Durrants is delighted to be sponsoring the Harleston & Waveney Art Trail 2026, as this much-loved creative event returns this May.
Taking place across the weekends of 16–17 May and 23–25 May (including the late bank holiday Monday), the Art Trail offers a unique opportunity to explore the creativity of artists and makers working across the beautiful Waveney Valley on the border of Norfolk and Suffolk.
A Celebration of Local Creativity
Now in its 22nd year, the Harleston & Waveney Art Trail has become a well-established and highly anticipated event in the local calendar. It brings together a diverse collective of artists who open their studios to the public, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at how and where their work is created.
This year, 23 artists will be taking part, showcasing a wide range of disciplines including:
- Contemporary and traditional painting
- Printmaking
- Textiles
- Ceramics
- Sculpture
- Mixed media, drawing and collage
Visitors will have the chance not only to view and purchase original artwork, but also to meet the artists, ask questions and gain insight into their creative processes.
Explore the Waveney Valley
One of the unique aspects of the Art Trail is its setting. Studios are located within a ten-mile radius of Harleston, in a range of picturesque villages including Brockdish, Pulham Market, Ditchingham, Bungay, Mendham, Weybread and Topcroft.
This makes the trail an ideal way to explore the Waveney Valley; combining art, countryside and community into a relaxed and inspiring day out.
Whether you choose to visit a handful of studios or plan a full weekend exploring the trail, there is plenty to discover along the way.
Meet the Artists
A key part of the Art Trail experience is the opportunity to meet the artists themselves.
First-time participant, ceramicist Jason Wick, is looking forward to welcoming visitors to his studio in Denton, where he will be showcasing a large collection of previously unseen work. His practice, which focuses on hand-built ceramics and experimental glazing techniques, is deeply inspired by the local landscape.
Sculptor Pauline Antram, who has recently moved to the area, will be opening her garden studio in Gillingham. Visitors can explore sculptures displayed throughout the outdoor space, alongside drawings and paintings, and gain insight into her creative process.
As organiser Denise Ann explains, the Art Trail offers something for everyone: “Visitors can explore this wonderful area… while discovering artwork aplenty in open studios along the way. They can view inspiring work, talk to artists first-hand and, if something catches their eye, take it home.”
With several new studios opening for the first time this year, even regular visitors can expect fresh discoveries.
Free, Accessible and Community-Led
One of the most appealing aspects of the Harleston & Waveney Art Trail is that it is completely free to attend. Visitors are welcome to browse at their own pace, making it an accessible and inclusive event for all.
The trail is organised by the Harleston & Waveney Art Trail Collective: a vibrant and supportive community of professional artists who live and work in the area. Since its beginnings in 2005, the event has grown steadily, becoming a much-loved celebration of creativity in the region.
At Durrants, we are passionate about supporting the communities we serve across Norfolk and Suffolk. Events like the Harleston & Waveney Art Trail play an important role in bringing people together, celebrating local talent and showcasing the unique character of the area.
By sponsoring the Art Trail, we are proud to support both the artists and the wider community, helping to ensure this inspiring event continues to thrive.
Discover Something New This May
All studios will be open from 10am to 5pm on each day of the trail (with one studio open on the final weekend only).
You can find full details, including additional events and workshops, on the official website.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a collector, or simply looking for an enjoyable way to explore the local area, the Harleston & Waveney Art Trail offers a unique and inspiring experience.
We look forward to seeing the Waveney Valley come alive with creativity once again this May.
