❓ Sculpture & Soul Festival – FAQs

Here’s everything you need to know to make your Sculpture & Soul Festival experience smooth, relaxed, and full of soul!

🕐 What time should I arrive?

Please arrive in good time to park, check in, and make your way to your first workshop. We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before your first scheduled session.

🚗 Where do I park and check in?

Parking will be signposted and is available at the main car park on the left-hand side (facing the lake and woodlands) when you drive through the main Birtley House gates. Toilet facilities are also located here. Once parked, follow the signs and marked path to the Check-In Desk to collect your wristband and information.

🎟 Do I need to bring my ticket?

Yes! Please bring a copy of your ticket (digital or printed) to enable you to check in. Entry will not be permitted without a valid ticket.

♿ Accessibility

We want to ensure that everyone feels welcome and supported at the Sculpture & Soul Festival.

• Accessible Facilities: An accessible toilet will be available on-site. The event takes place across open woodland and grassy areas which may be uneven in places, so we recommend sturdy footwear. If you have specific access needs or questions, please get in touch with us in advance so we can assist.

• Carer Tickets: We offer free Carer Tickets for individuals who require assistance to attend. To request a Carer Ticket, please book your own ticket first, then contact us at lorraine@hedgesandhurdles.com with your booking reference and brief confirmation of your access needs (for example, a copy of a PIP letter, Access Card, or relevant documentation). We’re here to help and keep things simple.

Please note: Carer Tickets are issued to support the ticket holder and must be used alongside their entry. One Carer Ticket is available per eligible ticket holder.

🔁 How do I move between workshops?

Workshops are spaced throughout the site – please allow yourself enough time to move between workshop areas to ensure you arrive on time for each session. Some are based in woodland settings, so factor in enough time (up to 5 minutes), to reach your workshop location. The practitioner for each session reserves the right to close session entry for latecomers once the workshop has commenced.

👟 What should I wear?

We recommend comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear – especially if you’re attending workshops in the woodland area. Be prepared for uneven ground and the great outdoors! All areas are accessible by wheelchair.

💧 Should I bring water?

Yes, please bring a refillable water bottle. There are water taps available on-site at the main car park to help you stay hydrated throughout the day.

☕ Are food and drinks available?

Absolutely! Refreshments will be available to purchase, and the brilliant Naakaa will be serving delicious food from their food truck. You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks too. The food truck and refreshments will be situated near to the picnic area at alongside the main car park.

🧺 Are there additional fees for workshops?

While many workshops are included in your ticket, some may include a small materials fee, payable directly to the practitioner on the day. Check individual workshop listings for details.

🐕 Can I bring my dog?

Only assistance dogs for the visually impaired are permitted on-site. Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate social support dogs or pets at the festival.

🏕 Can I camp at the festival?

If you’ve booked a camping ticket, please refer to the camping conditions provided in your booking confirmation and via the camping agreement link on this website. Facilities are basic – think back-to-nature – and campers must be self-sufficient.

🗺 How do I get to the Birtley Estate?

Birtley Estate is located just outside Bramley, Surrey. Address: Birtley Woodland Art Space, Birtley Road, Bramley, Guildford, GU5 OLB. Access is via the Birtley House gated entrance.

🚌 Are there public transport options?

Regular bus services run to Birtley Road, Bramley, with routes connecting from Guildford, Cranleigh, and surrounding areas.
Look out for Compass Bus services 24, 32, and 53, which stop near the Birtley Estate. Please check timetables in advance on the operator’s website or via travel apps like Traveline or Google Maps for the most accurate and up-to-date journey details.

See the Google map image below or the Google map link here.

🎒 Summary: What shall I bring

We recommend bringing the following:

• 🎟️ Your festival ticket (printed or digital)

• 💧 A reusable water bottle (refill stations available)

• 👟 Weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear (especially for woodland workshops)

• 💷 Money for lunch, refreshments, and to pay for any materials costs or add-on workshops

• 🪑 A foldable chair (optional, for comfort during breaks or longer sessions)

• 🧺 Your own picnic and refreshments if you wish

• ☀️ Sun protection and 🦟 insect repellent

• 📝 A notebook or sketchpad to capture creative ideas

Still got a question? Reach out to us via our contact page or at check-in on the day – we’re here to help!