Somerset Council, Take Art and the Ham Hill team are delighted to announce the return of Chill on the Hill, as the much-loved outdoor celebration marks its fifth anniversary.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Ham Hill, the event has become a highlight of Somerset’s cultural calendar, bringing communities together to celebrate local food, wellbeing, nature and the arts.
With thanks to Abri Community Fund, we will be welcoming members of the Chard community to enjoy a day at the event and get involved in the programme.
Festivities begin from 10am at Ham Hill’s new Visitor Centre, with creative workshops and activities before a lively procession of music and sound makes its way through the country park to the Millennium Stones for the afternoon programme.
Visitors can enjoy hands-on creative workshops, circus skills sessions, live music and performances, community activities, local food and drink and outdoor arts in a unique countryside setting.
Headline Performance
This year’s headline act is On the Shoulders, a powerful new outdoor production from Somerset’s internationally acclaimed circus company Pirates of the Carabina.
Combining aerial theatre, circus, dance, puppetry, live music and real-life storytelling, the show celebrates the strength, resilience and experiences of women through a captivating performance centred around a giant female puppet.
Created by the award-winning team behind Flown and Pirate Taxi, On The Shoulders explores intergenerational connection and the power of women to inspire and uplift one another. Supported by Arts Council England, the performance promises to be a touching, uplifting and unforgettable part of this year’s celebrations.
Chill on the Hill is made possible through the generous support of the Fine Family Foundation, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Stoke sub Hamdon Sports and Recreation Trust, Abri Community Fund, Arts Council England and Somerset Council.
Produced by Take Art in partnership with Somerset Council’s Ham Hill team, Chill on the Hill forms part of Take Art’s Cultivate programme, which connects creativity, local food, nature and communities across Somerset.
Set in the beautiful surroundings of Ham Hill, the event encourages visitors to slow down, connect with nature and enjoy the wellbeing benefits of creativity, culture and community.
Chill on the Hill also champions Somerset’s independent food and drink businesses. This year’s traders include A Slice of Salerno Pizza Horsebox, Somerset Sizzlers (Greek & Middle Eastern street food), Elaichi (Indian food), ARVO Caffeine, Utazo Spirits and ARK at Egwood.
Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic blanket or camping chair and enjoy the relaxed festival atmosphere throughout the day.
Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Communities, Environment and Climate Change, said: “We’re incredibly proud to mark five years of Chill on the Hill. The event showcases the very best of Somerset, bringing together creativity, culture, nature and community in the unique setting of Ham Hill.
“Visitors of all ages can relax in the beautiful surroundings, enjoy live performances, get creative, connect with others and experience the wellbeing benefits of the outdoors. We are delighted to support this event and look forward to welcoming visitors for a truly special day.”Chill on the Hill Co-ordinator Katy Tilley said: “We’re delighted to be celebrating five years of Chill on the Hill. It’s a wonderful opportunity to bring people together through creativity, nature, local food and outdoor performance.
“We’re especially excited to welcome audiences to experience On The Shoulders alongside a fantastic programme of workshops, music and activities. Whether you’re a regular visitor or joining us for the first time, we look forward to welcoming you to Ham Hill for a memorable day.”
The event will take place whatever the weather, with shelter available if needed. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome.
For more information, workshop bookings and programme updates, visit: https://takeart.org/event/chill-on-the-hill-2026
