Welcome!

Our Society was founded in Saffron Walden in 1984. It was called the Saffron Walden Decorative and Fine Arts Society (SWDFAS) and was a member of the National Association of Decorative and Fine Arts Societies (NADFAS).

Following a national re-branding in May 2017 our name was changed to ‘The Arts Society Saffron Walden’.

The Arts Society is a leading arts education charity with a global network of local Societies which bring people together through a shared curiosity for the arts.

Our events provide welcoming places to hear expert lecturers share their specialist knowledge about the arts.

We preserve and contribute to our artistic heritage through volunteering and grants.

Our strength is our people joined together by a passion for the arts which can nourish and empower us all. Our work creates a better, healthier and more connected society.

Do you live in the Saffron Walden area and are you interested in the arts, in art history and in the wonderful heritage around us?
The Arts Society may offer you an excellent way to follow your interests, travel to fascinating places and make new acquaintances.
Find out more about our society and its programme of lectures, study days and visits to historic sites and collections. See how you can join us and, if you want, how to get involved in our heritage and outreach activities.