What we do
We are a diverse, lively and friendly group offering a wide range of creative, study, physical and leisure activities. We offer the opportunity to pursue interests or learning in a sociable environment for sheer enjoyment and for its own sake.
Interest Groups
There are some 40 interest groups covering a diverse range of studies and activities from Ancient Greek to Yoga and everything in between – so there is something that should appeal to everyone.
Monthly Meetings
We have a regular monthly meeting on the first Tuesday of each month, at the Palmer Hall in Fairford, where you can meet up with friends as well as hear informative and entertaining talks by a variety of speakers.
Outings
Visits are arranged to nearby places of interest. As a member, you are also entitled to participate in activities organised by the national and regional bodies.
u3a Membership
Fairford & District u3a is one of around 1000 local u3a’s in the UK. Affiliated to the National u3a organisation, it is open to anyone no longer working full time or bringing up a family who would like to pursue their interests or try something new. The u3a guiding principle is encourage members to come together to share knowledge, skills and experiences not for qualifications but for its own reward of the joy of discovery! Joining the u3a is probably the best way to meet new friends and share interests after retirement. Standard membership costs £12 for the year (February 2024-February 2025). Fairford and District u3a is part of the Cotswold Link network of u3a’s in Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire. As a member you are entitled to attend sessions at these u3a’s.
Charitable Status
We are a registered charity and depend on volunteers to run our affairs. If you have some time and are willing to help, then you would be most welcome. We are also always looking for ideas for new interest groups and for people to help set them up. New committee members are always needed to keep our u3a management healthy and strong.
Our History
Fairford and District u3a began in late 1994 when Guen Taylor put a small insert in What’s On magazine asking for anyone interested in starting a u3a in Fairford to contact her. The response was good, and a public meeting held in February 1995. About forty people attended and a steering committee formed.
Following agreement the group would include Lechlade and surrounding villages, the group’s name changed to Fairford and District u3a. A Constitution was proposed and the Inaugural General Meeting was held in July 1995. Membership by this time had increased to 60, with 10 active Groups. Since then, Fairford and District u3a has expanded year by year, and grown into the active and thriving organisation it is today. Many of the original founders have passed on, but their vision of a friendly and sociable organisation with groups of like-minded people sharing and enjoying common interests, has been fully realised.