With over 60 artists opening their doors across the North Wessex Downs every July, there's a lot of enticing ground to cover! No appointment is necessary; simply turn up during a studio's open hours and step inside. A little planning goes a long way towards turning your visit into a memorable day (or weekend) out, rather than a rush from one studio to the next.

Plan and Prepare
• Use our interactive map to locate each studio, and group nearby stops together so you're not zigzagging Wiltshire and make the most of the time you have.
• Pick up a copy of our brochure – available from early June at local hubs, libraries, bookshops, cafés, and art shops, as well as at the studios themselves, or browse the digital version online – to see who's exhibiting, what their specialism is, and which weekends each studio is open. It'll also tell you whether a studio has wheelchair access, parking, or is dog-friendly, so you can plan your route around what matters most to you.
• Follow the signage on the day Studios are clearly marked, so between the map, the brochure, and the signs along the way, you'll always know you're headed in the right direction.
• Check opening times before you set off Some studios may be closed on certain days across the four weekends, so a quick check of this will avoid disappointment and wasted time.
• Wear comfortable shoes You'll be glad you did, as some standing and walking is all part of the day.

While You're Visiting
• Talk to the artists They are glad to chat about their process, their inspiration, and the story behind a particular piece – it's one of the things that makes an open studio different from a gallery visit.
• Take your time Browse at your own pace and perhaps even organise two or three open studio days during July, to see as many artists’ work as possible.
• Bring both cash and card Most artists can take card payments these days, but a little cash is handy too, and often welcome.
• Parking etiquette If you're parking on the street near a studio, please park considerately. Full parking details for each studio are in the brochure.
• Studio etiquette Remember you're often stepping into someone's home or garden, not just a gallery – a lovely, personal part of the experience, so do treat the space with the same care you would visiting a friend.
• Visiting as a group? It's worth emailing ahead so the artist can be ready for you, to ensure everyone has the best experience.
• Support the artists directly Taking an artist's business card or making a purchase all go a long way, and please consider signing up to their studio newsletters, if you like their work.

If You Fall in Love With a Piece
Talk to the artist about how to take a piece home. Some work can go with you straight away, while other pieces may only be released at the end of the show, so it's worth checking this with the artist.

Make a Day of It
• Stop for a coffee or lunch along the way – this is a good way to have a break to rest and compare notes on your favourites, and plan the next leg of the trail.
• Share your day on social media and tag the artists and Marlborough Open Studios – it's a great way to help others discover the trail too.

However you choose to spend your time, we hope you leave with a new favourite artist, a piece you love, and a real sense of the creative community that makes Marlborough Open Studios what it is.

Disclaimer
Marlborough Open Studios shall not be held responsible for any personal injury or loss or damage of property.