The Bonsall Arts Trail was founded back in 2019. Inspired by the success of established trails in Wirksworth, Melbourne and Belper, local artist Amanda Graham brought together a small group of artists to explore whether Bonsall could host something similar on a more intimate scale, showcasing artists from Derbyshire and the surrounding counties. The group — which became the Bonsall Arts Trail committee (BAT) — set about the considerable task of turning the idea into reality, securing seed funding from the village's Open Gardens along with generous grants from Derbyshire Dales Council and the Longcliffe Community Fund, with further support from Turners Art Supplies in Matlock.
With venues booked, artists lined up and a full programme ready, the Trail was all set for its 2020 launch — only for Covid to intervene. The reluctant decision was taken to postpone, and when restrictions remained in place through 2021, the committee adapted with an online Trail weekend that proved surprisingly fruitful: a well-received art sale, artist features running throughout the year, and a professionally produced book celebrating both the artists' work and the village itself. When the Trail finally opened its doors in 2022, it was a proud moment for the whole team — the culmination of three years of determined effort, and well worth the wait.
The first Bonsall Arts Trail welcomed over 500 visitors and showcased work from more than 80 curated artists across homes, gardens and community venues throughout the village. The event was powered by an exceptional volunteer effort, with residents generously hosting artists and helping transform Bonsall into a vibrant creative hub.
Shuttle buses made the whole village accessible and enabled visitors to reach highlights such as Tufa Cottage, which opened its gardens, miniature train and cable‑car gondola to the public. The Manor House hosted 12 artists, while the School and Rectory Room provided space for 22 artists and impressive work from local pupils.
Across the village, venues including the Village Hall, Church, Via Gellia Mill, pubs and private homes offered exhibitions, workshops, food and music, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Buoyed by the success of the first trail, Julie Leggett became Chair of the Bonsall Arts Trail Committee, and planning for the second trail began in earnest. A new logo was designed by local artist, Jon Ogilvy, referencing the iconic Cross at the centre of Bonsall. Local hosts opened their homes again and the 2024 Bonsall Arts Trail was a standout success, welcoming more than 750 visitors.
Generous sponsorship from Longcliffe Calcium Carbonates, Turners Art Supplies, Derbyshire Dales and Ball Eye Quarry enabled essential services such as the park‑and‑ride bus, marquees, toilets, and outdoor furniture. Longcliffe’s Environmental Art Award drew an impressive range of entries, with ZaZa Lewis winning for her vibrant piece Meadow Flowers. The Turners Prize, voted for by visitors, was shared by Tracey Watson and Paula Kemp.
Turners also ran a popular pop‑up art supplies shop on the park, while food vendors—Dosa Love, Blooming Dough Pizza and Sublime Coffee—kept visitors well fed. The Church enjoyed record footfall and sales, providing a welcome boost to village funds.
Workshops by Wild Roots Creative and the addition of Wabi Sabi, a dementia‑friendly group from the Stone Centre, enriched the trail experience. Children from Bonsall School created drawings to celebrate their community within the village and other places that were meaningful to them. These designs, including school buildings; happy maypole dancers; leaping toads and racing chickens, were incorporated into a beautiful mural to welcome visitors to the school and the mural is a lasting legacy of the trail.
Host venues were warmly praised by artists, and an enthusiastic team of volunteers—committee members, families, friends and residents—helped make the weekend run smoothly. The 2024 Bonsall Arts Trail was a true community effort, celebrating creativity while strengthening local connections.
The Bonsall Arts Trail Committee continues to grow in strength as we welcomed new members and a new Chair, Louise Stevenson to work towards our third trail in 2026. With over 80 artists exhibiting, we look forward to another great trail. This year we are particularly excited to be holding a special exhibition of artwork from the pupils of Bonsall School in the Village Hall, and Turners Art Supplies have been generous again in their sponsorship of prizes for this.
