the seasons, the garden offers something different throughout the year – from magnolias and cherry blossoms in spring to summer greenery and vibrant autumn colours. RHS members can enjoy free entry, while non-members can purchase standard garden tickets, with group bookings available.

2. Horrockses Fashions, The Harris Museum & Art Gallery

Marking the 80th anniversary of the launch of Horrockses Fashions, this special exhibition celebrates the iconic ready-to-wear dresses renowned for their bold, colourful prints and distinctive post-war style. Horrockses Fashion will be on display at The Harris Museum in Preston, Lancashire, until 31st January 2027, with free entry and no ticket required.

Horrockses dresses became a defining part of British fashion with women from all walks of life wearing them, most notably was Queen Elizabeth II, who packed several Horrockses cotton dresses for her 1953–54 Commonwealth tour.

3. The Wilson Art Gallery & Museum, Cheltenham

The Wilson Art Gallery & Museum in Cheltenham reopens its newly refurbished museum wing on 23rd October, this year, marking the completion of a six-year renovation project. This new space will bring key objects from the museum’s collection back into the spotlight, offering visitors a new way to discover Cheltenham’s rich history and culture.

For groups, the reopening provides a unique opportunity to rediscover some of the town’s greatest treasures, with a collection of more than 250,000 objects. As part of the redevelopment, visitors can also explore a new self-guided trail and exhibition, designed to celebrate Cheltenham’s heritage and cultural identity.

4. Out of Line: Banksy and the Art of Dissent, The Minories

This landmark exhibition in Colchester brings together 28 original artworks by Banksy, alongside street art from more than 20 leading artists, including Alma Singer, Bambi and Ben Eine. Every piece has been carefully authenticated, ensuring visitors can experience the genuine works of some of the most influential names in contemporary street art.

The majority of the works on display have been loaned by John Brandler of Brandler Galleries, one of the UK’s best-known dealers specialising in street art and urban contemporary art. Groups can book tickets online. 

5. Thornfalcon Winery and Press, Somerset

Set across a 40-acre farm in Somerset, Thornfalcon Winery and Press is home to two vineyards, orchards and an extensive programme of experiences and escapes designed with groups in mind.

The first vines were planted in 2023 and 2024, with grape varieties including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Meunier, Solaris, Voltis, Seyval Blanc and Cabernet Noir. As the vineyards begin to flourish, groups can experience everything from guided vineyard tours and tastings to farm-to-table supper clubs, cooking masterclasses and wellness retreats.

6. Standing with Giants, Waddesdon Manor

The D-Day 1,476 installation returns this autumn with Standing with Giants: For Your Tomorrow, a tribute commemorating the 1,476 lives lost under British command on D-Day, 6 June 1944. This year, new figures will be unveiled representing Beach Masters, Dog Handlers, Royal Navy Officers, Tank Crew, Merchant Navy personnel and Royal Engineers.

Around 40 additional silhouettes will also commemorate British Commando Frogmen and members of the Royal Army Medical Corps. With special dawn and twilight openings will run on selected dates throughout November, with prices starting from £15 per person.

7. Witch Trials, Moyse Hall Museum

Visitors are invited to step into the dark and fascinating world of witchcraft with a new Witch Trials exhibition at Moyse Hall Museum in Bury St Edmunds. The venue has joined forces with Salem Witch Museum in Massachusetts to uncover the historic links between the two places shaped by the notorious witch trials.

The collaboration invites visitors to discover the story of East Anglia’s witch persecutions, bringing together rare artefacts, historic accounts and the folklore and beliefs that fuelled accusations of witchcraft.

8. Blackpool Illuminations

Visitors can enjoy six miles of spectacular, interactive displays along Blackpool Promenade which will light up the town once again, until 3rd January 2027.

This year’s programme premieres new light-up artworks by three acclaimed female artists, including Toyah Willcox’s Wishing Star, a striking illumination and accompanying song inspired by her memories of visiting Blackpool.

Also new this year is Sky Forest, a light installation bringing nature and technology together with LED cherry blossom trees sparkling in a magical woodland experience.