Arts & Sculpture at Greys Court

Henley Arts Trail | 25 April - 4 May

Founded in 2006, The Henley Arts Trail was set up to showcase the amazing talent in the area. It has gone from strength to strength and now shows the work of over 200 creatives in 34 venues. It acts as an open studio and exhibition event showcasing an array of work by artists and makers at venues in and around Henley-on-Thames. Greys Court are proud to be one of the venue’s once again this year.

The ancient Cromwellian room will feature an extended exhibition of artists all inspired by the beautiful gardens of Greys Court. The botanical theme is captured in a range of media including ceramics, oils, watercolours and pastels.

The Darling Buds of May | 18 May - 6 June

Greys Court will once again host The Darling Buds of May, an exciting and boldly curated new collection of original artworks and handcrafted jewellery by acclaimed local artists Kate Findlay, Sarah Pye, and Janet Richardson. Running from 19 May to 8 June, the exhibition brings together three professional contemporary artists whose work continues to evolve with fresh ideas, innovative techniques, and a shared passion for the natural world.

Drawing inspiration from the beauty of Greys Court itself, as well as the surrounding Thames Valley and Chilterns countryside, this year’s exhibition offers visitors an uplifting and immersive visual experience. Large statement paintings, intricate textile art, small but exquisitely crafted pieces, and stunning solid silver jewellery come together to create a show that is both diverse and harmonious.

Sarah Pye’s work, known for its rich textures and energetic presence, captures the vibrancy of nature while her woodland scenes evoke a deep sense of calm and serenity. Kate Findlay’s striking textile art showcases extraordinary detail through hand‑dyed fabrics and multi‑layered free‑motion stitching, revealing a captivating and contemporary interpretation of the natural world. Completing the trio, Janet Richardson presents her award‑winning handcrafted silver jewellery — elegant, sculptural pieces that reflect both craftsmanship and artistic sensitivity.

“We hope this show adds yet another level of enjoyment to what is already a beautiful day out at Greys Court,” the artists shared. “This collection has been specially created to nestle harmoniously within the surroundings of this historic estate, the jewel in Henley’s quintessentially English crown.”

A feast for the eyes and enrichment for the soul, The Darling Buds of May promises a joyous and inspiring experience for art lovers, visitors, and families alike.

 

Oxford Sculptors Group | From mid June

Formed in 2002, this is the 10th year that Greys Court has hosted the Oxford Sculptors Group which now consists of over 80 artists from Oxfordshire and across the UK. Like previous years, the sculptures by more than 30 artists will be on display, outside throughout the gardens and indoors in the historic Cromwellian building .

To celebrate the 10th year anniversary of the National Trust’s partnership with Oxford Sculptors Group, we will be featuring a different sculpture every 2 months on the garden plinth in Greys Court’s apple orchard. For many years, this plinth held a sculpture of Charles Taylor, Lady Brunner’s head gardener, which has now been taken undercover for conservation. It will be found in a new home in the Old Gardeners office adjacent to the walled garden from late March 2026.

Variety is the key, ranging from small to very large pieces in a wide range of styles: figurative, animals, other natural themes and abstraction. The range of materials will be equally wide: wood, metal, stone, ceramics, glass and resin. And there will be sculptures for both indoor and outdoor display, so there is truly something for everyone. 

Are you planning to visit?

For our full programme, please visit our events page which includes all dates and phasing for our Summer celebration of the arts. We look forward to welcoming you to this very special experience.