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X-WR-CALNAME:Betjeman Society - poet, writer, broadcaster and conservationist Sir John Betjeman
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Betjeman Society - poet, writer, broadcaster and conservationist Sir John Betjeman
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260704T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260704T160000
DTSTAMP:20260331T090816Z
CREATED:20260331T090632Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T090816Z
UID:4386-1783162800-1783180800@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:The Betjeman Society AGM and two presentations - Saturday 4th July 2026
DESCRIPTION:Join us for our AGM and two interesting presentations on Saturday 4th July in fine surroundings in Great Malvern at Malvern St James School which is adjacent to the station. After the formal AGM in the morning and a buffet lunch we shall have a presentation from Tim Hedley-Jones\, Executive Director of the Railway Heritage Trust followed by a talk by Mike Pritchard\, Chairman of the Malvern Civic Society. \nProgramme \n11.00  Refreshments on arrival \n11.30  Society AGM \n12.30/45 approx  break \n1.00  Buffet lunch \n2.00  Tim Hedley-Jones of the Railway Heritage Trust \n3.00  Mike Pritchard of Malvern Civic Society. This talk will conclude with a brief guided walk in the immediate area which will finish on the railway station about 4pm. If leaving by train there is no need to return to the school. \nMalvern St James School occupies the former Imperial Hotel building which is of much interest and Mike’s talk will cover this and the adjacent railway station which were built at the same time by the same architect and were once directly connected by the famous “worm” passage\, about which we’ll learn more. \nMembers might wish to make a weekend of it; Malvern and the surrounding area has plenty of interest and a variety of accommodation for all tastes including nearby places such as Worcester\, too many to list here! \nNon members are welcome too! \nDirections \nFrom Great Malvern station\, leave from platform 2 (if you have arrived from Hereford on platform 1 go through the subway) either up the covered passage or through the small car park onto Thorngrove Road\, turn left and you’ll see the school directly ahead on the other side of Avenue Road. Go to the main front entrance and we are in the Lawnside Room\, on the ground floor\, first left. This spacious\, light room with fine views will be our base for the formal sessions and refreshments & lunch. \nApprox travel times to Great Malvern are 15 minutes from Worcester\, an hour from Birmingham and 2½ hours from London. It is served by through trains from London Paddington\, Reading\, Oxford\, Birmingham\, Hereford & Worcester. \nA bus stop called Great Malvern Station is located on Avenue Road\, in front of the school\, which is served by the half-hourly 44 service between Worcester Bus Station and Great Malvern. \nIf coming by car there is ample on site parking and more free parking on nearby roads. The address is: Malvern St James School\, 15 Avenue Road\, Malvern\, WR14 3BA \nHow to book \nThe cost for the day including refreshments & buffet lunch is £20. \nThere is no charge for members if attending the AGM only without staying for lunch and the afternoon sessions. \nThree easy ways to book: please scroll to the bottom of the page for details.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/the-betjeman-society-agm-and-two-presentations-saturday-4th-july-2026/
LOCATION:Malvern St James School\, 15 Avenue Road\, Malvern\, WR14 3BA
CATEGORIES:2026
ORGANIZER;CN="The Betjeman Society":MAILTO:events@betjemansociety.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260620T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260620T170000
DTSTAMP:20260508T155655Z
CREATED:20260226T112720Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260508T155655Z
UID:4357-1781965800-1781974800@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:Pimms and Poetry at Snells Hall
DESCRIPTION:Please bring your favourite Betjeman poem or anything by him or about him and say if you are prepared to read. Usual Pimms and special refreshments – hopefully in the garden if fine. £10 – please pay on the day.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/pimms-and-poetry-at-snells-hall/
LOCATION:Snell’s Hall\, Church Street\, East Hendred\, OX12 8LA
CATEGORIES:2026
ORGANIZER;CN="Wantage":MAILTO:bernardmat@btinternet.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260523T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260523T170000
DTSTAMP:20260226T114038Z
CREATED:20260226T114038Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260226T114038Z
UID:4360-1779544800-1779555600@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:"May Melange"
DESCRIPTION:“May Melange” to include Stephen George’s Huttoft research\, readings and preview of other 2026 branch events. For more\, contact the Lincolnshire Branch.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/may-melange/
LOCATION:Ramsden Hall\, Old Bolingbroke\, PE23 4EY\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:2026
ORGANIZER;CN="Lincolnshire":MAILTO:stuart.crooks43@btinternet.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260522T163000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260522T163000
DTSTAMP:20260202T143005Z
CREATED:20260202T143005Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260202T143005Z
UID:4349-1779467400-1779467400@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:John Betjeman & Ireland's Country Houses - a talk by Adrian Tinniswood
DESCRIPTION:22 May: possibly 4.30 – 6.30pm\nBy zoom from Ireland – Adrian Tinniswood\, prolific author on Country\nHouses with a new book ‘The Houses of Guinness’ out. Adrian’s talk will\nfocus on JB’s relationship with Irish country houses and the old families of\nIreland as well as links to significant country houses in the rest of the UK.\nFurther joining details in April.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/john-betjeman-irelands-country-houses-a-talk-by-adrian-tinniswood/
LOCATION:Online event
CATEGORIES:2026
ORGANIZER;CN="The Betjeman Society":MAILTO:events@betjemansociety.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260519T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260519T170000
DTSTAMP:20260319T101112Z
CREATED:20260318T103019Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T101112Z
UID:4379-1779201000-1779210000@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:'John Betjeman - a Warwickshire perspective.'
DESCRIPTION:Severn & Wye Branch. Tuesday 19th May at St. Andrew’s Centre\, Pershore\, WR10 1DW. Doors open 2.15 pm for 2.30 start.  Roger Pringle will speak on ‘John Betjeman – a Warwickshire perspective.’ Roger is a  member of our branch\, and the compiler of A Garland for the Laureate in 1981. Visitors will be very welcome to the meeting; it would be helpful if you could let Alison know in advance – alisonhunka1885@aol.com
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/john-betjeman-a-warwickshire-perspective/
LOCATION:St. Andrew’s Centre\, Pershore.\, High Street\, Pershore\, Worcestershire\, WR10 1DW
CATEGORIES:2026
ORGANIZER;CN="Severn and Wye Branch":MAILTO:alisonhunka1885@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260321T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260321T170000
DTSTAMP:20260202T124102Z
CREATED:20260202T124102Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260202T124102Z
UID:4344-1774101600-1774112400@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:Wantage Branch Meeting to discuss the early Shell Guide to Cornwall by JB and Shell Guide to Oxon by John Piper.
DESCRIPTION:To discuss the early Shell Guide to Cornwall by JB and Shell Guide to Oxon by John Piper.  This version deliberately avoided Oxford City as Piper felt this was covered in the Oxford University Chest by John Betjeman. Hopefully accompanied by some photographs.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/wantage-branch-meeting-to-discuss-the-early-shell-guide-to-cornwall-by-jb-and-shell-guide-to-oxon-by-john-piper/
LOCATION:Snell’s Hall\, Church Street\, East Hendred\, OX12 8LA
CATEGORIES:2026
ORGANIZER;CN="Wantage":MAILTO:bernardmat@btinternet.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260314T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260314T170000
DTSTAMP:20260202T152854Z
CREATED:20260202T152854Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260202T152854Z
UID:4351-1773496800-1773507600@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:Lincolnshire Branch Meeting: A review of John Betjeman books.
DESCRIPTION:Display of books (from Stuart Crooks & Horace Liberty collections) in\nchronological order for members to browse.\nPresentation about JB publications from Stuart and Horace\, and relevant\nreadings.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/lincolnshire-branch-meeting-a-review-of-john-betjeman-books/
LOCATION:Horncastle Community Centre\, Horncastle\, LN9 5HF
CATEGORIES:2026
ORGANIZER;CN="Lincolnshire":MAILTO:stuart.crooks43@btinternet.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260307T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260307T150000
DTSTAMP:20260202T122314Z
CREATED:20260202T122314Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260202T122314Z
UID:4340-1772881200-1772895600@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:TALES FROM THE RAILS - A Shires Branch Meeting
DESCRIPTION:11 – 11.30 am Coffee/tea and Welcome. \n11.30 -12.15 John Florance “Trains & Literature” \n12.15 – 1.45 Lunch (please buy your own drinks) \n1.45 – 2.45 A fun examination and discussion of ‘The Whitsun Weddings ’(Any of your wedding photographs welcome) \n2.45 – 3.00pm Future plans and final comments \nEmail horaceliberty@gmail.com for more detail including lunch options and to book.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/tales-from-the-rails-a-shires-branch-meeting/
LOCATION:Trinity Methodist Church/Zeph’s Cafe\, Harborough Road\, Oadby\, Leicester\, LE2 4LA\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:2026
ORGANIZER;CN="The Shires":MAILTO:shebazm@hotmail.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260306T163000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260306T183000
DTSTAMP:20260202T142332Z
CREATED:20260202T142332Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260202T142332Z
UID:4346-1772814600-1772821800@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:"High and Low" Poetry on Zoom
DESCRIPTION:Our annual opportunity to hear readings of JB’s verse and other writing\, and to\nshare favourites with other members\, via Zoom. This year the theme will be\npoems in the ‘High and Low’ collection published in 1966\, thus its 60th\nanniversary. For those of you with copies on your shelves\, this is the book\nwith the faded spine – bright pink to a dirty cream if copies I have seen in\nbookshops are examples! It contains some of JB’s best poems and also some\nthat are rarely mentioned\, so a complete mix. Familiar poems such as\n‘Cornish Cliffs\,’ ‘A Lament for Moira McCavendish\,’ ‘Uffington’ and ‘Great\nCentral Railway’ tumble along with less regarded poems such as ‘The\nCommander.’ You don’t have to read – we can read them for you – but the\nidea is to spend a couple of hours enjoying JB with like-minded members.\nPlease contact me – sonjack1@aol.com – if you wish to attend\, so that we\nhave an idea of numbers and I can provide you with the zoom link.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/high-and-low-poetry-on-zoom/
LOCATION:Online event
CATEGORIES:2026
ORGANIZER;CN="The Betjeman Society":MAILTO:events@betjemansociety.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260226T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260226T170000
DTSTAMP:20260202T121323Z
CREATED:20260202T121323Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260202T121323Z
UID:4338-1772116200-1772125200@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:Severn & Wye Branch Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Doors open 2.15 pm for 2.30 start.  Our Chairman Steve Jackson will be visiting the branch and addressing the question ‘Why JB’?   Visitors will be very welcome – it would be helpful if you could let Alison know in advance – alisonhunka1885@aol.com“
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/severn-wye-branch-meeting/
LOCATION:St. Andrew’s Centre\, Pershore.\, High Street\, Pershore\, Worcestershire\, WR10 1DW
CATEGORIES:2026
ORGANIZER;CN="Severn and Wye Branch":MAILTO:alisonhunka1885@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251213T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251213T160000
DTSTAMP:20250605T111555Z
CREATED:20250605T111555Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250605T111555Z
UID:4243-1765627200-1765641600@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:Lincolnshire Branch Christmas gathering\, 13th December\, Horncastle.
DESCRIPTION:Our usual social gathering with a traditional mix of readings\, entertainment and a prize draw at Horncastle Community Centre at 12 noon on 13th December. Bring-and-share finger food lunch. \nFor more please contact the Lincolnshire Branch.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/lincolnshire-branch-christmas-gathering-13th-december-horncastle/
LOCATION:Horncastle Community Centre\, Horncastle\, LN9 5HF
CATEGORIES:2025
ORGANIZER;CN="Lincolnshire":MAILTO:stuart.crooks43@btinternet.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251204T123000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251204T160000
DTSTAMP:20251011T113029Z
CREATED:20251011T112613Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251011T113029Z
UID:4296-1764851400-1764864000@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:Severn & Wye Seasonal Lunch
DESCRIPTION:Severn & Wye Seasonal Lunch on Thursday 4th December\, 12.30 pm\, at the Plough and Harrow\, Rhydd Road\, Guarlford\, Malvern\, WR13 6NY. For further details and to book a place\, please contact Alison Hunka on alisonhunka1885@aol.com or 07763 464305.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/severn-wye-seasonal-lunch/
LOCATION:Plough & Harrow\, Rhydd Road\, Guarlford\, Malvern\, WR13 6NY\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:2025
ORGANIZER;CN="Severn and Wye Branch":MAILTO:alisonhunka1885@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251129T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251129T170000
DTSTAMP:20250605T110603Z
CREATED:20250605T110603Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250605T110603Z
UID:4240-1764414000-1764435600@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:Betjeman Society Shires Branch Christmas event\, Devonshire Place\, Leicester\, 29th November.
DESCRIPTION:The Shires Branch annual pre-Christmas extravaganza takes place this year on Saturday 29th November at their usual venue\, Devonshire Place in Leicester just a few minutes walk from the station. Expect the usual three course lunch and variety of entertainments. Price to be confirmed. For more please contact the Shires Branch.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/betjeman-society-shires-branch-christmas-event-devonshire-place-leicester-29th-november/
LOCATION:Devonshire Place\, 78 London Road\, Leicester\, LE2 0RA
CATEGORIES:2025
ORGANIZER;CN="The Shires":MAILTO:shebazm@hotmail.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251127T123000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251127T163000
DTSTAMP:20251015T144118Z
CREATED:20241029T112808Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251015T144118Z
UID:4160-1764246600-1764261000@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:Pre-Christmas Lunch at The Parcel Yard\, Kings Cross Station Thursday 27th November\, 12.30.
DESCRIPTION:Our annual informal lunch at The Parcel Yard in a private room\, “The Stationmaster’s Office” and a chance to meet members of the Board\nof Trustees and discuss JB. There is no charge\, but we each choose and\npay for our own meal.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/lunch-the-betjeman-arms-st-pancras-station-thursday-28-november-12-00-noon/
LOCATION:The Parcel Yard\, Kings Cross station\, Kings Cross Station\, London\, N1C 4AH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:2025
ORGANIZER;CN="The Betjeman Society":MAILTO:events@betjemansociety.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251018T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251018T160000
DTSTAMP:20250605T113117Z
CREATED:20250605T113117Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250605T113117Z
UID:4248-1760796000-1760803200@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:"John Betjeman and Philip Larkin": a talk by Dr John Florance\, 18th October\, Horncastle.
DESCRIPTION:“John Betjeman and Philip Larkin”: an illustrated talk by Dr John Florance\, 2pm\, 18th October\, Horncastle Community Centre. We’ll learn about the connections between the two poets. For more\, please contact the Lincolnshire Branch.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/john-betjeman-and-philip-larkin-a-talk-by-dr-john-florance-18th-october-horncastle/
LOCATION:Horncastle Community Centre\, Horncastle\, LN9 5HF
CATEGORIES:2025
ORGANIZER;CN="Lincolnshire":MAILTO:stuart.crooks43@btinternet.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251004T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251004T160000
DTSTAMP:20250703T114129Z
CREATED:20250702T131933Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250703T114129Z
UID:4266-1759588200-1759593600@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:"Betjeman’s Banana Blush" at The Beacon\, Wantage
DESCRIPTION:In 1974 John Betjeman\, the Poet Laureate\, became an unlikely pop star\, recording his verse to music by Jim Parker for the album Banana Blush. It became a cult classic\, treasured by many musicians including Jarvis Cocker and ‘Suggs’ from Madness. \nIn this very special 50th anniversary celebration\, Zeb Soanes performs Betjeman’s much loved verse\, accompanied by the dazzling virtuosity of the Chris Warner Ensemble\, transporting the audience from 20’s cocktail party to village bandstand in a hour of toe-tapping delight — telling the story of this unique collaboration along the way. \nJim Parker’s music will be instantly familiar from countless memorable TV series: House of Cards\, Foyles War\, The House of Elliot\, Mapp and Lucia and Midsomer Murders. He won the BAFTA for Best Original Television Music four times. \nJim lovingly recreated his original Banana Blush score (much of which had been lost over the years) for these special live performances. \nJohn Betjeman (1906-1984) lived at The Mead in Wantage from 1951 until he moved back to London in 1972. His book of Collected Poems was first published in 1958 and was a best seller. He was Knighted in 1969 and became Poet Laureate in 1972.  There is a bust of Betjeman outside the Wantage Museum by Martin Jennings who sculpted the much loved statue at St Pancras. Station. \nZeb was presented with the Betjeman Society Award by Chairman of the Society Steve Jackson for making a significant contribution to the understanding and enjoyment of the life and work of Sir John Betjeman. \nThe show has played to sell-out audiences in Malmesbury Abbey\, Bury St Edmund’s Cathedral and Charterhouse and St James Church Garlickhythe in London and now we have the opportunity to see it in Wantage!
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/betjemans-banana-blush-at-the-beacon-wantage/
LOCATION:The Beacon\, Portway\, Wantage\, Oxfordshire\, OX12 9BX\, OX12 9BX\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:2025
ORGANIZER;CN="Wantage":MAILTO:bernardmat@btinternet.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250927T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250927T170000
DTSTAMP:20250821T102240Z
CREATED:20250605T112535Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250821T102240Z
UID:4245-1758981600-1758992400@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:Shires Branch Members Day\, 27th September\, 2pm\, Clarendon Park Church Rooms\, Leicester.
DESCRIPTION:An event to be structured around members’ interests to include films. For more information please contact the Shires Branch.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/shires-branch-members-day-27th-september-2pm-clarendon-park-church-rooms-leicester/
LOCATION:Clarendon Park Church Rooms\, Leicester\, London Road\, Leicester\, LE2 3BB\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:2025
ORGANIZER;CN="The Shires":MAILTO:shebazm@hotmail.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250925T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250925T170000
DTSTAMP:20250821T101701Z
CREATED:20250821T101701Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250821T101701Z
UID:4283-1758810600-1758819600@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:'Betjeman and London": a Severn and Wye Group meeting.
DESCRIPTION:THURSDAY 25TH SEPTEMBER: at St. Andrew’s Centre\, Pershore\, WR10 1DW\, 2.15 pm for 2.30. \nThe subject will be ‘Betjeman and London.’ Please bring an appropriate poem/reading/anecdote. \n  \nVisitors to the branch meetings are always welcome; please contact Alison – alisonhunka1885@aol.com or 077634 64305.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/betjeman-and-london-a-severn-and-wye-group-meeting/
LOCATION:St. Andrew’s Centre\, Pershore.\, High Street\, Pershore\, Worcestershire\, WR10 1DW
CATEGORIES:2025
ORGANIZER;CN="Severn and Wye Branch":MAILTO:alisonhunka1885@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250828T160000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250828T170000
DTSTAMP:20250605T110703Z
CREATED:20250605T105609Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250605T110703Z
UID:4238-1756396800-1756400400@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:Annual Birthday Poetry Readings around the statue at St Pancras station\, 4pm 28th August.
DESCRIPTION:Join us for our annual gathering around the JB statue on the magnificent upper concourse of St Pancras station for poetry readings at 4pm on 28th August. Read one yourself or just listen. Afterwards we retire somewhere nearby for refreshments. No charge but a collection will be taken for Parkinson’s UK. No need to book\, just turn up.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/annual-birthday-poetry-readings-around-the-statue-at-st-pancras-station-4pm-28th-august/
LOCATION:St Pancras Station\, Euston Road\, London\, N1C 4QP\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:2025
ORGANIZER;CN="The Betjeman Society":MAILTO:events@betjemansociety.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250807T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250807T170000
DTSTAMP:20250605T113935Z
CREATED:20250605T113839Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250605T113935Z
UID:4250-1754562600-1754586000@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:"A Betjemanesque Market Town" - a day visit to Louth\, 7th August.
DESCRIPTION:7th August\, 10.30am. “A Betjemanesque Market Town” – a day visit to Louth led by Jan & Nigel Christmas. We’ll explore the many features appreciated by JB. Meet at the Conoco Room at Louth Library\, Northgate\, Louth\, LN11 0LY. Lunch included. For more information and to book please contact the Lincolnshire Branch. Booking essential.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/a-betjemanesque-market-town-a-day-visit-to-louth-7th-august/
LOCATION:Louth Library\, LN11 0LY
CATEGORIES:2025
ORGANIZER;CN="Lincolnshire":MAILTO:stuart.crooks43@btinternet.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250719T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250719T160000
DTSTAMP:20250605T114642Z
CREATED:20250605T114610Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250605T114642Z
UID:4253-1752921000-1752940800@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:A visit to Lincoln Cathedral\, 10.30\, 19th July.
DESCRIPTION:A visit to the cathedral which JB described as one of the outstanding examples of Early English Gothic style. We’ll be looking at details that you may not notice unless someone points them out. Led by Horace Liberty. Meet at the West Front. Lunch in Refectory. For price and more information please contact the Lincolnshire Branch. Booking essential.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/a-visit-to-lincoln-cathedral-10-30-19th-july/
LOCATION:Lincoln Cathedral\, LN2 1PX
CATEGORIES:2025
ORGANIZER;CN="Lincolnshire":MAILTO:stuart.crooks43@btinternet.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250629T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250629T170000
DTSTAMP:20250306T104042Z
CREATED:20250306T104042Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250306T104042Z
UID:4212-1751207400-1751216400@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:"Pimms and Poetry" a Wantage Branch event.
DESCRIPTION:Pimms and Poetry at  Snells Hall – 2.30 – 5pm  In the garden if fine \nThis is always an excellent afternoon and again it would be good to concentrate on any JB poems or pieces about Oxford.  Please bring your favourites and say if you would like to read. \nOxford poems together with a good mix of Pimms and very special refreshments will put us in the mood for Wimbledon which starts the next day! \nPlease contact the Wantage Branch for more information or if you wish to attend.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/pimms-and-poetry-a-wantage-branch-event/
LOCATION:Snell’s Hall\, Church Street\, East Hendred\, OX12 8LA
CATEGORIES:2025
ORGANIZER;CN="Wantage":MAILTO:bernardmat@btinternet.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250614T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250614T170000
DTSTAMP:20250416T105221Z
CREATED:20231214T170926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250416T105221Z
UID:2038-1749911400-1749920400@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:"Betjeman's Banana Blush": St James Garlickhythe in the City of London.
DESCRIPTION:In 1974 John Betjeman\, the Poet Laureate\, became an unlikely pop star\, recording his verse to music by Jim Parker for the album Banana Blush. It became a cult classic\, treasured by many musicians including Jarvis Cocker and ‘Suggs’ from Madness. \nIn this very special performance\, Zeb Soanes (Classic FM) will perform Betjeman’s much loved verse\, accompanied by the dazzling virtuosity of the Chris Warner Ensemble\, transporting the audience from 20’s cocktail party to village bandstand in a hour of toe-tapping delight. \nJim Parker’s music will be instantly familiar from countless memorable TV series: House of Cards\, Foyles War\, The House of Elliot\, Mapp and Lucia and Midsomer Murders. He won the BAFTA for Best Original Television Music four times. \nSt James Garlickhythe’s restoration after the London Blitz was said by Betjeman to be the finest of any of the City churches. It was designed by Sir Christopher Wren. A fitting location for our celebration of this beloved collaboration between poet and composer. \nBanana Blush Jim Parker (arr. Chris Warner) \nZeb Soanes Reciter \nwith the Chris Warner Ensemble \nTICKETS:  \n£25 — General Seating \n£35 — Premium Seating (first four rows) \nRefreshments will be served in the interval and hopefully this will make for a very jolly summer’s afternoon. \nFor more information and to book tickets:  https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/zeb-soanes/betjemans-banana-blush/2025-06-14/14:30/t-dvrpmjk \n  \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/betjemans-banana-blush-50th-anniversary/
LOCATION:St James Garlickhythe\, London\, EC4V 2AF\, Upper Thames Street\, London\, EC4V 2AF
CATEGORIES:2025
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250612T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250612T170000
DTSTAMP:20250404T102538Z
CREATED:20250403T110255Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250404T102538Z
UID:4225-1749738600-1749747600@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:'Severn & Wye' branch meeting: Betjeman & Larkin.
DESCRIPTION:Bill Morris\, until recently Head of English at Malvern St. James’ Girls’ School\, will be giving a comparison between John Betjeman and Philip Larkin.  Bill writes: “Philip Larkin and JB were good friends and occasional collaborators. Outwardly they might seem quite different both as poets and personalities\, but there are many parallels in their poems that show a great meeting of minds between two outstandingly sincere and passionate writers. As it happens\, both were also amusing letter-writers and conversationalists\, which should make them all the more enjoyable to contemplate in each other’s company.” \n  \nVisitors most welcome: please let Alison know if you are intending to come – alisonhunka1885@aol.com or 077634 64305
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/severn-wye-branch-meeting-betjeman-larkin/
LOCATION:St. Andrew’s Centre\, Pershore.\, High Street\, Pershore\, Worcestershire\, WR10 1DW
CATEGORIES:2025
ORGANIZER;CN="Severn and Wye Branch":MAILTO:alisonhunka1885@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250607T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250607T130000
DTSTAMP:20250317T105932Z
CREATED:20250317T105932Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250317T105932Z
UID:4221-1749292200-1749301200@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:Canterbury Branch poetry meeting\, Saturday 7th June.
DESCRIPTION:Meeting at the Old Vicarage\, Bodsham\, Ashford\, Kent. The choice of poems would be free choice. \nPlease contact Philippa Davies philippajunedavies@gmail.com if you are interested in attending.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/canterbury-branch-poetry-meeting-saturday-7th-june/
LOCATION:The Old Vicarage\, Bodsham\, The Old Vicarage\, Bodsham\, Kent\, TN25 5JQ\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:2025
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250412T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250412T170000
DTSTAMP:20250306T103446Z
CREATED:20250306T103446Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250306T103446Z
UID:4209-1744468200-1744477200@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:Wantage Branch meeting - Betjeman at Oxford.
DESCRIPTION:It is 100 years since John Betjeman went up to Magdalen College Oxford and it would be interesting to look back through Young Betjeman by Bevis Hillier and Summoned by Bells. Passages from these and other  pieces  which give a history of his love for Oxford and surroundings – please bring a favourite piece and let me know if you are prepared to read.  Please contact the Wantage Branch for more information or if you wish to attend.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/wantage-branch-meeting-betjeman-at-oxford/
LOCATION:Snell’s Hall\, Church Street\, East Hendred\, OX12 8LA
CATEGORIES:2025
ORGANIZER;CN="Wantage":MAILTO:bernardmat@btinternet.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250408T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250408T170000
DTSTAMP:20250113T172957Z
CREATED:20250113T172957Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250113T172957Z
UID:4198-1744117200-1744131600@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:Visit to Harrow School and Church.
DESCRIPTION:John Betjeman’s first connection with Harrow-on -the-Hill was the publication of a poem with the same name that was first published in the Harrow School magazine in 1949. In it he refers to the surrounding areas and in particular St Mary’s Church. I have therefore arranged a short talk and tour of the Church on April 8th at 1:15pm\, which will then be followed by a grand tour of Harrow School starting at 2:00pm prompt\, which includes optional afternoon tea at the end. JB did two clips in Metroland about the school and the surrounding streets which are named after school houses. Meet outside the Church at 1:00pm. The address is St Mary’s CofE Church\, Church Hill\, Harrow-on-the-Hill HA1 3HL. The cost of the School tour plus Afternoon tea is £26.50 per head. If you don’t want tea the school tour finishes at 4:00pm and the cost will be £14 per head. Buses H17 or 258 go from Harrow-on-the-Hill (Metropolitan line or Chiltern Railways) Tube Station to the school\, or get a taxi for only £6.  Guests are welcome too. EARLY BOOKING RECOMMENDED! Enquiries to Neil Frais 07831 646551 \nTo book: please scroll to the bottom of this page for details of how to book and pay.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/visit-to-harrow-school-and-church/
LOCATION:St Mary’s CofE Church\, Church Hill\, Harrow-on-the-Hill HA1 3HL\, Church Hill\, Harrow\, HA1 3HL
CATEGORIES:2025
ORGANIZER;CN="The Betjeman Society":MAILTO:events@betjemansociety.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250206T123000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250206T150000
DTSTAMP:20250107T165254Z
CREATED:20250107T165254Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250107T165254Z
UID:4196-1738845000-1738854000@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:'JB and women'
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 6th February\, 12.30 pm – 3.00 pm \nBring-and-share lunch at Mount Edgcombe\, 12 Hanley Road\, Malvern Wells\, WR14 4PQ. Please let Alison Hunka know if you are coming (077634 64305 or alisonhunka1885@aol.com) \n‘JB and women’ – \nWe shall look at JB’s poetry and other writings about women – which gives quite a scope! Please look out your favourite passages. There will be a musical input as well. \n 
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/jb-and-women/
LOCATION:Mount Edgcumbe\, 12 Hanley Road\, Malvern Wells\, WR14 4PQ
CATEGORIES:2025
ORGANIZER;CN="Severn and Wye Branch":MAILTO:alisonhunka1885@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241130T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241130T170000
DTSTAMP:20241029T112122Z
CREATED:20241029T112122Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241029T112122Z
UID:4158-1732962600-1732986000@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:"Betjeman and the BBC" The Shires Branch "Christmas Special"
DESCRIPTION:“A bounty of festive delights….Memorable Betjeman moments…Nostalgic trip down BBC memory lane….succulent Christmas feast… fun & games\, song & dance… special BBC guest speakers…..
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/betjeman-and-the-bbc-the-shires-branch-christmas-special/
LOCATION:Devonshire Place\, 78 London Road\, Leicester\, LE2 0RA
CATEGORIES:2024
ORGANIZER;CN="The Shires":MAILTO:shebazm@hotmail.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241128T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241128T163000
DTSTAMP:20241115T142453Z
CREATED:20241115T142453Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241115T142453Z
UID:4163-1732804200-1732811400@www.betjemansociety.com
SUMMARY:Autumn meeting - Thursday 28th November - Severn & Wye Group
DESCRIPTION:At St. Andrew’s Centre\, Pershore\, WR10 1DW\, near the abbey. 2.15 for 2.30 until 4.30. \n  \nPlease bring a poem or a piece of poetry by a writer with whom John Betjeman had some connection\, and who was contemporary to him. The scope is quite wide! \n  \nWe should be pleased to welcome visitors; it would be helpful if you could let Alison our Correspondent know: alisonhunka1885@aol.com or 077634 64305.
URL:https://www.betjemansociety.com/eventcalendar/autumn-meeting-thursday-28th-november-severn-wye-group/
LOCATION:St. Andrew’s Centre\, Pershore.\, High Street\, Pershore\, Worcestershire\, WR10 1DW
CATEGORIES:2024
ORGANIZER;CN="Severn and Wye Branch":MAILTO:alisonhunka1885@aol.com
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR