Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery Ticket Portal

Create lasting memories with your family at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery— where art, history, and fun-filled events come together to inspire curiosity and shared experiences.

Join us at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery as we mark International Lego Day and shine a spotlight on our hometown treasure, Minibrix. Dive into the world of blocks and bricks and let your imagination run wild!

Roam the Museum and Art Gallery and discover a range of brick-inspired activities, promising entertainment for all ages. 

Whether you’re a seasoned builder or just embarking on your first block adventure, Brick Fest promises a day filled with fun, creativity, and a splash of Petersfield history. We can’t wait to see what you’ll build with us!

11am – 1pm: Lego® Masterclass with Brilliant Blocks 

Unleash your creativity with Lego® building challenges. No manuals, no blueprints — just your ideas! Whether you're crafting a supersonic jet, conjuring a mythical beast or designing an interstellar spaceship, let your imagination take the lead.

2pm – 4pm: Creative Saturday – Block Printing with Building Blocks!

Get ready to dip, stamp and design your very own masterpieces inspired by selected poems! Whether you're creating colourful patterns, bold prints or unique textures, this activity is perfect for all ages and abilities. It’s a fantastic way to play, create and connect as a family while diving into the artistic side of construction toys.

Immerse yourself in creativity at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery!

In this hands-on family workshop, we’ll explore the art of geli printing, a fun and fascinating way to create beautifully textured artworks. Taking inspiration from the natural world and the evocative poetry of Edward Thomas, you and your little ones will design your own prints that capture the beauty of nature in vibrant, unique ways.

Experiment with colors, patterns, and textures as you craft your own masterpieces, whether you're a budding artist or just looking for a fun family day out. This session is perfect for all ages and abilities, offering an imaginative and playful way to connect with art and poetry.

Creative Saturday Family Workshops

Join our fun, hands-on workshops led by an experienced artist educator, Jo, from The Craft Zen. Spend time together as you develop your creative talents. Each session is inspired by one of our current exhibitions. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Suitable for all abilities.

About Jo Waterson-Deuble

As an experienced teacher and crafter, Jo is passionate about inspiring children to be creative. Arts and crafts encourage well-being, and 'Making Time to Make' is valuable in today's busy world.

Morning Session: 10.30am - 12pm
Afternoon Session: 1.30pm - 3pm

Discover the art of traditional calligraphy in this hands-on workshop, led by artist Jan Pickett, focused on the creation of decorative capitals. Delightful to draw and wonderful to decorate, these free flowing letters inspired by ancient hand carved capitals will brwath life into any peice of paper.  Constructed using a series of basic shapes in different combinations, Jan will lead you through the process from the initial construction of the forms to their embellishment with water colours and even a little gold gouache!

Please bring your own lunch, or you can grab a light bite from our coffee shop. You will have the opportunity to have lunch with your fellow course members and Jan herself.

Suitable for all levels.

Workshop starts at 10.30am.

Join our Head of Collections and Exhibitions, Louise Weller, for an exclusive inside look at Bound Together: Modern British Bookbinding. 

Bound Together: Modern British Bookbinding explores the captivating life and legacy of internationally renowned bookbinder and conservator Roger Powell, whose innovative work connects traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques.

Discover Powell’s remarkable career, from his beginnings with leading bookbinder Douglas Cockerell, to establishing his own bindery in Froxfield near Petersfield. Learn about his conservation of the Book of Kells for Trinity College Dublin and his role in the restoration of flood-damaged books in Florence in 1966. Louise will also introduce contemporary bookbinding works by members of Designer Bookbinders, showcasing the extraordinary skill and creativity that keeps this tradition alive today.

Discover more with our Curator Tours

Enjoy a guided walk through the current exhibition, delving into the stories behind the objects and curatorial process.

• 45-minute conversation-led tour across the exhibition.
• Includes Museum and Art Gallery admission.
• Learn about Roger Powell and the art of bookbinding, past and present.
• Explore Powell's contributions to the craft and his enduring impact on book conservation and design.

Please inform us of any access requirements during booking to ensure a welcoming experience for all our visitors. For more details, visit our Accessibility page.

Price includes Museum and Art Gallery admission. Tour leader subject to change.

8-week course – bookable in two 4-week blocks or the full term!

Are you passionate about drawing and painting but find portraits challenging? Join artist Livvy Stainer, who brings over 35 years of experience in portraiture and figure drawing, as she shows you tips and demonstrations on how to nail facial proportions, structure of the head and  body,  how to capture a likeness, drawing hands and hair, capturing posture as well as working on colour and flesh tones 

Working from photos and the occasional live model we'll be deep diving into all aspects of portraiture and figure drawing/painting.

What You’ll Learn:

Master facial proportions and the structure of the head and body

Capture a likeness with confidence

Perfect drawing hands, hair, and posture

Explore colour and flesh tones

Develop your skills with practical tips and demonstrations

You’ll work from photos and occasionally a live model, diving deep into the art of portraiture and figure drawing and painting.

Materials:

Livvy will use pencil, charcoal, and colour pastels during the sessions, but feel free to bring your favorite medium and work in colour or monochrome.

Suggested supplies:

Drawing tools: HB, 4B, and 8B graphite pencils, willow charcoal sticks, putty eraser

Paper: Cartridge paper and toned pastel paper

Optional pastels: Conte à Carre Colour Pastels 'Portrait Set'

Basic art materials will be provided by the museum if you're still deciding what to bring!

Course Options:

Full 8 weeks: Immerse yourself in the complete journey (4th, 11th, 18th, 25th March, 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th April

4-week blocks: Perfect for those with a busy schedule.

Block1: 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th March.
Block2: 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th April.

Unleash your creativity and build the skills you’ve always dreamed of in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Book your place today!

Experience the extraordinary at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery with the Piazzolla Duo, an international musical phenomenon celebrated for their originality and fearless experimentation.

Piazzolla Duo is a musical phenomenon that delights with its originality. The duo, appreciated abroad (Poland, Great Britain, Italy), is not afraid of experimentation, playing with sound and improvisation - boldly combining the finesse of jazz vocalism with the unique sound of fingerstyle guitar. The exceptional synergy of Argentine temperament and Slavic sensitivity takes you to the world of previously unknown sounds. Guitar virtuoso Janek Pentz and multi-award-winning vocalist Piotr Zubek rediscover forgotten songs by Astor Piazzolla.

Doors/Bar Open: 19:30
Music from: 20:00

Enjoy our intimate and historic courthouse venue for a powerful live performance of Chopped Liver and Unions.

"The world is changed by the women you push too far."

It's 1956 and the global political climate is uncertain. In the UK, Sara Wesker is writing a letter, reflecting on her life filled with struggle and triumph.

Back in the day, Sara led the “singing strikers of 1928” to fight for better working conditions for female garment workers in the East End. She was a fierce advocate for workers' rights, fighting at the iconic Battle of Cable Street, inspiring a generation of playwrights and embroiling herself in a high-profile love affair. But did her love of the cause cost her the love of her life? And was it worth it? 

This 5-star reviewed, OffFest nominated play featuring some of the iconic songs sung on Sara’s picket lines, has sold out in New York, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and in theatres across the UK.   

On International Women’s Day, join us in celebrating the remarkable, yet largely forgotten, life of this trailblazing woman. Her story deserves to be heard—and now it will be.

Event Details

Experience theatre in our historic Victorian Courthouse, an intimate venue for one-of-a-kind theatre productions. Our fully licensed bar offers a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks available throughout the production. 

• Doors and Bar Open - 4.00pm
• Performance starts - 4.30pm
• Fully licensed bar is open before, during and after the production
• Join us after the show for a Q&A with Charlotte Walker

Enjoy our intimate and historic courthouse venue for a powerful live performance of Chopped Liver and Unions.

"The world is changed by the women you push too far."

It's 1956 and the global political climate is uncertain. In the UK, Sara Wesker is writing a letter, reflecting on her life filled with struggle and triumph.

Back in the day, Sara led the “singing strikers of 1928” to fight for better working conditions for female garment workers in the East End. She was a fierce advocate for workers' rights, fighting at the iconic Battle of Cable Street, inspiring a generation of playwrights and embroiling herself in a high-profile love affair. But did her love of the cause cost her the love of her life? And was it worth it? 

This 5-star reviewed, OffFest nominated play featuring some of the iconic songs sung on Sara’s picket lines, has sold out in New York, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and in theatres across the UK.   

On International Women’s Day, join us in celebrating the remarkable, yet largely forgotten, life of this trailblazing woman. Her story deserves to be heard—and now it will be.

Event Details

Experience theatre in our historic Victorian Courthouse, an intimate venue for one-of-a-kind theatre productions. Our fully licensed bar offers a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks available throughout the evening. 

• Doors and Bar Open - 7.00pm
• Performance starts - 7.30pm
• Fully licensed bar is open before, during and after the production
• Join us after the show for a Q&A with Charlotte Walker

Join us for a unique screening of Seventy Years in Bookbinding - A Portriat of Bernard Middleton in our atmospheric Victorian Courthouse in the midst of our exciting Bound Together: Modern British Bookbinding exhibition.

Bernard C. Middleton, M.B.E., F.S.A is one of the most skilled craftsman of our time. His extraordinary career has now spanned some seventy years, as bookbinder, teacher and writer.

In this film, Bernard looks back on his long and varied life in bookbinding, which began at the Central School of Arts & Crafts in 1938. He remembers his apprenticeship years at the British Museum and reflects on his time spent as the manager of Zaehnsdorf's.

He talks about his early years of self-employment in a garret room in Soho, his American adventures and his experiences in the flood-damaged libraries of Florence.

Bernard shares some of his extraordinary techniques for restoring antiquarian books, including the best places to find dirt for ageing new bindings. He takes us on a tour of his bindery, with its huge collection of finishing tools and old paper and demonstrates his method of reproducing facsimile pages.

With his characteristically understated humour, his sharp mind and thoughtful observations on the he craft that he loves, Bernard gives us a truly fascinating, often moving and always enjoyable insight into his remarkable world.

There will be an interval approximatley half way through the screening to allow you to top up your drinks and grab some more popcorn!

This screening has been made possible thanks to the support of The Society of Book Binders.

Ticket includes admission to 'Bound Together: Modern British Bookbinding' on the day of the event.

Running Time: 123 minutes (excl. Interval)

Enjoy a smorgasbord of jazz and roots music, song and poetry to inspire and entertain, including works by Edward Thomas. Celebrating the lore of the road and encounters on life’s journey, you can expect the unexpected.

Be inspired and share your work at the open mic night. Following the performances of Charlotte Glasson, Chris Hardy and Barry Smith, we invite you to share your own work in our uniqu and intimate venue.

Whether you're performing or just soaking in the atmosphere, this is a night to celebrate the power of expression in all its forms. Suitable for seasoned poets, budding writers and anyone who loves the arts.

Charlotte Glasson is a multi-intrumentalist band leader who plays saxophone, the penny whistle, violin and even the musical saw. She’s played all over the world including Sydney Opera House, Ronnie Scott’s and the Royal Albert Hall, working with orchestras and bands such as Oasis, Nick Cave, Sophie Ellis-Bextor. John Cooper Clark and the Divine Comedy. Currently performing with the Waeve, Charlotte has released seven CDs.

Chris Hardy is the guitarist from the famed music/poetry ensemble LiTTLe MACHiNe, which sets much-loved poems to music, working with top poets such as Carol Ann Duffy and Roger McGough. The group has released several CDs. Chris is also an established poet with several published collections, Key to the Highway (Shoestring) being the latest.

Barry Smith is a poet, theatre director and arts festival producer. He is director of the South Downs Poetry Festival. Well-published in magazines, nominated for the TS Eliot Prize and shortlisted for the BBC Proms Poetry and Bread & Roses Awards, his collections Performance Rites (Waterloo Press) and the T.S. Eliot Prize nominated Reeling and Writhing (Vole Books/Dempsey and Windle) draw upon his experiences in theatre and the arts.

Doors/Bar Open: 7pm
Music from: 7.30pm
Open Mic from: 8.30pm

Open Mic Participants:

Participant wanting to share their work can sign up on the night of the event.

We ask particiapnts to be prepare a reading of up to 5 minutes (time allocated will vary depending on take up).

Learn the ancient Turkish art of Ebru marbling and create stunning marbled papers.

Dive into the vibrant world of paper marbling in this creative, hands-on workshop. Discover the ancient art of floating colourful inks on water to create intricate, swirling patterns, then transfer your designs onto paper. Perfect for beginners and seasoned crafters alike, this workshop explores traditional techniques with plenty of room for your own artistic flair. Take home your unique marbled masterpieces, ideal for bookbinding, stationery or simply to admire as works of art. 

This workshop provides a foundational understanding and skills to create authentic Turkish marbled paper. Marbling Art has been closely linked to bookbinding for centuries, and this workshop will equip you with the knowledge to produce unique artworks for your bookbinding projects or personal creations.

Suitable for all levels, you'll receive step-by-step guidance and hands-on support. All materials are included.

Workshop runs from 10am - 1230pm

Learn the ancient Turkish art of Ebru marbling and create stunning marbled papers.

Dive into the vibrant world of paper marbling in this creative, hands-on workshop. Discover the ancient art of floating colourful inks on water to create intricate, swirling patterns, then transfer your designs onto paper. Perfect for beginners and seasoned crafters alike, this workshop explores traditional techniques with plenty of room for your own artistic flair. Take home your unique marbled masterpieces, ideal for bookbinding, stationery or simply to admire as works of art. 

This workshop provides a foundational understanding and skills to create authentic Turkish marbled paper. Marbling Art has been closely linked to bookbinding for centuries, and this workshop will equip you with the knowledge to produce unique artworks for your bookbinding projects or personal creations.

Suitable for all levels, you'll receive step-by-step guidance and hands-on support. All materials are included.

Workshop runs from 1300pm - 15.30pm

Join us for an evening of folk music in our courthouse venue with Amy Goddard.

We welcome Amy Goddard back to our historic courthouse venue after her sold out performance at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery in 2024! 

Originally from South Wales and now based in Hampshire, Amy Goddard is a folk artist with a flair for narrative-led songs. Critics and fans alike have often drawn parallels between Amy's crystalline vocals and the legendary voices of Sandy Denny and Joni Mitchell. Aptly described by Folk Radio UK as "the rarest of singer/songwriters", she masterfully blends tales from personal experiences, historical legends and incisive commentary on contemporary issues.

With roots anchored in her early love for the timeless tunes of Simon and Garfunkel, Amy's dedication to the folk and acoustic genre is unwavering. She seamlessly fuses her talents—building guitars, penning lyrics, and curating albums—that are nothing short of art pieces.

Amy's exceptional prowess was highlighted when her 2019 album, "Always A Dreamer" (an homage to John Stewart), clinched the 2nd position in the critics choice for 'Album of the Year' by Country Music People—surpassing industry titans like Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, and Dolly Parton.

Amy astounds audiences and critics alike with her multidisciplinary approach to her craft. She designs her own ethereal album covers and showcases her deep connection to music by performing on a guitar she personally handcrafted.

Event Details

Experience live music in our historic Victorian Courthouse, an intimate venue for one-of-a-kind acoustic, folk and indie concerts. Our fully licensed bar offers a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks available throughout the night. 

• Doors and Bar Open - 7.30pm
• Live Music from - 8.00pm
• Fully licensed bar is open before, during and after the music event
• Meet and greet with Amy Goddard after performance

Join us for a unique screening Mayreen Duke - The Life and Work of a Bookbinder in our atmospheric Victorian Courthouse in the midst of our exciting Bound Together: Modern British Bookbinding exhibition.

Maureen Duke is one of the most respected bookbinders and teachers of our time. Over a career spanning more than sixty years she has introduced many students to this special craft. She has travelled widely, taking bookbinding to new audiences around the world, has written extensively on the subject and has been a pioneer in book restoration.

In this remarkable film, Maureen looks back over her career, which began under William Matthews at Guildford College of Art in 1946. She reflects on her early years of self-employment, her first forays into the world of teaching and talks with passion about her time leading the full-time course at Guildford.

In retirement Maureen has been busier than ever and we see her in action at Urchfont Manor and West Dean and meet some of her students, past and present, who have been inspired by her skills as a craftsman and communicator.

She takes us on a tour of her extraordinary bindery, which she has occupied for the last forty years and in a special feature demonstrates some of her favourite techniques which have evolved over many years at the bench.

With a combination of modesty, humour and sure command of her subject, Maureen gives us a rare glimpse into her fascinating world.

This screening has been made possible thanks to the generoisity of the Society of Bookbinders.

There will be an interval approximatley half way through the screening to allow you to top up your drinks and grab some more popcorn!

Ticket includes admission to 'Bound Together: Modern British Bookbinding' before the screening (6.00pm - 7.00pm).

Screening From: 7pm

Run time: 70mins (excl. Inteval)

Discover the art of bookbinding at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery!

In this hands-on family workshop, you and your little ones will explore the fascinating world of bookmaking. Inspired by our exhibitions and collections, as well as the beauty of poetry, you’ll have the chance to craft something truly unique together.

Perfect for all ages and abilities, this workshop is a wonderful way to unleash your creativity, learn new skills, and enjoy quality time as a family. What stories will your book hold? There’s only one way to find out!

Creative Saturday Family Workshops

Join our fun, hands-on workshops led by an experienced artist educator, Jo, from The Craft Zen. Spend time together as you develop your creative talents. Each session is inspired by one of our current exhibitions. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Suitable for all abilities.

About Jo Waterson-Deuble

As an experienced teacher and crafter, Jo is passionate about inspiring children to be creative. Arts and crafts encourage well-being, and 'Making Time to Make' is valuable in today's busy world.

Workshop Times: 10.30am - 12pm

Join our Head of Collections and Exhibitions, Louise Weller, for an exclusive inside look at Bound Together: Modern British Bookbinding. 

Bound Together: Modern British Bookbinding explores the captivating life and legacy of internationally renowned bookbinder and conservator Roger Powell, whose innovative work connects traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques.

Discover Powell’s remarkable career, from his beginnings with leading bookbinder Douglas Cockerell, to establishing his own bindery in Froxfield near Petersfield. Learn about his conservation of the Book of Kells for Trinity College Dublin and his role in the restoration of flood-damaged books in Florence in 1966. Louise will also introduce contemporary bookbinding works by members of Designer Bookbinders, showcasing the extraordinary skill and creativity that keeps this tradition alive today.

Discover more with our Curator Tours

Enjoy a guided walk through the current exhibition, delving into the stories behind the objects and curatorial process.

• 45-minute conversation-led tour across the exhibition.
• Includes Museum and Art Gallery admission.
• Learn about Roger Powell and the art of bookbinding, past and present.
• Explore Powell's contributions to the craft and his enduring impact on book conservation and design.

Please inform us of any access requirements during booking to ensure a welcoming experience for all our visitors. For more details, visit our Accessibility page.

Price includes Museum and Art Gallery admission. Tour leader subject to change.

Create your own beautiful handmade journals in this workshop celebrating the art of bookbinding. Learn to craft a ribbon-bound journal and a traditional Japanese-style notebook, exploring techniques that blend practicality with elegance.

This practical workshop will introduce you to the materials and techniques involved in basic bookbinding. You will learn about the materials being used and their suitability for this binding style. There will also be an introduction to the tools and equipment involved and their correct handling.

During the day you will learn how to;
- Fold paper into sections ready for sewing.
- Select and prepare covering materials.
- Use a variety of sewing and binding techniques.

Create two paper covered books in a day.  This journal is sewn on ribbons which attach it to the cover and is ideal for keeping notes and drawings.  A soft cover notebook with decorative Japanese style stitching is a quick stylish way to bind loose sheets.

This workshop runs from 10.30am to 4pm.

Plese bring your own lucnh which can be enjoyed with your fellow participants and instructor in our Edward Thomas Meeting Room.

Block 2 of 2 (4 week course).

Join us for the second block of workshop sessions all about perfecting drawing portraits and figures. Join artist Livvy Stainer, who brings over 35 years of experience in portraiture and figure drawing, as she shows you tips and demonstrations on how to nail facial proportions, structure of the head and  body,  how to capture a likeness, drawing hands and hair, capturing posture as well as working on colour and flesh tones 

Working from photos and the occasional live model we'll be deep diving into all aspects of portraiture and figure drawing/painting.

What You’ll Learn:

Master facial proportions and the structure of the head and body

Capture a likeness with confidence

Perfect drawing hands, hair, and posture

Explore colour and flesh tones

Develop your skills with practical tips and demonstrations

You’ll work from photos and occasionally a live model, diving deep into the art of portraiture and figure drawing and painting.

Materials:

Livvy will use pencil, charcoal, and colour pastels during the sessions, but feel free to bring your favorite medium and work in colour or monochrome.

Suggested supplies:

Drawing tools: HB, 4B, and 8B graphite pencils, willow charcoal sticks, putty eraser

Paper: Cartridge paper and toned pastel paper

Optional pastels: Conte à Carre Colour Pastels 'Portrait Set'

Basic art materials will be provided by the museum if you're still deciding what to bring!

Course Options:

Full 8 weeks: Immerse yourself in the complete journey (4th, 11th, 18th, 25th March, 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th April). To book onto the full course click here.

4-week blocks: Perfect for those with a busy schedule.
Block2: 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th April.

Unleash your creativity and build the skills you’ve always dreamed of in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Book your place today!

Hop into springtime fun with our Easter Bunny Bonanza, a special day just for toddlers! With the Museum and Art Gallery closed to the public, your little ones can explore, play and enjoy a host of easter activities.
Join in the excitement with crafts, easter egg hunt, and our lively Bunny Hop Disco, perfect for burning off some bunny energy! Enjoy story time together and make magical memories meeting the Easter Bunny. Laugh, create and discover in our welcoming, playful museum and art gallery.

Event Timings:
Museum Opens: 10am
Bunny Hop Disco: 1010am, 1130am, 1330pm, 1430pm, 1530pm
Story Time and Easter Bunny Meet: 1045am, 1200pm, 1400pm, 1500pm
Craft sessions: 1100 - 1300, 1400-1600
Events finish:1600
Museum closes:1700

Toddler Takeovers:
Toddler Takeovers are an exciting way to explore our spaces in a fun, exciting and friendly way.This day is just for you and your little ones so we encourage play, noise, dance and creativity in an environment that often seems the opposite of all these things!

Enjoy our intimate and historic courthouse venue for a vivid portrayal of writer Patrick Hamilton in The Silence of Snow: The Life of Patrick Hamilton.
 

Mark Farrelly (Quentin Crisp: Naked Hope, Howerd's End, Jarman) presents his riveting, kinetic solo show portraying one of the great English writers of the inter-war years. Patrick Hamilton was a dazzling success in his twenties, producing hit plays Rope (filmed by Hitchcock), Gaslight (which gave us the modern term 'gaslighting') and classic novels Hangover Square and The Slaves of Solitude. But Hamilton was also an alcoholic, whose wit darkened as his inner and outer worlds collapsed.

Covering the entire sweep of Hamilton’s thrilling life and writing, The Silence of Snow entertains and challenges, asking: why do so many of us get through life without feeling we ever truly knew another person?

Written and performed by Mark Farrelly
Directed by Linda Marlowe
Running time: 70 mins no interval

Event Details

Experience theatre in our historic Victorian Courthouse, an intimate venue for one-of-a-kind theatre productions. Our fully licensed bar offers a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks available throughout the evening. 

• Doors and Bar Open - 7.00pm
• Performance starts - 7.30pm
• Fully licensed bar is open before, during and after the production

Reviews of The Silence of Snow: The Life of Patrick Hamilton 
★★★★ “You won’t be able to take your eyes off this magnetic actor Mark Farrelly. He inhabits the character of Hamilton with a blazing fluidity” The Times
★★★★ “Farrelly’s performance is electric” What’s On Stage 
★★★★ “Horrifyingly funny snapshot of the wit, novelist and playwright…brilliant” The Spectator
★★★★★ “Phenomenal. What a performance!” Sardines Magazine
★★★★★ “Unmissable! An extraordinary, beyond accomplished piece of writing, performed faultlessly. This is a spellbinding event” Everything Theatre

Join us for a memorable night of folk music in our courthouse venue with The Kimberleys.

'Even if you think you know a song inside out you'll find something here to make you think again' - Folking.com

The Kimberleys, a husband-and-wife duo, have become recognized as authentic and original interpreters of the traditional folk repertoire. Their second album, "The Shape of A Year," has further solidified their reputation, combining distinctive voices and harmonies that evoke the spirit of the 60’s and 70’s folk revival while offering fresh, original arrangements. Their sound appeals to both traditional folk enthusiasts and those less familiar with the genre.

Critically acclaimed for their ability to breathe new life into well-known songs, The Kimberleys deliver performances rich in musical excellence and charismatic presence. Their work is part of a quiet revolution, reshaping traditional songs to reflect modern life, making them relevant for today's audiences.

Isobel and Jim Kimberley have an impressive background, having worked, toured, and recorded with notable artists such as The Albion Band, Andy Cutting, Cathy Lesurf, Julie Felix, Dave Swarbrick, and Gordon Giltrap. They have received accolades like the “People’s Choice” awards from Sky Arts and were featured in the top 10 Folk Albums by The Daily Telegraph for their work under the Wolfscote name.

The Kimberleys promise performances that are both beautiful and memorable, continuing to carve their place among the folk greats.

Event Details

Experience live music in our historic Victorian Courthouse, an intimate venue for one-of-a-kind acoustic, folk and indie concerts. Our fully licensed bar offers a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks available throughout the night. 

• Doors and Bar Open - 7.00pm
• Live Music from - 7.30pm
• Fully licensed bar is open before, during and after the music event

Join our Head of Collections and Exhibitions, Louise Weller, for an exclusive inside look at Bound Together: Modern British Bookbinding. 

Bound Together: Modern British Bookbinding explores the captivating life and legacy of internationally renowned bookbinder and conservator Roger Powell, whose innovative work connects traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques.

Discover Powell’s remarkable career, from his beginnings with leading bookbinder Douglas Cockerell, to establishing his own bindery in Froxfield near Petersfield. Learn about his conservation of the Book of Kells for Trinity College Dublin and his role in the restoration of flood-damaged books in Florence in 1966. Louise will also introduce contemporary bookbinding works by members of Designer Bookbinders, showcasing the extraordinary skill and creativity that keeps this tradition alive today.

Discover more with our Curator Tours

Enjoy a guided walk through the current exhibition, delving into the stories behind the objects and curatorial process.

• 45-minute conversation-led tour across the exhibition.
• Includes Museum and Art Gallery admission.
• Learn about Roger Powell and the art of bookbinding, past and present.
• Explore Powell's contributions to the craft and his enduring impact on book conservation and design.

Please inform us of any access requirements during booking to ensure a welcoming experience for all our visitors. For more details, visit our Accessibility page.

Price includes Museum and Art Gallery admission. Tour leader subject to change.

Join us for a unique screening Maureen Duke - The Life and Work of a Bookbinder in our atmospheric Victorian Courthouse in the midst of our exciting Bound Together: Modern British Bookbinding exhibition.

Maureen Duke is one of the most respected bookbinders and teachers of our time. Over a career spanning more than sixty years she has introduced many students to this special craft. She has travelled widely, taking bookbinding to new audiences around the world, has written extensively on the subject and has been a pioneer in book restoration.

In this remarkable film, Maureen looks back over her career, which began under William Matthews at Guildford College of Art in 1946. She reflects on her early years of self-employment, her first forays into the world of teaching and talks with passion about her time leading the full-time course at Guildford.

In retirement Maureen has been busier than ever and we see her in action at Urchfont Manor and West Dean and meet some of her students, past and present, who have been inspired by her skills as a craftsman and communicator.

She takes us on a tour of her extraordinary bindery, which she has occupied for the last forty years and in a special feature demonstrates some of her favourite techniques which have evolved over many years at the bench.

With a combination of modesty, humour and sure command of her subject, Maureen gives us a rare glimpse into her fascinating world.

This screening has been made possible thanks to the generoisity of the Society of Bookbinders.

There will be an interval approximatley half way through the screening to allow you to top up your drinks and grab some more popcorn!

Ticket includes admission to 'Bound Together: Modern British Bookbinding' on the day of the screening.

Run time: 70mins (excl. Inteval)

Discover more about the historic market town of Petersfield and the role that routes and pathways have played in its history.

Embark on a captivating journey through the history of Petersfield. Immerse yourself in the tales of a town that has evolved over 1,000 years, from its humble origins as a small settlement at the crossroads of ancient trackways to the vibrant market town it proudly stands as today.

We will meet outside of Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery and will make our way through the streets of the town, guided by our expert and friendly narrator who is ready to share insights and answer your questions along the way. Our walking route is fully accessible to ensure everyone can partake in this event.

Discover where history lingers in the architecture, streets and landmarks of Petersfield, connecting the dots between its storied past and present. This immersive experience is not just a stroll through time; it's an opportunity to deepen your understanding of the town's evolution and appreciate the enduring traces of history that surround you—if you know where to look.

This walk starts at the front of Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery.

Please wear weather appropraite clothing.
We endevour to lead our walks in all weather, but if we do need to cancle due to dangerous weather we will be in contact as soon as possible with an alternative date.

Join us for a unique screening of Seventy Years in Bookbinding - A Portriat of Bernard Middleton in our atmospheric Victorian Courthouse in the midst of our exciting Bound Together: Modern British Bookbinding exhibition.

Bernard C. Middleton, M.B.E., F.S.A is one of the most skilled craftsman of our time. His extraordinary career has now spanned some seventy years, as bookbinder, teacher and writer.

In this film, Bernard looks back on his long and varied life in bookbinding, which began at the Central School of Arts & Crafts in 1938. He remembers his apprenticeship years at the British Museum and reflects on his time spent as the manager of Zaehnsdorf's.

He talks about his early years of self-employment in a garret room in Soho, his American adventures and his experiences in the flood-damaged libraries of Florence.

Bernard shares some of his extraordinary techniques for restoring antiquarian books, including the best places to find dirt for ageing new bindings. He takes us on a tour of his bindery, with its huge collection of finishing tools and old paper and demonstrates his method of reproducing facsimile pages.

With his characteristically understated humour, his sharp mind and thoughtful observations on the he craft that he loves, Bernard gives us a truly fascinating, often moving and always enjoyable insight into his remarkable world.

There will be an interval approximatley half way through the screening to allow you to top up your drinks and grab some more popcorn!

This screening has been made possible thanks to the support of The Society of Book Binders.

Ticket includes admission to 'Bound Together: Modern British Bookbinding' for an hour before the start of the screening.

Running Time: 123 minutes (excl. Interval)

Join us for an evening of amazing live music from 'The Galician King of Acoustic Guitar', Iago Banet. Spanish virtuoso guitarist Iago Banet will be joining us in the Courthouse for an evening of unmissable music. 

Described as ‘a master of the guitar’ by Sean Rafferty, BBC Radio 3 In Tune; as 'nothing short of phenomenal' in a recent review, and as a ‘highly recommended artist’ by Celtic Connections, Iago creates stories without words, enthralling audiences as he does so. 

Iago Banet, ‘The Galician King of Acoustic Guitar’ launched his third album, TRES, in 2023, with a tour which has included multiple sell-out shows and sensational receptions from audiences across the UK. He has showcased his immense talent at festivals including Pontevedra Jazz and Blues Festival, Brecon Jazz, Hellys International Guitar Festival and Aberjazz, displaying new levels of skill, complexity and versatility, whilst fusing styles, ranging from gypsy jazz, blues, Americana, country and dixieland, to swing, pop and folk

Since 2018, Banet has been building an impressive career as a solo fingerstyle acoustic guitarist, displaying his exceptional abilities and receiving rave reviews along the way. He has performed with artists, including Josh Smith (Joe Bonamassa), Mark Flanagan (Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra), Jack Broadbent and Clive Carroll, amongst others.

Iago’s technique and approach to performance have captivated crowds across the UK and Spain. He is a one-man-band on acoustic guitar not to be missed.

As featured on BBC Radio 2's The Blues Show with Cerys Matthews

‘A master of the guitar’, Sean Rafferty, BBC Radio 3

‘Fabulous’, Katie Derham, BBC Radio 3

‘Highly recommended artist’, DKOS, Celtic Connections 2023

‘An absolute genius talent on the guitar... Magical’, Kate Justice, BBC Hereford and Worcester

 ✭✭✭✭ ‘Nothing short of phenomenal’, R'n'R Magazine 

Doors/Bar: 7pm

Music from: 7.30pm

Join us in an ancient tradition of walking Petersfield's medieval boundary with our Beating the Bounds walk.

Beating the Bounds is an ancient custom, enforced before Norman times and still observed in some English parishes, where a group from the community would walk the boundary of the parish. Whilst there is no recorded evidence that this ceremony took place in Petersfield, there are maps that show the ancient boundaries of the borough and parish.

Our walk will see us travel the 4-mile route, stopping at intervals to explain the historic connections that formed the boundary and its future expansion into the town we know today. Starting in front of the Museum and Art Gallery, the walk will take 2.5 hours.

Event Details

• The walk will start and finish outside Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery.
• The boundary walk will be a 4-mile route, taking approximately 2.5 hours.
• We advise wearing sensible footwear.

If you have not been informed of any cancellations or alterations to the event, please assume it is proceeding as planned.