If you're looking for a break from the bustle of modern life, a browse through the Caught by the River website should reset your mind to thoughts of calming wanders in a grassy meadow, listening to birdsong and possibly a few hours spent dangling a line into a stream. The site covers all kinds of topics, from music to birdwatching, beers to nature, poetry to fishing.
They don't just exist online either: there have been three packed events at the Port Eliot Festival and others along the Thames, plus books and podcasts. Now, to celebrate their fifth birthday, they're heading to the Southbank Centre with a variety show that should capture the essence of who they are.
Expect The Charlatans' Tim Burgess chatting about his autobiography Telling Stories, Roy Wilkinson reading about British Sea Power, angling historian John Andrews and Culture Show presenter Michael Smith discussing nature, Robert Macfarlane reading from his new book The Old Ways to a soundtrack of field noises, Chris Yates talking about his new book Nightwalker, poetry from Will Burns and live music from Diagrams. Sounds like the perfect way to unwind after a busy week.
The Caught By The River Variety Show is on Friday 25 May, 7pm, at the Southbank Centre. Tickets cost £17.50.
