Events & Activities in Bishop’s Stortford
This page gives information on events and activities in Bishop’s Stortford. It is updated daily. If you would like to advertise on this website and the Facebook page, please do get in touch by using the email address opposite.
Friday 10th July – Friendly Fridays
Drop in and meet others while playing a fun and friendly board game. All welcome, no experience required. Free. Refreshments available, with donations welcome. At Bishop’s Stortford Library, The Causeway, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 2EJ. Fridays from 2pm – 5pm, until at least the end of the year.
Friday 10th July – Country Night
Indulge in the ultimate Friday evening escape at Down Hall Hotel, Bishop’s Stortford, CM22 7AS. Classic country covers bringing the heart of Nashville straight to the hotel. Where the enchanting sounds of summer come alive on The Lawn. Savour exquisite drinks, bask in the golden hour, and let the music wash over you as you unwind in style. Let the music set the mood as you relax, sip your favourite drink, and enjoy the perfect summer vibes. Friday 10th July , music starts at 7pm and finishes at 9.30pm with cocktails, drinks and food available. To book click here
Saturday 11th July – Castle Park Parkrun
A free, fun, and friendly weekly 5k community event. Walk, jog or run. The event takes place at Castle Park, The Causeway, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 2DL. Saturdays from 9am, for further information click here
Sunday 12th July – Junior Parkrun
A free, fun, and friendly weekly 2k event for juniors 4-14 year olds. The event takes place at Grange Paddocks Leisure Centre, Rye Street, Bishops Stortford, CM23 3HH, every Sunday from 9am. Every week we grab a post parkrun coffee in a local café. For further information click here
Sunday 12th July – Sunday Storytime
Half an hour of stories and rhymes which children aged up to 8 will love. This activity is free, but donations are welcome. Sundays from 2pm – 2.30pm, at Bishop’s Stortford Library, The Causeway, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 2EJ. Until at least the end of October.
Monday 13th July – Craft Club
Open to all, drop in, bring your current project or just have a chat over a cuppa. Every second Monday of the month from 10.30am – 12 noon. At Bishop’s Stortford Library, The Causeway, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 2EJ.
Monday 13th July – Board of Mondays
Enjoy free use of a Nintendo Entertainment System and many board games including Trivial Pursuit, Scrabble and more. At The Star Inn, Bridge Street, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 2JU. Mondays from 6pm.
Tuesday 14th July – Craft and chatter
Bring your art and craft projects, or come and have a go in the company of others, at this craft and chatter group on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month from 10.30am – 12.30pm. At Bishop’s Stortford Methodist Church, 34b South Street, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3AZ. Until at least the end of August.
Wednesday 15th July – A Special Cup
Join Bishop’s Stortford Methodist Church, 34B South Street, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3AZ, every week on a Wednesday from 12 noon – 4pm. They do a bring and share lunch, have a good chat and then play games. Come make new friends or meet with old ones.
Wednesday 15th July – LGBTQ+ Group
Monthly get together for LGBTQ+ people of all ages, genders and sexualities. Looking for a social circle of like-minded people? Fed up with being stereotyped? We provide a fun and friendly environment for all LGBTQ+ members to come and hang out, chat and chill together with other like-minded people in the community. Third Wednesday of the month from 3pm – 5pm, at Starbucks Cafe, Jackson Square Shopping Centre, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23.
Friday 17th July – Stort Pride
An evening of unapologetic joy, performances from talented LGBTQIA2S+ performers and community connection. Family Fun day with stalls and activities Jackson Square. At Southmill Arts Centre, South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. Powerful performances, Inclusive, Diverse, Fun vibes where everyone is celebrated. Friday 17th July. To book click here
Friday 17th and Saturday 18th July – The Big Bash
Stortford’s two Day family focused, community music festival returns with a great varied line up of music, kids entertainment, local food and drink vendors. Friday 3.30pm – 11pm. Saturday 11.30am – 11pm. For further information and to book click here
Friday 17th – Monday 20th July – Art Society Summer Art Exhibition and Sale
At this Art Society Summer Art Exhibition and Sale, there will be a wide range of beautiful artworks available to view and to purchase, it is a wonderful way to get inspired and a great way to connect with your local creative community. In the Community Space (top of the escalators) in Jackson Square, Potter Street, Bishop’s Stortford. CM23 3UT. Friday 17th – Monday 20th July from 10am – 4pm. Free entry.
Saturday 18th July – Bikers Bike Meets
Bishops Stortford Bikers Bike Meets at The Belgium Brewer Bishops Stortford, CM23 5NZ. Everyone welcome, bike or no bike. Food and drink served, great atmosphere and fantastic company. Raising money for Essex and Herts Air Ambulance. Saturday 18th July from 10am – 1pm.
Saturday 18th July – Summer Fayre
Little Hadham Village Hall, summer fayre, The Ford, Little Hadham, SG11 2BP. Lots of fun for all the family with Live stage music acts throughout the day. Activity arena, Dog Show, Circus Skills and more. Bar tent, BBQ, food concessions and craft stalls. Saturday 18th July from 1pm – 10pm. To book click here
Saturday 18th July – Summer Fair
A fantastic afternoon of fun, entertainment and community spirit. There will be something for everyone to enjoy including, exotic encounters with a variety of reptiles and other amazing animals, face painting, fun and games, stalls, pet portraits, raffle, tombola and bar. Bring your family, friends and neighbours, everyone is welcome. At Premier Court Care Home, Thorley Lane East, Thorley, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 4BH. Saturday 18th July from 2pm – 4pm.
Saturday 18th July – Disco Bingo
Disco Bingo at The Crown Inn, Elsenham Cross Cottage, Elsenham, Bishop’s Stortford, CM22 6DG, every third Saturday of the month.
Tuesday 21st July – Knit and Natter
Knit and natter on the first and third Tuesday of the month from 10am – 12 noon at Bishop’s Stortford Methodist Church, 34b South Street, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3AZ.
Saturday 25th July – Farmers Market
The Elsenham Farmers Market is on the last Saturday of the month from 12.30pm – 2.30pm, at Elsenham Village Hall (School Hall), High Street, Bishop Stortford. Come and join them and treat yourself to some fabulous produce, meet a friend for a coffee and cake, grab something delicious for lunch and support small, independent businesses and shop local.
Saturday 25th July – Family Fun Day
Enjoy pop-up performances, workshops, kids’ activities, food trucks, games, dog show, BBQ and much more for all the family. This event is free, just turn up and have fun. Saturday 25th July from 11am – 3pm.
Saturday 26th July – Country Hoedown
Get ready for a rootin’-tootin’ day out at Cammas Hall Farm with our Country Hoedown event. Enjoy a fun-filled Country and Western themed experience packed with entertainment for all ages. The event features a fabulous country drag queen host – Saffron Slayter – bringing plenty of laughs, energy, country charm and songs throughout the day. Enjoy lively line dancing sessions with Fran Dearlove from Dance Yourself Free. Take part in themed games, great photo opportunities and fun activities. For thrill-seekers, there will also be a rodeo bull ride available for an additional charge, perfect for testing your cowboy or cowgirl skills. At Cammas Hall Farm, Needham Green, Hatfield Broad Oak, Near Bishop’s Stortford, CM22 7JT. Saturday 26th July from 11am – 4pm. To book click here
Sunday 2nd August – Summer Market
Experience the charm of this market, where talented local traders and artisans come together to showcase their unique and handcrafted goods. From specialty products to delightful treats, there’s something to suit every taste. Enjoy a relaxed browse, treat yourself to some refreshments, and make the most of your visit. Free entry. Takeley and Little Canfield Market will be at Silver jubilee hall, Dunmow Road, Takeley, Bishop’s Stortford, CM22 6QX. Every 1st Sunday of the month from 10am – 2pm.
Saturday 15th August – Bikers Bike Meets
Bishops Stortford Bikers Bike Meets at The Belgium Brewer Bishops Stortford, CM23 5NZ. Everyone welcome, bike or no bike. Food and drink served, great atmosphere and fantastic company. Raising money for Essex and Herts Air Ambulance. Saturday 15th August from 10am – 1pm.
Sunday 23rd August – Guided Walk
Join a summer walk to enjoy the late summer flowers, dragonflies and damselflies and hear about the resident water voles.
Please be aware there is a deep step up to the bridge that leads across the Stort onto the reserve, which may not be suitable for people with limited mobility. Suitable for adults and older children. Sunday 23rd August from 10am – 12 noon. At Thorley Wash, Spellbrook, North Bishop’s Stortford, CM22 7SE. To book click here
Sunday 23rd August – Country and Western Day
Get ready for a fantastic day of country music, great food, drinks, and plenty of Western fun. Including Live Music with tribute to Shania and Dolly Parton, BBQ, bouncy Castle and Bucking Bronco. At The Crown Inn, Elsenham Cross Cottage, Elsenham, Bishop’s Stortford, CM22 6DG. Sunday 23rd August from 12 noon.
Friday 28th August – Motown Night
Lovelight Entertainment bring to you a night of the very best Motown classics. Indulge in the ultimate Friday evening escape at Down Hall Hotel, Bishop’s Stortford, CM22 7AS. Where the enchanting sounds of summer come alive on The Lawn. Savour exquisite drinks, bask in the golden hour, and let the music wash over you as you unwind in style. Let the music set the mood as you relax, sip your favourite drink, and enjoy the perfect summer vibes. Friday 28th August , music starts at 7pm and finishes at 9.30pm with cocktails, drinks and food available. To book click here
Friday 4th September – Golf Day: Charity Fundraiser
A fantastic Golf Day at Bishop’s Stortford Golf Club, Dunmow Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 5HP, raising vital funds to support the Breast Unit at The Princess Alexandra Hospital. Enjoy a full afternoon and evening of golf, food, and fundraising at this beautiful course, all for an incredible cause. Event Schedule, 12.30pm coffee and bacon rolls, 1.30pm Shotgun start Halfway hut. 6.:30pm two-course dinner. Cost £85 per person. For further information contact the office: 01279 973 743 or 07920 855 592 or hayley.sweet@nhs.net
Saturday 5th September – Bat Talk
Join the Herts and Middlesex Bat Group at Thorley Wash Nature Reserve for a guided introduction to the world of bats. Following a short introductory talk you will be shown how to use a simple bat detector. They will then explore the different habitats and see how various bat species use them. Through the use of the detectors we will be able to “hear” the bat as they hunt for their insect prey. This event is weather dependent and may need to be cancelled at short notice. Please be aware there is a deep step up to the bridge that leads across the Stort onto the reserve, which may not be suitable for people with limited mobility. Suitable for ages 8+. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Saturday 5th September from 7pm – 9pm. At Thorley Wash, Spellbrook, North Bishop’s Stortford, CM22 7SE. To book click here
Friday 11th September – Country Night
Indulge in the ultimate Friday evening escape at Down Hall Hotel, Bishop’s Stortford, CM22 7AS. Classic country covers bringing the heart of Nashville straight to the hotel. Where the enchanting sounds of summer come alive on The Lawn. Savour exquisite drinks, bask in the golden hour, and let the music wash over you as you unwind in style. Let the music set the mood as you relax, sip your favourite drink, and enjoy the perfect summer vibes. Friday 11th September , music starts at 7pm and finishes at 9.30pm with cocktails, drinks and food available. To book click here
Saturday 12th September – Bikers Bike Meets
Bishops Stortford Bikers Bike Meets at The Belgium Brewer Bishops Stortford, CM23 5NZ. Everyone welcome, bike or no bike. Food and drink served, great atmosphere and fantastic company. Raising money for Essex and Herts Air Ambulance. Saturday 12th September from 10am – 1pm.
Saturday 12th September – Carnival
Join the Crown Inn Carnival, a fantastic day out for the whole family. Big stage, four amazing live acts, stalls, lots of fun for the kids, food and drinks available throughout the day. Saturday 12th September from 12 noon, at The Crown Inn, Elsenham Cross Cottage, Elsenham, Bishop’s Stortford, CM22 6DG.
Sunday 25th October – Ghost Walk
Join this Ghost Walk and explore the haunted spots of Bishop’s Stortford that will capture your imagination and motivate the mind. They will meet in front of St Michael’s Church, Windhill, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 2ND. Sunday 25th October from 11am. To book click here
Tuesday 27th October – Top Secret: The Magic of Science
Fusing the mystery of magic with wondrous and miraculous feats of science. Hang on to your seats and experience a non-stop, action-packed, interactive, magical science show with experiments and magic that will capture the imagination. Join Top Secret as they go on a High Voltage Adventure. Top Secret is a fast-moving, colourful, magical science show suitable for the whole family, filled with mystery, suspense, and lots and lots of mess. At Southmill Arts Centre, South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. To book click here Tuesday 27th October from 2pm.
Sunday 22nd November – Christmas Craft Fair
Christmas Craft Fair at Little Hadham Village Hall, summer fayre, The Ford, Little Hadham, SG11 2BP. Handmade gifts, Santa’s Grotto and festive wonder. Sunday 22nd November from 10am – 3.30pm.
Thursday 26th November – Saturday 2nd January – Beauty and the Beast
Big Adventure Productions returns with the fairy-tale classic Beauty and the Beast, written and directed by Ian McFarlane. A magical story of enchanted roses, wicked spells and heroic princesses. With an all singing/all dancing cast of professional performers and lots of audience participation. The performance on Tuesday, 29th December at 11am is a relaxed performance, ideal for those who would benefit from a more comfortable environment, with the lights a bit brighter and the sound slightly softer. Please note, all running times are approximate and all under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult. Thursday 26th November – Saturday 2nd January At Southmill Arts Centre, South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. To book click here
Friday 11th December – Scummy Mummies: Christmas Show
Comedians Helen Thorn and Ellie Gibson are bringing their special Christmas-themed comedy show back to South Mill Arts Centre, South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. Expect scummy carols, yuletide sketches, festive stand-up and very scummy Santa stories. Guaranteed to make you feel normal about your parenting skills, or very smug about being child-free. Friday 11th December from 7.30pm. To book click here
