AUGUST & September2026
SUMMER IS HERE at THOMPSONS CLOSE CAFE
Owner Damien Tidd has a few words of welcome...
We are embracing the warmer weather and introducing some Spring & Summer specials to the menu alongside our existing much loved breakfast, brunch and lunch dishes.
We are also serving our refreshing iced coffees and selection of 16oz milkshakes to help cool you down … giving you a few more reasons to call in to TCC!
Inside and outside.
New look fonehouse store open now with a fantastic display of ‘working’ phones for you
to try out.
Call in and chat to Daoud who will show you how.
Opposite Waitrose.
AWARD-WINNING HARPENDEN ARTIST ANDREW KEENLEYSIDE UNVEILS AUGUST EXHIBITION AT THE EMC
The latest instalment of the popular EMC Exhibition Series will feature the work of celebrated Harpenden artist Andrew Keenleyside, whose exhibition of paintings and prints will be on display in the EMC foyer throughout August.
Andrew Keenleyside is a multi-award-winning painter and printmaker who lives and works in Harpenden, Hertfordshire. Best known for his expressive interpretations of the local landscape, his work explores the ever-changing colours, atmosphere and moods created by the passing seasons. Rather than simply recording a scene, he seeks to capture its character and emotional resonance through bold colour and richly textured surfaces.
One of Andrew’s most enduring sources of inspiration is the iconic Avenue of Trees in Rothamsted Park. This familiar Harpenden landmark has featured prominently throughout his work over many years and provides the perfect focus for his exhibition at the Eric Morecambe Centre, situated just a stone’s throw from the avenue itself.
His distinctive painterly style is characterised by energetic brushwork, expressive mark-making and an impasto surface that invites close inspection. As Andrew explains: “I try to capture the essence of a landscape through vibrant, often exaggerated colour combinations that express not only what I see, but what I feel.”
Alongside his paintings, Andrew is an accomplished printmaker specialising in the solar-plate etching process. His original prints, which also celebrate the landscapes of Hertfordshire, combine traditional intaglio techniques with contemporary photographic methods. He comments: “I enjoy both the element of chance within the intaglio printing process and the unique ability to create a series of original prints from a single image.”
Since opening to the public in June 2026, the EMC Exhibition Series has become a valued and well-received feature. Updated on a monthly basis, it provides an accessible platform for local artists, community groups, and creative organisations to showcase their work. The displays celebrate the wealth of talent and activity within the local area. The initiative has been a great success, generating positive feedback from both exhibitors and the public while helping to strengthen connections between the EMC and the wider community.
If you or your group would like to be involved in the exhibition series email:- angelaconnery@everyoneactive.com with an expression of interest.
Clarendon Fine Art hosts DOUG HYDE exhibition August 7
Harpenden’s Fine Art Gallery was alive with visitors to meet one of the UK’s most popular artists, view collections of his amazing art, buy a favourite and have it personally signed by Doug,
AUGUST ONWARDS
SUMMER SALES, SPECIAL OFFERS & NEW SEASON FASHIONS ON THE HARPENDEN HIGH STREET,
RIPPLES SALE with 15% saving NOW ON.
Swanne Boutique NEW SEASON FASHIONS (below left) , and Serena Hart SALE in full swing. ALL on THE HARPENDEN HIGH STREET
JULY 4 - SEPT 5 Summer Reading Challenge at Harpenden Library
‘Music in Lydekker’ event returns with two fantastic bands. Saturday August 22.
Returning for the 8th year, Harpenden’s much-loved event Music in Lydekker will take place on Saturday 22nd August 2026, 12pm-4pm in Lydekker Park. Live music will be performed by exciting bands in the beautiful surroundings of one of Harpenden’s most picturesque green spaces.
Music in Lydekker is a unique event, promising a relaxing summer’s afternoon for all ages and it is totally free of charge. A small number of deckchairs will be available on site, but they're limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Feel free to bring along a picnic blanket or your own chair so you can settle in and enjoy the event in comfort!
Performing this year are two fantastic bands:
Threefold, a semi-acoustic covers trio consisting of experienced musicians Adrian (Cajon, Keys, Vox), Sean (Guitar, Vox) and Gerry (Keys, Vox). With interesting takes on songs, classic to contemporary, and smooth three-part harmony as a specialty, they are a firm local favourite and it is great to welcome them to Lydekker Park!
The Blue Moon Duo – James performs timeless classics and heartfelt Americana originals accompanied by soulful trumpet, creating a warm feel-good atmosphere with plenty of audience interaction. We are delighted that they are joining us at this wonderful event
.
Cllr Kirsti Wenn, Harpenden Town Mayor said "Music in Lydekker is a lovely event for the whole community; an enjoyable afternoon in beautiful Lydekker Park for residents and visitors of all ages. It’s important that the Town Council hosts a wide variety of events, bringing fun to the summer holidays. Lydekker Park is one of my favourite spaces in Harpenden and this is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy it."
Guests will be able to enjoy a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic refreshments from the on-site bar, alongside freshly prepared pizzas from a dedicated pizza food stall.
Music in Lydekker is a free event, booking is not required. Attendees are encouraged to arrive on foot where possible as parking at Lydekker Car Park is limited.
Clarendon Fine Art are at the centre of the Harpenden High Street, Why not call in and see some amazing ART.
Saturday 12 September at 10:15 for 10:30 am,
UNA Harpenden will be hosting a public lecture on The Future of Neoliberal Capitalism by Professor Radhika Desai, (Visiting) London School of Economics & Political Science, at the Salvation Army Hall, Leyton Green, Harpenden AL5 2TG. Register here for the talk.
The NEW OFFICE, a bit like ‘working from home” only better!
Coming Soon in September...
HERTS OPEN STUDIOS
Looking to refresh your home? We currently have some fantastic offers on selected table and chair sets, as well as great savings on discontinued soft furnishings at
The Cotswold Company Harpenden.
Pop into our beautiful showroom, have a browse, and let our friendly team help you find the perfect pieces for your home. We look forward to welcoming you.
Clarendon staff were on hand to offer specialist advice, showing you around the gallery and helping visitors to choose one of their favourite art works.
An evening to celebrate the joys of British summertime.
