Swindonian Blog Posts
Swindon news, views, history and culture43. The Carriage Works 1868-74
The carriage works. The first thing to say about them is that, despite what you read on the Internet, this collection of buildings are NOT Brunel’s. They are in fact the work/initiative of chief mechanical engineer, Joseph Armstrong.* Brunel died in 1859. And the carriage works didn’t appear for another decade!
42. Inglesham Church 13th Century
Inglesham Church, aka The Church of St John the Baptist, is the second of a trio of 13th century churches that I’m including in this Swindon in 50 More Buildings series. Not that they’re in any particular order, but the first of them is the church of St Michael and All The Angels in Highworth. The third one will focus on St Mary’s church in Rodbourne Cheney but in this post we’re going to Inglesham.
Malmesbury gardening and art competitions returns
The search is on for green-fingered residents and business owners to enter the annual Malmesbury in Bloom Garden Competition.
41. St Michael’s Church Highworth 13th C
St Michael’s church Highworth, or to give it its full title, St Michael’s & All Angel’s Church lays claim to being the only 13th century church in the borough of Swindon. So the church’s website states. But St Mary’s at Rodbourne Cheney is 13th century, as the British listed buildings website states. And so too is is the church of St John the Baptist in Inglesham. So that’s a trio of 13th century churches in the borough that I know to. Are there more?
Athelstan the Musical
A group of talented creatives are bringing the story of King Athelstan to life. It’s all part of the summer celebrations to mark 1100 years since he became the First King of England.
Being staged for the first time in Malmesbury abbey, in July, is an original, interactive play, Athelstan: A United Kingdom.
RPA Lending a Hand
Swindon-based Revolution Performing Arts (RPA) is continuing its support for local families during the summer holidays. RPA is doing this through its Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) programme.
The national HAF programme gets funding from the Department of Education through Swindon Council. It aims to ensure that thousands of children, who usually receive free school meals, have access to nutritious, hot meals during the holidays. And while also enjoying free access to fun and engaging activities.
Swindon Polish Day
Swindon Polish Day in Queen’s Park on Sunday 9th June. The event runs from 12: – 18:00. ADMISSION IS FREE.
Join us for a day of music, culture, and community as we celebrate Polish Day in Swindon. Experience the lively performances of Kapela Drewutnia and enjoy the rich cultural tapestry that the Polish community brings to our town.
Athelstan Project Gets Lottery Funding
Volunteers behind the Athelstan 1100 Big Dig project in Malmesbury are celebrating. The reason being the receipt of a grant of £14,540 for this unique community heritage project taking place in July.
Swindon Irish Dance School Triumphs
Swindon Irish Dance School Triumphs. And who know we had an Irish dance school? Not me! Anyway. SWINDON dancers have become world champions in the most prestigious global, Irish dance competition.
Tom Holland Speaking in Malmesbury
Leading historian, broadcaster and podcast host Tom Holland will be the keynote speaker to open the new Athelstan Pilgrim Way. And his talk will also form part of Malmesbury’s events to celebrate the Athelstan 1100 anniversary this summer.













