A new community space designed to bring people of all ages together is launching in Wiltshire this spring, with a strong focus on storytelling, creativity and connection.
Moonrakers’ Educafe will open on Monday 27 April 2026 at the Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre, offering a welcoming environment where families, carers and residents can meet, share experiences and feel part of their local community.
The initiative, supported by the Chippenham Borough Lands Charity, has been created as an inclusive hub where everyone is invited, from parents and grandparents to young people, including those who are neurodivergent, care experienced or new to the area.
Set within a relaxed café-style setting, the Educafe will combine refreshments with a range of engaging activities inspired by local heritage and community stories.
Visitors can take part in a creator’s corner, designed for skill sharing and hands-on projects, as well as enjoy games and reading spaces. A key feature of the programme is Migration Stories, an oral history project capturing real-life experiences from across Wiltshire’s diverse communities.
Cllr Mel Jacob, Deputy Leader of Wiltshire Council and Cabinet Member for Communities, Engagement and Corporate Services, welcomed the launch, saying, “The Educafe is a wonderful opportunity for residents to come together, share stories, and reconnect with the heritage that shapes our community. By exploring our local history in creative and meaningful ways, participants are not only preserving the past but also strengthening the bonds that make our county such a special place to live.
“The Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre continues to be a warm welcoming environment to explore our county’s heritage and the Educafe offers yet another reason to pay it a visit.”
The project is also supported by Educafe Newbury, whose founders Clare and Janine praised the collaboration and the team behind the new space, saying they were delighted to help launch a community hub with heritage at its heart.
Rooted in Wiltshire’s long tradition of storytelling, the name ‘Moonrakers’ reflects the county’s rich folklore and the idea of bringing people together to share stories, ideas and experiences.
Moonrakers’ Educafe will run fortnightly from 10.30am to 2pm, with visitors welcome to stay for as little or as long as they like. Children are welcome when accompanied by an adult, making it an accessible and flexible option for families looking to connect locally.
More information is available via the Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre website wshc.org.uk/exhibitions-and-projects/moonrakers-educafe-at-wshc/
