* One-day event features keynote speaker Lord Andy Roe alongside leading charities, hands-on demonstrations and a unique tactile art exhibition.

The Men's Shed movement will come together in Worcester this August as the UK Men's Sheds Association (UKMSA) hosts ShedFest 2026, its flagship annual event celebrating community, wellbeing and creativity.

Taking place on Thursday, 13 August 2026 at the University of Worcester Arena, the event will bring together hundreds of Shedders, volunteers, partners and supporters from across the UK. With more than 1,100 independent Men's Sheds now operating nationwide, ShedFest is the movement's largest annual gathering, showcasing the positive impact Sheds have in tackling loneliness, improving health and wellbeing, and strengthening local communities.

The event's keynote speaker is Lord Andy Roe, former London Fire Commissioner and current Chair of the Building Safety Regulator. During his time leading one of the world's largest emergency services, Lord Roe oversaw wholesale reform following the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. Drawing on his experience of leading through major challenges, he will discuss the importance of community and mental health.

As the UKMSA's flagship exhibition and networking event, ShedFest features a full programme of inspiring speakers, practical workshops, live demonstrations and networking opportunities. It celebrates the achievements of Men's Sheds while providing opportunities to share ideas, discover new projects, and explore how the movement continues to support healthier, more connected communities.

The Association's Annual General Meeting (AGM) will also take place during the day, giving members the opportunity to hear about UKMSA's progress, vote on key matters, and help shape the organisation's future.

Caroline Ellis, Chief Executive Officer of the UK Men's Sheds Association, said:

"Sheds do amazing things in their local communities, bringing people together, reducing isolation and creating places where friendships, skills and confidence can flourish. ShedFest is our opportunity to celebrate those achievements while sharing ideas and inspiring one another. We're delighted to welcome Lord Andy Roe as our keynote speaker, and we're also looking forward to hearing from Blaenau Gwent Men's Shed, our current Shed of the Year, as they join Movember to discuss how Sheds can raise their profile locally and influence those with the power to support and champion the movement. Royal British Legion (RBL) will be joining a session on how Sheds are working with, supporting and being supported by the Armed Forces Community across the UK. Also new for this year are interactive healthy ageing and mobility sessions."

The exhibition will feature more than 40 organisations and charities, including Cancer Research UK, Titefix, Loxkin, Axminster Tools, Marie Curie, St John Ambulance, Wessex Insurance, REMAP, Warm Welcome, the British Model Flying Association and many more. Visitors can also enjoy live demonstrations from Chris Fisher, the Blind Wood Turner; digital woodworking technology from Carveco; Portable Appliance Testing demo from First Stop Safety. UKMSA Volunteer Ambassadors will also be leading sessions on creating a website for your shed and natural insecticides, compost and soft wood cuttings.

ShedFest is sponsored by Movember and RBL. Movember will offer information, advice and complimentary beard and hair trims from its on-site barber shop, while RBL will offer community advice and support.

Long-standing UKMSA supporter Carveco will also show its acclaimed Touch: Beyond Vision exhibition, featuring tactile 3D-printed interpretations of famous artworks and cultural icons, enabling visitors with visual impairments to experience art through touch.

ShedFest is free to attend and is open to Shedders, volunteers, charities, health and wellbeing organisations, community groups and anyone interested in learning more about the Men's Sheds movement.

For full details including the exhibitor list, agenda and to register, please visit https://menssheds.org.uk/events/ShedFest2026

Event Details

Date: Thursday, 13 August 2026

Venue: University of Worcester Arena, Worcester

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