Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Bulletin, spring 2026 (edition 101)

Urgent action needed over business rate relief changes

Market towns across Leicestershire have joined forces to urge the government to reconsider proposed changes to business rates relief, which they say threaten the future of hundreds of small businesses in Leicestershire market towns.

The Leicestershire Market Town Group, of which the Borough Council is a member, is deeply concerned about the impact of the reduction in retail, hospitality and leisure relief (RHLR), which decreased from a 75% discount to a 40% discount from April 2025 and from April 2026 will be removed altogether, and being replaced with a complex set of business rate multiplier changes.

In the Hinckley and Bosworth area alone, 885 businesses will be affected by this change, facing significant additional costs that will damage the local economy, investment in businesses and potentially employment.

The reliefs for small businesses are welcome, such as the supporting small business relief and the phased transitional support, but it does not go far enough to support local businesses in these hard economic times, with many feeling it will be too much loaded on to them to continue when struggling with other costs.

Council Leader Stuart Bray said: “We are seeing first-hand the anxiety and pressure these changes are causing for small business owners. The combination of reduced rate relief, rising costs, and changing consumer habits is putting the survival of our high street businesses at risk. Small independent businesses are the backbone of our local economy and community, and they need support now more than ever.

“While business rates are collected by councils, the rules and rates are set by the UK government. I am therefore urging all local MPs and the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, to reconsider these proposed changes and to back the work that the council and Hinckley BID are doing. Our events, frozen parking charges and other measures are key to our support for the Hinckley high street.”

Paul Moss, owner of the Holiday Lounge travel agency which operates four local offices, is one of the contributors to a publication produced by the Market Towns group explaining how the proposed changes will affect their business.

Mr Moss said: “We were paying £510 per month over our four offices but now have a bill of £1265 per month, a 148% increase. With National Insurance going up as well this is going to have a massive impact on retailers, and we need to be aware that companies locally will struggle.”

Helen Crouch, Hinckley BID Manager, added: "Hinckley Town Centre Partnership and BID have been diligently working to support local businesses as best we can in light of the concerning future issues surrounding business rate increases.

"Our commitment is to advocate for our community, ensuring that local voices are heard and that we navigate these challenges together.”

The Borough Council’s Chief Executive Bill Cullen and Chair of the Leicestershire Market Towns Group has written to all MPs in Leicestershire outlining these concerns and pressing for urgent government action. The letter calls for a fundamental reform of the business rates system, a permanent reduction in rates for the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure sector, and policies that encourage growth and investment by smaller businesses.

Scout group on the lookout for new volunteers

Earl Shilton Scout Group is looking for new people to get on board and help. They are after volunteers to help with Beavers (ages six to eight), Cubs (ages eight to 10) and Scouts (ages 10 to 14).

Volunteers are also wanted to help in background roles like fundraising, administration, IT or just being a general helping hand.

The group provides over 250 activities ranging from air activities to cooking, emergency aid to global issues and pioneering to water activities.

These help build children’s confidence and self-esteem, learn new skills and get a real sense of adventure and fun.

For more information, please contact Vanessa on v.giling@hotmail.co.uk

Zoo animals enjoy tasty treats from the Common

Recent coppice work at the common has provided some delicious enrichment for animals at Twycross Zoo — and they’re loving it!

Coppicing is a sustainable practice involving the cutting and re-generation of broadleaf species to maximise the environmental and ecological benefit of the woodland. It’s all part of our management plan for the site approved by Natural England and the Forestry Commission.

Great to see the animals benefitting from the work… and enjoying a few extra snacks along the way!

A fortnight of fun at Burbage's premier festival

What started in Burbage as a long weekend of arts and cultural events in 1998, has grown over the decades to become two weeks of the village's annual premier festival of music, drama, comedy, walks, talks, cinema, arts and crafts.

Aside from one blip for Covid, May 2026 sees the 28th successive year of Burbage Community Arts Festival better known today as just Burbage Festival.

The festival takes place at several venues around the village and is put together by a dedicated band of around a dozen local volunteers.

The mission is to promote the spirit of community in the village, by bringing people of all ages and interests together for a wide range of entertainment events. And, importantly, to have fun, doing it!

The 2026 programme runs from 29 April to 17 May, with something happening on most days. At the time of writing, the team are still putting the final touches to our May 2026 line-up.

The latest full details of each event, along with tickets, may be found online: Burbage Festival (bcaf.net) and check out the what’s on pages within the Bulletin.

The team work hard to keep costs and entry prices to a minimum. Plus, many of the events are entirely free.

Featuring professional artists from near and far, the eclectic mix changes every year. Some favourites are returning, but always new ones, too.

This year alone sees: 

• Stand-up comedy
• Live music of many genres
• Children’s art exhibition
• Drama
• Poetry
• Exhibitions and art demonstrations
• Arts and crafts taster sessions
• Children’s puppet theatre
• Gospel choir
• Storytelling
• Film night
• Bavarian Oompah band ‘Octoberfest’

Many evenings sell out, so don't leave it too late to book. You can also find out more, buy tickets and meet the festival team at any of the Burbage Farmers' Markets (Methodist church Car Park, Windsor St) on the first Saturday in March, April and May. 

News in brief

As part of efforts to encourage more home recycling, household waste recycling banks (also known as ‘bring banks’) will be removed from sites across the borough this April.

The sites are now considered redundant as all the paper, card, plastics, tins, cans and glass can be picked up during regular kerbside bin collections.  

Two ‘bring banks’ for small electricals, in Burbage (Millennium Hall, LE10 2HF) and Desford (Bosworth College, LE9 9JL), will remain open.

Find out more about the full range of bin and collection services the council offers.

What's on (spring 2026)

March

Monday 2 to Saturday 28

Spring Treasure Hunt. Hinckley Library, Lancaster Road. Spot the hidden nature items in the library to win a sticker. Time: During normal staffed hours. Cost: Free. Contact: hinckleylibrary@leics.gov.uk

Tuesday 3 to Friday 20

Hinckley & District Photographic Society 2026 Exhibition. Atkins Gallery at The Atkins Building, Lower Bond Street, Hinckley, LE10 1QU. An exhibition of beautiful images from a local photography club. Time: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Look out for additional evening and weekend openings on social media @AtkinsBuilding. Cost: Free. Contact: info@atkinsbuilding.co.uk

Wednesday 4

SMARTS (St. Mary's Arts) Lunchtime Concert. St. Mary’s Church, Church Walk, Hinckley, LE10 1DW.  Operatic singer Tom Stanyard and pianist Simon Lumby. Presenting a concert of songs ranging from opera to musical theatre. Time: 1pm to 1:45pm. Cost: £4.50 (adults) £1 (Children and students). Tickets available to purchase at the door. Contact: phillip.worely@virginmedia.com or 01455 846215.

Friday 6

Lesley Smith presents Florence Nightingale. The Parish Hall, Park St, Market Bosworth, CV13 0LL. Join historian and performer Lesley Smith in her latest role as Florence Nightingale. Time: 7:30pm to 9pm. Cost: £10. Buy online at Market Bosworth Festival (bosworthfestival.co.uk) or at Michaelmas House, Market Bosworth.

Sunday 8

All-age Worship. Holy Trinity Church, Trinity Vicarage Road, Hinckley. Come and hear about Jesus the miracle man! Time: 10am. Cost: Free. Contact: office@holytrinityhinckley.org / 01455 442750

Tuesday 10 to Saturday 14

Yes, Prime Minister – NTPD. Concordia Theatre, Stockwell Head, Hinckley, LE10 1RE. A witty political comedy. Time: 7:30pm. Cost: £14; Concessions £12.50. Contact: boxoffice@concordiatheatre.co.uk or 01455 615005.

Friday 13

Hinckley Rock n Roll. Jive Nights. Wykin & District Social Club, Frederick Avenue, Hinckley, LE10 0EX. It's a night of rock n roll music, jive, bop and stroll dancing. With top DJs playing the best music. Time: Doors open at 7:30pm, music played until 11pm. Cost: admission £5 per person. Optional jive lesson 7:30pm to 8:15pm, an additional £5. Contact: 07811 632779 or 01455 840052, E: dandeatkins@yahoo.co.uk

Thursday 19

Stoke Golding in the Hungry Forties with Hugh Beavin. Hinckley Great Meeting Chapel, Baines Lane. Time: 7:30pm – 9:30pm. Cost: members £1, non-members £5. Contact: hinckleymuseum@hotmail.co.uk

Saturday 21

Hinckley Baptist Church’s Skittles Night at Wolvey Bowls Club, Coventry Road, Wolvey. Tickets: £10 includes food (drinks available at the bar). For more information contact: Pathways Office, tel. 01455 890026.

Out of the Blue present Island Spirit. The Parish Hall, Park St, Market Bosworth, CV13 0LL. Songwriting duo Phil Baggaley and Nina Blaszczyk (guitar and vocals) tell a story of a young Polish woman tracing her roots to Scotland. Time: 7:30pm to 9pm, Saturday 21 March. Cost: £12.50 (£15 on the door). Buy online Bosworth Festival (bosworthfestival.co.uk) or at Michaelmas House, Market Bosworth.

Sunday 22

Palm Sunday Celebration Family Service. Hinckley Baptist Church, Baptist Walk. Everyone welcome. Time: 10:15 refreshments,10:45 service. For more information contact Pathways Office, tel. 01455 890026.

Monday 23 to Saturday 28

The TinHatters presents The Band. Concordia Theatre, Stockwell Head, Hinckley, LE10 1RE. The Band features the music of Take That, one of Britain’s most successful boy bands. Time: Cost: £18.00. Contact: boxoffice@concordiatheatre.co.uk or tel. 01455 615005.

Saturday 21 to Sunday 22

Relatively Speaking, BADS Production.  Concordia Theatre, Hinckley. Tickets £10 Contact boxoffice@concordiatheatre.co.uk or tel. 01455 615005 (U3s not permitted).

Tuesday 24

Teggies Improve Taster Class for Mothers and Babies. Ratby Village Hall, 35 Main Street. A fun, welcoming taster session for mothers and babies, designed to strengthen their bond through playful comedy improv and to help mums connect with others and build new friendships. Time: 10:30am to 11:30am. Cost: free, booking essential Teggies Improv (happity.co.uk) E: teggiesimprov@gmail.com

Friday 27

Hinckley Rock n Roll. Jive Nights. Wykin & District Social Club, Frederick Avenue, Hinckley, LE10 0EX. It's a night of rock n roll music, jive, bop and stroll dancing. With top DJs playing the best music. Time: Doors open at 7:30pm, music played until 11pm. Cost: Admission £5 per person. Optional jive lesson 7:30pm to 8:15pm, an additional £5. Contact: 07811 632779/ 01455 840052 or E: dandeatkins@yahoo.co.uk

Hinckley Choral Union’s Springtime Harmony. St Peter’s Church, Leicester Road, Hinckley, LE10 1LW. Time: 7:30pm. Cost: £10 including light refreshment. E: hcuchoir@gmail.com or 07946 324623.

Saturday 28 to Sunday 12 April

Hinckley BID’s Easter Adventure Bunny Hunt, Hinckley Town Centre. Hop along the fun and free Bunny Hunt Trail! Kids can follow the clues to spot bunnies hiding in business windows around the town centre. Finish the trail to hop into our Free Prize Draw. Visit Hinckley BID (hinckleybid.co.uk)

Saturday 28

Concordia in The Crescent. The Crescent, Hinckley Town Centre. Concordia Youth Theatre showcase their summer production. Time: 12pm. Cost: free. Contact Hinckley BID (hinckleybid.co.uk)

Sunday 29

Hinckley’s Indie Market. Hinckley Town Centre, Castle Street and Britannia Centre. Independent local businesses, foods stalls, arts, crafts and more. Time: 10am to 3pm.

Matt Ford’s Salute to Sinatra & The King of Cool. Concordia Theatre, Stockwell Head, Hinckley, LE10 1RE. A tribute to the legends of swing. Time: 7:00pm. Cost: £24. Contact: boxoffice@concordiatheatre.co.uk or Tel. 01455 615005.

Palm Sunday and Walk of Witness. St John's Church, 351 Coventry Road, Hinckley. An all-age worship service starting with a short walk from Marina to St John's with palms. Time: 10:15am at Trinity Waterside and Marina, for 10:30am service. E: admin@stjohnshinckley.org

Monday 30 March to Friday 10 April

Nuneaton Festival of Arts. Craft and needlecraft. Atkins Gallery at The Atkins Building, Lower Bond Street, Hinckley, LE10 1QU. A visual arts exhibition where entrants can display their craft and needlecraft. Time: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Look out for additional evening and weekend openings on social media @AtkinsBuilding. Cost: Free. E: info@atkinsbuilding.co.uk or visit Nuneaton FoA (nuneatonfoa.org.uk)

Monday 30 to Saturday 4 April 

Easter Treasure Hunt. Hinckley Library, Lancaster Road. Find the spring surprises hidden around the library to win a chocolate treat! Time: During normal staffed hours. Cost: Free. Contact: hinckleylibrary@leics.gov.uk

Tuesday 31 

Teggies Improve Taster Class for Mothers and Babies. Ratby Village Hall, 35 Main Street. A fun, welcoming taster session for mothers and babies, designed to strengthen their bond through playful comedy improv and to help mums connect with others and build new friendships. Time: 10:30am to 11:30am. Cost: Free. Book online Teggies Improv (happity.co.uk) E: teggiesimprov@gmail.com

April

Wednesday 1

SMARTS (St. Mary's Arts) Lunchtime Concert. St. Mary’s Church, Church Walk, Hinckley, LE10 1DW. Rosemary Wright, a superb accordionist with all three diplomas from the British College of Accordionists. Time: 1 to 1:45pm. Cost: £4.50 (adults) £1 (Children and students). Tickets available to purchase at the door. E: phillip.worely@virginmedia.com or tel. 01455 846215.

Thursday 2

Maundy Thursday. St John's Church, 351 Coventry Road, Hinckley. Service to include communion. Time: 7pm to 8pm. E: admin@stjohnshinckley.org

Maundy Thursday. The Beacon, St Francis Centre, Tudor Road, Hinckley. Easter crafts and a simple meal. Time: 3pm to 5pm E: hello@thebeaconhinckley.org

Maundy Thursday Communion Service. Hinckley Baptist Church, Baptist Walk. Everyone is welcome. Time: 7pm. Contact Pathways Office, Tel. 01455 890026.

Friday 3

Good Friday Together. St John's Church, 351 Coventry Road, Hinckley. Easter activities aimed at primary-aged children (with accompanying adult). Time: 2pm to 4pm. E: admin@stjohnshinckley.org

Good Friday All-age Service. Holy Trinity Church, Trinity Vicarage Road, Hinckley. A service for all-ages to discover the good news of Jesus’ rescue. Time: 10am. Cost: Free. E: office@holytrinityhinckley.org or Tel. 01455 442750.

Walk of Witness, Hinckley Town Centre. Churches Together, the church festival sees Christians reflect on their belief. The walk begins at St. Peter’s Church and finishes at Market Place for hymns. Time: 11am service. Free to attend.

Good Friday Reflective Service. Holy Trinity Church, Trinity Vicarage Road, Hinckley. A quiet time to reflect on the death of Jesus for us. Time: 10am. Free to attend. E: office@holytrinityhinckley.org or Tel. 01455 442750.

The Sooty Show. Concordia Theatre, Stockwell Head, Hinckley, LE10 1RE. Join Sooty, Sweep, Soo and friends in their spectacular new show. Admission includes meet and greet. Children must be 3 or over. Time: 11am and 2:30pm. Cost: £18-£20. For booking E: boxoffice@concordiatheatre.co.uk or tel. 01455 615005.

Saturday 4 to Saturday 18

Book Sale. Hinckley Library, Lancaster Road. Have a rummage for a hidden gem, books ranging from 20p to 50p. Time: During normal staffed hours. Free to attend. E: hinckleylibrary@leics.gov.uk

Saturday 4 April to 31 October

New displays at Hinckley & District Museum, 30 Lower Bond Street. Explore the museum, garden and tearoom, and discover a range of new displays, including: notable Hinckley personalities from the English Civil War (1642–1651); 100 years of Hinckley Rotarians; ballet shoe making in Earl Shilton; archaeological excavations at Aston Flamville Manor House; and a commemoration of the Merevale Avenue bombing in 1941. (Fridays, Saturdays and Bank Hol Mondays 10am to 3:30pm). Admission cost: Adults £4, Children £1 (under 5s free), children £2 on school holiday event days. E: hinckleymuseum@hotmail.co.uk

Saturday 4

Easter Bunny Hunt. Hinckley & District Museum, 30 Lower Bond Street, Hinckley. Time: 10am to 3:30pm. Cost including museum admission: Adults £4, Children £1 (under 5s free). E: hinckleymuseum@hotmail.co.uk

Sunday 5

Easter Sunrise Service. Langdale Park, Brodick Road, Hinckley. Sunrise worship service at the park followed by bacon sandwiches at St John's Church. Time: 5.50am to 7am. E: admin@stjohnshinckley.org

Easter Sunday Breakfast & Celebration. Hinckley Baptist Church, Baptist Walk. Everyone is welcome. Time:10am. Contact: Pathways Office, Tel. 01455 890026.

Easter Sunday Service. St John's Church, 351 Coventry Road, Hinckley. Worship service including communion. Time: 10:30am to 11:45am. E: admin@stjohnshinckley.org

Easter Celebration. The Beacon, St Francis Centre, Tudor Road, Hinckley. Easter Celebration gathering, including a hot meal. Time: 12pm to 2pm. E: hello@thebeaconhinckley.org

Easter Day Celebration. Holy Trinity Church, Trinity Vicarage Road, Hinckley. A service celebrating the resurrection of Jesus, with communion and children’s activities. Time: 10am. Cost: Free. Contact: office@holytrinityhinckley.org or tel. 01455 442750.

Monday 6

Easter Bunny Hunt. Hinckley & District Museum, 30 Lower Bond Street, Hinckley. Time: 10am to 3:30pm. Cost including museum admission: Adults £4, Children £1 (under 5s free). Contact: hinckleymuseum@hotmail.co.uk

Tuesday 7

Teggies Improve Class for Mothers and Babies. Ratby Village Hall, 35 Main Street. The start of 6 fun sessions held every Tuesday until May 12 for mothers and babies, designed to strengthen their bond through playful comedy improv and to help mums connect with others and build new friendships. Time: 10:30am to 12pm. Cost: Free, booking via web Teggies Improv (happity.co.uk) or email teggiesimprov@gmail.com

Thursday 9 to Saturday 11

DF 20, The Show. Concordia Theatre, Stockwell Head, Hinckley, LE10 1RE. The Dance Factory celebrates 20 years with a special anniversary showcase, highlighting cherished memories and fresh new works. Time: 7:30pm. Tickets: £15-£16. For booking E: boxoffice@concordiatheatre.co.uk or Tel. 01455 615005

Friday 10

Hinckley Rock n Roll. Jive Nights. Wykin & District Social Club, Frederick Avenue, Hinckley, LE10 0EX. It's a night of rock n roll music, jive, bop and stroll dancing. With top DJs playing the best music. Time: Doors open at 7:30pm, music played until 11pm. Cost: Admission £5 per person. Optional jive lesson 7:30pm to 8:15pm, an additional £5. Contact: 07811 632779/ 01455 840052 or E: dandeatkins@yahoo.co.uk

Thursday 16

Tip toe through the tombstones of Sparrows Garden. Hinckley Great Meeting Chapel, Baines Lane. A Hinckley & District Museum event presented by Paul Gardner and Greg Drozdz. Time: 7:30pm to 9:30pm. Cost: Members £1, non-members £5 at the door. E: hinckleymuseum@hotmail.co.uk

Monday 20 to Friday 1 May

Nuneaton Festival of Arts Photography Exhibition. Atkins Gallery at Atkins Building. Atkins Gallery is delighted to partner with Nuneaton Museum & Art Gallery to present this long-established celebration of local creativity. A vibrant festival that showcases outstanding photographic talent from our community. Atkins Gallery is open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm excluding bank holidays and look out for additional evenings and weekend viewings. Cost: Free. E: info@atkinsbuilding.co.uk

Wednesday 22 to Saturday 25

The Magic Flute. Concordia Theatre, Stockwell Head, Hinckley, LE10 1RE. This spring marks 52 years since Stanley Opera last performed The Magic Flute at the Concordia Theatre. Mozart’s beloved fairytale opera, full of heroes, villains, and unforgettable music. Time: 7:30pm. Tickets: £10-£18. For E: boxoffice@concordiatheatre.co.uk or Tel. 01455 615005.

Friday 24

Hinckley Rock n Roll. Jive Nights. Wykin & District Social Club, Frederick Avenue, Hinckley, LE10 0EX. It's a night of rock n roll music, jive, bop and stroll dancing. With top DJs playing the best music. Time: Doors open at 7:30pm, music played until 11pm. Cost: Admission £5 per person. Optional Jive lesson 7:30pm to 8:15pm, an additional £5. Contact: 07811 632779/ 01455 840052 or E: dandeatkins@yahoo.co.uk

Saturday 25

St. George’s Day Celebrations, Argents Mead, Hinckley. Festivities take place to celebrate our patron saint with crafts, Morris dancers, and Tom the Tale Teller. Time: 10am to 2pm (Scout Parade to begin at 1:15pm at Argents Mead). Tickets: Free to attend. Tel. 01455 255856.  Check page 14 for further information.

Earl Shilton in Bloom preparation meet-up. Join us for a morning of preparing and emptying the town planters in readiness for the summer displays. It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet our volunteers and gain a better understanding of the work we do. Meet at the Co-op car park. Please note that anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Time: 9am to 11pm. Cost: Free. Contact: Sue on Tel. 01455 842609 or Chris Tel. 07813 480318.

Hinckley Fixers. Hinckley Library, Lancaster Road. Volunteers try to fix your portable items to save them from landfill — think small electrics, tools, sharpening, clothes and toys (sorry, no zips, laptops, PCs or consoles) Time: During normal staffed hours. Cost: Free. E: hinckleylibrary@leics.gov.uk

Groby Library Festival. Groby Library, Leicester Road. Join us for a special community event celebrating ten years of Groby Library being run by the community! Enjoy information stands, interactive stalls, engaging talks, and hands‑on crafts. We’ll also be hosting fun competitions, including a fancy-dress contest, cake and book sale. Time: 10am to 5pm. E: grobylibraryfestival@gmail.com

Sunday 26

Hinckley’s Indie Market. Hinckley Town Centre, Castle Street and Britannia Centre. Independent local businesses, foods stalls, arts, crafts and more. Time: 10am to 3pm.

Wednesday 29

Burbage Festival presents The Sketchley Hill School Experience: Arts and crafts for primary school age children. Sketchley Hill Primary School LE10 2DY. Time: 4pm to 6pm. For more information, please contact the school directly.

Burbage Festival presents The Stoneage Mushrooms. The Conni Club, Church St LE2 2DE.  Highly entertaining and popular midlands-based cover band. Time: 7:30pm. Tickets: £5. Book online Burbage Festival (bcaf.net)

May

Friday 1

Burbage Festival presents Stand-Up for Burbage Comedy night. The Conni Club, Church St LE2 2DE. One compère, three comedians and lots of laughs. Time: 8pm Tickets: £15. To book visit Burbage Festival (bcaf.net)

Saturday 2

Burbage Festival presents Joanna Eden Quartet. St Catherine's Church, Hinckley Road, LE10 2AF. Joanna appeared with Will Smith at last year's BBC Proms and performing songs from Sondheimm, Bacharach and Joni Mitchell. From 7:30pm. Tickets: £20. To book visit Burbage Festival (bcaf.net)

Hinckley & Burbage Christian Aid Fair. St Mary’s Church, Church Walk, Hinckley. Discover a variety of stalls offering bric-a-brac, new goods, jigsaws and games, handcrafted items, craft supplies, and delicious homemade cakes and soup. Coffee bar open until 1pm. Time: 9:30am to 1:30pm. Cost: Free.

Saturday 2 to Sunday 3

The Revlon Girl. Concordia Theatre, Stockwell Head, Hinckley, LE10 1RE. The Revlon Girl tells the real-life story of a group of bereaved mothers from Aberfan who meet every week in a room above a local pub to talk, cry and even laugh without feeling guilty. Helped by a Revlon representative, their stories unfold in a powerful and life affirming play. Time: 7:30pm. Tickets: £10. To book E: boxoffice@concordiatheatre.co.uk or Tel. 01455 615005.

Saturday 2 to Sunday 3

Burbage Festival presents Children's Art Exhibition. The Connect Methodist Church, Windsor St, LE10 2EF. Pieces from hundreds of children across over a dozen different groups in and around the village. The theme this year is ‘A World of Books & Stories’. Time: 10am to 3pm on Saturday and 12:30pm to 2:30pm on Sunday. Cost: Free. More information Burbage Festival (bcaf.net)

Sunday 3 to Thursday 14

Burbage Festival presents: Music for the Heart. Afternoon concerts taking place in a number of community centres around the village. Cost: Free. More details on the website Burbage Festival (bcaf.net)

Tuesday 5 to Saturday 16

Guys and Dolls. Concordia Theatre, Stockwell Head, Hinckley, LE10 1RE. Join us for one of the greatest musical comedies ever as Guys and Dolls bursts onto the Concordia stage. With unforgettable songs, sharp humour and vibrant choreography. Time: 7:30pm. Tickets: £20. For booking E: boxoffice@concordiatheatre.co.uk or Tel. 01455 615005.

Wednesday 6

SMARTS (St. Mary's Arts) Lunchtime Concert. St. Mary’s Church, Church Walk, Hinckley, LE10 1DW.  Japanese pianist Mariko Terashi, a Cziffra Foundation Award winner, has performed widely as a soloist and chamber musician since moving to England in 1995 who now resides in Leicester. Time: 1pm to 1:45pm. Cost: £4.50 (adults) £1 (Children and students). Tickets available to purchase at the door. E: phillip.worely@virginmedia.com or tel. 01455 846215.

Burbage Festival presents Comedy Cooking with Power Tools. Burbage Millennium Hall, Britannia Rd, LE10 2HF. Hugely entertaining DIY Chef and comedian George Egg makes a welcome return to Burbage. Refreshments available. Time: 7:30pm. Tickets: £15. Book tickets Burbage Festival (bcaf.net)

Thursday 7

Burbage Festival presents Stone Meadow. The Marquee, Red Lion Windsor St, LE10 2EF. Incredible energy and talent. Time: 8pm. Tickets. £5. Book tickets Burbage Festival (bcaf.net)

Friday 8

Burbage Festival presents Alison Wheeler's Southern Beauty. The Conni Club, Church St, LE2 2DE. Funk and Jazz singer and songwriter (originally from The Beautiful South). Time: 7:30pm. Tickets: £20. Book tickets Burbage Festival (bcaf.net)

Hinckley Rock n Roll. Jive Nights. Wykin & District Social Club, Frederick Avenue, Hinckley, LE10 0EX. It's a night of rock n roll music, jive, bop and stroll dancing. With top DJs playing the best music. Time: Doors open at 7:30pm, music played until 11pm. Cost: Admission £5 per person. Optional Jive lesson 7:30pm to 8:15pm, an additional £5. Contact: 07811 632779/ 01455 840052 or E: dandeatkins@yahoo.co.uk

Saturday 9

Burbage Festival and Hinckley and District Society of Arts, Arts and Crafts Fair and Café. Congregational Church, Church St, LE10 2DD. Browse fine homemade affordable craft items. Refreshments available. Time: 10am to 4pm. Cost: Free. Details Hinckley and District Society of Arts (hadsart.co.uk)

Burbage Festival presents Community Arts Day. The Burbage Library, Church St, LE10 2DA. Live music, arts and summer crafts for all the family.  Refreshments available. Time: 11am to 3:30pm. Cost: Free. Book tickets Burbage Festival (bcaf.net)

Burbage Festival presents Emmanu'-EL Apostolic Gospel Academy EAGA Choir. St Catherine's Church, Hinckley Road, LE10 2AF. Winners of the BBC Songs of Praise Gospel choir of the Year 2023. Time: 7:30pm. Tickets £15. Book tickets Burbage Festival (bcaf.net)

Airbourne Plaque Unveiling Service, Argents Mead, Memorial Gardens. Join us for the unveiling of a memorial plaque followed by refreshments, talks and WW2 displays at St. Mary’s Church. Time: 11am to 4pm.

Music in the Mead. Airbourne Special. Argents Mead, Hinckley. Join us for a special edition of Music in the Mead featuring Julie Sings and Rob Wilson. Time: 1pm to 3pm. Cost: Free.

Sunday 10 

Burbage Festival presents The Lempen Puppet Theatre. Congregational Church, Church St, LE10 2DD. This year's show is entitled The Carnival of The Animals. Kids can meet the puppets after the show! Time: 3pm to 4:30pm. Book tickets Burbage Festival (bcaf.net)

Monday 11

Burbage Festival and Hinckley and District Society of Art live art demonstration by Irina French. Congregational Church, Church St, LE10 2DD. Irina is a freelance digital artist who has worked on fantasy illustrations, board games, fantasy maps, book and music albums. Time: 7pm. Details Hinckley and District Society of Arts (hadsart.co.uk)

Burbage Festival presents Unfortunate Folk Tales for Grown Ups. The Burbage Library, Church St, LE10 2DA. Spoken word with Burbage's best-known teller of tall tales, Tom Phillips. Time: 7pm. Tickets: £10. Book tickets Burbage Festival (bcaf.net)

Wednesday 13

Burbage Festival presents Music for the Heart, Rhia Barrett. Hanover Court, Azalea Drive, LE10 2QS. Time: 2pm. Book tickets Burbage Festival (bcaf.net)

Burbage Festival presents Cinema comes to Burbage. Burbage Pentecostal Church, Tilton Road, LE10 2SE. A film celebrating the work of David Attenborough's in his centenary year. Time: 7:30pm. Tickets: £5. Book tickets Burbage Festival (bcaf.net)

Thursday 14

Burbage Festival presents It's a Fair Cop with BBC Radio 4's Alfie Moore. The Conni Club, Church St, LE2 2DE. Join former Humberside sergeant and stand-up comic Alfie Moore as he "swears you in" to help solve real-life policing dilemmas. Time: 8pm. Tickets: £17.50. Book tickets Burbage Festival (bcaf.net)

Friday 15

Burbage Festival presents Dolly Parton and Kylie Minogue tribute act with Sarah Clarke. The Conni Club, Church St, LE2 2DE Time: 8pm. Tickets: £12. Book tickets Burbage Festival (bcaf.net)

Friday 15 to Friday 29

Midland Textile Forum. Atkins Gallery at Atkins Building. A group of artists who predominantly use textiles and/or mixed media in their practice. The Forum's aim is to develop our individual practice, and support and encourage textile-based activity in the region, primarily through exhibitions. Atkins Gallery is open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm excluding bank holidays and look out for additional evenings and weekend viewings. Cost: Free. E: info@atkinsbuilding.co.uk

Saturday 16

Burbage Festival presents Bavarian Night and Oompah Band, Bobbley's Brizzly Grizzly Brutus Beefcake Barber Bam Bam

Stompin Grompin Oompah Band. Hastings High School, St Catherine's Close, LE10 2QE. Time: 7:30pm. Tickets: £17.50. Book tickets Burbage Festival (bcaf.net)

Music in the Mead, Sing and Social. Argents Mead, Hinckley. Julie Sings presents her Sing & Social group. A lively community for over 50s, bringing you an uplifting mix of hits from across the decades. Time: 1pm to 3pm. Cost: Free.

Saturday 16 to Sunday 17

Hinckley BID’s Garden Show & Wellbeing event. Throughout Hinckley Town Centre. The show promises to be a vibrant celebration of horticulture, wellness, and community spirit. Including a variety of show gardens created by local businesses and communities, a craft and garden market, as well as a health and wellbeing event. Time: 10am to 4pm. Cost: Free. Hinckley BID (hinckleybid.co.uk)

Sunday 17

Burbage Festival presents Crafty Sunday. Burbage Millennium Hall, Britannia Rd, LE10 2HF. A range of hands-on arts and crafts experiences for you to try. Time: 1pm to 4pm. Book tickets Burbage Festival (bcaf.net)

Thursday 21

Female spies of the English Civil War. Hinckley Great Meeting Chapel, Baines Lane. A Hinckley & District Museum event presented by Tony Yorke. Time: 7:30pm to 9:30pm. Cost: Members £1, non-members £5 at the door. E: hinckleymuseum@hotmail.co.uk

Thursday 21 to Saturday 23

Curtain Call. Concordia Theatre, Stockwell Head, Hinckley, LE10 1RE. Performed by Wendy Morton Dance Academy. Time: 7:30pm. Tickets: £14-£15. To book E: boxoffice@concordiatheatre.co.uk or Tel. 01455 615005.

Saturday 23

Praise in the Mead. Argents Mead, Hinckley. Churches together present a contemporary Christian worship set featuring modern worship music performed by a live band. With guitars, drums, and vocalists. Time: 1pm to 3pm. Cost: Free.

Monday 25 to Saturday 30

Underwater Hunt. Hinckley Library, Lancaster Road. Spot the ‘underwater’ items hidden around the library to win a sticker! Time: During normal staffed hours. Cost: Free. E: hinckleylibrary@leics.gov.uk

Friday 29

Hinckley Rock n Roll. Jive Nights. Wykin & District Social Club, Frederick Avenue, Hinckley, LE10 0EX. It's a night of rock n roll music, jive, bop and stroll dancing. With top DJs playing the best music. Time: Doors open at 7:30pm, music played until 11pm. Cost: Admission £5 per person. Optional jive lesson 7:30pm to 8:15pm, an additional £5. Contact: 07811 632779/ 01455 840052 or E: dandeatkins@yahoo.co.uk

Sunday 31

Hinckley’s Indie Market. Hinckley Town Centre, Castle Street and Britannia Centre. Independent local businesses, foods stalls, arts, crafts and more.

Time: 10am to 3pm.

Additional information

Hinckley & District Parkinson’s Group

We welcome new members to join our free activities across the Hinckley area this autumn and winter. Monthly meetups are held on the 2nd Sunday at 2:30pm (Mary Forryan Centre, Hinckley, Leicester Rd), with regular sessions on different weekdays including exercise classes, carers group, indoor bowling, movement to music, singing, and a drop-in café at Gates Garden Centre. For information contact Janet Kavanagh on 07932 615233.

Burbage Gardening Club

We’re a friendly group of garden lovers meeting on the first Tuesday of each month at 7:30pm at Burbage Constitutional Club, Church Street. New members are always welcome. Visit Burbage Garden Club (bgclub.uk) or email info@bgclub.uk for more information.

The George Ward Centre – Barwell, LE9 8DG

There’s something for everyone at the centre! Weekly activities include yoga, table tennis, Clubbercise, Slimming World, Tai Chi, Pilates, AFC Barwell, Steady Steps, and more. Pop into the café for a drink and a chat or join our Tots Time playgroup on Wednesdays (9–11am) £2 per adult and 50p per child, with drinks, snacks, toys, and giveaways. The hall is available to hire for children’s parties at reasonable rates. Call 01455 847410 or find us on social media or online.

Hinckley Probus – All Pals (and Gals) Together

Looking for friendly conversation and shared interests? Join Hinckley Probus on the first Monday of each month at 10:30am at Barwell Indoor Bowling Club, Kirby Road. Stay for lunch and enjoy relaxed company in a welcoming setting. Contact David Fell on 07927 630600 or E: davidfell@gmail.com

Cineworld - Hinckley

Cineworld Hinckley at The Crescent offers inclusive and affordable screenings for all ages. Enjoy Autism Screenings on the first Sunday of each month with a relaxed, sensory-friendly setup. Movies 4 Juniors run every weekend and school holiday, with tickets from just £3.99. Over 60s can join Cinesenior every Wednesday (term-time) for a film, hot drinks, and biscuits for £4.50. Visit Cineworld (cineworld.co.uk) or follow Cineworld Hinckley on social media for details.

Regular ‘Friends of Hollycroft Park’ activities at Hollycroft Park, Hinckley

Community Café closed in January and re-opened 1 February and runs on the first and third Wednesday of every month from 10am to 12:30pm and closes in December. Volunteer gardening reopens on the first Saturday of every month from 10am to 12pm from April each year. Find more information about Friends of Hollycroft Park (hollycroftpark.wordpress.com) or email friendsofhollycroft@gmail.com

St Francis Community Centre – Tudor Road, Hinckley

Join us for weekly community activities including a free coffee morning with light bites and Wi-Fi on Tuesdays (9:30 to 11:30am), a lunch club social on Wednesdays (10am to 1pm, booking required), and a community café serving hot and cold food on Thursdays (10am to 2pm). Call 01455 617185 or visit our FB page.

C.A.R.S (Cancer Active Recovery Support) – Hinckley

C.A.R.S. supports people living with cancer and their families across Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland. Join our friendly monthly hub on the First Monday of each month at Hope Community Church, Deveron Way, for a welcoming space to connect, access trusted information, and take part in well-being activities. Call 0300 365 1440 or E: info@ recoverysupport.org.uk for more details.

Pathways at Hinckley Baptist Church, Baptist Walk. Offering friendly IT support for anyone who wants to build their computer skills – from complete beginners to those looking to improve. Lessons run on Thursday mornings, 9am, 10:30am and 12pm (term time) and have no more than eight students. We aim to give as much one‑to‑one support as possible and always welcome new volunteer tutors. The cost is £43 per term, with flexible payment options. The Pathways Café is open for drinks and refreshments. Booking is essential. Contact: Pathways Tel. 01455 890026 or Anthony Galvin E: anthony.m.galvin@gmail.com

Pathways Computer Club, Hinckley Baptist Church Community Centre

Offering friendly IT support for anyone who wants to build their computer skills – from complete beginners to those looking to improve. Lessons run on Thursday mornings, 9am, 10:30am and 12pm (term time) and have no more than 8 students. We aim to give as much one-to-one support as possible and always welcome new volunteer tutors. The cost is £43 per term, with flexible payment options. Popular topics include syncing photos and contacts across devices, file management, family history, Microsoft Office, and general internet use. The Pathways Café is open for drinks and refreshments. Booking is essential. Contact: Pathways Tel. 01455 890026 or Anthony Galvin E: anthony.m.galvin@gmail.com

Hinckley & Districts Table Tennis League

Are you interested in table tennis? HDTTL offers five competitive clubs in the Hinckley area, plus a relaxed daytime club at Broughton Astley Leisure Centre on Mondays for adults and juniors. You can also join open sessions at St. Martin’s School in Stoke Golding, where all clubs are represented. Coaching is available for all ages and skill levels, whether you're just starting out or looking to improve. For more info or session dates, E: hdttl2024@gmail.com or visit HDTTL (ttleagues.com)

Last updated: 25/03/2026 16:28