Henley Arts Trail celebrates 20 years in 2026

DATE

March 6, 2026

Explore hidden corners and uncover a treasure trove of creativity from 300 exhibitors across 36 venues at the 20th anniversary of Henley Arts Trail 2026.

Celebrating two decades of creativity, the Henley Arts Trail returns over the May Bank Holiday weekend, inviting visitors to explore one of the region’s most popular open-studio events.

Running from Saturday 2 to Monday 4 May 2026, the trail offers the chance to experience artworks in artists’ studios, galleries, vineyards, a distillery, the world-famous Leander Club and, for the first time, a stately home on the banks of the Thames.

Founded in 2006, the trail has grown into a vibrant showcase for local talent, bringing together more than 300 artists and makers across Henley-on-Thames and the surrounding villages.

From painters and sculptors to ceramicists, jewellers and textile artists, the event offers a diverse snapshot of contemporary creativity in the Thames Valley.

What makes the Henley Arts Trail special is the chance to step inside working studios and unusual venues – from riverside locations and village halls to historic buildings and gardens – and meet the artists behind the work.

Artists announced for this year include Tim Slatter, who creates bold landscape etchings and prints and gained wider recognition from his appearance on Landscape Artist of the Year; Esté MacLeod, known for vibrant floral and still-life compositions that have attracted an international following from her studio in Charvil; and Shelagh Casebourne, a plein‑air landscape painter whose expressive work captures the British countryside.

Many venues host demonstrations, giving visitors an insight into techniques and creative processes, while most exhibitions offer the opportunity to buy original pieces directly from the maker.

Alongside established artists, the trail also supports emerging talent through ArtSpark, a competition for young artists aged 16 to 18 that includes mentoring from professional artists and the chance to exhibit during the event.

Share

RELATED STORIES

MORE STORIES

thumbnail

Win! A weekend for four at Berko Fields Festival – worth almost £400!

We’ve got four weekend tickets to Berko Fields Festival up for grabs!

READ MORE
thumbnail

Foodies Festival returns to Oxford’s South Park over the bank holiday weekend

See celebrity chefs, chart-topping music and plenty of tasty treats at this year’s Foodies Festival in Oxford’s South Park.

READ MORE
thumbnail

This free Bracknell book fair promises a brilliant day out for readers and aspiring writers

Book lovers and aspiring writers can discover their next great read at Bracknell Book Fair this September.

thumbnail

White Horse Festival returns to Wiltshire with classical music, countryside adventures and plenty of culture

The White Horse Festival returns to Wiltshire from 1–11 October 2026, bringing world-class classical music, food and family-friendly experiences.

thumbnail

DogFest is coming to Blenheim Palace for a tail-wagging weekend this October

DogFest brings wagging tails and royal treatment to Blenheim Palace this October, with dog shows, breed meet-ups, walks, activities and plenty of treats.