Some events clearly inspire projects that shout “let’s borrow a tool!”, while others take a bit more imagination… let’s have some fun exploring what’s on across the region and the Things you could borrow when the subsequent motivation strikes!
Here’s what’s coming up and how your local Share Bristol Library of Things could help you make the most of it.
Bedminster: Bedminster Festival of Gardening
8–14 June 2026
Bedminster is getting its first ever Festival of Gardening this June which promises to be a week-long celebration of all things green and growing. Expect gardening activities, talks, installations and community events across BS3, all leading up to the much-loved Secret Gardens weekend where local residents open up hidden outdoor spaces for everyone to explore.
Whether you’re already a seasoned gardener or just wondering if one tomato plant counts as a vegetable patch, this feels like the perfect excuse to get outside and get inspired.
Borrowing idea: become the neighbour whose garden suddenly gets interesting
If the festival leaves you determined to finally tackle that overgrown corner, create a pollinator patch or build the raised bed you’ve been talking about since 2023, borrow before you buy. Think gardening tools for digging, trimming and tidying, or even power tools if your plans escalate from “plant some herbs” to “construct an entire pergola”. Festival inspiration, but without filling the shed.
Check out a whole host of gardening Things available here.
Kingswood: Community Picnic in Kingswood Park
18 June 2026 | 3 – 6pm
National Picnic Week feels like the perfect excuse to gather outside and Kingswood Park is doing exactly that with a relaxed community picnic for local residents.
Bring along your picnic, a blanket and your favourite people for an afternoon in the park, with garden games, a scavenger hunt and the launch of Kingswood Town Council’s Community Nature Reserve initiative. It’s all about slowing down, getting outdoors and enjoying a bit of community connection at the heart of the neighbourhood.
Whether you arrive meticulously prepared or carrying a last-minute supermarket meal deal, the important thing is showing up.
Borrowing idea: elevate your picnic game
You don’t need to own a cupboard full of “just in case” entertaining gear to enjoy a great day out. Share Bristol is full of things that make outdoor get-togethers easier, from games that bring out everyone’s competitive side to practical kit like camping chairs that turns a quick picnic into an event. Borrow what you need, enjoy the afternoon and leave your cupboards free for the things you actually use every week.
Winterbourne: Medieval Day at Winterbourne Medieval Barn
28 June 2026 | 11am–4pm
Winterbourne is stepping several centuries backwards this month with Medieval Day at the historic barn. Expect combat displays, knight school, archery, wandering performers, medieval music and a full living history village recreating midsummer festivities.
No chainmail required (unless you already own some).
Borrowing idea: modern-day armour
We’re not saying you’ll need a helmet and protective gear to survive medieval combat demonstrations… but if the day inspires you to take on your own heroic quests at home, hedge battles, DIY tournaments or legendary decluttering campaigns, borrowing safety gear and equipment is a very 2026 version of preparing for battle. Bonus points if you dramatically announce “for the realm” before starting any project.
Browse more Things that can make you a home hero here.
Frenchay: UWE Showcase 2026
5 – 7 June 2026 | 10am–6pm
Head to Frenchay Campus and explore their Showcase 2026 Degree Show, a celebration of graduating students’ work across architecture, product design and creative disciplines. Expect ambitious ideas, beautifully presented spaces and plenty of inspiration for anyone who enjoys design, interiors or spotting the next big thing before everyone else does.
This is the kind of event that makes you walk back into your own home afterwards and suddenly notice every wall colour, shelf and slightly unfinished project.
Borrowing idea: interior designer energy (without the renovation budget)
If the showcase leaves you itching to refresh a room, rearrange a space or finally tackle that decorating project, borrow before you buy. Brushes, ladders and DIY essentials can help turn a spark of inspiration into a weekend project, whether you’re going for award-winning interior transformation or simply “this room now feels intentional”. Start small, experiment and save cupboard space for your next big idea.
So wherever you are this June – gardening, picnicking, time-travelling to the Middle Ages or discovering your inner designer – remember: you don’t always need to buy the thing to enjoy the experience.
Borrow it. Try it. Return it. Repeat.
