Oxfordshire pub event raises money for local children
The event will raise funds for The Cowshed, a local charity providing clothing and essential items to families in crisis
A historic Oxfordshire pub will once again throw open its gates this summer for a day of live music, family fun, and fundraising in support of a local charity.
The Plough Shiplake, a Grade II listed pub near Henley-on-Thames, is set to host its third annual Hestia Festival on Saturday, August 30, transforming its nationally recognised garden into the backdrop for a free community celebration.
The event, which begins at 12pm, will raise funds for The Cowshed, a local charity providing clothing and essential items to families in crisis. Money raised will support its “back-to-school” campaign, ensuring children in need have uniforms and supplies for the new academic year.
Last year, the festival raised significant funds for Nomad Henley, which supports disadvantaged young people and families.
This year’s line-up features Latin jazz artist Kaw Regis (1pm) and Henley duo JPR Music (7pm), performing contemporary pop covers. The evening will close with a silent disco, while younger festivalgoers can enjoy free ice cream throughout the day. Traditional garden games, including boules, will also be on offer.
Festival-goers can sample handcrafted pizzas from The Plough’s open-air kitchen, set within the award-winning Hestia Garden. Created in collaboration with Rigden Studio, the landscaped space won the Society of Garden Designers’ 2025 New Designer Award and became the first pub garden shortlisted for the awards’ Public Realm Landscapes & Gardens category. Designed as a communal outdoor dining and event space, the garden features Mediterranean-inspired planting, fire pits, and integrated lighting and sound.
Pub owner Jill Sikkens said the festival embodies her vision for The Plough as a true community hub:
“Our vision has always been about creating a space that fosters a genuine sense of community. Hestia Festival really embodies that ethos – it’s an occasion to come together, enjoy our garden in full bloom, and support local families.”
She added: “Partnering with The Cowshed felt like a natural choice. Their back-to-school campaign is a simple, direct way to help children feel prepared and confident for the year ahead. Knowing the festival can have a real, local impact gives the day an added sense of purpose.”
Entry to the festival is free, with proceeds from food, drink, and activities going directly to The Cowshed.