Annual Chudleigh Picnic - date TBC for 2025

Chudleigh Picnic is a family day 

Fully funded by the Town Council, with lunch, for residents, to not only celebrate the lovely space at Chudleigh Fort but also as a chance for families to get together 

• Chudleigh Picnic is a regular feature on the Bideford Town Council events calendar
• It is aimed at the last Sunday of the school holidays - 2025 Date to be confirmed
• A last hurrah before the children go back for the Autumn term. 
• Start around 12.30pm and wrap up at 4.30pm with our lunch being available from 1pm

There is no entry fee - everyone is welcome

Background to the event

This event is funded by the Bideford Town Council. The Chudleigh Picnic was introduced after Covid in 2021, during the Centenary of the Chudleigh Fort Memorial. The Fort, built in 1643 during the Civil War by Captain Chudleigh, defended Bideford. The Memorial, erected in 1921, honours the Bidefordians who died in the First World War.

The Memorial idea came from Bideford Town Council, with suggestions ranging from a Public Baths to a Memorial Hall. Councillor Vernon Boyle proposed placing an obelisk or tower on Chudleigh Fort, which was supported by others. The Memorial was unveiled on August 24th, 1921, with a grand procession from the Town Hall. Archdeacon T Newton Leeke conducted the dedicatory service, and the Mayor, Councillor J U Fulford, unveiled the Memorial, placing a laurel wreath at the Cross.

The event continues today with a gentle, family-friendly atmosphere. We’ve asked attendees if they wanted the Picnic to continue, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. While keeping the event’s original essence, we gradually expand it each year, adding new activities and encouraging families to bring their own picnics. The event is fully funded, organized, and run by the Town Council, with Councillors present throughout the afternoon to engage with attendees.