Festival goes with a swing! Our annual festival, held over the weekend of 19th and 20th September, was a resounding success, attracting visitors of all ages for two days of entertainment, activities and community spirit. Blessed with glorious weather, particularly on Sunday, we were delighted to see so many people turn out to support the event and enjoy everything on offer.
( Photo Ann Trendall)
Wondering where our Belties disappear to each winter? Join us in November for Meet the Cows at the Box Moor Trust, a special ticket-only event offering the chance to visit our friendly Belted Galloway cattle in their winter home at the cattle barns at Howes Retreat. Get up close to these iconic animals and discover why they are affectionately known as our " living lawn-mowers ". Learn about the important role they play in grazing and managing the Trust ' s pastureland, while our knowledgeable Rangers share fascinating facts and answer any questions you may have.
As well as meeting the cows, visitors can enjoy refreshments, children ' s activities and the opportunity to find out more about the work of the Box Moor Trust. Our pop-up Box Moor Trust shop will also be open, with the chance to‘ adopt’ your very own toy Beltie and browse a range of gifts and stocking fillers, perfect for Christmas.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Mayor of Dacorum, Councillor Garrick Stevens, for officially opening the event, Barry and Abi Collins and the team at Boxmoor Playhouse for coordinating the performances, and to Matt Butterworth for providing the performance tent and PA equipment. Our gratitude also goes to Michele Amiss and the fantastic Army Cadets, whose cheerful willingness to help wherever needed was invaluable. Thank you, too, to all the stallholders who generously donated raffle prizes and, last but certainly not least, to the performers, clubs, societies and volunteers who gave their time so freely to make the event such a success.
Quite simply, we could not have done it without you. We look forward to welcoming everyone back and doing it all again next year.
This is a ticket-only event, with three timed sessions available throughout the day. We look forward to welcoming you for a unique behind-the-scenes experience with some of the Trust ' s most popular residents.
7th November 2026: Howe’ s Retreat, Felden Lane, Hemel Hempstead, HP3 0BY For full details and to book tickets visit: www. boxmoortrust. org. uk
( Photo Elaine Rushton)
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