Discover Britain’s lost trades

The 2026 Royston Pike Lecture Series kicks off on Thursday 15 January at 7.30 pm at Riverhouse Barn, Walton with a fascinating talk by James Fox: ‘Craftland’. 

Join us for an inspiring evening as bestselling author and BAFTA-nominated broadcaster James Fox takes you on a journey through Britain’s rich heritage of traditional craftsmanship. From blacksmiths and wheelwrights to bell-founders and watchmakers, James shares captivating stories of artisans whose skills shaped our culture and reveals why these crafts still matter in an age of automation and algorithms. 

James has spent three years travelling across the UK to meet the last great craftspeople, uncovering extraordinary tales of resilience, artistry and passion. His acclaimed BBC documentaries and role as Director of Studies in History of Art at Cambridge make him one of the most engaging voices on the subject. 

Don’t miss out on celebrating Britain’s rich heritage of traditional craftsmanship! Book your ticket now.

If you can’t attend this talk, check out the following two lectures: 

• 11 February: ‘Singing with Nightingales’ with Sam Lee
• 11 March: ‘Strong Roots’: A Ukrainian family memoir with Olia Hercules 

The Royston Pike lecture series is presented by Elmbridge Borough Council in association with Riverhouse Barn Arts Centre. Tickets are £4 per person and available via the Riverhouse Barn box office. 
 
Read the the full winter and spring Royston Pike programme.