Royston Pike Lecture Series returns with winter–spring programme 

After a great autumn programme, the Royston Pike Lecture Series is taking a pause over the festive season. We are excited to launch the new winter and spring season on Thursday 15 January with a fresh line-up of guest speakers. 

From January to March, we will explore lost craftsmanship, the world of nightingales, and the journey and memories of a Ukrainian family through tales and cookery. 

Programme: 

Thursday 15 January 

“Craftland” by James Fox. A journey through Britain’s lost arts and vanishing trades. Over the course of three years, James travelled the length and breadth of the UK to capture the stories of the nation’s last remaining traditional artisans. His work celebrates the enduring significance of handmade craftsmanship in an era increasingly dominated by digital technology. 

Wednesday 11 February  

‘Singing with Nightingales’ by Sam Lee 
Folk singer and conservationist Sam Lee explores the cultural and ecological significance of the endangered nightingale through immersive soundscapes and storytelling, highlighting the songbird’s lifecycle, character and deep connection to human heritage. 

Wednesday 11 March 

‘Strong Roots’ by Olia Hercules 
Olia shares a moving family memoir spanning four generations in Ukraine, blending personal stories, traditional recipes and historical upheavals into a powerful tribute to resilience, heritage and the meaning of home. 

Event details: 

All lectures will be held at 7.30pm at Riverhouse Barn Arts Centre, Manor Road, Walton-on-Thames, Surrey KT12 2PF. 

Tickets are £4, bookable in advance via the Riverhouse box office or available at the door. 

We are pleased to be partnering once again with The Cobham Bookshop and a selection of books published by the three guest speakers will be available for purchase. 

For more information and booking, check out the Royston Pike programme or view the Riverhouse Barn calendar of events. 

We look forward to welcoming you back to the series in the New Year!