A BRAND new festival will launch this September in Frome, focused on reconnection, nature, and our place in the world.

Consider the Wondrous is a collaboration between Tina Gaisford-Waller of Winstone’s Hunting Raven Books in Frome and author Gareth Howell-Jones.

The new book festival seeks to celebrate our relationship with nature in a series of talks with artists, scientists and naturalists. Invited writers include Cal Flyn, Horatio Clare, Stephen Moss, Dara McAnulty, Michael Malay and more, as well as local favourites Julian Hight, Ian Ballamy, and actor and ecologist David Oakes.

Gareth visited Frome in 2025 for a book event and was captivated by the town’s vibrancy and unique character.

He said: “The festival itself has been growing in my mind for some years, but I was looking for the perfect location to make it happen. As soon as I came to Frome, I just knew it had to be here.”

Tina added: “I am so thrilled that Consider the Wondrous is happening here.

“Gareth and I have had so much fun pulling together the most wonderful programme of events with some remarkable authors. None of it would be possible though without the support of some brilliant local businesses.

“We have also had incredible support from Frome Town Council, who are fully behind making this a permanent feature of the Frome Cultural landscape.”

Consider the Wondrous will take place at RISE, the converted chapel on Whittox Lane across the weekend of September 19 and 20. Around town there will be walks, workshops, music and exhibitions.

Tickets can be purchased online; search for ‘Consider the Wondrous Ticket Source’ or book through the website, or purchase tickets at Winstone’s Hunting Raven Books on Cheap Street.

Tina added: “We encourage people to book early to avoid disappointment as many events are already selling fast.”