ART TRAILS have become a popular feature of the summer cultural calendar – and the fifth annual one in Buriton this weekend, July 23 and 24, is not to be missed.

The picturesque village has shown itself to be a creative hub in recent years, and more than 15 artists are poised to welcome visitors on Saturday and Sunday.

It is a real pleasure to stroll from venue to venue, viewing and snapping up the wide variety of work on display including paintings, original prints, photography, pottery, stained and fused glass, jewellery and lino cuts.

Visit too Channel 4’s Shed of the Year 2015 finalists’ unique garden space and learn about the historical connections to the building, and see ‘craft from the wood’ on the village green.

More than 1,200 art lovers have taken the trail since it began in 2011, and many return each year.

Regulars will be delighted no doubt with the addition this year of live ukulele and jazz music on Saturday in the village hall.

There is a chance to chat to the artists –?including Lynne Ashcroft, Chantel Van Delft, The Five Bells Art for All group, The Highcroft Potters, Kim Hoolahan, Jim Martin, Paul Martin, Ted Underwood and Liz Moss –?about the processes they use to produce their artwork.

Lunches and snacks will be available at the Five Bells pub, or enjoy afternoon tea and homemade cake at the RT Cafe in the village hall.

Trail venues are the village hall, The Five Bells, The Garden Room, Highcroft and The Green.

It will run from noon to 5pm on both days.

Says participating artist, organiser and founding member Paul Martin:?“It’s the variety that visitors seem to enjoy – a wide range of arts and crafts is displayed, and a real bonus is being able to walk easily from venue to venue in picturesque village surroundings. The RT Café – with live music on the Saturday this year – is likewise enjoyed by many and proceeds assist the Association for Glycogen Storage Disease UK charity.

Visit www.buritonarttrail.co.uk for more information.

l Another date for the art lover’s diary is August 25, when the fabulous annual exhibition by Petersfield Arts and Crafts Society (PACS) opens at the Festival Hall.

Running until August 30, it is a brilliant showcase of everything from painting and ceramics to textiles and photography for the thriving group.

It is open from 10am to 8pm from August 25 to 27, from 10am to 6pm on August 28 and 29, and from 10am to 1pm on August 30.

The exhibition is free and hundreds of items are available to buy. Visit www.petersfieldartsandcrafts.org.uk for more information.

l A very well established art trail takes place in Arundel each year, for those prepared to take a trek out to see wonderful works in artists’ own homes and studios.

This ten-day event runs from August 20 to 29, and on display is a huge range of items including sculpture, paintings, ceramics, textiles, furniture, illustration and photography.

Red and yellow flags mark up the venues, and a trail map can be picked up on the way round the 60 locations featuring the work of more than 150 artists.

Opening hours are noon to 5.30pm on weekends and bank holiday Monday, and 2pm to 5.30pm on weekdays.